Articles by C.L. Hendricks on ArticleSnatch.com

South Carolina - Where Life is a Beach

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:12:48 -0400

South Carolina is a beautiful state on the East Coast of the United States touching the Atlantic Ocean. While the beaches are known to draw people from all over, there are many other ways to enjoy family fun! South Carolina vacations offer educational and fun opportunities for families with diverse interests. South Carolina is home to over forty state parks where families can plan picnics and enjoy the beautiful weather that graces this state. Families can take a vacation from the hectic everyday to enjoy the pristine beauty of nature. Many a family reunion is held in the beautifully-appointed meeting facilities. There are many amusement parks guaranteed to thrill the children in the family while providing entertainment for adults as well. Frankie's Fun Parks are located in both North Charleston and Greenville, South Carolina, so they can easily be incorporated in any trip. For family fun, for thrill-seekers and music lovers alike, the Freestyle Music Park is sure to be enjoyed by all. This park incorporates the best of both the music world and the amusement park world offering 50 acres of family fun. The Time Machine roller coaster is the tallest in both North and South Carolina! **End Summary** Topics: South Carolina vacations]]> Hilton Head Island]]> Blue Ridge Mou]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Tennessee - With an Emphasis is on Memphis

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:46:04 -0400

The Volunteer State is a great destination choice for your next family vacation and one of the best places to visit is Memphis. This river town offers everything from world famous music to delicious deep Southern cuisine sure to please even your pickiest eater. There are several can't miss attractions that the entire group will enjoy. If you have kids, you'll want to devote at least a day to the famous Memphis Zoo. This attraction boasts a larger than life arched entrance reminiscent of ancient Egypt. Your family will love the multiple different theme enclosures, including the rare Chinese Pandas! Browse around the many different gift shops and have your picture taken as a souvenir or grab lunch from one of the local food vendors inside. Strollers are welcome and special accommodations can be found with visitors services. You'll find history lessons included within most of the exhibits. Educate yourself and your crew on the history of the Native American totem poles, or the famous journey of Marco Polo. If you have nature buffs in your family. A trip to the Memphis Botanical Gardens won't be a waste. **End Summary** Topics: Tennessee Family Vacation]]> Memphis Zoo]]> Memphis Botanical]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Families Vacations - Play Together Stay Together

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:44:02 -0400

Choosing where to spend your family vacation can be difficult. Families need to think about what will be best for all members. Teenagers may find the thrill of whitewater rafting exciting, but a younger child might have more fun at Disney World. Parents may enjoy visiting historic museums, but some children may not. Families who enjoy being outdoors might find the quiet and reserved atmosphere of an art museum boring. By the same token, families who prefer the arts would find the dust, noise and smells of a working ranch intolerable. What ever your family preferences are there are family vacation spots that will be just perfect for you. Here are some places of interest to help get you started.Â On the West Coast, Los Angeles and San Diego, are considered hot vacation spots. Museums, renowned zoos and theme parks along with historic and cultural sites guarantee that there is something for every family. In addition, many California attractions like Knott's Berry Farm and Hollywood's Universal Studios are great all-day fun. Â Florida, the Sunshine state has as much to offer. The Everglade National Park offers walking tours and camping among other daily activities. **End Summary** Topics: family vacation spots]]> whitewater rafting]]> family vacation]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Florida, More than Oranges and Alligators

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:42:10 -0400

Thrill seekers, hikers, campers and history buffs will all find what they are looking for in Florida family vacation destinations. Children can visit with their favorite Disney character's while grandparents can stroll along secluded beaches. Families can plan a vacation to include many activities that will please everyone and provide lifelong memories of that special vacation. The Gulf coast of Florida offers many unique locations for family vacation fun. There are many state parks along the western edge of Florida. Including Crystal River Preserve, Homosassa Springs, Weeki Wachee and more the further south you go. You can dive with manatees near Crystal River or walk the Native American mounds at Crystal River Archeological Park. If those do not interest you fishing and scuba diving are available at most parks along the Gulf Coast. Children can pretend to be pirates for a day at Captain Memo's Pirate cruise near Clearwater. The Clearwater Aquarium, a non profit organization, has special exhibits that allow the public to touch sting rays and starfish. Pier 60 near St. Petersburg has street performers and salt water fishing. **End Summary** Topics: Florida family vacation destinations]]> Walt Disney World]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

