Posted on December 21, 2015 in USA
Destination Florida
Palm trees, beaches, sun, shelling describe a vacation for the entire family. The Atlantic and Gulf Coasts offer up unlimited opportunities for ‘fun in the sun’.
When it comes to holiday vacation destinations many families head to the Southern states.
There are the Orlando Parks, shopping, restaurants and Many people!
For a quieter, yet active time, head for the beaches. Sand, surfing, swimming or just lounging, it all is far away from the cold and snow!
There are thousands of beach communities throughout the state. The farther south you go the warmer it gets.
Accommodations are available in all price ranges. During the holidays, normally moderate to extra luxe. Staying at a beach property is ideal. Park your car at the resort and just walk onto the beach. No driving!
Restaurants are within walking distances from most resorts. Many have on-site eating establishments. If you book accommodations with a small kitchen, you can prepare some meals in your room and save money for shopping!
The local newspapers will have a listing of all holiday activities in the area. Believe me, you will not become bored!
It is advisable to check out travel sites for availability of resorts to book ahead. Also, call the resort to confirm your reservation if you book on-line.
If you are flying, get to your airport early to avoid long lines at security and so that you do not miss your flight. One carry-on only! Remember to ‘roll’ your shorts, tops, swimsuits, and only take necessary items. You can buy your flip-flops and suntan lotion when you arrive. The less you bring the better. You will not find yourself waiting for your luggage at baggage claim (and find out it was lost!).
Have a great time in Florida, my home state!!!
Posted on November 26, 2015 in Travel, USA
DENVER M– USEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE (Check out Photo Gallery for more pics!)
This museum will enlighten, delight and inspire you. The museum has 3 levels of displays and interactive activities. This facility is a smoke-free environment. Food and beverages are not allowed in the exhibits. From mummified bodies, flesh-eating dinosaurs and black holes this museum is a definite ‘Must See’ while in Denver!
The entrance is Level 1. Start out the day with a meal in the T-Rex Deli and Cafe and check out the museum shop. On Level 1 are the Insects and Butterflies exhibit, Space Odyssey, Gates Planetarium with your ticket to the Universe and Gems & Minerals. In the IMAX 3D Theater, I explored the world through an amazing experience. The 3D movie is viewed with special slip on glasses for the ultimate journey.
Level 2 includes the Discovery Zone where you can interact with computerized programs. The Expedition Health sends you on a journey through the human body. Large glass enclosures display North American Wildlife, Edge of the Wild, Bears & Sea Mammals, South Pacific Island, Australia and the North American Indian Cultures. “Full size”, authentic appearing animals and life-like enclosures will have you experiencing wildlife like you never have before. Every display is depicted in its own building area accessed by walkways and open atrium settings.
Level 3 displays Birds of the Americas, Prehistoric Journey, Egyptian Mummies, Northern & Rare Birds, South America, Bostwana, Africa and Explore Colorado. The Sky Terrace is the best view of Denver.
The exhibits are unforgettable. The massive enclosures and the research to re-create every scene is quite remarkable.
The museum department consultants can assist in scheduling meetings or other events which can accommodate 15 to 3,500 guests. Events are catered in with award-winning menus created by on-site culinary professionals.
www.dmns.org
Posted on November 26, 2015 in Cruising, Travel
Cruising on the Carnival Ecstasy Bahamas Cruise
Our cruise on the Carnival Ecstasy was a family cruise. My Dad, brother, sister-in-law, husband and myself went on a 5 day cruise to the Bahamas.
We had a balcony cabin that was perfect for my Dad, husband and myself. My brother and wife had a neighboring stateroom. The outdoor balcony had dividers which we were able to open for one large balcony.
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Sleeper upper with towel creature.
Our ‘evening visitor’.
Every evening each stateroom received the Funtime, the Daily on-board activity schedule. The schedule included the next day port of call, tours, time schedule (do not miss the re-boarding times), ship activities, dining, spa specials, showtimes and lounge entertainment.
The ship is walkable with elevators conveniently located off the atrium. Dining rooms provided for early and late dining and breakfasts. One ‘food station’ had 24 hour service. Also available was in-room meal delivery. The buffets had meal options from soup and salad to delectable desserts. Specialty dining rooms for an additional fee are reservation only. Poolside beverage and food stations provide outside dining to enjoy lounging around the pools and hot tubs throughout the day.
Parents and children can participate in numerous games. The ship has a “kids center” where parents can check their children into the club and enjoy the spa or fitness center. Staff members provide interactive activities and supervision for the children.
Did someone say ‘shopping’? Yes, there is shopping on board for souvenirs or any necessity you left at home. Specialty shops for clothing, jewelry and flowers are in the shopping arcade. The evening ‘shopping sales’ will find women looking for that something special as the men stand to the side to hold the purchases!
Looking to enjoy the indoors and find a quiet niche for reading? Throughout the ship are reading rooms and leather recliner chairs overlooking the sea. Grab a tropical drink or specialty coffee and enjoy!
Cruising can be as laid back or as active as you want. It is your cruise, so choose your style of cruising, make reservations (highly recommend travel insurance) and pack lightly.
Have you cruised before? Share where you have cruised and on what cruise line!
Mary Ann
Posted on November 4, 2015 in Travel, USA
The Beauty of Fall
Follow the path less traveled. Sit awhile and enjoy the crisp fall days.
Standing on a bridge in awe of the color of autumn leaves floating lazily down river.
Preparing for the upcoming “deer season”.
Fall is my favorite time of year. The fresh air, feeling the light breeze, shuffling through the falling leaves of orange, yellow, gold and letting my thoughts drift about the beauty that surrounds me. Peaceful, comforting, relaxing….by myself with the sunlight, reflective water and scent of the season.
Posted on October 23, 2015 in Travel, USA
We drove from Denver to Golden on a day trip to go to Coors Brewery and Mother Cabrini Shrine. (See Article Posts and Photo Gallery)
Our second trip was from Denver to Vail/Lionshead. (See Article Posts and Photo Gallery)
Our third trip was from Avon, CO (outside Vail) to Aspen, CO. (We did the “Loop” winding through the Rocky Mountains to the International Divide (where it was snowing) and returned to Avon, Colorado. (See Photo Gallery).
Want to view more? Check out the Photo Gallery.