Beach Vacation Ideas

Nothing in the world beats a family beach vacation, whether it's at a deluxe resort in Hawaii, and all-inclusive vacation spot in the Caribbean or a simple campground on a sandy beach near your home town. Beach vacations are one of the top travel destinations many people choose for their family vacation.

Below, are some beach vacation ideas you might consider for your next family vacation:

Caribbean Beach Vacations

1. Families flock to Jamaica and the Dominican Republic for the all-inclusive vacation filled with all kinds of water sports, kids clubs and, of course, great beaches.

2. At some resorts the kids programs are outstanding, with separate leaders and activities for many different age groups. This allows parents the freedom to enjoy their own beach time separately from their kids.

3. The majority of hotels in the Caribbean also offer spectacular swimming pools, and some resorts even have water parks.

4. The prices can be low to high, depending on the resort rating and the time you travel. Prices will drop from May to December, but if you book at the last minute you are sure to find a great deal somewhere. Be aware that hurricane season is in the May - December months as well, but most resorts offer weather guarantees.

Mexico Beach Vacation

Even though many tourists zip down to Mexico and do their own thing at a condo or small hotel, beach vacations at all-inclusive resorts are still the best way to go for families. All-inclusive means all-inclusive, with your plane fare, shuttle to-and-from the airport, meals, snacks, drinks and activities all included in one price.

The Riviera Maya, which offer the best of Mexico’s beaches, is an hour south of Cancun. It is reputed to have the second largest barrier reef in the world. It also has many activities for families to explore outside of the resort. You can rent a car, hire a taxi, or even take a public bus.

Hawaii Beach Vacation

When you go to Hawaii, you shouldn't expect to find all inclusive resorts in the Aloha state. Hawaii is known for lush luxury resorts, such as the Grand Wailea on Maui, or the properties on the Big Island's Kohala Coast.

To find more affordable options in Hawaii, the Waikiki Beach area is breathtaking, fun for the entire family, and offers several different lodging options.

Beach Camping

Of course, the above are beach vacations that you have to travel a far distance to. You can also enjoy the beaches in your own area. Beach camping is a great way to spend a low-budget beach vacation for the whole family. You simply have to take your tent and camping equipment and enjoy the great outdoors.

With plenty of options available to you and your family vacation ideas on the beach are always something to look forward to. There are many beaches out there. All you have to do is find the one that fits your needs - and your budget.

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Vacationing in the Fall

If you are one of the lucky people who are flexible in their vacation times, taking a fall vacation can mean a great bargain for you. There are often a number travel deals that you can take advantage for the best use of your vacation dollars. Many of the top summer destinations usually become great fall bargains. The weather is usually still pleasant (maybe even a little better without the really hot humidity) and the crowds have dissipated. Why not take a look at Cape Cod or Martha's Vineyard during this time of year. Or Hawaii is typically a bargain in September.

Europe may be a bargain during this time too. Many European cities are empty of the summer tourist crowds and are hungry for visitors. The weather can be great too. Look for special deals on packages that combine airfare, hotel and transfers along with a tour or two. Even colder European destinations can be a special bargain so look for great deals to Russia and Scandinavia around this time of year.

Another great idea for a wonderful fall vacation is to look for repositioning cruises. This is when cruises lines move their ships around from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to follow the sun worshiping crowds. Most Alaska, Europe, Mediterranean and Bermuda cruises, for instance, are offered in the summer when the weather is the best in those regions. For cruises to South America, the preferred time is winter (our winter, when it's summertime in the southern hemisphere). The Caribbean is warm year-round, though since hurricane season stretches from June through November, the optimal time to cruise the islands is winter and spring, though many ships are there year-round. In Asia, since much of the cruising region is near or just north of the equator, temperatures are very warm year round, though the wintertime months are slightly more comfortable.

To be in all of these places at the right time, ships reposition from one region to another, typically between seasons, during the months of September and October and April and May. The repositioning ships’ cruises are often deeply discounted because most don't include a whole lot of port calls. Many are two to three weeks in length, with a long, lazy stretch at sea crossing the Atlantic, Pacific or Indian oceans—perfect for people who just want to relax.

If you are one of those lucky people who can take their vacation in the fall, you can certainly see that there are a lot of vacation options that can save you money big time. If you are short on vacation dollars, vacationing in the fall with one of the above options may give you the wonderful vacation experience you are looking for.

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Cruise Vacations Tips

Here are a few cruise tips for first time cruisers. You can have a wonderful cruise vacation if you apply these cruise tips to your cruise vacation. Avoid the headaches and ensure you have a fun, rewarding stress-free cruise vacation.

1. Packing Tips for First Time Cruise Vacationers

Include all your medications, a first aid kit, and sea sickness medications in your carry on bag to have on hand when you (or if) you need them. It is advisable to take only one credit card with you--you really only need one. Leave the rest at home. Pack with comfort in mind--casual clothes mostly (and don't forget your swimsuit). Your ship may also offer one or two formal nights so you should include at least one or two outfits for evening wear.

2. Essential Documents for Cruisers

You will need to take your passport so that you can visit the different ports your cruise itinaray includes. You may also need to have different visas, depending on the ports your ship stops at (check with your travel agent if you are not sure if a visa is needed). You also need your pre-boarding pass, which you should receive and complete to boarding the ship. A good tip for first time cruisers is to take along a photocopy of your passport and to leave copies of your passport, airline tickets, and credit card information with a friend or family member at home.

3. Choosing Your Shipboard Cabin

One of the best choices for cabins is always an outside cabin. Especially if you suffer from claustrophobia, it is wise to avoid an interior room as these have no windows and the room sizes are smaller. If you think you may get seasick easily then you should choose a lower cabin near the center of the ship because there is less rocking motion of the ship.

4. Airline Connections for Your Cruise

If at all possible, schedule your flight for a day earlier than your ship leaves. If that is not possible, you should schedule your flight to your embarking destination at least four hours before the ship leaves. You should arrive at your embarkation area at least two hours before the ship is due to depart. And when booking your return flight, avoid booking it before 2:00 p.m. to give yourself ample time to catch the plane home.