How to Go Tropical the Easy Way: Go Hawaii

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:40:29 -0400

If you yearn to experience an exotic, tropical vacation and avoid the problems, difficulties and cost of a foreign location, an Hawaii family vacation has everything you're looking for without the inconveniences. The unique geographical location and aquatic life of the Pacific Ocean offers everyone a special vacation opportunity. The islands of Maui, Kauai and the big island Hawaii cater especially to families with children. Many resorts and hotels offer activities just for kids. Your children can try their hand at lei making, ukulele making and hula dancing. Families can walk the gorgeous beaches, take a swim in the ocean or try their hand at surfing. The Embassy Vacation Resort in Kaanapali on the west side of Maui offers programs that will allow children to swim, explore, and play games while the adults explore the adult side of a Hawaiian visit. Many of the islands offer swim time with dolphins', surfing and authentic luau's. Helicopter charters are available on most islands. This unique method of sightseeing takes you to areas unavailable by land. Soar over an active volcano, or, fly by mile high waterfalls observing the lush tropical landscape as you couldn't do on land. **End Summary** Topics: Hawaii family vacation]]> Haleakala Volcano National Park]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Las Vegas Goes Child-Friendly

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:38:42 -0400

When searching for a fun and interesting spot that can entertain the whole family, you might want to consider a Las Vegas Family Vacation. While, "Sin City" may not be the most obvious choice, give it a chance, this desert burg may surprise you. There are a variety of different kinds of attractions from zoos to water parks. Plenty of the famed Las Vegas shows are totally child appropriate and hotels often offer options for parents. Some of the hotels that offer child care are: Boulder Station, for a fee; Orleans, the Kid's Time Child Care Center; and Loews Lake Las Vegas, the Lowes Loves Kids program. Several resorts feature Kid's Quest child care centers: The Palms, Boulder Station, Red Rock Casino and Resort, Sunset Station, Santa Fe Station and Texas Station. If you have techno heads in your family, try a trip to GameWorks. This attraction features everything from cutting-edge games like virtual games and dance stations to classic arcade fun in the form of PacMan and Mario Brothers. There's even an adults-only area where you can retire while the little ones run free. For the animal lover in your group, head to Animal Kingdom. **End Summary** Topics: Las Vegas Family Vacation]]> Circus Circus]]> Planet Hollywood]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Michigan - The Jewel of the Great Lakes Region

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:37:06 -0400

If you are smart, you might be thinking exactly what I'm thinking that this is the perfect time for a Michigan family vacation. Yes, any time of the year is the perfect time for the perfect family vacation in an exquisite setting - the Great Lakes State. If you like to hike, swim, fish, play in the outdoors and generally have affordable fun with your family then let me tell you a little more about why to chose Michigan for your family vacation destination. All the outdoor activities can be found in Cadillac whether it is summer or winter. For that snowy winter vacation, try the miles and miles of snowmobile trails and ice fishing at Lakes Cadillac and Mitchell along with skiing at the Caberfae Ski Resort. There's no end to the summer activities including swimming at the state park, bicycling, fishing, hiking, boating and water skiing. Cadillac also features a great City Park with a real locomotive from the logging days gone by. Imagine a 400 feet high mountain of beach sand all bright and golden colored. This is what you and your children will see at Sleeping Bear Dunes. **End Summary** Topics: Michigan family vacation]]> Great Lakes State]]> Mackinac Island]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Arkansas - A Real Diamond In The Rough

