Green Your Summer Travel

LOS ANGELES–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Green Your Summer Travel. Five easy tips to reduce the impact of your vacation on the environment.

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Green Your Summer Travel

MasterCorp Rolls Out Fujitsu PalmSecure Technology for Housekeeping Authentication and Management at Timeshare Resorts Across the U.S.

FOOTHILL RANCH, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–MasterCorp, leading provider of resort housekeeping services in the vacation ownership industry, has deployed the Fujitsu PalmSecure™ solution for housekeeper time, attendance and access management.

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MasterCorp Rolls Out Fujitsu PalmSecure Technology for Housekeeping Authentication and Management at Timeshare Resorts Across the U.S.

6 Reasons to Buy a Vacation Home Now

RISMEDIA, August 11, 2010As the real estate market continues its bumpy road toward recovery, the vacation home market is heating up, causing homeowners around the country to seriously consider buying the vacation home theyve been eyeing.

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6 Reasons to Buy a Vacation Home Now

Demand Growing for Vacation Lodging in Major Online Channels

PASADENA, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–LeisureLink has created a new index that measures consumer demand for Vacation Lodging, based upon over 500 million consumer queries.

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Demand Growing for Vacation Lodging in Major Online Channels

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces Vacation Isle: Beach Party

Warner Bros.

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Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Announces Vacation Isle: Beach Party

Canadian Snow Birds Flock to Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals

When Canadian Anne Murray sang her hit song “Snowbirds,” she wasn’t singing about Canadian Geese. She was singing to the thousands of snow-bound Canadians called ‘snowbirds’ who make the yearly pilgrimage from wintery Canada and the Pacific Northwest to warmer climes in places like Southern California. There, snowbirds nest for the winter months, basking in the warm southern California sunshine, in quaint resort gem cities like Santa Barbara. Nestled between the beautiful Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific, Santa Barbara is a premier resort destination.

Snowbirds who come here to what some call “The American Riviera” have a secret: Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals have it all. Those who’ve discovered Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals shun the barren Arizona deserts and even the ritzy Palm Springs oasis for this coastal beauty. Why? They know only too well what Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals can offer them in the way of amenities and comfort and entertainment. Snowbirds who flock to the coastal town of Santa Barbara are not content to curl up with a good book for the winter under some Saguaro cactus or be satisfied with designer shopping sprees that require SPF 70 and a large checkbook. They are too active and full of life for that. They want more and that’s exactly what Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals have to offer.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals cover a wide area of urban Santa Barbara. There are private homes and condo units on the coast, directly on the beach, inland near tourist attractions and everything in-between. For snowbirds who migrate here, camping is not an option. They are not interested in roughing it for the entire winter or sharing public facilities with their neighbors. They don’t own RV’s because they don’t want the hassle of storing an unwieldy RV for most of the year. They are used to comfort and they crave it for the long winter they’re away from home.

David and Leslie Benscott, retired attorneys from British Columbia, used to camp with their children. But they’re empty nesters now, and when they get away for the winter, they’re not interested in foregoing amenities. They have been renting Vacation Rentals in Santa Barbara for the past seven years. “Besides,” says Leslie, “we both love to cook and we’re spoiled enough to admit we want a nice kitchen to do it in. Our condo has a fabulous chef-style kitchen with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. At least once a week, we’ll cook up a gourmet meal in our Vacation Rental in Santa Barbara and meet friends on the beach for a picnic. You simply can’t do that in January in British Columbia.”

The Benscott’s vacation rental in Santa Barbara is fully furnished with all the amenities. Often, owners of vacation rentals will equip a condo or house with things like beach equipment, games, movies and a stocked kitchen. There are no taxes or tips involved in vacation rentals as there would be in a hotel, so in the long run, Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals work out cheaper for them than a long term hotel stay would, especially when you don’t have to dine out every meal. The Benscotts have made it a quest to catch up on all the sights in Santa Barbara as well, each season adding a few new discoveries to their treasure chest. This year, their grandchildren visited and they all took in the Railroad Museum and the Santa Barbara Zoo. It was a memory all of them will hold onto for a lifetime. Luckily, there was plenty of room for everyone to stay at their vacation rental with its three roomy bedrooms and beachfront courtyard. The grand-kids could walk to the beach every morning with the Benscotts. They have the shell collections to prove it.

With over a hundred wineries in Santa Barbara and the surrounding area, cultural events like theatre, beach-front Arts and Crafts fairs, even Santa Barbara’s own International Film Festival, there is something for everyone here. Snowbirds know that if you like outdoor activities with flair, then Santa Barbara is the place for you.