5. Cruising Embarkation Tips

NEVER place your documentation (Passport, visas, etc.) in your checked baggage. You will need it for check in. Your checked luggage will be transferred to the ship and placed outside your room. Remember that this sometimes takes a few hours. You can use the time to wander around and get to know the ship.

6. Essential Debarkation Tips

The night before your cruise ends, you will be supplied with custom forms left in your room for you to fill out, as well as color-coded tags. Pack your bags on the last night of your cruise and leave them outside your door. You will be called the next morning according to your color coded luggage tags. Remember to keep your carry-on luggage with you (with your medications and travel documents. You should also settle all your accounts before leaving the ship. This includes any expenses you put on your account (for liquor, drinks or other purchases).

The above are just a few tips for you to follow to make your cruise an enjoyable one. One last tip --> Most drinks on cruise ships are not included and you have to pay extra for them. These drinks are usually put on your tab and you must pay for them at the end of your cruise vacation. Remember when ordering that this tab can add up to quite a hefty bill if you are not careful. Be aware of this when you are drinking aboard ship.

Follow these tips and enjoy your cruise vacation!

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Venice - Sights & Attractions

Venice is one of the most intriguingly different places to visit on the face of the earth. Today the brilliance and influence of the long-ago merchantile sea culture has long since faded, leaving a town of tarnished glories, out of time and out of place but so beautiful it's hard to resist. I found visiting Venice one of the most memorable of experiences.

Venice is busiest in spring (Easter-June) and September/October and accommodation can be hard to find, as well as around Christmas, New Year and Carnevale (February). In high summer (June/August), Venice is crowded, and oppressively hot and sticky. The most pleasant time of year to visit is late March into May, with milder spring days and fewer crowds. September is the next best in terms of weather, but October is quieter. Flooding occurs in November and December, and winter can be unpleasantly damp and cold, but seeing Venice under snow is truly a sight to behold (although snow in Venice is a rarity).

So what is there to see and do in Venice? Do you mean besides taking a gondola ride through this magical city situated on its maze of narrow water canals? For the hopeless romantic that is a treat making any trip to Venice worthwhile. But, if you stick to the main tourist areas between St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge it is a crowded place with many tacky souvenir shops. But the architecture, the history and the magnificent artwork makes it all worthwhile.

One of the truly impressive sights not to be missed is Basilica di san Marco, a magnificent Byzantine cathedral that many tourists “Ooh” and “Aah” over. The 11th-century exterior, with its soaring domes, spires, and statuary is only the beginning. Inside the basilica the interior walls and ceilings are covered with one and a half square miles of dazzling, painstakingly assembled mosaics, and other similarly impressive treasures are held inside, including the spectacular, gem-encrusted Pala d'Oro altarpiece. The original bronze Horses of San Marco are on display inside (the ones currently adorning the cathedral's facade are replicas) and were believed to be stolen from Constantinople's Hippodrome in 1204. The basilica still holds Mass at 7:00 a.m. and one can see the beauty of the early-morning light gleeming onto the mosaics.

Other churches sure to impress the tourist are the Dominican’s church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo and the Franciscans’ church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari (generally known as I Frari). When the Dominicans and Franciscans arrived in Venice at the dawn of the Renaissance, they enticed parishioners by filling their churches with art, some of which rival exhibits in major art museums. The church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo, begun in 1246, holds a polyptych by Giovanni Bellini, magnificent ceiling paintings by Paolo Veronese, and works by Titian and Lorenzo Lotto which were all commissioned as adornment. The Franciscans’ church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari (1330) is also magnificent with Titian's extraordinary Assumption, with the Virgin Mary soaring heavenward above the high altar in a swirl of sumptuous hues, and his gracious Madonna di Ca' Pesaro dominating the left aisle, and Giovanni Bellini’s Madonna and Child is one of his finest works.

The Gallerie Dell'accademia holds a viewable collection of valuable art from masters, including Paolo Veneziano, Mantegna, Giorgione, Titian, and Tintoretto. doesn't disappoint. Although the gallerie is presently under renovacations, it is due for completion in late 2007. When the Grandi Gallerie dell'Accademiahe is opened in their entirety the exhibition space will have doubled to almost 40,000 square feet and will display 650 works instead of the current 400. At present look for gorgeous narrative works like Bellini and Carpaccio's Miracle of the Relic of the True Cross on the Rialto Bridge, and Carpaccio's Life of Saint Ursula; both exquisitely detailed depictions of 15th-century Venice.

Re-opened in spring of 2006, the Palazzo Grassi was formerly an art exhibition space owned by Fiat, the car manufacturer. The 18th-century palazzo, which overlooks the Grand Canal, was taken over by French luxury-goods magnate François Pinault in 2005 and refurbished by architect Tadao Ando. It now hosts major shows of contemporary art.

Peggy Guggenheim's personal art collection, turned down by London's Tate Gallery, was brought to Venice in 1949. The 20th-century collection moved into the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the Grand Canal. The collection, which grew to incorporate works by Dalí, Klee, Picasso, Mondrian, Duchamp, de Kooning, Pollock, and Man Ray, among others, is now a memorable must-see for modern-art buffs.

Piazza San Marco, an immense open public space of almost 40,000 sq. ft., was once known as as "the drawing room of Europe" when napoleon and his army descended on venice in 1797. the museo correr, in the southwest corner of the square, now houses a statue of napolen along with an impressive collection of historic globes, weapons, and artworks by tintoretto, vittore carpaccio, and antonello da messina. visitors can pay an the entry fee which gives access to other attractions around the piazza, like the museo archeologico and the biblioteca marciana (st. mark's library), with its collection of historic tomes. visitors can also visit the doge's palace, a huge gothic structure that was the nerve center of the venetian republic; and take the itinerari segreti guided tour to see the difference between the frescoed, gilded public rooms and the plainer offices where the real business was done. one of the piazza's two towers, the campanile, at 325 feet, is the tallest structure in venice and visitors can climb to the top for a breathtaking view over the city. the 15th-century torre dell'orologio (clock tower), unveiled in late 2006, is now open to the public and visitors can finally go inside.