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:35:33 -0400

Arkansas features many attractions that will satisfy every member of your family. Mountain retreats, leisurely cruises on a historic steamboat, or hot spots in a modern metropolis can all be found in Arkansas. Within the boundaries of Arkansas one can find mountains, rivers, primordial forests and miles of hiking trails. Cornerstone Mountain Retreat, near Hatfield, in the Ouachitas Mountain region features modern cabins and family activities. At the Harmony Mountain Retreat, near Jasper, visitors can walk for miles in pristine forests. Outdoor enthusiasts can try their hand at fly fishing on the North Fork River, Little Red River or Buffalo National River, in the Ozark Mountains. White River National Wildlife Refuge is one of the few primordial forests in the country. Crater of Diamonds State Park, near Murfreesboro offers visitors a chance to dig for real diamonds. Blanchard Springs Caverns located in the Ozark Mountains offers guided tours. Hot Springs National Park is a historic landmark that offers families a wide variety of activities. Family vacationers who fancy leisurely walks through museums will not be disappointed. Arkansas features cultural and historical museums that include the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, located near Little Rock has naval vessels on site. **End Summary** Topics: Arkansas family vacation]]> Little Rock Zoo]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Move to the Beat on a Jamaica Vacation

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:33:24 -0400

When you're thinking about where to go for your next relaxing getaway with the kids, think about a Jamaica family vacation. Jamaica is such a beautiful island, and it's not just for adults, as there are at least 5 kid-friendly resorts we can recommend. They are all-inclusive resorts, which means you know what you're paying upfront and can relax without worrying about added expenses as the kids choose what they want to do and what they want to eat. There are three alone in the Sandals group of resorts. They are in the Beaches category (others in the Sandals group being the adult version) and are located in Boscobel, Negril, and Sandy Bay. On the north coast, Boscobel offers the adults a chance to laze on a soft beach while the kids frolic in a huge, beautiful state-of-the-art waterpark, pirate's island, and games garage. Older kids and teens are welcomed into the golf and country club for activities, also. Competent babysitters can be hired after hours if parents want to have a leisurely evening. Negril, which is on the famed 7-mile beach, also has the game garage and pirate's island, but it also has a Sesame Street-themed Caribbean adventure. **End Summary** Topics: Jamaica family vacation]]> all-inclusive resorts]]> Boscobel]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

The Bahamas - All Inclusive All Paradise

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:31:42 -0400

Planning a Bahamas family vacation couldn't be easier and you'll be surprised how easy to afford this trip of a lifetime can be. Your family will treasure their time at the family-friendly resorts, splashing in the ocean waves or frolicking on the white-sand beaches. The Bahamas resorts are specially tailored to ensure both parents and children will have a trip to remember: Playgrounds, kids clubs, supervised swimming and babysitting services are available for the parents who want to steal away some alone time. The suites offer abundant room to stretch out after the sun and surf without bumping into each other. If you're going, consider these family-friendly, all-inclusive resort opportunities: Atlantis Paradise Island Resort & Casino on Paradise Island caters to every member of the family. There are children's pool, waterslides and 11 lagoons that are home to 200 different kinds of tropical fish, barracudas, sharks and stingrays. Atlantis has partnered with The Discovery Channel to create a program to make sure children learn and laugh. It includes crafts, history lessons and a technology lab. Your teens can also hang out at the Club Rush Teen Center: No adults allowed. **End Summary** Topics: Bahamas family vacation]]> Bahamas vacation]]> Super-Inclusive]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Blow the Vacation Blues Away - Visit Chicago

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:30:13 -0400

Searching for a big city to entertain, delight and educate? Look no further than the family-friendly "Windy City." A Chicago Family Vacation is perfect for those looking for everything from zoos and water attractions to educational and historical museums and activities. See the city from a unique point of view. The shore of Lake Michigan features a wonderful way to take everything in. Climb up to the Sears Tower Skydeck or gaze out of the John Hancock Observatory for a complete 360 degree view of this spectacular and famed cityscape. Take the family to visit Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest and most well know zoos in the country. With more than a thousand animals to see and learn about, an entire day can be spent wandering around this preserve. There are games and train rides to keep every member of your group entertained and amused. A trip to Chicago wouldn't be complete without a stop at one of the areas top Museums. **End Summary** Topics: Chicago Family Vacation]]> Field Museum of Natural History]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