Snowbirds Ken and Marie Linter, a retired surgeon and his wife, come here from Alberta, Canada every winter, drawn by the warm temperatures and the great properties they find with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals. They’ve rented the same condo now for four seasons. Ken and Marie are avid bikers and kayakers and love the opportunities Santa Barbara provides for them to stay fit over the winter months. “The only exercise I get in Alberta is shoveling snow,” says Ken, who gave up skiing several years ago. “And frankly, I’m over it. Now Marie and I can bike all around the city on the bikes our Santa Barbara vacation rental provides for us at no extra cost. We go home in better shape than when we came.”

It’s just the two of them now and they love the one bedroom condo they found from Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals. Not only do they have in-house housekeeping services, there is a concierge service attached to their vacation rental. When it comes time to decide which fabulous restaurant to choose, the concierge is there to help. “Last week,” Marie says, “the concierge steered us to a five star restaurant tucked into a private little beach cove. It was probably the most romantic dinner Ken and I had ever had. Well worth the trip from Alberta.”

The Vacation Rescue Plan – Come Home in Better Shape Than When You Left!

It’s the last day of your holiday and after walking around in flip-flops and a bikini for a fortnight it’s finally time to pack your case and take a return flight back to reality.

Taking stock, you’re feeling pretty good about yourself. You’re totally refreshed, tanned and feeling ready to face the world again. Your holiday has done you the world of good.

Then reality strikes!

Changing back into your going home clothes you notice that the waist is a fair bit tighter than before you left, your hips are bulging a bit and your thighs just about fit into your trousers. Basically, the lard-monster has paid you a visit, and the likelihood is that he’s going to be staying for a while!

For many women the above scenario is all too familiar. Two weeks of overindulgence and poor food choices leave the average woman with a weight gain of about 5 to 7 pounds. Nearly all of it fat!

Now, obviously this isn’t great. We all like to think of our holidays as being a rejuvenating experience, not one which will leave us fatter and less energetic than before we left for the sun, but what can we do to avoid piling on the pounds whilst still having the holiday experience we’re hoping for?

Plan, plan, plan

The main reason that so many of us put weight on during our holidays (or any other time for that matter) is that most of us are ‘reactive’ eaters. We never pay much attention to what we’re eating or when we’re going to eat it and either wait until we’re ravenous before we find food or simply eat ‘because it’s there’ (especially on all-inclusive getaways).

Neither of these scenarios are great. Waiting too long between meals usually means that you’ll overeat when you finally do sit down to a meal and the other approach is an obvious route to obesity.

If you want to win the battle of the bulge you’ve got to think ahead. Plan for AT LEAST three meals per day (though ideally, five or six SMALLER feedings work best) with a good rule of thumb being that you should not eat again within 2 hours nor leave it longer than four. The result of this approach is that you are giving the body regular, yet small, quantities of food and then digesting them before you eat again, meaning that there is very little left to lay down as fat.

(Note: This only works if you consume smaller quantities of food. Six pizzas will still make you fat!)

Ideally, your planning should also include WHAT you are going to eat as well as WHEN. This reduces the likelihood of eating rubbish or ‘non-foods’ as we rarely, if ever, actually plan to eat poorly, we simply eat out of a reaction to hunger and immediate availability.

Fresh is best

If you really want to avoid piling on the holiday pounds this summer then avoid processed foods at all costs!

Laden with sodium, sugar and all manner of artificial colourings and preservatives, processed foods fall into the category of ‘non-foods’, meaning that they lack the vitamins and minerals that are needed in order to maintain optimal health. In addition, these foods are calorie dense and appetite stimulants of the highest order. Eat them at your peril!

Avoid ANYTHING from a packet, jar or tin, opting instead for fresh produce such as locally grown fruit, vegetables and meat or fish dishes.

This isn’t as difficult as it may sound. Normally, you’ll find that as long as you have a little meat or fish, some steamed, roasted or stir-fried vegetables and the herbs and spices that are grown in the region that you are taking your holiday in, that you’ll be onto a winner. It’ll be healthy and taste delicious too.

Whatever you do, avoid the ‘chips with everything’ approach. Not only are most chips pre-packaged and processed mush (instead of real potato) but they’re fried in polyunsaturated oils that have been found to contribute to numerous medical conditions including obesity and some cancers.

Mix and Match

During our holidays (though it’s true in day to day life too) we tend to ‘pad out’ our plates with carbs, carbs and more carbs.

Everything from bread (including croissants and pastries) to pasta, pizza to ice cream and even the beer, wine or cocktails that you drink around the pool are predominantly made up of carbohydrate.

