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How to escape snow this holiday season

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There are a lot of wonderful things about the holidays. Everyone seems to be in a good mood, there are so many different events to go to, and there are always great deals at stores. The only thing I dislike about the holidays is the snow. I am not a fan of snow or cold weather, which can kind of bring my holiday spirit down. Here are a few ways to escape the cold weather this winter.

One way to escape the cold weather is to take a vacation. Head somewhere warm and sunny and just get away from it all. Hawaii has great weather year-round. Southern California and Mexico are also famous for their sunshine and comfortable climate. If you can’t travel all the way to Hawaii or Mexico, try traveling to somewhere warmer and more affordable. Much of Nevada is warm all year, and if you avoid Las Vegas, you may be able to save money on hotel expenses.

If you can’t take the time off to take a long vacation, try taking a staycation! Book a room at a local motel and plan fun, inside activities to do. Visit a nearby bookstore, shop at your local mall, or eat out at your favorite restaurant. These activities can help you stay warm and see your city in a new light. You may even find new favorite activities to do right where you live. Your staycation may even be better than a trip out of town.

Maybe you simply don’t have the time to vacation, in town or otherwise. Many of us don’t have that option, given work-life balance. You can escape the cold and be toasty warm right in your own home. Have a movie or game night at your house. Get all wrapped up in your favorite blanket and curl up on the couch. Don’t forget your favorite slippers or fuzzy socks, and the hot cocoa. Sit back, relax, and revel in the warm, comforting embrace of cozy bliss.

Whether you stay warm by staying in, traveling to warmer climates, be sure to snap some pictures and put them on your holiday cards. I get my cards from Basic Invite. I love their personalized photo Christmas card selection. Any of their cards, with your warm, cheery vibes are sure to look perfect together.  I hope you stay warm and comfy this holiday season. Happy holidays!

Best Shows in Vegas Right Now

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Las Vegas is known for many things, its gambling, its vices, its beauty, its mayhem and of course its status as the capital of live entertainment. Entertainment exists all over this great city from street performers to hotel shows not to mention the legendary acts like Elvis, Tom Jones and the Rat Pack who have graced the stages of Las Vegas. If you visit Vegas then you simply must see a live show during your time there and if you do, these are the hottest shows to check out right now.

Blanc de Blanc

Some of the best shows which have ever been seen in Las Vegas are the cabaret shows and Blanc de Blanc is a modern variation on those classic performances. The show features burlesque dancers, high flying acrobats and a little bit of naughtiness all packed in to this eventful 2 hour show. Grab tickets to Blanc de Blanc ay Sahara Las Vegas and let it all hang out for a couple of hours of fun, frisk and good times.

LOVE

The Cirque du Soleil company have really raised the bar in terms of what a live performance should be and each year they come up with new ideas and themes for their shows. The performance of LOVE is themed on the Beatles and their music and this uplifting show will leave a smile on your face for weeks. The songs are used perfectly and intertwined with sensational live performances and stunning gymnastics.

Absinthe

Originally intended as a one off performance in a  pop-up tent outside Caesar’s Palace, this show very quickly caught the public’s attention and it is now entering into its 13th year on the strip. The show is absolutely hilarious and features gymnastic feats and sideshow performers who will have you laughing off your seat. This is an intimate set up for a show which gets you close to the action, a performance which you cannot miss out on when you are in Vegas.

Cher

Over the years we have seen a great number of living legends take on residencies in many Vegas hotels, people like Elton John, Prince and Celine Dion who have lit up the night on 3 month long residencies. Currently the immaculate Cher is playing a nightly concert in Vegas and she is showing that she is just as relevant as she has always been. Amazing songs, great performances and more costume changes than you can count.

Penn & Teller

Magic has always been a popular attraction in Vegas and it is usually the entertaining Penn & Teller who have been spearheading it. Catch the magical duo as they perform death defying tricks, mind blowing illusions, carefully spliced with some good old fashioned humor and showmanship. These guys are the creme de la creme of the magic world and if you get the chance to see them during your time in Vegas, grab the opportunity with both hands.