From The Rockies to Gold Mines, Colorado Is a Fantastic Family Vacation

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:28:08 -0400

If you are looking for a great place to spend quality family time, you will want to check out a Colorado family vacation. This beautiful and scenic state offers a wide and dynamic array of fun-filled family activities. With statuesque mountains as a backdrop, this state features hopping fast-paced city activities, enjoyable outdoor parks with an array of physical sports, to enjoyable kid-oriented activities. From the Rockies to the Gold Mines, Colorado is a fantastic family vacation. A great place to start is enjoying the gorgeous mountains that sweep through the state. There are numerous opportunities to go hiking, skiing, snowmobiling and even places where you can check out the wildlife. Throughout the mountain ranges, there are national parks you can go to enjoy any one of these activities. Park passes are low cost and families can purchase either single day or annual passes which allow them to go to any state park. Families will want to check the state website, or with the park ranger to make sure their activity is allowed at the park. Families can also stop at any of the resorts if they are looking for a more upscale experience. **End Summary** Topics: Colorado family vacation]]> Pikes Peak]]> Vail]]> Breckenridge]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Sail Away with Mickey and Goofy on a Disney Cruise Line

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:26:24 -0400

Disney Cruise Line came into being in 1999 and for 10 years has been the cruise line leader in "family" cruises. They immediately redefined the cruise industry with the majority of their staterooms being larger and having balconies. They were also the first to place bathtubs in the majority of their staterooms, something needed for young children. The designers of Disney Cruise Line ships definitely had children in mind when they designed the different areas specifically for children. For little ones, 3 months to 3 years, there's Flounders Reef Nursery with their low ratio of children to caretakers. Decorated in the Little Mermaid theme, the center is fully-equipped with baby swings, walkers, music and a VCR/television for movies, all designed to provide mental stimulation and entertainment. For kids 3 to 7, the Oceaneer Club is a pirate ship from Neverland. There's a sparkling "night sky", a television secreted in a treasure chest and lamps from barrels. Security is vital here, ensuring that the children are safe and happy as they play games dressed up as a princesses, pirates or villains. **End Summary** Topics: Disney Cruise Line]]> Family cruises]]> Disney Cruises]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Lake of the Ozarks will Show You

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:24:36 -0400

The center of the "Show-Me-State" is the perfect spot for a Lake of the Ozarks Family Vacation. Your group will find all manner of activities and attractions including boating, camping, caves, cruises, golf, museums, and fishing. Close to everything, Lake of the Ozarks is located in the middle of the state, a close drive from several major cities. In this premier destination spot, everyone will be able to find something they'll love! Start your perfect getaway by deciding on the best lodging for your family. If its bed and breakfasts you prefer try The Garden House Bed & Breakfast in Lake Ozark or the Cliff House Inn at Osage Beach. If hotels are more your speed, hotels like the Dogwood Hills Golf Resort Inn in Osage Beach and the Country Club Hotel in Lake Ozark are great choices. Perhaps you want to splurge on an all inclusive resort? There are several around the area including Crystal Water Villas at Gravois Mills or Eagle's Nest Resort at Sunrise Beach. For the adventurers in your family, visit one of the Lake of the Ozarks' four tourist caves. Explore the cavernous depths and discover the mystery of what lies beneath! **End Summary** Topics: Lake of the Ozarks Family Vacation]]> Ha Ha Tonka State Park]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Pennsylvania is Picture Perfect

