Posted July 10, 2009 by Amy Westervelt
There's no place on Earth quite like Big Sur. The tiny hamlet along California's coastal Highway 1 has a little piece of everything that makes the Golden State beautiful crammed into a five-mile radius: redwoods, beaches, cliffs, hot springs, mountains, wildlife—not to mention award-winning spas and restaurants. Thankfully, you can still find a decent deal here, even if you're not into camping.
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Point Sur Lighthouse: The Point Sur State Historic Park & Lighthouse is worth a visit any time of year. Perched on volcanic rock just off the coast, the walkways and lookouts surrounding the lighthouse provide prime Big Sur views even when the area's trademark fog is swirling about. In the summer, however, visitors can take a moonlit tour of the lighthouse. There's no better way to get a sense of the building's original purpose, and on the rare clear summer night, taking in the Big Sur coast by moonlight is an experience not to be missed. Tours cost $10.
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Big Sur Roadhouse: Fortunately, some of the best food in the area is also some of the most affordable, particularly at the Big Sur Roadhouse. With an emphasis on California's Latino roots, the menu includes everything from straightforward but delicious enchiladas and burgers to more inventive dishes such as portobello mushroom caps stuffed with leeks, chilies, and Manchego cheese. The decor is also pleasant with a fireplace in the corner, wooden tables, and plenty of big picture windows, plus the staff is friendly and helpful. Entrees range from $14 to $26.
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Treebones Resort: Set on a hillside with the Los Padres National Forest behind it and sweeping ocean views in front, the Treebones Resort offers 16 yurts, complete with heating, electricity, wood floors, and big comfy beds to make this the most luxurious camping-like experience you've ever had. The property also has a heated pool and hot tub, and a restaurant in the lodge where guests get a self-serve waffle bar breakfast each morning and can opt for dinner too, if they like. Showers and bathrooms are a short stroll away from each yurt, and are absolutely immaculate. Rates start at $155 per night including breakfast and require a two-night minimum on weekends and all stays April through October.
To search for flights and compare prices to San José, which is home to Big Sur’s nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: Big Sur Chamber of Commerce)
Posted July 9, 2009 by Jamie Moore
Extend your baseball viewing addiction with a visit to the little town that loves America's pastime more than you do: Cooperstown, New York. Walk the hallways of the best-known sports shrine in the world after suppertime, when corridors are quiet and the ghosts and legends of baseball past stare back. Grab an enormous burger at a die-hard fan's diner, and take home a souvenir from a one-of-a-kind memorabilia shop.
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National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum: The museum's postseason exhibit, with World Series moments and artifacts from the last 100 years, is meant for junkies like you. Explore other exhibits and hear stories about Babe Ruth, women in baseball, and African-American players. Check out a ticket booth from Yankee Stadium and other pieces from ballparks of the past. Plus, your kids will love the scavenger hunts and sandlot clubhouse with a mini Miracle League field, games, and toys.
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National Pastime: This Main Street institution is one of Cooperstown's oldest memorabilia stores. For serious baseball fans, browsing these crowded aisles is like a visit to the Hall of Fame, except here you can take home whatever you like. Get baseball cards, photos, vintage jerseys, posters and other items you won't find anywhere else. If you're lucky enough to still catch them before they're snapped up, check out the sea-green Comiskey Park stadium seats or 1930s Cookie Lavagetto model split-finger glove. There are also broadside posters and stadium pins from the Negro League, or less expensive game patches and T-shirts from recent years.
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Cooperstown Diner: Don't leave town without downing the softball-sized half-pound burger at this tiny diner. It's your basic greasy spoon with character … and the occasional hungry Hall of Famer. The owner, who used to live in the Bronx near Yankee Stadium, loves talking to customers about baseball and sharing insider tips on Cooperstown.
To search for flights and compare prices to Albany, which is home to Cooperstown’s nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: Cindy H., Landisville, PA/This is Cooperstown)
Posted July 9, 2009 by Nicki Krawczyk
Just a smidge (technical term) north of Mexico, you’ll find yourself on the balmy beaches of South Padre Island, Texas. A small resort town merely blocks wide at the southern tip of Padre Island, this little burg was decimated by Hurricane Beulah in 1967, only to be subsequently rebuilt into a haven of bliss.
Popular with both families and spring-breaking co-eds (though not usually at the same time), this getaway spot features beach-y Gulf-breeze splendor with no need for those pesky passports. Should you find yourself with an itinerary sending your sunny little self down south in this direction, I’ve compiled a list of must-dos for your minimal moments off the beach.
Kiteboarding. Strap your feet to a board, grab the handle of a kite and (if you catch the wind right) get pulled through the surf faster than you can say “gale-force winds.”
