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Romantic Destinations in Alaska
If you are looking for romance while experiencing the beauty of the great white north, Alaska is the place. Here are a few romantic destinations in Alaska worth your attention.
Romantic Destinations in Alaska
The United States' most northern state, Alaska, may not seem to be your first choice for a romantic hot spot. Well, anyone who thinks that Alaska is not romantic should think again - because where it's cold and snowy, there is also room for warm cuddles by the fire and spending some quality time together. If you enjoy the thought of curling up with your loved one with a cup of hot chocolate, then choosing one of the romantic destinations in Alaska is something that is meant for you.
Alaska has become a lovers' destination in recent years, with more and more couples choosing the state for their honeymoons, as well as a place to take that special occasion trip. There are five different regions to Alaska, each of which hold different charms and activities for your Alaskan trip. Whether you prefer to spend time on the water, or would rather be skiing or hiking through the woods, Alaska has a region that will suit your needs. One area that is particularly popular for romantic destinations in Alaska is the northern region, near Anchorage.
A perfect place for your romantic stay here is Alaska's North Country Castle Bed and Breakfast, in Anchorage. This B & B offers couples a spot where they can spend some quality time alone, all while being close to the attractions of the Anchorage area. The many activities and attractions in this region include the Alaska Botanical Gardens, the Anchorage Zoo, and the Chugach National Forest. Of course, when you are planning to spend some time at a bed and breakfast, some of the biggest attractions are the amenities at the property itself. On site, Alaska's North Country Castle B & B offers hiking, cross-country skiing trails, fishing, canoeing, bird watching and swimming (in their pools).
The rooms available here are also a perfect choice for romantic destinations in Alaska. This bed and breakfast offers just three rooms, so you know you will be attended to with care. The Turnagain View Suite is the Alaska's North Country Castle's version of a honeymoon suite, and it is filled with teak furnishings and matching décor that will make your stay complete. A queen size bed, along with a double Jacuzzi and a double shower, as well as a fireplace make this suite complete. The breakfasts are also exquisite, with several courses including a fruit compote, appetizers and a main course - all accompanied by plenty of coffee and fresh squeezed orange juice.
The north country of Alaska is a great place to head to for your next romantic weekend. Close to the city of Anchorage and all of its conveniences, but far enough away to feel like you are alone in the world, a trip to a bed and breakfast here truly is one of the most romantic destinations in Alaska.
Richard Rspad
01 Mar 2007
Richard Rspad is with http://www.resortspadestinations.com/romantic-getaways - reviews and articles on romantic getaways.
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The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
The award winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort Orlando hotel is the gateway to the best known theme parks and attractions in the world. It is very conveniently located between Epcot, Disney World, MGM Studios and very near to Disney's Animal Kingdom. Their service is impeccable with luxurious facilities and a new feature, the Heavenly Bed. At the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel you will find a spa, white sand beach, five pools, tennis and two health clubs. There are seventeen restaurants to choose from and complimentary transportation to the Disney Parks.
With the Orlando airport so close, about a 20 minute ride, it is convenient for anyone wishing to visit the many properties. Orlando International airport has over 975 flights daily making the airport is highly assessable from anywhere.
There are various means of transportation from the hotel to the Parks. Disney's Friendship Launch will take you to Epcot and MGM. Meanwhile there is a shuttle that will take you to all the other areas within the Resort. Both means of transportation depart every 15 to 20 minutes, so you can set your own schedule with very little wait time.
A special perk for those that stay at the Swan and Dolphin hotel is that every day one of the four Parks opens an hour early or remains open three hours later than usual so you can enjoy the park without crowds. You can buy your tickets for the parks in the lobby of the hotel. On some days the Disney characters will visit the dining rooms to the delight of the young children that are eating there. The characters will lavish attention on the children, sign autographs and pose for pictures.
There are five championship golf courses and a walking course that is nine holes. If you are a guest of the Swan and Dolphin you are eligible for advanced tee times. These are very challenging and world renowned golf courses.
The staff is dedicated to make your stay as memorable as possible. They are very friendly and professional. The employees are from all over the world. With the combination of their cultures and experiences they help to make this fine resort an international destination.
Some of the other amenities that The Swan and Dolphin provide are a 24 hour convenience store, a launderette, game rooms, concierge service, two business centers, specialty shops and a kiosk where you can get your boarding pass for your flight home. They even have a limousine service.
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is your home away from home. It is a marvelous hotel to book if you are thinking of a Disney vacation. There is no way you can go wrong by staying at this excellent resort. So, pack up the kids, make a reservation and discover the Magic of Disney World.
Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.