Top Destinations To Visit With Three Weeks In South East Asia

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Source: Michelle Maria on Pixabay

South East Asia is one of the most popular regions on the planet for both new and seasoned travellers. When travelling through the area, it’s not uncommon to come across both older travellers and gap year students, with a whole variety of people in between. With a whole variety of countries to choose from in the area as well, it can be difficult to narrow down just one or two spots for a holiday, so that’s why we’ve developed this useful guide to three weeks in South East Asia. So get ready, book a cheap flight to Bangkok and enjoy one of the most diverse, unique and beautiful areas on earth.

Thailand

Thailand is one of the most visited countries in South East Asia. It makes sense after all, what with Bangkok being a huge hub for international and regional flights. Thailand is probably most well known for its island life and full moon parties, but the mainland has just as many awesome things to offer as the southern islands do. With a hilly northern region, Thailand is home to numerous types of hill tribes which can be visited from the likes of Chiang Mai and surrounding smaller towns. If you’re into yoga and meditation, Chiang Mai is where you want to be, with many monasteries offering retreats that can be as short as a day or as long as a week or more. For quieter island life, consider checking out Koh Lanta, although if you visit in the off season (around monsoon) the more popular islands are likely to be a bit quieter as well.

Laos

The only fully landlocked country in South East Asia, Laos is a gorgeous country with beautiful karst mountains in the north, strange sites to visit, and the famous 4000 islands in the south. Laos is a welcoming country with a lot going for it, including its famous national dish, Laap made of ground chicken with chillies, onions, mint and rice. For the most impressive of temple collections, visit Luang Prabang in the north before heading to the unique, but curious Plain of Jars in Phonsavan. Much of the country is awash with spectacular waterfalls, such as on the Bolaven Plateau in the south, a loop you can do through coffee plantations and tiny, wild villages. If you want to see an excellent example of Angkor civilization ruins, take a short trip over to Champasak – an excellent example of some of the temples you find throughout the old Angkor civilization, but without the steep entry fee Cambodia boasts, and without the crowds.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful country that runs along the coastline of the South China Sea. With its capital, Hanoi in the north and the historical Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) in the south, the country is a great place to explore both culture and history. Probably most famous for the bloody Vietnam War, many of the remnants of the conflict remain such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, inviting visitors to explore and experience these unique Viet Cong hiding spots. The beaches along the coast are impressive, and with small, unique towns such as Hoi An and Hue offering a step back in time to the Vietnam of old, right on the coast, it goes a long way to explaining the popularity of this area. Don’t miss Ha Long Bay in the north – an impressive bay of scattered karst mountain rock formations that you can opt to explore by cruise ship. 

If you’re a foodie, you will love Vietnam – with so many amazing dishes to try, you will be up to your eyes in delicious dishes for the duration of your stay. Want to take the tastes home with you? Why not sign up for a delicious food tour or cooking class? They’re both impressive and will show you the backgrounds to delicious dishes that you can whip up right at home. 

Southern China

The Yunnan province of southern China may not necessarily be included in South East Asia, but it’s worth a visit if you will be in the area nonetheless. The scenery takes a page from the book of Northern Laos and is covered in impressive karst mountain scenery with waterfalls, streams and lakes. Not only this, but Yunnan province has an impressive mountain range, with amazing hiking and trekking available for the adventurous. Visit the provincial capital, Kunming for its impressive pagoda collection as well as its parks and general ambiance. If you’re looking to explore further into China, Kunming is the transport hub of the region, so you will be able to arrange trains, buses and flights all from the city in between exploring its unique and colourful neighbourhoods. 