Dolphin Research and Nature Center. With oceans naturally comes ocean life, and with ocean life comes the need for research and conservation. Get a hands-on lesson about all things aquatic around Padre Island and, for a mere 25 bucks, you can even adopt a dolphin. At last check, you could claim a bottlenose named “Nubbins.” Move fast.
Waterpark. With a name like a German medical procedure, Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark sounds a lot less fun than it is. Well, prepare for a pleasant surprise. Tube shoots, surfing machines, uphill water coasters and more await the amusement-seeking chlorine fiend…and a swim-up bar awaits the older libation-seekers.
Sandcastle Building Lessons. Just a little bit of water, some sand, a shovel and a pail? Sure, it’s that simple if you can be comfortable with a mediocre sand castle. For those of you more interested in quality, form, longevity and all-around sand-sational aesthetics, schedule yourself some sandcastle building lessons. You’ve got plenty of expert instructors to choose from: while it may be messy, these people don’t mess around.
Black Dragon Cruises. Ooookay, technically this may qualify as a “kids’ activity” but I’ll remind you that real pirates were certainly not for children. In that spirit, I say head on board this pirate ship and enjoy the heck out of the pirate crew, pirate stories, treasure hunt and, well, face painting. C’mon you’re on vacation; just go with it.
(Picture: www.virtualtourist.com)
Posted July 8, 2009 by Jamie Moore
You know what they say: When in Rome.... I just couldn't resist tracking down some favorito local hangouts in this great city—two of which are actually in revamped garages. While you're here, savor a carefully crafted vegetarian meal. Drink to Italian style at a trendy wine bar. And rummage for bargains at a Roman "garage" sale.
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Arancia Blu (in Italian only): At this elegant vegetarian restaurant, Chef Fabio Passan whips together unusual combinations for a big splendido! factor. Here you get unforgettable meals at reasonable prices. Order lasagna flavored with ginger. Or, try ravioli stuffed with potatoes and mint, served with Sardinian sheep cheese. With a seasonal menu and 250 different bottles of wine, you can try something new each visit … although you may need to sample the dark chocolate cake with warm orange sauce again and again and again.
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Freni e Frizioni (in Italian only): Head to this mechanics-garage-turned-trendy-wine-bar to rub shoulders with the who's who of Rome. Hip locals who want to see and be seen do it here among romantic candles, grand chandeliers, modern art, and funky music. Savor one of the famous mojitos and gawk at beautiful people from the bar. Take five on the open-air terrace where views of the Tiber River ("Tevere" for those in the know) are as fabulous as the ones inside.
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Borghetto Flaminio Market: Pick up an authentic souvenir at this Roman market housed in a funky old bus garage. You'll find bargains galore on everything from lampshades to designer clothes, but be sure to sharpen your wheelin'-and-dealin' skills before you arrive. This popular weekend market attracts Romans of all ages who have mastered the art of snapping up great deals. Who can blame them? Rumor has it one of Gucci's top designers sometimes books a table to sell off surplus goods at rock-bottom prices.
To search for flights and compare prices to Rome, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: iStockphoto/Andrew Johnson)
Posted July 7, 2009 by Kate Hamman
There's no denying that Hershey is America's very own chocolate town. Stay in an affordable lodge with cocoa perks, then satisfy your chocoholic craving at the Chocolate World. Just when you think you've had enough, end the night by sipping a dessert martini at the Hotel Hershey.
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Hershey Lodge: Chocolate lovers of all ages delight in the Hershey Lodge, where you're greeted with a Hershey's Bar and possibly a Hershey's character. Along with the many perks of staying at the lodge, including early entrance to Hershey Gardens and best-price tickets to Hersheypark during the summer, there's a range of package deals to make your stay even more economical and enjoyable. Non-package room rates start at $299 in the summer and kids under 17 stay free.
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Hershey's Chocolate World: Step into the realm of all things sweet at Hershey's Chocolate World, where you'll discover the largest collection of Hershey's chocolates, collectibles, and clothing in the world. Not only can you hop aboard a free ride that takes you through the history of chocolate, you can also have Hershey bars personalized with your own message. The Marketplace Shops sell the traditional Hershey's Chocolate standbys, as well as a range of items not sold in the U.S. such as the green tea Kisses.
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Iberian Lounge: Located inside the luxurious Hotel Hershey, the Iberian Lounge takes a sugar high to new heights, with its famous Hotel Hershey Martini made from rich chocolate and liquor with a Kiss. The lounge serves an array of other cocoa-inspired cocktails, as well as a double chocolate stout and a chocolate wine. While the hotel might be too expensive to stay the night, you can sit around the fireplace and celebrate your trip with something sweet.
Use our price-comparison tool to search for flights and compare prices to Harrisburg and Philadelphia, which are home to Hershey’s nearest major airports.
