Utah Canyoneering

August 27th, 2008 Utah is one truly amazing place. The weather and geology fuse to generate a phenomenal landscape replete with sweeping rock, desolate deserts, and extraordinary canyons. Such environments have spurred a new kind of exploration sport in Utah called canyoneering. The sport can range anywhere from leisurely strolls through smooth terrain or more technical and physically challenging explorations which require ropes, wetsuits, helmets, and other extreme equipment.You have a variety of options when it comes to choosing the particular canyon and area you want to do canyoneering in; easy to difficult, short or long, close to civilization or ....Continued

Skunks Make Strange Bedfellows

August 27th, 2008 I had survived my first day of my 2,160 mile Appalachian Trail journey. Yesterday, I bid farewell to my family who had dropped my off in the woods near the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail—Springer Mountain, Georgia. The temperature remained low, never breaking 40 degrees. I moved along all day, winding through the Chattahoochee National Forest, going up and down Georgia’s finest mountains. By mid-afternoon, I arrived at a gap in the mountains called Miller Gap. Looking at the map unfolded on my lap, the profile showed a continuous five-mile climb straight up Blood ....Continued

Why Cruises Are a Great Way to Spend Luxury Vacations

August 26th, 2008 Any travel agent worth their salt will ask a client interested in a luxury travel vacation what kind of travel they are interested in. Based on the traveler's experience and personal preferences, the travel agent will recommend independent travel, guided tours or a cruise. One of my personal favorites is the cruise experience. A cruise is perfect for travelers interested in getting the best value, looking for convince and interested in a variety of operators and itineraries.Value of Luxury VacationsWhen pricing out a cruise, keep in mind that the price includes a lot of amenities and extras ....Continued

How to Pack for a Luxury World Cruise

August 26th, 2008 With the popularity of luxury world cruises growing, there are more and more people asking for advice once they have decided that a world cruise is the vacation of their dreams. Keeping in mind that most world cruises last between 100 and 250 days, there are a lot of things to think about. One of the most often asked question is, “What should we pack?” Here are a few helpful suggestions, and though some may seem obvious, it is important to have a running list so that you don’t get confused about what you have or have ....Continued

Find Relaxing Luxury on Mississippi River Cruises

August 26th, 2008 River cruises are some of the most entertaining cruises, and Mississippi River cruises are no exception. You have several options when it comes to Mississippi River cruises. You can travel the Mississippi on a steamboat or on a theme cruise. Visit river ports or stay on the sea on the renowned Delta Queen.A paddle-wheel steamboat is the best way to explore the history of the Mississippi River. You get to experience the "showboat" entertainment of the past. You will visit New Orleans and taste Cajun food. You get to see the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. If you are interested ....Continued

Luxury Barge Cruises - Why They’re So Popular

August 26th, 2008 You probably never thought you'd hear the phrase "luxury barge cruise", or even hear the words "luxury" and "barge" used together, did you? But these cruises are becoming hot commodities and sell out quickly.Barge cruises usually sail on European rivers, canals, and waterways. For centuries, rivers were the main mode of transportation. We've all seen pictures of the gondolas in Italy, but most other countries utilized their waterways on a daily basis, as well.Barges typically accommodate from 5 or 8 passengers to fifty. The longer the barge, the more room you'll have and the more amenities can be placed on ....Continued

How to Plan a Luxury Cruise Vacation

August 26th, 2008 A luxury cruise vacation is something most of us dream about. Sailing the ocean under sunny skies, our every want and need anticipated by attentive staff, food and wine everywhere we look, not a worry in the world. Well, what's keeping you?Three-quarters of the earth is covered by water. What better way to explore our planet than in style on a cruise ship? Today's luxury cruises run the gamut from small vessels that carry 8 or 10 passengers to giant ocean liners with every amenity you could imagine, and a few you couldn't.If you want a smaller, more intimate luxury ....Continued

Are Luxury Cruises Worth The Extra Cost?

August 26th, 2008 Mainstream cruises, especially the ones run on large ships by the major companies, tend to be pretty affordable these days with prices starting around $100 a day for inside cabins. Luxury cruises, on the other hand, cater to a different crowd, and prices can be $1,000 or more per day.As with flying first class on an airplane, the difference in price between standard and luxury is a big one. Expect to pay far more than double the price. The real question is do you get double (or more) the value?Honestly, this is going to depend on ....Continued

Cruise Travel - The Pinnacle Of Luxury

August 26th, 2008 Cruise travel represents a pinnacle of luxury. Cruising is really all about the journey and while the destination is certainly important, many people find that they cherish the memories they make while on board ship. Cruise prices are going up every year. Cruisers can rate ships from one to five in each of several areas including food, service, accommodations, entertainment, shore excursions, overall condition of ship, children's facilities and value for money.CruiseSome Advantages and Disadvantages of primary advantage of all inclusive cruises, is that all the planning is taken care of for you – right down to the ....Continued

A Luxury Alaskan Cruise is a Great Vacation Choice

August 26th, 2008 When most people think of a luxury cruise their thoughts turn to tropical ports of call surrounded by crystal blue waters. Alaska is not always the first destination most people think of when choosing a cruise, but those who do visit this largest of states aboard ship will tell you it is not to be missed. There is a rawness to this land that is hard to describe without seeing it and a cruise will give you a view that most people will never see.Depending on how adventurous you are there are several ways to enjoy the experience of an ....Continued