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:22:46 -0400

Pennsylvania is home to a wide range of year-round family activities perfect for getaways and vacations. From skiing, hiking, amusement parks, as well as cultural and historical museums a Pennsylvania vacation has a lot for everyone in the family. There are any number of possible day trips for the family including the Harley-Davidson plant in York, and the Hershey Chocolate plant in Hershey. Other fun trips include historic Philadelphia with the Independence Hall museum, the Constitution Center, and the Philadelphia Art Museum home to the famous ""Rocky steps" from the feature movie. If you prefer the thrill of amusement parks Pennsylvania offers several excellent options. Dorney Park, in the town of Dorney, includes access to a full scale water park called Wild Water Kingdom for no additional cost. Hershey PA also offers Hershey Park with numerous themed rides and activities. Finally Elysburg, PA is home to Knoebels amusement park the largest free admission park in the USA featuring one of the tallest wooden roller coasters in the country. If you like to vacation outside there are few places that rival Pennsylvania's pristine natural beauty and the variety of opportunity it allows for. **End Summary** Topics: Pennsylvania Family Vacation]]> Pennsylvania vacation]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

South Dakota- A Monumental Rush

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:18:54 -0400

A family vacation in South Dakota is the perfect way to enjoy your leisure time. The Mount Rushmore state is both wonderful and inexpensive, the perfect place for a family getaway that won't leave you wondering whether you'll need to get a second job. Not only that, but it offers something fun for everyone. For the most part, many of these attractions are more than reasonably priced, and a surprising number of them are even free. The state offers everything, including national monuments, wildlife watching, some unusual attractions, scenic parks and byways, and even the occasional tourist trap. One of the most remarkable and free attractions is the Corn Palace. This unique site dates back to the 1800s, when the early settlers, proud and grateful for their wonderful harvest, decided to make a marvelous display of the bounteous goods the earth had given them. Since this tradition was established, residents of Mitchell have taken it in turns to decorate their buildings after the manner of their ancestors. The designs vary each year, so you may be sure of seeing new artwork every time you visit. **End Summary** Topics: family vacation in South Dakota]]> South Dakota tourism]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Virginia Beach - Stretch Your Vacation Dollars

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:16:44 -0400

Sometimes a Virginia Beach family vacation is all that a family needs to get out of the mundane day-to-day existence. Virginia Beach offers a wonderful family atmosphere that will draw visitors in every year. Not only is a trip to Virginia Beach relaxing, educational, and entertaining, but it is affordable as well. If you prefer to relax at the beach and enjoy the beautiful Atlantic Ocean, you can choose between the amusing, exciting atmosphere of a public beach, or choose for the serene environment that comes with renting a private beach house. Both provide a different atmosphere altogether. The downtown Virginia Beach area is a fun and safe area that welcomes families. Police are a visible presence which ensures safety and Virginia Beach even prohibits the use of profanity along many common public streets! The oceanfront area provides entertainment for the evenings after a day spent on the beach. It offers story-telling history lessons, live bands, street performers and restaurants. Visit the many attractions that line the streets right behind the hotels, and play host to many interesting shops and fascinating businesses. If your family loves haunted houses, be sure to stop by the haunted house located along the strip. **End Summary** Topics: Virginia Beach family vacation]]> Busch Gardens]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Washington DC for Fun, Facts and Family

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:14:46 -0400

A Washington DC family vacation can be great fun and educational. You'll learn all about American history by visiting the museums and government buildings and have other fun experiences as well. For example, your entire family will have a great time at the National Zoo viewing the exotic animals on display. Lions, tigers, and bears, oh my! For older children, the Smithsonian Museum is an inspiring and unbeatable educational value. You'll see the Spirit of St. Louis, the first plane to cross the Atlantic, and the capsule that carried John Glenn into orbit around the earth. They'll love holding an actual moon rock brought back by the first astronauts to set foot on the moon. The Declaration of Independence is on display at the Museum of American History, and for the kids, the stuffed and mounted horse Comanche, the only survivor of the Battle of Little Big Horn. Colonel George Custer made his famous last stand there and entered the annals of American history. The Mall is just a short walk away in the shadow of the Washington Monument. That's also where you can visit the memorial to Abraham Lincoln, our most revered president. **End Summary** Topics: Washington DC family vacation]]> Smithsonian Museum]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Georgia on Your Vacation Mind