This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
Mary Hanna
07 Mar 2007
Mary Hanna has traveled the world by Air and Ship while writing eBooks, Software Reviews and Practical Articles on Internet Marketing, Cruising, Gardening and Travel. Visit her websites at: http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.CruiseGold.com You can read more of her articles at http://www.ArticleBazaar.net
Activities For Beach Vacations in U.S.
USA beach destinations can be an excellent choice for families that want a fun-filled and relaxing vacation. Beaches offer a wide range of activities to insure the entire family will find something enjoyable during their stay.
Beach Activities
A day at the beach can include, swimming, jogging, walking, volleyball, flying kites, building sand castles, shell collecting, sunbathing, napping, picnics and best of all, relaxing. Bring a beach umbrella, beach chair, towels, sunblock, eyewear, camera, water, snacks, binoculars, a novel and don't forget your bathing suit!
Boating and Fishing
Beach destinations often have a nice variety of boat cruises, including, nature cruises, scenic cruises, sunset cruises, , site-seeing, eco-tourism trips, kayaking adventures and fishing charters. The array of guided trips gives families a good choice of events, and there is something for everyone. For the more independent and experienced vacationer, boat and other watercraft rentals are another option.
When chartering a boat, it may be a good idea to consider the weather, traffic, and other factors, and plan ahead. Some boats can be chartered on short notice, while others may be booked up to a year in advance. Depending on the trip, season and vessel you might need sunblock, camera, insect repellent, water, snacks, a light jacket or even rain gear. Information on what to bring is typically available by contacting the captain beforehand.
On nature cruises you might encounter are any number of wildlife and waterfowl including deer, ducks, geese, herons, egrets, plovers and other shorebirds, whales, porpoises, otters, seals and more. Local guides know the best spots and are eager to guide visitors on trips that just cannot be viewed from land.
Fishing guides might fish for flounder, trout, bluefish, croakers, spot, drum, striped bass, shark, sea bass, tautog, tuna, billfish, mahi-mahi, wahoo or other fish, depending on the season, boat and destination. Other trips will feature crabbing, shrimping, clamming, or just exploring.
Crabbing
Crabbing is an enjoyable family vacation activity. Catching blue crabs does not require much in the way of equipment or skill. Crabbing can be done from a boat, pier, near bridges or along the shoreline. Crabbers need only a line, weight, bait and dip net for the traditional rig, or an inexpensive crab trap, which eliminates the need for a dipping crabs up. A more basic rig is just twine, a sinker and whatever bait you can obtain, tied on the line. The line is then lowered into the water, and gently raised once a tug is felt.
Serious crabbing baits include fresh fish, eels, bull lips and other baits but the most basic bait, chicken necks, work just as well on a hand line. The traps are used in a similar fashion, except that the trap is lifted sharply to close the doors suddenly and capture any crabs that are inside.
Crabs should be kept damp and cool and steamed as soon as possible. They are simple to cook, and can be steamed whole or chilled, then the backs removed and rinsed out before steaming. In either case, the crabs are sprinkled with crab seasoning and steamed until they are bright orange. Serve with melted butter and a cold refreshment! Crabmeat is also excellent in a variety of dishes and even freezes well for short periods.
Clamming
Clamming is a family activity everyone can enjoy on a beach vacation. Clams are easy to find, cook and handle. Locals catch clams by raking, wading, and signing. Some clamming areas can be reached on foot. Boaters can explore even more possibilities. You can also use a local guide to assist you on an enjoyable clamming trip.
Dining Out
After a day at the beach you can stop for a cool ice cream cone, have a nice dinner while watching the sunset, or visit a local niteclub.
Beach destinations are known for fresh seafood! You might find fish, lobsters, crabs, oysters, clams, mussels, scallops as the fresh catch, depending on your location. Local cuisine varies but almost every beach destination will have something for everyone.
Accommodations
Beach resorts usually offer a wide range of accommodations. Vacationers will find vacation rentals, condos, cottages, hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, camping facilities or other options.
Vacationers can sometimes get excellent
rates and availability in the off season. During the peak seasons, rates are higher and accommodations are much harder to book. Visitors are advised to check for availability well in advance in most cases.
Festivals
Festivals are often an enjoyable activity during a beach vacation. Festivals usually combine, food, shopping and entertainment in one safe and easy to find location.
The Chincoteague Island Virginia Oyster Festival is a good example of a popular Festival. The event features Chincoteague Island's famous oysters. The festival promotes the oyster season, which includes the cooler months of fall, winter and spring. Food served includes oysters prepared in a variety of ways, clam fritters, steamed crabs, and other items. The Oyster Festival is held at Maddox Family Campground, on Maddox Blvd in Chincoteague Island, Virginia.
John C. Banks
12 Mar 2007
The author is a recreational angler and owner of several outdoor websites. See Chincoteague Island Virginia for more information about the vacation resort.