I could go on and on about the many art works and magnificent architecture of Venice, but then I might not get around to telling you about the shopping that Venice is also famous for. As with any Italian city, Venice offers the big-name fashion labels of Fendi, Gucci, and Ferragamo and shops are located in the area immediately northwest of St. Mark's Square: Calle Larga XXII Marzo and the labyrinth of alleyways known collectively as the Mercerie and the Frezzerie. For slightly less central but more uniquely Venetian shops, check out our recommendations below.
To see the real Venice, one can venture off the beaten track to shop in the real markets and experience where the local people live.

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The Bahamas

Made up of over 700 small islands and cays, the Bahamas are a great Caribbean island destination spot for travelers. These islands are located east of Florida in the United States and North of the country of Cuba and make up their own English-speaking country. Tourists from around the world love to visit the Bahamas and it is a popular travel spot for honeymoons and weddings. The Bahamas are an international destination with fantastic world-class resorts (including the famous Atlantis resort), renowned gourmet dining, duty free shopping, Vegas style casinos, all set within a glorious location with colonial charm.

The Bahamas are one of the most prosperous countries in the world because of their success with tourism and with financial institutions. Recently, urban renewal programs have been launched to keep the island safe and high-end for travelers. The country has the third highest per capita income in the West and is the most successful country in the Caribbean. The climate in the Bahamas is beautiful and comparable to the Florida climate enjoyed in cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Although the islands are highly susceptible to hurricanes, they typically have very tropical and pleasant weather, influenced heavily by the waters of the Gulf Stream.

If you are traveling to the Bahamas from the United States, the closest island is Bimini, known as the gateway to Bahamas. Here, they cater to tourists. Andros Island, which is to the south of Bimini is the largest island in the chain. The largest city in the Bahamas is the capital, Nassau, which is located on the island of New Providence. Other larger islands in this chain include Eleuthera, Cat Island, San Salvador, Crooked Island, Exuma, Acklins, and Long Island.

A number of great festivals take place in the Bahamas where you can enjoy activities like the Crab Fest on the island of Andros and the Pineapple Fest on the island of Eleuthera. This is also the birthplace of the rhythmic musical genera junkanoo, which is played heavily at festivals. Rake and scrape, calypso, and hymnals are also important music elements in these islands.

If you decide to travel to the Bahamas to visit one or more of the great islands, you will have a variety of activities from which to choose. There are water sports like sailing and jet skiing to help fill your days, or you can relax on the beautiful sugary white sandy beaches with the waves of the clear ocean waters lapping at the shores. A variety of tourist attractions and tours can also be a part of your Bahamas vacation.

Be sure that you book your trip well in advance to get the best prices and to be sure you have the chance to do everything you want to do while traveling in this Caribbean paradise.

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Traveling in the Cayman Islands

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If you are planning to travel to the Caribbean for your next vacation, you have many islands from which to choose for your destination. On such island that makes a beautiful place for a vacation is the overseas territory of the United Kingdom known as the Cayman Islands. If you love scuba diving, this is an especially great place to visit since is the world’s leading underwater diving tourist destination.

The Cayman Islands are made up of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Caymen. These islands are located in the western portion of the Caribbean Sea. The Cayman Islands are about 150 miles from Cuba and about 480 miles from Miami, Florida. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are sometimes known as the “Sister Islands” and are about 90 miles east of Grand Cayman Island, which is about 75 square miles. The islands are made up of large coral heads and is home to a number of exotic birds, fish, and land animals, including the endangered Blue Iguana, as well as The Grand Cayman Parrot and Cayman Brac Parrot which are found only on these islands.

Tourism accounts for most of this island’s revenue so while you are visiting these islands, the people there will surely cater to your every need. World famous scuba diving is found here because of the clear waters and the proximity to the Cayman Wall. You can swim beside string rays and a number of other amazing sea creatures while traveling in the Cayman Islands, as well as explore shipwrecks.

Outside of the water, you can check out popular spots like the black limestone fields, hiking trails, lighthouses, and museums. One specific spot that tourists enjoy visiting is Hell, a small spot with a sign indicating that you are in Hell where you can take pictures. Another great tourist attraction is the sea turtle farm.

Cayman Sea Salt Co is also located here, as well as a number of financial institutions. In fact, many business men travel to the Cayman islands because this location is one of the world’s leading offshore financial centers.

Before you head to the Cayman Islands, it is important to understand a bit about the islands and make sure your paperwork is in order. You’ll need a passport to fly there, and maybe a visa, depending on where you live. Camping is illegal in the islands, which many do not realize when leaving, and if you are caught camping, you will spend time in jail. It is also important to make sure that you can show a return flight ticket.

Visiting the Cayman Islands can be lots of fun if you’re ready. You will not be disappointed if you make the Cayman Islands your next Caribbean vacation spo

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The destinations cover lots of Caribbean locations (along with a couple of other locations around the world) with a load of information on what to do and what is exciting. Then the book goes onto to the food culture in that destination...and gives great-tasting recipes for you to try at home!

There are even some general articles on cruising and travel tips, as well as articles on cooking tips.

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Travel to Honduras

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Roatan is the largest and most developed of the three Caribbean islands that make up Honduras, Central America. It is a simply idyllic paradise with turquoise clear waters, various sand beaches and clear blue skies that makes an ideal vacation spot.

Roatan Island is only four miles wide and thirty-three miles long. It has a paved road running down 75% of the length of the island that leads to the various beaches, destinations and attractions that the island offers. The fantastic landscapes that the vacationer can enjoy while traveling down the highway is truly impressive.

The island is surrounded by an impressive coral reef that is considered one of the largest in the world, which is part of the large Meso-American Barrier Reef. Travelers can enjoy the marvelous underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving, or by taking a tour on a glass-bottom boat or riding in a mini-sub. Viewing the marine life and old shipwrecks found in the reef environment is not to be missed.

The capital city of Roatan is Coxen Hole, where visitors would arrive via the sailing port or international airport, but it is not the main tourist centre of the island. French Harbor, which is the second most important town in Roatan hosts the most recognized restaurants and has great shopping, nightlife and hotels.