It has been proven that excessive ingestion of carbohydrates, particularly those with high glycemic values like potatoes, wheat, sugar and alcohol, can lead to excessive insulin output which is known to increase fat retention leading to obesity and diabetes.

If we want to avoid the pitfalls associated with carbohydrate consumption there are three things we need to do:

1.Determine your biochemical individuality to find out how much or little carbohydrate you should include in your diet (See accompanying article)

2.Cut back on all high glycemic index carbs opting instead for those that release their sugars more slowly.

3.ALWAYS eat protein and fat with your meal. This is important in reducing the effects of insulin as well as providing a well-rounded supply of vital vitamins, minerals and amino acids that will also serve to suppress your appetite.

You need to drink more than you think

Though water consumption has just about been ‘done to death’ in the media recently, still too many people are oblivious to its importance in maintaining optimal health and vitality, opting instead for fizzy drinks, fruit juice, tea, coffee and alcohol as their main sources of fluids.

The problem is that NONE of these fluids do the job of water and nearly all are damaging to the body.

Even if you drink a couple of litres of fruit juice or lemonade you still cannot consider yourself to be hydrated. These fluids, due to their carbohydrate content, actually require water so that they can be digested properly. They will dehydrate you.

There is simply no substitute for water. You’re either drinking it or you’re dehydrated.

Dehydration is bad enough back here in the UK but add the holiday sun and the obligatory alcohol into the equation and you’ve got serious problems. Not only are sunburn and heat stroke going to get you but you’re more likely to put on weight too as the body mistakes this thirst for hunger. Found yourself incessantly snacking on holiday? This may be the reason!

So, how much should you be consuming? At least 1 litre of WATER (any other fluids do not count) for every 50lbs of bodyweight, so if you’re ten stones (140lb) you’ll need around 3 litres just to maintain balance. And remember, if it’s particularly hot, if you sweat a lot or you’re being active, you’ll need a fair bit more.

Eating healthily on holiday doesn’t have to be a bore or a chore that detracts from your enjoyment of the experience. You don’t even have to count calories, miss out on treats or abstain from alcohol. In fact, by paying more attention to what you eat you’ll find yourself more alert, energetic and able to enjoy the experience so much more.

And just think; you may even come home looking better than you did before you went away! Wouldn’t that be great?

See you on the beach!

La Jolla, the “Jewel” Vacation

The perfect vacation, La Jolla, Spanish for “the jewel,” will quickly become a precious gem of your heart. Boasting some of California’s most beautiful terrain and attractions, La Jolla (pronounced la hoya) is also the home of exquisite arts, restaurants, activities, and shopping. Just a short drive north of San Diego, you won’t need a passport to visit this exotic paradise.

The average April temperature is in the high-60′s. Even in December, temperatures stay around 65 degrees. The average temperature for August is a mild and breezy 75 degrees. Regardless of when you visit, you’re almost guaranteed perfect vacation weather.

How do you pick the right vacation rental? Answer a few questions. How many people in your party? How long are you staying? What do you want to do during your stay? How much money do you want to spend?

You can choose to stay on the breathtaking beaches, especially if you want to surf, windsurf, or swim. Between January and March this area is great for whale watching. Of course, the sunset in La Jolla is the main attraction. Stay near “The Children’s Pool” area, close to amazing offshore reefs perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The area, also known as “Casa,” is just a short walk away from town. Catch a glimpse of wildlife on Seal Rock, just offshore, which is home to seals and sea lions.

Here, there is a fine line between a luxury vacation and a business trip in La Jolla. Even the fiercest workaholic can find leisure and entertainment. The golf courses have ocean views. It’s easy to plan a fantastic family vacation around your business trip. Legoland, the San Diego Zoo, many aquariums, and Disneyland make great day trips to bring out the kid in all of us.

Endless entertainment awaits you at La Jolla. The area thrives with gourmet restaurants, music, and theater. Nightclubs, wine bars, and comedy clubs entertain all sorts of pleasures. The La Jolla Playhouse opens its doors to award winning performing arts.

Boutique shopping makes Beverly Hills jealous. Girard Avenue and Prospect Place boast dozens of unique shops. Shopaholics are sure to find the right gift and La Jolla visitors won’t be able to leave without a souvenir from this dream vacation.

The tranquil coastline turns hiking into a spiritual journey. Windsurfing, surfing, and even skydiving are better with the picturesque Pacific Ocean backdrop. Not up for so much activity? Try a relaxing day of spa pampering or sunbathing. La Jolla boasts many exclusive luxury spa resorts. The dramatic panorama of scenery is an indulgent place for weddings, holidays, anniversaries, and private romantic getaways.