So if you’re looking for a great itinerary for three weeks in the area, these spots are perfect for spending a week or so in. It’s up to you at the end of the day how long and were you go, but these countries, you will want at least a week in each – and that’s being seriously tight on time. Do yourself a favour – just go for a couple of months! You won’t regret it, we promise!

 

The Shrinking Sanctuary of the Wild & Where It Can Still Be Seen

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The reality is that many species of wildlife are becoming more endangered every year; there are less than 5500 black rhino in South Africa and just over 1000 mountain gorillas left in the world.

A safari is a truly soul-enriching experience, make sure you tick it off your bucket list before it’s too late. Here are some of the best places to see wonderful wildlife.

Best place to see the Big 5 – Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa

Lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo – catching a glimpse of these five iconic animals is sought after by tourists every year. The Greater Kruger National Park is a wildlife paradise where the Big 5 are able to thrive in their natural habitat.

There are many safari lodges in the famous Greater Kruger, but one of the most outstanding game lodges in South Africa that will give you an authentic, soul-enriching safari experience, is Pondoro Game Lodge.

Owing to its superior location in the Balule Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park, the award-winning lodge boasts private, luxury game drives for its guests – no more than eight people travel on the cruisers at a time.

Best place to see gorillas and monkeys – The Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is the premier destination for you to see gorillas, monkeys and other primates in their natural habitat. the Virunga National Park offers the best viewing of mountain gorillas in Africa.

You’ll be accompanied by experienced rangers who will take you on a journey through dense jungle. There is no guarantee that you will see the primates, but the rangers will use their unmatched experience to find them, and once you set eyes on them, you’ll realise that the journey was worth it. Witnessing a giant silverback gorilla relaxing in a shady alcove and mischievous chimps swinging through the trees, are sights that will never be forgotten. Ensure that you have your camera ready to capture these wonderful moments.

Best place to see migrations – Kenya and Botswana

Maasai Mara National Reserve is a wildlife haven located in south-west Kenya. It’s considered to be Africa’s most diverse eco-system. The reserve is renowned for the legendary Great migration of wildebeest. From late July/early-August, millions of wildebeest begin their long trek through the southern Serengeti.

Did you know that zebra is the national animal of Botswana? The zebra migration is the longest mammal migration in Africa. Every year hundreds of thousands of zebras make a 500 km round-trip from the Chobe River and its surrounds to the Nxai Pan (part of the famous Makgadikgadi Pans).

Best place to see birds – Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa

If you’re an avid bird watcher, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a must-experience destination. You’ll be privy to over 300 different species of birds, however only 102 species are resident. The park is famous for its birds of prey, with 46 species having been recorded, including red-necked falcon,  Black-chested snake eagle, Martial eagle and bateleur.

November to April is the best time to visit the park to see resident birds and migrant species. Happy bird watching.

Unique places to visit in Cairo to make your trip a great one

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Located along the River Nile near the delta, the capital of Egypt is about 165 km from the Mediterranean Sea. The largest city in Africa was founded in 969 AD and has been ruled by the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, Romans, Turks, French and more over the centuries. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the city’s most famous landmark. That structure occupies an area of 53,000 square meters and is 140 meters high. The Cairo’s Egyptian Museum also houses the world’s greatest display of ancient Egyptian artifacts, many of which are from the tomb of Tutankhamen. Its rumble with history doesn’t just end here as it is home to the oldest university in the world as well as of the largest mosques. Known as the city of 1,000 minarets for its Islamic architecture, Cairo seems to breathe in the past more than the present.

If you want to get into the city, the better way is through the Cairo international airport which allows both domestic and international flights. You can even book Cheap Dubai to Cairo flights, Cape Town to Cairo flights, Oman to Cairo flights, Melbourne to Cairo flights and more from a reliable ticket booking source.