West End, located on the western side of the island, is one of the tourist spots to see with beautiful beaches, restaurants, hotels and attractions for tourists. Here the visitor can rent a motorcycle to tour the island, take a kayak to paddle among the ocean waves, shop in the many souvenir shops, or dance the night away in the lively nightlife activities.

West Bay offers its own beautiful beaches with calm, peaceful waters and glittering white sands. This three-mile long stretch of white sand is considered one of the prettiest in all Honduras. Sandy Bay has beach hotels and restaurants for the sun-loving tourists, as well as a research centre, The Institute of Marine Sciences, to explore. The tourist visiting this area can enjoy a dolphin show, windsurfing or even just relax with a soothing spa treatment.

A vacationer to Roatan could enjoy learning about the Garifuna people who first settled the island in 1797. Every year on November 12th an exciting festival is held to celebrate the event. A visit to Politilly Bay in Punta Gorda is a great attraction to enjoy with dancing and music of the Garifuna culture.

Oak Ridge, and Afro-Antillean community, is very picturesque and is known for its tradition of building houses on the water. Local tours include water taxis to the mangrove swamps so vacationers can view the wildlife.

Paya Bay in Roatan is perhaps the most visited place for a Roatan Island vacation. It is close to Oak Ridge and is known for its white sand beaches and sparkling clear waters.

A ferry that connects Roatan to the mainland of Honduras runs twice daily allowing the visitor more sightseeing options. Roatan also has a recently completed dock capable of docking large cruise ships.

With the spectacular white sand beaches and the majestic reef surrounding this island, Roatan makes for a great vacation spot.

A Caribbean Wedding

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The Caribbean islands have long been a favorite honeymoon destination for newly married couples. The weather there is sunny all year round and wedding couples can enjoy a number of wonderful vacation activities together, like taking tours, trying water sports, or even just lying in the sun. In the past few decades, it has also become very popular to travel to the Caribbean for the wedding itself, not just for the honeymoon. There are both advantages and disadvantages to doing so.

First, you must consider who you want to have present at your wedding. By law, you will probably be required to have a certain number of witnesses, and you may not be able to imagine your wedding without your father to walk you down the aisle or your best friend as your best man. Remember that every guest you want to be present at the wedding will have to be flown to the island. In many cases, the guests will not be able to afford this trip themselves and you will have to pay for all or at least some of it. If this isn’t in your budget, it may not be possible for you to have everyone present at your wedding ceremony. The cost of a Caribbean wedding where you pay for everyone attending is definitely a disadvantage. It is becoming more of a trend, however, for the guests to pay for their own way.

Remember also that you will probably be vacationing for your honeymoon wherever you hold the wedding. While it may be nice to have friends and family around for the wedding, you might wish they would disappear after the wedding. Your guests may also remain at the vacation location as part of their own vacation so if you want some private time, an all inclusive couples only resort may be what you need for them to stay out of your way.

However, one of the main advantages is also that you are already in the location where you’ll be honeymooning. Travel is stressful and not a good way to start a new life together, so instead, you can just jump right in to paradise. Not only that, but your wedding will be a very memorable romantic event because the beach background overlooking the sunset and ocean. The location creates a great chance for that romantic wedding you are looking for, as well as some great photo opportunities. Many couples love the island scenery, so a Caribbean wedding may be perfect for you.

If you decide to have a Caribbean wedding, use your travel agent or contact a wedding planner from the specific island to which you will travel. He or she can help make sure that your big day goes smoothly and that you will have the time of your life on your honeymoon. They will also ensure that you will have all the paperwork you need, and will take care of co-ordinating your guests vacations as well.

Traveling to Naples, Florida

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When traveling to Florida most people think of Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Disney. But there are other great places to visit in Florida and Naples is one of them. Naples is located on the Gulf of Mexico and is an area where nature abounds alongside its cosmopolitan core.

Beach and sun lovers can relax on over seven miles of Naples’ spectacular white sand beaches. They can soak up the tropical sun, frolic in the turquoise Gulf waters or dolphin watch off the long Pier.

Golf and sports enthusiasts will love Naples too. Naples offers the highest ratio of golf courses per capita within the United States, with over 35 golf courses in the area. Major state, national and professional golf tournaments have been held here for decades and well-known golfers like Jack Nicholas and Arnold Palmer have been known to frequent Naples’ courses. And, what may be a bonus to some or an obstacle to others, is the wildlife one can see while playing golf here as eagles, osprey, alligators and other wildlife abound.

Naples also offers surprisingly good tennis opportunities for the avid tennis player as well. There is year-round sailing, jet skiing, boating and wind-surfing. And with so much of Naples’ activities centered on the water, fishing plays a major role in Naples’ attraction. The tourist has the option of leisurely throwing their line off the newly-remodeled Pier or charting a boat for and exciting day of deep-sea fishing.

Although Naples offers an abundance of cultural activities in its metropolitan area, with the Philharmonic Center for the Arts in Pelican Bay, the Naples Playhouse, dinner theatres, open air concerts and the like, being right next door to the Everglades offers tourists a wealth of opportunity to view nature.

There are several excursions and safaris into the Everglades that begin in Naples. The tourist can take in the wild mangroves and delight in the viewing of alligators, manatees, dolphins, bears and a never-ending array of birds on their airboat tour. They can visit Big Cypress State Reserve or the Everglades National Park, which is home of the world’s largest mangrove park. Or they can stop at Museum of the Everglades or the Smallwood Museum for a cultural bend to their nature experience.

The shopping in Naples also won’t leave the serious shopper wanting. There are several select shopping centers with fashionable shops, art galleries and bistros, and the downtown shopping is within walking distance to the beach. And every spring Naples holds the Naples Spring Arts Festival where artists from far and wide exhibit and sell their works.

Naples is a place that appears to have everything going for it. Tourists will not be left wanting when they visit Naples, whether they are looking for a relaxing beach experience, an activity filled vacation or a nature escape. Visit Naples soon and see for yourself what others are raving about.

Visiting Jamaica

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Jamaica is one of the most beautiful of the Caribbean Islands, as you will see if you ever are fortunate enough to vacation there. Their beautiful white sand beaches and distinct Island culture make it a place worth visiting.