(Photo: Scott Dingman)
Posted July 6, 2009 by Kate Hamman
Located on the Northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Cabarete attracts adventure and water enthusiasts to its natural playground of crashing surf and rainforests. If you're a novice, there are plenty of ways to get your feet wet, either by cascading down waterfalls or riding the waves on a boogie board. And you don't have to be a thrill seeker to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town, where you're welcome to watch the waves crash as you feast on fresh seafood.
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Iguana Mama Canyoning and Cascading: Whether you're 16 or 60, take a hike and go cascading down the 27 waterfalls of Rio Damajagua. Here, you will discover a world filled with limestone pools, and the rainforest's flora and fauna. You'll climb and scamper your way up to the 27th waterfall, then jump, slide, or cascade down into the crystal clear pools waiting below. Tours run Tuesdays and Saturdays; cost $79; and include transportation, equipment, drinks, and fruit.
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Villa Taina: Rise and shine to the sounds of the ocean right outside your window at Villa Taina. After a swing by the breakfast buffet, you can take a spin on a kayak or boogie board, or even try your hand at windsurfing for free. Devoted to living harmoniously with nature, the resort has incorporated the art of Feng Shui in the decorating and planning of the building. The all-inclusive resort is only steps from town, making it the ideal location for exploring Cabarete. Rooms start at $85.
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Natura Restaurant: Sit outside under a palapa as you dine on fresh and flavorful seafood dishes, such as pistachio-crusted tuna or shrimp sautéed in a rum sauce. While you wait for dinner, watch as the Swiss chef prepares the daily specials in the open kitchen. Seafood may be this beachside restaurant's main draw, but you can also find vegetarian and Dominican specialties. Entrees start at RD$420 (about $11.66 U.S.; check with XE.com for current exchange rates and use currency abbreviation"DOP" to search).
To search for flights and compare prices to Puerta Plata, which is home to Cabarete’s nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: Iguana Mama)
Posted July 2, 2009 by Jamie Moore
This year, nearly five million people will descend upon the Grand Canyon. Most will see the one-mile deep wonder along the South Rim from their car. Oh, you hoped you could escape the bumper-to-bumper routine on this trip? Take the track less traveled, and, yes, you will find a quieter, traffic-free route to Grand Canyon's South Rim. Hop a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway, stay off-rim in a lodge surrounded by ponderosa pines, and shop for Native American artwork.
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Grand Canyon Railway: Save the gas—and those poor mules' backs—and opt for a breathtaking journey through the park by train instead. Grand Canyon Railway locomotives make round-trip excursions ($70 to $190) from Williams, AZ, to the heart of the park's South Rim village. Once aboard the early 1900s steam train, you feel like you've been transported to a different time. Best value: A one-night package that includes your round-trip fare, hotel stay in Williams, breakfast, and dinner for $169.50.
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Maswik Lodge: Maswik, a great pick for families, is just 1/4 mile walk (or free shuttle) from the South Rim village hubbub. The lodge is tucked away in a pine forest, and there's a big grassy yard for the kids to roll around in, so you actually feel like you're in a national park, not Grand Central Station. Cabins (summer only) or rooms with two queen beds go for $90 per night, and casual cafeteria-style dining is available in the lodge.
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Hopi House: No need to admit you ever dozed during class. One step into Hopi House and you get a painless recap of history, architecture, and art in one visual sweep—all while you shop. What could be better? The architecture of this gallery and gift shop—built 103 years ago by Hopi craftsmen—is native to Hopi dwellings in the area. Study the timber-layered ceilings, adobe walls, and corner fireplaces, then move on to the gorgeous jewelry, pottery, and paintings crafted by Native Americans.
To search for flights and compare prices to Phoenix, which is home to the Grand Canyon’s nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: iStockphoto.com/Bill Grove)
Posted July 2, 2009 by Nicki Krawczyk
As far as picturesque seaside villages go, it’s awfully hard to beat the Cinque Terre region on Italy’s Ligurian Sea coast. First, because it’s actually a group of five villages and that gives it kind of an unfair advantage. Second, unfairly-advantaged or not, these five represent some of the most authentic, charming and still-relatively-tourist-untainted coastal towns you’ll find in Italy.
Adding to these molto belle little towns’ allure is the walking trail that connects the villages to each other and the various lesser paths through the hills. Sometimes a treat and sometimes a trek, you’ll enjoy the views even more if you’re comfortable, safe and not, oh, fearing for your life. Read on for a beginner’s primer to taming the trail of Cinque Terre.
Shoes. You’d think this would go without saying, but platforms are “in” again this season, so I think it’s important to note: This 8-mile trail is not the place to break in your new Italian leather pumps, ladies; and, gentlemen, forget the flip-flops. While in some places the path is as pleasant as a walk in the park, in others, it won’t be forgiving on anything less than comfy walking shoes.
