There is perhaps no other place that I enjoy as a vacation destination more than Las Vegas, Nevada. So it may not be surprising that as a travel consultant, I have chosen to become certified as a Las Vegas Destination Specialist by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). While this may not mean that I know “everything” about Vegas off the top of my head, I probably know where to find it. It also means that I have access to special offers negotiated by the LVCVA that may not be available elsewhere, especially on public websites.
So…one might think that with my enthusiasm for Vegas that I would be a dedicated gambler, right? Well, not really. In fact, as much as I love the casino atmosphere, I’ve been known to go a whole day without contributing one dollar to a slot machine or card table. Why? Because there’s usually too much other stuff going on! *smile* I don’t go to Vegas to earn “comps” (complimentary stays) for my gambling play; I go prepared what it takes to have a good time and I am ready to invest in what it takes to do so.
Did you know that gaming now accounts for less than half of the revenue of most Vegas casinos? Dining and entertainment are now each just as prominent…and can even be intertwined at times. This is the beginning of an ongoing series that endeavors to show how one can have an excellent time in Las Vegas well beyond the video poker and blackjack table. So stay tuned and enjoy!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
A Convenient Pink Sand Paradise
The island country of Bermuda is famous for its pink sand beaches, unique pastel-colored architecture and English flair. Located just 650 miles southeast of North Carolina, Bermuda is particularly convenient for East Coast residents of North America. The best beaches and most hotels are located on the southern shore.
Because of limits placed on cars, cruise ship visits and hotel construction, Bermuda has been able to maintain its reputation as an upscale destination. In fact, it has one of the highest rates of returning visitors in the world.
The capital of Hamilton features limestone homes and quaint cottages that await arriving cruise ship passengers who patronize the many tourist-friendly shops. Although near the mouth of the island’s Great Sound, there are no beaches in Hamilton. One can take a ferry to the south shore to relax on the famous pink sand. However, one must remember to catch the last boat before midnight.
St. George, located on the eastern edge of the island, was Bermuda’s first capital. The city retains much of its 17th century heritage. Besides an array of pubs and restaurants, there is also nearby Fort St. Catherine, the largest of the island's historic forts.
While Bermuda isn’t known for high-energy nightlife, visitors will certainly have their share of things to do during the day. The island is a golfer’s paradise, with more courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world. And of course, don’t forget the Bermuda shorts which are accepted as standard dress everywhere (although a jacket and tie is recommended for men on more formal occasions).
The weather is pleasant through most of the year. The Gulf Stream helps to moderate the summer heat. Winter is pleasant enough for most outdoor activities except for swimming.
Because of limits placed on cars, cruise ship visits and hotel construction, Bermuda has been able to maintain its reputation as an upscale destination. In fact, it has one of the highest rates of returning visitors in the world.
The capital of Hamilton features limestone homes and quaint cottages that await arriving cruise ship passengers who patronize the many tourist-friendly shops. Although near the mouth of the island’s Great Sound, there are no beaches in Hamilton. One can take a ferry to the south shore to relax on the famous pink sand. However, one must remember to catch the last boat before midnight.
St. George, located on the eastern edge of the island, was Bermuda’s first capital. The city retains much of its 17th century heritage. Besides an array of pubs and restaurants, there is also nearby Fort St. Catherine, the largest of the island's historic forts.
While Bermuda isn’t known for high-energy nightlife, visitors will certainly have their share of things to do during the day. The island is a golfer’s paradise, with more courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world. And of course, don’t forget the Bermuda shorts which are accepted as standard dress everywhere (although a jacket and tie is recommended for men on more formal occasions).
The weather is pleasant through most of the year. The Gulf Stream helps to moderate the summer heat. Winter is pleasant enough for most outdoor activities except for swimming.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The (Almost As) Great Barrier Reef
Most everyone has heard of the Great Barrier Reef located off the northeastern coast of Australia. However, many people may not be aware that the second longest reef in the world is located in the Central American country in Belize. The reef's two largest land masses or cayes (pronounced keys) are Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. On Ambergris Caye, the town of San Pedro is the main access point. The fastest mode of transportation available to visitors is the golf cart.
Belize City, which was the nation's capital until a hurricane severely damaged it in 1970, is still the main transportation hub for the country. This is where one is most likely to find reminders of Belize's past as a British colony. Even today, Belize is the only Central American country where English is recognized as the official language. Belize's indigenous past is honored on La Ruta Maya (The Route of the Maya) which starts north of Belize City.
Belize is closer to North America than one might think, located just south of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and such popular resort towns as Cancun , Cozumel and Tulum. So if a trip to Australia requires too much commitment, a vacation to Belize can definitely more within your reach.
Belize City, which was the nation's capital until a hurricane severely damaged it in 1970, is still the main transportation hub for the country. This is where one is most likely to find reminders of Belize's past as a British colony. Even today, Belize is the only Central American country where English is recognized as the official language. Belize's indigenous past is honored on La Ruta Maya (The Route of the Maya) which starts north of Belize City.
Belize is closer to North America than one might think, located just south of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and such popular resort towns as Cancun , Cozumel and Tulum. So if a trip to Australia requires too much commitment, a vacation to Belize can definitely more within your reach.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
A Caribbean Experience As Easy As "A-B-C"
Many people who want to visit the Caribbean are hesitant to do so during what is considered to be hurricane season: June through November. However, there are three exceptions to the rule that are very unlikely to experience hurricanes. They are known as the "ABC" countries: Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. All of them are located just a "stone's throw" from the coast of South America. As part of the Netherlands Antilles, the Dutch influence is still strong in each country.
Aruba is popular with tourists who visit its resorts on the northwest coast. Those who explore further are surprised to find a desert climate complete with cactus trees. The capital city Oranjestad is a mix of Spanish and Dutch architecture. From the top of Haystack Mountain, one can see all the way to Venezuela.
Bonaire is a diver's paradise! The island-nation is completely surrounded by coral reefs that lead down to friendly fish below the sea. While there are a few casinos, most people are in bed early to rest up for another busy day exploring the ocean. Most hotels are located just north of Kralendijk.
Curaçao was once known primarily as a trading center but the promotion of diving and duty-free shopping, the development of a large cruise ship port and the arrival of casinos has created a burgeoning tourist industry. The capital Willemstad is reminiscent of Amsterdam. In another mèlange of influences, Indonesian food and customs are also present while the Mikvè Israel Synagogue exists as the oldest in the Americas.
For those in North America comfortable with longer flights and perhaps more than one transfer, a vacation in any of the "ABC" islands would be a memorable experience.
Aruba is popular with tourists who visit its resorts on the northwest coast. Those who explore further are surprised to find a desert climate complete with cactus trees. The capital city Oranjestad is a mix of Spanish and Dutch architecture. From the top of Haystack Mountain, one can see all the way to Venezuela.
Bonaire is a diver's paradise! The island-nation is completely surrounded by coral reefs that lead down to friendly fish below the sea. While there are a few casinos, most people are in bed early to rest up for another busy day exploring the ocean. Most hotels are located just north of Kralendijk.
Curaçao was once known primarily as a trading center but the promotion of diving and duty-free shopping, the development of a large cruise ship port and the arrival of casinos has created a burgeoning tourist industry. The capital Willemstad is reminiscent of Amsterdam. In another mèlange of influences, Indonesian food and customs are also present while the Mikvè Israel Synagogue exists as the oldest in the Americas.
For those in North America comfortable with longer flights and perhaps more than one transfer, a vacation in any of the "ABC" islands would be a memorable experience.
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