The tranquil beaches surrounded by crystal clear ocean waters make it an ideal spot for sun-lovers and water sport enthusiasts alike. The visitor can indulge in fishing, wind surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, or swimming. They can hire fishing boats or sailboats for further adventure, or there are also many other attractions that can keep the Jamaican vacationer happy.

Evening entertainment offers fine dining at your resort, or more leisurely choices at local bars, roadside stands or hotspots. Of course, trying the spicy local flavours that Jamaica is famous for, such as jerk pork, curry chicken or a hot Jamaican Pattie, is not to be missed. They also offer wonderful seafood dishes, from lobster to crab delicacies. Try them all, and follow it up with a smooth rum punch made with true Jamaican rum.

Nightlife in Jamaica is certainly ‘hopping’ with their unique reggae music. Vacationers can sway to and fro to the beat of famous Jamaican artists like Bob Marley at the local bars and nightclubs.

Meeting people in Jamaica is easy because of their warm, friendly people. Jamaican’s come from a rich, diverse culture blended from around the world. Their motto “Out of Many, One People” sums it all up. The language spoken in Jamaica is English, but you will often hear slang or “Patois” which often sounds like a foreign language. The commonly heard phrase of “Irie mon” simply means everything is cool or good.

Jamaica has its own currency, the Jamaican Dollar, but US money is widely accepted.

The best tourist spots to visit are on the north coast. Montego Bay and Ocho Rios are the most popular, but Negril, which is located on the west coast, is also widely visited. A must-see in Ocho Rios is the famous Dunn’s River Falls, where visitors, lead by a Jamaican guide, can climb up a series of cascading falls. The location is certainly picturesque and vacationers can have fun experiencing the adventure of the climb.

Montego Bay, Jamaica’s second largest city and the original tourist hotspot, also features many attractions for visitors. They offer plantation tours, one of which is to the great Wyndham Rose Hall Plantation, and bamboo river rafting. There is charter fishing, cycling, golfing, horseback riding, scuba diving, or many other vacation activities, as well as the gorgeous beaches.

Negril has a wide expanse of pure white sand beaches perfect for lounging in the sun. It has been labelled the “Capital of Casual” and some of the beaches are even clothing-optional. Scuba diving in Negril is said to be Jamaica’s best, but other visitors can enjoy deep-sea fishing, parasailing, glass bottom boat trips, catamaran cruises or other water activities. And, an exciting place for visitors is the famous Rick’s Café where you can relax with a drink and watch the cliff divers, or better yet, be more adventurous and brave the cliffs yourself.

Visiting Jamaica’s sparkling azure waters and beautiful white sand beaches is a must on any vacationer’s agenda. And, experiencing the unique culture of this Caribbean Island is one a tourist will not easily forget.

Choosing a Family Cruise

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Cruising doesn’t have to be just for singles or adults. There are many cruise lines that offer many amenities geared towards families with children, and even some cruise lines (like Disney) that are especially geared to children. In fact, most cruise lines welcome families with children. Cruise ships can be an ideal setting for a family vacation.

Be aware, however, in some cases, traveling with infants or pregnant women may be subject to some restrictions. Some cruise lines may require a physician’s letter to state that the mother-to-be or baby are in good health and fit to travel, or that the pregnancy is not high-risk. Other cruise lines may have age restrictions for infants, or restrictions on the mother’s gestation time. It is best to check the guidelines for the ship you wish to travel on before booking.

Cruising today can offer families a lot of bang for their buck while vacationing. Many ships are designed with kid-friendly facilities and services in mind. Many have supervised activities for children, dedicated children’s areas, children-only swimming pools, and special counselors and babysitting services that allow parents kid-free time for themselves. Some ships even have youth programs for older children, with planned activities to help them meet other children their own age. Some ships even have special age-appropriate discos for traveling youth.

The cruise ships of today have numerous activities aboard that children love. They have swimming pools and water slides, movie theatres, bowling alleys, skating rinks, rock climbing walls, etc. as well as games, craft lessons, and other activities for children. Parents will not find it difficult to keep their children happy and occupied on any cruise ship.

Food aboard a cruise ship is also family and kid-friendly. While parents can enjoy a gourmet filet mignon and a vintage glass of wine, it isn’t hard for a child to find a slice of pizza or a plate of French Fries to munch on. Food variety onboard a ship is indeed vast. And, children can eat as much or as little as they want—good news for a growing young teenager!

There are also special cruise lines that especially cater to children. Disney has a line that provides activities for kids from sun-up to sun-down, with everything to entertain them from craft lessons to magic shows and everything in between. They also offer adult only areas for parents to seek refuge. These areas have adult-only pools or include activities like wine-tasting sessions.

Things to look out for when planning a family cruise? You may need to do a little research, however, as not all ships offer programs for children and youth. Although they may still allow children to cruise, parents may need to be prepared to look after and entertain their own children. Also you should find out about children’s discounts, how many children are allowed in a room with the parents, extra beds, cribs or cots, adjoining cabins, safety and security issues, and ratio of staff members to children. All of these could affect the cruise line you choose.

There are so many activities that children can enjoy aboard ship, and parents can also enjoy their own relaxing kid-free times as well. On the whole, a cruise can be a great way for a family to enjoy their vacation time.

Jamaican Cooking Plus Recipe

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Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Jamaican cooking definitely has a unique style and flavor all its own. Today’s style of Jamaica’s cooking is represented by Jamaica’s motto, “Out of Many, One People”. Since Jamaica’s inhabitants have come from all around the world, including British, Dutch, French, Spanish, East Indian, West African, Portuguese and Chinese, Jamaican cooking represents this blend of cultures and has incorporated that together with the island’s bountiful harvest.

Jamaica’s original inhabitants were the Arawak Indians, who died out after the arrival of the Spanish in 1509, due to disease and overwork. To help with the workload, the Spanish then began importing slaves from Africa. The Spanish brought with them their own culinary influences, such as a dish still popular today called escovitch fish.

In 1655 the English took over Jamaica from the Spanish and brought their own influences into Jamaican cuisine. With them came the development of one of Jamaica’s most popular foods, the Jamaican Pattie, which is a spiced meat turnover that is the equivalent of the island’s hamburger.