Waterbottle. Yes, there are five lovely villages in which you can grab a little something to quench your thirst … but in between the villages is when you actually need it. With the sun beating down as you walk and, for example, climb the 368 stairs into Corniglia, you’ll be glad to be relying on the villages for refills instead of doctor-administered hydration.
Running. To each his own, I guess. If you do feel the need to see the Italian coast through the veils of sweat streaming in your eyes, it’s best to do it when the paths are less crowded: early in the morning or later in the evening. I’m kidding, of course; I’m sure this is a lovely way to experience the trails. Though, if you ask me, you’re taking your life in your hands a little bit since the trail can be quite…
Slippery. Especially when it rains, the walkway gets rather slick and offers hikers the value-added thrill ride of a very real potential to slide down the side of a precipice. Not so buono; tread carefully, my friends. You’ll also see many people utilizing walking sticks to thwart just such a disaster. As they say (or they should), “Walk softly and carry a big stick.”
Don’t Drink. Water? Yes. Grappa? No. And the same goes for pinot grigio, pinot noir, sangria and limoncello. Listen, the sun’s hot, the trail’s slippery and you’ve got miles to go—does it really sound like a good idea to add alcohol to the mix? Yet, you’d be surprised at the number of tourists who have clearly been imbibing. Wine from the local vineyards is spectacular, it’s true, but you’re better off saving your bottle for a celebratory dinner at the end of the trail. That way, there’s a much better chance you’ll actually make it there.
(Photo: www.panoramio.com)
Posted July 1, 2009 by Kate Hamman
From couture collectors to darling divas, people from all over the world come to bask in Paris' trend-setting glory. Come see what all the hype is about by paying a visit to some of the hippest joints in town, including a vintage boutique, a fashion museum, and a stylish brasserie.
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Musée Galliera: Walk in the high heels of fashion's history at the Musée Galliera. Housing a collection of more than 90,000 items, the museum invites visitors to learn about three centuries of fashion. Guests will encounter 18th century costumes, couture gowns, and designer accessories. Admission costs €7 (about $10 U.S.; check XE.com for current exchange rates) and includes entrance to a library on the history of Western dress.
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Café Marly: Overlooking I.M. Pei's pyramid, Café Marly lives up to the Louvre's reputation by bringing fashion to the level of high art. Paris' top fashionistas and trendsetters mingle alongside its dark wood paneling and velvet drapery. The Pacific-Mediterranean cuisine is modeled after the clientele, with simple yet elegant dishes such as tomato-basil penne.
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Free "P" Star (site in French only): Located in the fourth arrondissement, this labyrinth of forgotten trends, retro accessories, and high-fashion finds attract the city's premier shoppers, including the likes of Kirsten Dunst and Sofia Coppola. If you have the patience to sift through the chaotic mountain of clothing, you may just encounter a hidden treasure. The bargain-basement prices make this vintage shop even more attractive. Open until 11 p.m., the store encourages you to take your time and shop your heart out.
To search for flights and compare prices to Paris, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: Patrick Breig, iStockphoto)
Posted June 30, 2009 by Amy Westervelt
Known for its fantastic beach, restored Victorians, and whale and bird-watching, Cape May is a prime tourist destination. Dozens of U.S. presidents have vacationed here, the Duchess of Windsor held her debutante party here, and many of the houses and haunts from the Gilded Age are in nearly the same shape today. Fortunately, you don't have to be a duchess or a Washington kingpin to have a good time in Cape May, as long as you know where to go.
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Beaches: It only costs a small price to frolic in the same waves that once crashed around our founding fathers. You'll want to visit Cape May Beach for its windswept beauty at least once while you're here. At sunset, head to famous Sunset Beach for prime views and the chance to pick up a few "Cape May diamonds" (quartz pebbles scattered throughout the sand). If you visit in spring or fall, keep an eye out for the 400-odd species of birds around the area. A one-day beach tag costs $5 and gets you into all of the Cape May beaches.
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George's Place: Cape May is the self-proclaimed restaurant capital of New Jersey, and there are certainly plenty of good eats to be had here. If you're in the mood for a reasonable and tasty breakfast or lunch, head to George's Place, a diner with a touch of seaside style, where you can chow down on breakfast quesadillas or chipped beef while Frank Sinatra croons on the stereo.
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John F. Craig House B&B: Every detail of this impressive 19th-century Carpenter Gothic home has been lovingly restored. The rooms are filled with antiques, wicker, and a good dose of whimsy, and have beds topped with dual-controlled heated mattress pads for those cold seaside nights. Breakfast is a lavish buffet, and the house is located just a block from the beach and the town's shops and restaurants. Rooms start at $195 per night.
To search for flights and compare prices to Atlantic City, which is home to Cape May’s nearest major airport, please use our price-comparison tool.
(Photo: John Woodworth, iStockPhoto.com)
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