When you land here, you will surely get to witness a lot of minarets, mosques and its famous citadel. But if you want to experience something different then this is the list for you:

  • Visit Abu Simbel: Built along the axis of the sun, the temple gets flooded with sunlight twice a year on February 22 and October 22. It illuminates Rameses himself. Only the fourth statue of Ptah, the mysterious creator-god which is left in shadow. Here’s a little-known fact: UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention was created actually to preserve Abu Simbel. You might want to mark those two dates down and plan your trip around it.
  • Visit the Lost City of Heracleion: Found in the Abu Qir Bay off the coast of Egypt, the underwater ruins had 64 ships, 700 anchors, and a treasure trove of gold coins, statues standing at 16 feet and a massive temple to the god Amun-Gereb. All these give a peek into what was a great port that controlled all the trade into Egypt city 2300 years ago. But no one is really sure how it ended up underwater. If you love architecture and lore of the past then this is the place to go to.
  • Ponder At The City Of The Dead: The cemetery Zawiyyet al-Mayyiteen is known as such since it is considered to be one of the world’s largest cemeteries. This huge necropolis is comprised of innumerable white conical domes which appear very similar to waves in the ocean. Each of the mausolea is topped with a dome. The place is just stunning at sunrise or sunset and it is highly recommended that you visit them. But remember that it is a working cemetery and so the proper decorum should be observed.

Cairo is a city which seems to be just progressively lost in various eras of time. But its beauty actually lies in that very fact. Visiting it feels like stepping into a time machine.

Dubai A Global Hotspot For Travellers

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Every year there is an influx of expatriates consisting of both skilled and unskilled workers entering Dubai to work or leaving Dubai after their working contracts ends. Dubai is a fast emerging global hotspot for travellers and expatriates. This is especially so as the economy has started to recover after having its economy affected by the economic downturn.

Dubai has recently won the bid to host the World Expo 2020 and an estimated number of 2.5 million visitors, consisting mostly of expatriates are expected to pass enter the country during the six month long expo. There is an anticipated surge in the real estate, hotel and infrastructure industries to support the arrival of the expo. During the next few years prior to the expo, thousands of new job opportunities will attract both skill and unskilled workers to Dubai as the country gears up to host this much anticipated event.

Dubai with its strategic location, is less than a four hour flight for almost half of the world’s population. It is also a convenient destination for expatriates from Asia, Europe, Australia and America. With the availability of various cheap flights from Dubai to London and other countries around the world, it is convenient for expatriates to travel back home to visit their families or for holidays in the neighbouring countries.

UAE nationals and those holding a UAE passport enjoy heavily subsidized property purchase schemes, highly discounted rates on food items and groceries, free education for their children, and much cheaper utilities than expatriates. They also enjoy a high standard of living compared to many expatriates who live and work there. Many expatriates are deterred from buying houses in Dubai, knowing that once they reach retirement age, they will have to leave even though they have worked and have invested in the economy and have contributed actively to the betterment of the country.

All these years, the government has resisted the pressure to open up citizenship to expatriates, fearing that it would dilute their Emirati culture and national identity. They do not want to put a huge strain on social welfare schemes that are primarily enjoyed by their local population, which makes up a small percentage of the total population of their country.

5 Steps to Plan the Ultimate Luxury Escape

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Want to get away from everything and travel in style? Looking for the perfect holiday retreat? Follow these steps to plan the ultimate luxury escape!

Dreaming of a luxury getaway? Well, you’re not alone. As summer approaches and time opens up, travel is on our minds as well.

A luxurious vacation may feel out of your reach, but we’re here to tell you that it isn’t! No matter how you look at it, there’s some way you can create that escape you’re longing for.

Whether it’s a cruise to the Bahamas or a European road trip, there’s something out there for you.

Not sure where to begin? Read on for five steps that will help you plan your ultimate luxury escape.

1. Consider Your Budget

First, let’s debunk the idea that luxury has to come with a huge price tag. It doesn’t. Several options exist for making your escape more budget-friendly.

Choosing dates that are less popular and setting a budget ahead of time (and sticking to it) are great ways to experience luxury for less money.