A century later, after emancipation, indentured laborers of Chinese and East Indians replaced the African slaves. These immigrants brought with them the curry dishes that are present in nearly every Jamaican menu today, such as curry goat, chicken and seafood.

You can see that Jamaica’s food has been influenced by its history. “Bammie”, a toasted flat cake eaten with fried fish today, was made from the cassava grown by the Arawaks. The Maroons, escaped slaves who were always on the run, devised a way of “jerking” meat (through spicing and slow cooking pork) that is popular in Jamaica today. Breadfruit, yams, root vegetables and ackee were brought from Africa to cheaply feed the slaves. And, as mentioned, the Chinese and East Indians brought with them their contributions of exotic flavors in their curry and other spices.

As well as the contributions of the foreign influences, indigenous vegetables, such as cho-cho (a squash-like vegetable) and callaloo (similar to spinach) are also popular in Jamaican cooking today, along with the island’s fruits of bananas, coconuts, mangoes and pineapples. Among the more exotic fruits popular in Jamaica are guineps, pawpaw, sweetsops and the star apple.

The native pimento tree brings allspice to many Jamaican dishes, as do ginger, garlic, nutmeg, and the Scotch Bonnet peppers, which are considered some of the hottest peppers on earth. The Scotch Bonnet is essential to making the jerk pork, chicken and fish for which Jamaica is famous.

Jamaica’s national dish is saltfish and ackee, an island breakfast dish. Ackee, when cooked looks and tastes much like scrambled eggs. Ackee is poisonous until it is ripe and is always served cooked.

Rice ‘n peas is also a popular island dish, but is made not really with peas but beans (usually red kidney beans.) Other favorite Jamaican dishes include red pea soup, hard dough bread, fish tea (a fish bouillon), Johnny cakes (fried or baked breads), mannish water (a spicy soup made from goats’ heads), bulla (a spicy bun), stew peas (a soup of red peas or gungo peas), Solomon Gundy (an appetizer made of pickled fish) and festival (a type of bread).

As you can see, Jamaica offers a vast variety of dishes influenced by the island’s history. From British, Spanish, African, East Indian and Chinese, the cuisine of Jamaica offers a mixed variety and is very flavorful, often spicy, and is a culinary experience that all will enjoy.

Pumpkin Chicken Soup

2 pkgs. Grace’s Pumpkin/ Chicken soup mix
4-5 medium new potatoes
2 small onions
3-4 medium carrots, cut in chunks
5-6 chicken pieces (thighs)
1 large can pureed pumpkin, or 1 ½ cups steamed pureed fresh pumpkin
6 cups water
1 pkg. chicken bouillon powder
2 TBSP. cooking oil
Pinch each of Salt and Pepper
¼ of a country pepper (or Scotch Bonnet pepper), chopped very finely

In large stock pot, brown chicken pieces in cooking oil.

Wash and cut up potatoes into large chunks. Cut onions into chunks. Peel and cut carrots into 1” pieces. Add to stock pot.

Add all remaining ingredients to pot and simmer together for 1-½ hours. Serve.

Taking Vacation Photographs

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Vacations are very memorable experiences and as such should be remembered long after you return home. One of the best ways to remember the wonderful time you had on your vacation is with photographs. Every time you look at a picture you took on your trip you will your spirit down memories path in accordance with your unforgettable journey. These pictures you take are priceless and it is worth learning a few tips to make your picture-taking memories more rewarding.

When you begin to pack for your vacation, keep in mind the things you will need for your picture-taking excursions, such as:
• Camera, batteries (plus extras), memory card(s), battery chargers
• External flash (if needed), tripod, portable storage device
• Power adapter (if traveling abroad)
• Camera case—waterproof if you plan on going to a beach or wet vacation spot
• Underwater camera if you like to scuba dive or snorkel (even a cheap disposable one will get those unforgettable underwater shots!)
• Be sure your camera has a wrist-strap—you don’t want to lose your camera when you are handing upside-down in the rainforest treetops!

Make sure to charge your camera batteries before you leave home, and ensure that you clear your memory card. It is also a good idea to take an extra memory card with you. Don’t be afraid to shoot lots of pictures of the same subject – a digital camera can hold a lot of pictures and you can sort out the good from the bad when you get home.

Do a little research before you leave home about the spot you are traveling to and try to pre-plan some of the photos you may wish to take. You can research travel guides, books and magazines to help plan what pictures you may wish to include in your memory album. This may also be helpful not only in planning what type of shot you may wish to take, but may affect when and what time you travel to a certain location. Would you like a picture of misty sunrise over the Rocky Mountains? Or you can plan a shot of elephant feeding time at the San Diego Zoo—or maybe fireworks over the Eiffel Tower? Make a list of these potential shots and plan your trip accordingly.

Be sure to remember to include the human element when you are taking pictures on your vacation. Pictures of scenery are great, but since this is your vacation it should be a memory experience at the same time. Take pictures of your family and friends, and even some of the people you meet at the places you travel to. All of these elements add to the quality of the experience. And, try to get at least some pictures with you in it. There is always someone around to take a picture of you in front of that famous landmark—just be sure it is someone trustworthy not to run off with your camera. A good idea is to take along a cheap disposable camera that you can give to the passerby instead of your expensive one. This way if he does drop the camera or runs off with it you won’t have too much to lose. You may not get as good a picture quality, but it will still be a memory shot.

Always remember to take lots of pictures on your vacation. That time in your life is a one-time experience. You may return to the same vacation, but the time spent there will offer a different experience each time you visit. It is priceless to remember the great time you had through your vacation photos.

Advance Preparation for Your Cruise Vacation

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

20 Best Jamaican Recipes - This great new cookbook offers recipes with that spicy Island taste you are sure to enjoy! Relive a taste of the Caribbean today!

When it comes to vacationing aboard a cruise ship, many individuals consider preparation to be the luggage that they plan to bring with them. Packing for your cruise ship vacation is important; however, it is not the only preparations that you should make. Preparing for your cruise shouldn’t wait until the week before your trip either. Rather, it should begin as soon as you book your cruise ship reservation.