La Jolla satisfies many interests, including the more sporting activities. Yellowtail, shark, and rock cod and other invigorating sport fishing trips are available almost year-round. A short drive to San Diego wins big with professional baseball and football, and minor league hockey.

Whether you’re traveling alone for business or taking the family on vacation, La Jolla will take your breath away. With so many attractions, you’ll have to come back again to do it all. And with La Jolla residents expressing such wonderful hospitality, you’ll always feel welcome.

Copyright (c) 2006

Hawaii Vacation In January? Don’t Miss These Local Events.

If you are traveling to Hawaii in January, here are a few annual local events for you to consider adding to your itinerary.

The Ka Moloka’i Makahiki (Ancient Hawaiian Games) is celebrated in the Kaunakakai Town Baseball Park & Mitchell Pauole Community Center on the island of Moloka’i. Every year around, January 21, you can enjoy this week-long celebration of ancient Hawaiian sports competitions. It features Hawaiian games, music, hula dancing, arts & crafts and food.

For over 50 years, Honolulu has held the Narcissus Festival. Beginning in mid-January its purpose is to preserve and promote Chinese culture and traditions. Honolulu’s Chinatown jumps with celebrations such as traditional lion dances dancing in the streets. There is the Narcissus Queen Pageant, Coronation Ball, Chinatown Open House, folk dances and a Fashion Show.

January on Oahu’s North Shore brings The Morey Boogie World Bodyboard Championship. Held at the famous Banzai Pipeline on Ehukai Beach Park, bodyboard surfers from around the world come to showcase their talents. This is fun for the surfing fans and anyone who enjoys good outdoor competition.

Late January is the start of Honolulu’s Cherry Blossom Festival, one of the longest running ethnic celebrations in the State of Hawaii. Lasting through March there is much to see. Some highlights are the Japanese tea ceremony, Heritage Fair at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii, and flower arranging demonstrations. At The Festival ball, the Cherry Blossom Queen and Court are selected.

For you sports fans January brings the Hula Bowl and the NFL Pro Bowl to Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. The Hula Bowl is the college all-star football game. Here is your chance to see some of the best players play their final collegiate game. The NFL Pro Bowl brings together all the top-rated professional football players for a head-to-head competition.

Caribbean Attractions – Best Things to Do on Vacation

The Caribbean’s year-round warm and sunny weather makes the region a popular place to vacation, but it is more than just the warmth that draws people and keeps them coming back.

Visitors on a seven-day cruise often stop at four or five destinations and take advantage of the chance to get off ship and walk around the island. Vacationers who visit a week or more will be tempted to get off the beach to break up their day in the sun.

But no matter how they get there, vacationers will find that the Caribbean often means a chance to experience unique historical, cultural and natural attractions. Here is a quick list of some of the favorites.

Beaches.Of course the beaches are a big draw. But not every destination has great beaches. What makes most Caribbean beaches unique is the combination of fine white sand, palm trees overhead and the distinctive blue-green of the ocean water. The great ones are wide, long and have beautiful vistas. Some of the better beach destinations include Aruba, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

Recreation. Fishing, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving and other water sports are all popular. Underwater shipwrecks and numerous colorful fish in the warm Caribbean waters make snorkeling and scuba especially good choices at almost any island.

Shopping. Many destinations are known for duty-free and sometime tax-free shopping. Prices are often discounted. U.S., Canadian and British citizens all face various limits on how much they can bring home without facing a tax.

History.Every island has a connection to Europe because of colonization going back centuries. The biggest and most famous is Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, which dates back nearly 500 hundred years and includes winding cobblestone streets, massive forts and interesting architecture. The shopping is good, too.

Nature. Climb the long cascading water falls at Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, snorkel with sting ray at Sting Ray City or swim with dolphins in Cancun, the Bahamas, Jamaica and other locations. Other islands such as Barbados give visitors a chance to snorkel with giant sea turtles.

Adventuring.Cave tubing in Belize is the No. 1 adventure trip in this Central American country that is a common stop for western Caribbean cruises. Canopying, which requires gliding on a zip line from one tree to another, is popular in Costa Rica. Dominican Republic has whitewater rafting.

Ancient past.Mayan ruins in Mexico and Central America are a great opportunity for families and anyone else interested in education. The massive ruins at Chichen Itza are accessible as part of a day trip for anyone visiting Cancun. Numerous other ruins are accessible throughout the region.

Caribbean vacationers will find many opportunities to learn, have fun and experience unique attractions that will make their time there more memorable.

For more information:

Click Caribbean attractions for the most popular attractions and excursions on each island.

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