Whether you have a budget or not, find ways to let loose. Consider what your most desired luxuries would be and spend the bulk of your budget there.

Is the location most important? Or a jetted tub?

If you’re more interested in sites and attractions, spend less on your accommodations.

2. Skip the Hotel

While a hotel is probably the most popular type of vacation housing, don’t be afraid to change things up. Options such as Elite Holiday Homes or luxurious glamping destinations may give you more of a non-typical luxury escape.

All sorts of options await you, from houseboats to cruise ships. Something as simple as changing up your accommodations can make your vacation feel more luxurious than usual.

3. Plan Your Luxury Escape Details

When planning your escape, don’t skimp on the details! These are what make the trip the right fit for you.

Looking for romance? Plan ahead by arranging for those details that will set the mood you’re seeking.

Wanting adventure? Research the area of your chosen destination to see what’s available.

Choose the activities that will be most interesting, exhilarating, and unique to you.

Whether you’re looking for a themed vacation or one with variety, make your vacation yours. If luxury is what you’re after, don’t show up without any plans.

4. Leave Time to Relax

While planning is great, don’t plan every minute of your vacation. Doing so may really burn you out.

For many, true luxury is having time to literally do nothing. For others, it’s experiencing thrill with every footstep. Plan your escape according to your preferences, but leave room for changes and rest.

Feeling like you need a vacation after your vacation is the last thing you want if you’re going for luxury.

5. Make it Your Own

Whatever you do, make your vacation your own. That’s what will make it a luxury escape.

While you’re planning, avoid package deals. They may be tempting because of lowered expenses, but packages will often include things you don’t really care about.

Pick and choose. It’s your escape!

If you want a limousine to pick you up one night, book it. Seeking an amazing cliff-side view from your window? Find it.

The Eye of the Beholder

There’s no one right way to plan or experience a luxury escape. What luxury is to you may not be luxury to your neighbor.

As you plan, focus on what suits you. What will make you feel the most pampered and relaxed? What would truly make this an escape for you?

Keep these things in mind and you’ll experience a true getaway that won’t be forgotten.

To contact us or sign up for our email list, visit our site today.

8 Tips for Selecting the Most Comfortable Camping Cot

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Choosing the right camping cot can make all the difference in your entire trip. Here are 8 tips for selecting the best one so you can get a good night’s sleep.

You’re looking for adventure, want to get away, and love being outdoors, a camping trip is a great way to accomplish all of the above.

Are you planning your next camping trip? If you are, you’ll want to make sure that you have adequate supplies for your trip prior to hitting the trail (or road, if you’re driving to your destination).

Because as fun as going camping can be, a successful trip does require some planning.

For instance, what are some essentials you should have in your backpack?

And, just as important, what are you going to sleep on? If you’re thinking about investing in a camping cot, look no further.

Our guide gives you 8 great tips for selecting the most comfortable cot, so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.

Ready to learn what they are? Let’s get to it!

How to Choose a Suitable Camping Cot

Picking an appropriate cot for your unique journey and set of needs is important.

If you don’t do your research and choose the right camping cot for your trip and personal preference, there’s a good chance you’re not going to get a good night’s sleep – and that can have a huge impact on your ability to enjoy the trip as a whole. No one wants to be miserable and exhausted before their hike even starts!

To ensure that you’re making the right choice, take the below considerations into account when shopping for the most comfortable cot for you.

How Much Does It Weigh?

The weight of your camping cot will be particularly important to you if you’re planning to carry it on your back. If that’s the case, be sure to look for models which are light enough so you can carry them comfortably.

If you won’t be carrying it for a long distance, a cot with a sturdy, steel frame won’t be an issue.

What’s the Size?

Another important consideration is the size of the cot. Will it fit inside of your tent or other sleeping arrangements?

Additionally, is it a size that’s going to be comfortable for you to sleep on? You don’t want to end up like Goldilocks, do you?