The type of cruise that you will be taking is vital to your preparations. A large number of cruise ships travel on international waters. In addition to being on international waters, many dock at international ports. Before you are able to board your ship, you will have to have the proper identification with you. With international cruises, this identification often includes a driver’s license and a passport.

Unfortunately, when it comes to obtaining a passport, there are many individuals who wait until the last minute. Last minute passports can be obtained in the event of an emergency, but most require at least a 10 days or more to process. You will not be automatically granted a passport; instead you are required to apply for one. Almost all individuals that apply for a passport are granted one, but planning ahead is the best option. If you allow extra time, then if an error is made on the information you supply, you will have enough time to fix it before your cruise ship departs.

As mentioned, proper identification is needed to board a cruise ship. But your passport and driver’s license are not the only forms of documentation that you should bring onboard. If you are covered under a health insurance plan, you are encouraged to bring your health insurance cards. In the event you fall ill while on vacation, your insurance cards will allow you to obtain the needed medical attention.

In addition to your medical insurance cards, it is advised that you bring along all of your needed medications. You may even want to consider bringing along extra medication as well. Many physicians will write extra prescriptions for their patients that are traveling abroad. Should your medication become lost or misplaced, the extra prescriptions can be filled on the ship and used until you return home. While requesting extra medication from your healthcare provider, you may want to question them on safety precautions aboard a cruise ship also.

To pay for onboard and port activities, you will need to bring along extra money. Although cruise ships are famous for their cuisine, there are sometimes extra charges for drinks, so you need to be prepared for this. Vacationing aboard a cruise ship is similar to vacationing anywhere else in the world. You are encouraged not to carry large sums of cash with you. If you must bring cash along, you are encouraged to divide your money up and place it in safe locations. Almost all cruise ships and popular cruise ship ports accept credit cards, cashiers checks, money orders, or traveler’s checks. These forms of payments are great alternatives to carrying cash.

When traveling aboard a cruise ship, you are urged to give a copy of the cruise ship’s itinerary to multiple friends and family members. This will make it possible for you to be contacted in the event of an emergency. When registering for a cruise ship, you may also be required to give the contact information of someone that should be contacted in an emergency. Your first thought may be to give the contact information of your spouse, children, or a close friend. When doing so, it is important to make sure that they will be on land and accessible.

Once you have made the above mentioned preparations, you can begin focusing on other preparations, such as packing your luggage. When packing, you are urged to keep the climate of your cruise in mind. Are you taking an Alaskan cruise, a Mediterranean cruise or a Caribbean cruise? Keeping these in mind, at the same time, you should be prepared for unexpected weather. You should also check with the cruise line or your travel agent for luggage weight restrictions. Making the proper cruise ship preparations will ensure that your vacation will be a success.

A Vacation Savings Plan

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

20 Best Jamaican Recipes - This great new cookbook offers recipes with that spicy Island taste you are sure to enjoy! Relive a taste of the Caribbean today!When you spend at least 40 hours a week at your job, it is probably safe to assume that you are ready for your vacation time. Unless you are independently wealthy, you need a plan to save money to go on a family vacation get-away of your choice. There are many effective ways to save for your family vacation. While this may seem like a simple proposition, some people find it difficult to lay aside some money each pay period. The key here is that you need to have a plan and stick to it.

The first thing you need to do is to open up a separate savings account specifically meant for your vacation money. If your employer offers direct deposit, you can usually specify a certain amount of money be put into this account. Some banks will schedule an automatic direct transfer to your savings account if you don’t have direct deposit or if you are not able to deposit money into two separate accounts.

The next thing you need to do is to have a budget set up for your family spending, which includes monies you can set aside for your vacation dollars. Examine the amount of money your family spends weekly or monthly on family entertainment and fast food restaurants. Then try to reduce that amount, and put the remainder away for your trip. So that a pending vacation doesn't become too taxing on your regular family fun, shop around for freebie activities or reduced-cost entertainment options to enjoy during the months before you depart on your vacation.

Another good way to save up money is to salvage all your coin change. Whenever you are shopping with cash, resolve to only use paper money. Then take the coins you receive and put it aside at the end of every day. You can set up a ‘vacation jar’ just for this purpose. You’ll be surprised at how quickly it can build up. While you may not think you have that much in your change jar, it is possible just to empty it at vacation time to have extra spending money or that little boost you need to go on your dream vacation.

Be sure and involve your kids in the vacation saving venture, as well. This is a great time to teach the valuable lessons of saving and budgeting money. They can have their own ‘vacation jar’ for use for their spending money on vacation. Their change jar can be set up just as yours is, using extra coins they have left over from other spending.

Look for other ways to add extra cash to the vacation fund. There are many ways you may be able to earn extra funds. One idea is to save aluminum cans and take them into the recycling plant periodically for cash. You may be able to sell some of your unwanted items over e-bay, or you could have a rummage sale to earn extra vacation cash as well. Think outside the box. There are plenty of opportunities out there to add to your vacation savings. You just need to resolve that any extra cash you get will go toward your family vacation.

You need to budget realistically. Vacations need not be expensive. Budget an amount and stick to it. If you are going on a driving vacation, set a fixed spending amount ($150 per day, for example). Include all of your expenses, gas, meals, admissions, special activities, etc. Use that amount as your goal for your vacation savings. Think of how much you will need to save per month to accomplish that goal.
To save money, try reducing your eating out. You may want to take a lunch to work instead of eating in restaurants or fast food places every day. Budget for only one meal in a restaurant per week, for example. And, while you are on vacation, try to save money on food by preparing your own food and either eat in the hotel room or have a picnic.
Another good tip for vacationing on a budget is to use all-inclusive vacation resorts. That way, you get everything from your flight, food, drinks and entertainment all in one packaged price. There are many vacation places that offer this type of package deal.

You can also save on your vacationing by traveling in the off-season. For instance, you can travel cheaper to the Caribbean if you travel in October (before the busy season starts). You still get a great beach vacation with all the pampering included, but at a greatly reduced price.

Having a separate account for your vacation savings, by budgeting and by spending your vacation dollars wisely, it is not out of reach for you to have a great vacation. The key to a successful getaway on a budget is to plan.