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:12:39 -0400

With a combination of southern hospitality and modern conveniences, a Georgia family vacation may be the perfect solution to your vacation destination question. A trip to the beach or a weekend on an island may be the ideal choice for your family's next vacation. Then again, hiking through the wilderness or rafting down a lazy river may suit your family better. Either way, Georgia has these and many other options to offer vacationers. Consider vacationing on an island. There are many islands located off the coast of Georgia. Stroll along historic paths as you learn about the history of Saint Simons Island. This island features a ghost walk, a trolley tour, botanical scavenger hunts and many free activities for your children. The Fort Pulaski National Monument located on Tybee Island provides a glimpse into this island's past. Comfortable walking paths meander through this historic military park. Water enthusiasts will enjoy kayaking in the sea off Tybee Island. You can climb to the top of a real lighthouse while visiting this island and tour the Lighthouse Museum. Take a Dolphin Tour with Captain Mike or visit the Marine Science Center while visiting Tybee Island. **End Summary** Topics: Georgia family vacation]]> Georgia vacations]]> Fort Pulaski]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Ohio - Wide Open for Fun

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:09:12 -0400

Is your family looking for fun in the sun? Perhaps a more challenging vacation is in mind, like a week long canoe trip or a white water rafting experience? An Ohio family vacation has what you are looking for and more. The museums in Cincinnati alone could occupy a family for days. The Police Museum, the Cincinnati Museum of Art, the American Sign Museum, and the Taft Museum are just a few of the different museums in the city. You and the kids will be fascinated and educated at the same time. Traveling an hour north you will find the Wright Patterson Air Force Museum filled with aircraft, memorabilia and photographs of the people and machines that guided our air and space technology. Wapakoneta is home to the Neil Armstrong Air and Space Museum dedicated to the first man who walked on the moon. If you're more of an outdoor type Ohio have many state and local parks featuring hiking trails, day and weekend canoe trips, primitive camping, fishing, boating and spelunking. Huston Woods, Hocking Hills State Park, Cleveland Lakefront Park are only a few of the hundreds of state operated parks in Ohio. **End Summary** Topics: Ohio family vacation]]> Coney Island Amphitheater]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Where to Go When You go Down Under

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:48:42 -0400

Here are ten suggestions for Australia tourist attractions that we have found to be fascinating, educational or just plain fun. Just in case you get this question the next time you play trivia: Australia is the sixth largest nation in the world. It's smaller than Brazil and is the only continent nation that owns the entire continent. There are six states or territories in Australia: Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. Canberra Australia is the national capital of Australia, similar to Washington, D.C. in the U.S. Take in the history of this nation by visiting the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum of Australia, the Australian War Memorial and the nation's Parliament House. Gold Coast Australia can be found in Queensland and is home of the Australian Outback Spectacular, a fantastic dinner theater. You'll also want to check out Australia's most favorite theme park; Dreamworld. To cool down spend the day at Wet "n" Wild Water World. Located in New South Wales, Sidney Australia is a cosmopolitan city with plenty to do. Visit Sydney Wildlife World to see and learn about Australia unique flora and fauna. **End Summary** Topics: Australia Tourist Attractions]]> Canberra Australia]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