Is It Portable? Does It Need to Be?

If you’re planning on carrying the cot with you by foot, it’s going to have to be portable enough for you to carry for extended periods of time without hassle.

However, if you’re going to be parking something like a caravan (from Campsmart, for example) or an SUV and setting up camp beside it, you won’t have to worry about carrying your camping cot for a long distance.

If that’s the case, you obviously don’t need to worry about finding a cot that’s ultra-portable.

What Type of Fabric Does It Feature?

For optimal comfort, your ideal camping cot should be comfortable on its own…without any other sleeping gear on top of it.

Think about it like this: If you buy a cot that’s made from stiff fabric, throwing a sleeping bag or pad on top of it really isn’t going to make a whole lot of difference.

You’re still going to be uncomfortable, and you may even wake up with unnecessary aches and pains – making the rest of your trip much more difficult to enjoy.

You’ll also want something that’s easy to clean and relatively light, like nylon or polyester.

What Kind of Support Does It Provide?

Sleeping arrangements are rarely one size fits all. In other words, it’s rare that what works for one person will work for another.

Knowing this, it’s a good idea to look for a cot that offers adjustable tensions, so you can set the tension of the cot to your personal preference to ensure that you get a good night’s sleep.

You’ll also want to confirm that the cot can support your body without issue as well.

How Often Will You Be Using It?

This goes hand-in-hand with our last consideration. Before you purchase your new camping cot, you’ll want to give some thought to how often you’re planning on using it, so you can be sure that it’s going to be a worthwhile investment.

How Much Does It Cost?

The last thing to think about when you’re shopping for a cot for your next camping trip is its cost.

Think about how often you plan to use it and the various features it has. If you’re only going to use it 1 or 2 times a year, it may be best not to splurge on a premium cot, because the cost per use will be outrageous.

However, if you’re confident that you’ll use it and the features are in line with the price, purchase away.

Can You Set It Up?

You don’t want to go and buy a camping cot that you can’t set up easily, do you?

Find a model that isn’t a hassle to set up, and you’ll be better off for it.

Find the Most Comfortable Cot for You

Now that you know what you need to consider when shopping for the most comfortable camping cot for your needs, finding the right one should be easy.

Just think about whether it needs to be portable (and if so, how much it weights) and what the size is. You’ll also want it to provide ample support and be made from a fabric that’s comfortable to you without and added sleeping gear.

Finally, you’ll want to think about how much you’ll be using it, and, if the price of the cot is worth it given all of the above factors.

Keep these considerations in mind, and you’ll be sleeping like a king (or queen) at your campsite from day one.

Want more great tips, like how to improve on every trip you take? Check out the rest of our blog for more!

6 Reasons Why You Should Take a Boat Cruise This Summer

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Summer is the perfect time to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery. Click here to learn why you should consider a boat cruise and take a break from it all

Have you been bitten by the travel bug?

One of the most popular ways to travel is on a boat cruise. In fact, more than 20 million people board some type of cruise ship every year.

Options for cruising are almost limitless. You can choose from week-long cruises through the Mediterranean or island-hopping in the Caribbean. Closer to home, you can enjoy a romantic dinner or overnight cruise on a lake or river.

Whether your vacation budget is large or small, there’s a boat cruise out there that’s perfect for you.

Still not convinced? Read on for six compelling reasons to take your family on a fun-filled cruise this summer.

1. Convenience

A major reason for the continued popularity is the convenience factor.

Think about it. You board the ship with all your luggage, check in to your “room,” and go to sleep in the same bed every night. And yet, every morning when you wake up, you’re in a new port, a new city, or a new island.

If you tried to visit four different Caribbean islands by plane, think of the hassle involved in getting to and from airports and sleeping in four different hotels.

With a cruise, you don’t have to worry about any of that. Simply board the ship and sit back and relax as it ferries you to your next exotic destination.