Travel Safety Tips

Travelling offers many challenges when it comes to safety. If you follow the suggestions below, you will ensure you have a safe vacation, from the time you get to the airport to the time spent at your resort. Always remember that being alert and using common sense is the key to safe travel.

• Never let your luggage out of your sight, even for a moment. Smugglers love to put things in suitcases not related to themselves.
• Use a money belt for valuables, and keep money in at least two different places in case of theft (perhaps you carry some currency as well as your traveling companion, as a back-up).
• Never let your children out of your sight at airports, not to go to the bathroom alone or just ahead to a shop. Once as we were traveling with our children, aged 10 and 11, they asked if they could run ahead to a store around the corner. We luckily said no that airports could be dangerous, and as we rounded the corner a man was running towards us chased by three security officers, who tackled him, pinned him to the ground and handcuffed him in front of our eyes. Our children looked on wide-eyed, and the point hit home.
• Always carry your passport and identification with you on your person or securely in your hand-luggage. Remember, your checked-in suitcases could be lost.
• Never leave your camera or other video equipment on top of your luggage as you are just steps away. Theft can happen too quickly.
• Make sure your backpacks are always securely zipped. It is easy to reach into an open backpack from behind.

At the resort or hotel,

• Always keep your room door locked and with the security bolt on, even when you are in there. Remember to check balcony or patio doors.
• There are extra security locks that can be purchased especially for traveling. It is a good idea to invest in these (see our travel products marketplace.)
• Always use the room safe when provided, even in countries which you deem crime-free or safe. Failing this, use the hotel front desk security safes to keep your valuables secure.

While swimming,

• Use a neck pouch or hip pouch to carry your room keys when at the beach. Try not to leave your purse or hand-luggage unattended on the beach. Swim one at a time, or ask a reliable traveling companion to watch your things while you swim.
• When swimming, be aware that the ocean is a living thing and not a swimming pool. There are tides and undertows that you may not be used to in a swimming pool. The depth can also change rapidly.
• Check the signs on the beach for safe swimming conditions – usually a red flag will warn you against unsafe swimming.
• With ocean swimming, check for sea urchins. These are small spinney creatures that live in the ocean water rocks. They can be extremely unpleasant if stepped on. Also, try to avoid jellyfish as they can give a nasty sting.
• Try to swim only where there are lifeguards.
• Beware the sun – in tropical locations the sun is much stronger than what the average traveler is used to and can cause quite a sunburn to those who are not careful. Use a good sun-block and stick to the shade as much as possible. In Panama we got a sunburn even sitting under a grass hut all day from the glare off of the sand.
• Most hotels have pools that do not allow diving because of the depth of the water. Adhere to the rules.
• It is also not a good idea to swim while drinking heavily. Sober up before entering the water.

Food and water,

• Try to stick to bottled water at any location instead of drinking water from the local taps. Avoid ice in your drinks at certain destinations.
• Try to stick to foods that you know will not upset your stomach as you travel. It is not pleasant to have to look for a bathroom while traveling from your hotel to the airport on an hour long bus ride.
• Although it may be very tempting, avoid excessive amounts of fruit, such as papaya or avocado which tend to act as laxatives.
• When traveling it is wonderful to be able to discover new little out-of-the way places, but try to stick to known places for dining. Sanitation in some back-street places may not be the best.
• An added tip if you travel a great deal may be to investigate the Twinrex vaccinations to avoid hepatitis. Ask your doctor if this is right for you.

Of course, there are many other things the seasoned traveler looks out for instinctively when traveling, such as pick-pockets, rules and laws of the country you are visiting, etc. It is important to be aware that you are not in your own country and the same rules and conditions do not apply.

Be smart, be aware and above all be careful…and your vacation will sure to be a pleasant experience.

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

20 Best Jamaican Recipes - This great new cookbook offers recipes with that spicy Island taste you are sure to enjoy! Relive a taste of the Caribbean today!

Beach Vacations

Nothing in the world beats a family beach vacation, whether it's at a deluxe resort in Hawaii, and all-inclusive vacation spot in the Caribbean or a simple campground on a sandy beach near your home town.

Below, are some ideas you might consider for your next vacation:

Caribbean Beach Vacations

1. Families flock to Jamaica and the Dominican Republic for the all-inclusive vacation filled with all kinds of water sports, kids clubs and, of course, great beaches.

2. At some resorts the kids programs are outstanding, with separate leaders and activities for many different age groups. This allows parents the freedom to enjoy their own beach time separately from their kids.

3. The majority of hotels in the Caribbean also offer spectacular swimming pools, and some resorts even have water parks.

4. The prices can be low to high, depending on the resort rating and the time you travel. Prices will drop from May to December, but if you book at the last minute you are sure to find a great deal somewhere. Be aware that hurricane season is in the May - December months as well, but most resorts offer weather guarantees.

Mexico Beach Vacation

Even though many tourists zip down to Mexico and do their own thing at a condo or small hotel, beach vacations at all-inclusive resorts are still the best way to go for families. All-inclusive means all-inclusive, with your plane fare, shuttle to-and-from the airport, meals, snacks, drinks and activities all included in one price.

The Riviera Maya, which offer the best of Mexico’s beaches, is an hour south of Cancun. It is reputed to have the second largest barrier reef in the world. It also has many activities for families to explore outside of the resort. You can rent a car, hire a taxi, or even take a public bus.

Hawaii Beach Vacation

When you go to Hawaii, you shouldn't expect to find all inclusive resorts in the Aloha state. Hawaii is known for lush luxury resorts, such as the Grand Wailea on Maui, or the properties on the Big Island's Kohala Coast.

To find more affordable options in Hawaii, the Waikiki Beach area is breathtaking, fun for the entire family, and offers several different lodging options.

Beach Camping

Of course, the above are beach vacations that you have to travel a far distance to. You can also enjoy the beaches in your own area. Beach camping is a great way to spend a low-budget beach vacation for the whole family. You simply have to take your tent and camping equipment and enjoy the great outdoors.

With plenty of options available to you and your family, vacation ideas on the beach are always something to look forward to. There are many beaches out there. All you have to do is find the one that fits your needs - and your budget.

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).