China: Land of Ancient Wonders and Natural Beauty

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:46:16 -0400

There are so many fascinating tourist attractions in China, that a short two-week vacation would just be too short. You would spend the rest of your life thinking about all the natural beauty and man-made wonders that you missed. A brief one-day visit to China would only whet your appetite for a taste of the full flavor of this ancient land. The capital of China, Beijing, was also the capital of several rich and fascinating Dynasties that have left their mark on the city with the many imperial palaces they built. The Forbidden City is the most famous of these historical landmarks. Don't leave Beijing before you pay homage to Tiananmen Square and marvel at the portion of the Great Wall of China that passes through the center of the city. Visit Guangzhou and take in the Bright Filial Piety Temple, valued for its contribution to the history of Buddhism. Next travel to Xian China the home of the most famous cultural relics in China: the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses that guarded Emperor Qin Shi Huang's burial place. Visit Macau China and be enthralled with the temple, Place of A-Ma, dedicated to the protective goddess of ancient Chinese Mariners. **End Summary** Topics: tourist attractions in China]]> Guangzhou China]]> Chengdu China]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Mexico: Friendly People, Great Resorts, Real Bargain

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:42:33 -0400

Among the thousands of things to do in Mexico, here are the top ten travel destinations selected for their activities, natural attractions and budget-friendly welcome. Cozumel Mexico: This island is located in the Caribbean waters just off the coast of Mexico. A luxurious paradise that offers exciting underwater adventures and romantic beaches, many couples have fallen in love with this perfect honeymoon getaway. Forget the French Riviera: The Mayan Riviera, along the Pacific coast of Mexico, has attractions and activities to suit every budget and lifestyle. Explore ancient ruins, get pampered in a luxury resort, or stroll along pristine beaches. Tulum: At the southern end of the Mayan Riviera in the Yucatan Peninsula is a natural and historical draw. Ancient Mayan ruins tower over pristine beaches and other natural wonders surround this city on the edge of the jungle. Spring Break: Cancun, located just north of the Mexican Riviera, is predicted to be the #1 spring break destination in 2010. A weak peso against a stronger dollar means college students in limited budgets can enjoy an exciting time without going broke. Another attraction is that the legal drinking age is 18. **End Summary** Topics: Things to do in Mexico]]> Cozumel]]> Ensenada]]> Huatulco Mexico]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Florida: Manatees, Dolphins and Gators, Oh My!

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:39:27 -0400

Looking for things to do in Florida? Having visited and lived in Florida I can tell you that there are an amazing number of manmade attractions and natural wonders in the Sunshine State. Pensacola: In the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola offers a number of great natural water sports; swimming, sailing and fishing just to name a few. Sam's Fun City is a great place to take the kids for water fun, arcade games, indoor rides and laser tag. Miami: While in Miami, get away from the beach and shopping for a few hours of enjoying the lush botanicals at the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Ft. Lauderdale: Located just north of Miami, Ft. Lauderdale is a great place to sightsee and watch the rich and famous by taking a Carrie B cruise of their yachts and homes. Get up close with nature on an exciting airboat ride at the Everglades Holiday Park. Florida State Parks are located all around the State. When I visited last year, I was fascinated by the Blue Spring State Park with its large, clear spring, although I was disappointed to be there at the wrong time to see the protected manatees. **End Summary** Topics: things to do in Florida]]> Clearwater Beach]]> Cocoa Beach]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways

Things to Do In Arizona

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:37:43 -0400

Looking for thing to do in Arizona? Then I have got some great suggestions. Having lived and traveled all over the state I can tell you that Arizona is much more than desert, cactus and coyotes howling at the moon. No matter what your interests you will find plenty to do in the Grand Canyon state. Grand Canyon: Speaking of the Grand Canyon, cabins and hotels provide ample opportunities for visitors to rest and recover after experiencing the awesome beauty unlike anywhere else in the world. Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim is the center for lodging, dining and shopping. Phoenix: Attractions in Phoenix Arizona are both man-made and natural. In the spring enjoy the beauty of the blooming desert flora with a visit to the Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden. Surprise: Surprise Arizona is the home for spring training for the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers. Exhibition games take place in the Surprise. Lake Havasu: Home of the real London Bridge, Lake Havasu Arizona is located on the Colorado River across from Laughlin, Nevada. **End Summary** Topics: Things to Do In Arizona]]> Arizona RV Parks]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Family Vacation Spots and Best Vacation Getaways