2. Easy Budgeting

Another terrific reason to take a boat cruise? You know exactly how much money you’ll spend, which make it budgeting a cinch.

We all have a tendency to overspend on vacations. But with a cruise, you’ll know exactly how much you’re going to spend before you even set foot on the boat.

Most cruise packages include your room, meals, and onboard activities. Depending on your budget, you can add on optional shore excursions to the price of your cruise.

Some cruises may include alcoholic beverages and gratuities for staff, while others do not. Be sure to read the fine print for any cruise you’re considering so you know exactly what is–and isn’t–included.

3. Fabulous Food

Gone are the days of drab cafeteria-style offerings on cruise ships.

While you’re still likely to find 24-hour buffets and bars, most cruise companies have really kicked their cuisine into high gear. Even on budget cruises, expect the option of five-star dining rooms with a delicious menu selection.

Many menus on cruises are inspired by the local cuisine of the destinations you’re visiting.

Others have paired with celebrity chefs to ensure their offerings rival any you’d find on land.

Worried you might gain weight on your cruise? You don’t have to. Wellness cruises offer seminars on active living, along with customized fitness programs and healthy meals.

4. Endless Activities

One thing is for certain: You’ll never be bored on a boat cruise.

Let’s start with the onboard activities. During the day, you can enjoy pools, water slides, rock climbing walls, or dance classes. In the evening, enjoy Broadway-style performances, live music, or magic shows.

Need some adult time? Drop off the kids for an endless array of supervised activities. They’ll have so much fun with their new friends they won’t want it to end.

And all of this is just on your days at sea. What about when the ship docks at its next destination? Depending on where your cruise takes you, there’s almost no end to the choices that await you.

In Europe, tour ancient ruins and explore hidden grottos. In the Caribbean, relax on a postcard-perfect beach or scuba dive with dolphins and sharks. If you visit Alaska or Antarctica, bundle up and get ready to trek across glaciers or watch whales breach.

What if these faraway destinations are out of your reach? That’s okay too. There’s no reason you can’t enjoy a fabulous boat cruise closer to home.

Read more here about champagne brunch, dinner, and special event cruises on Lake Minnetonka.

5. Disconnect (and Reconnect)

One of the best things about being out on the water–whether it’s the ocean, a sea, or a lake–is the chance to disconnect from the outside world.

Of course, all modern ships offer the option of connectivity. If you need to check your email or make a phone call, you certainly can.

But why not take the opportunity to unplug, not only from your daily life but from your electronics as well? Leave the cell phone in your cabin and unwind on a lounge chair beneath a beautiful sunset.

Spend some uninterrupted time with your family or friends. By disconnecting from your life onshore, you’ll have more of a chance to reconnect with nature and the people around you.

6. Do As Much (Or As Little) As You Want

When you take a boat cruise, you’ll find two types of people: those who want to do it all, and those who want to do nothing at all.

The do-it-alls sign up for every class, every shore excursion, and every show. They make the most of their vacation by cramming in as many fun activities as time allows.

The nothing-at-alls, on the other hand, spend their cruise unwinding from the stresses of life. You’ll see them relaxing by the pool all day or indulging in various spa treatments.

Which camp do you fall into? It doesn’t matter.

The point is: You can make your boat cruise whatever you want it to be!

Ready for Your Summertime Boat Cruise?

No matter where you decide to cruise–Alaska, the Caribbean, or a nearby lake–you’re sure to enjoy your time on the water.

Looking for more helpful travel advice? Check out our latest blog posts for more inspiration.

Top 10 Essentials to Pack in Your Camping Backpack

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You only have so much space in your camping backpack, so you need to maks sure you pack the right stuff. Here are the top 10 essentials.

Planning your next outdoor adventure? Before leaving home, make sure you pack everything you need. Having the necessary supplies will save you a lot of headaches and make your trip more exciting.

Without a doubt, camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with your loved ones. Just like everything else, it takes planning.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with your friends, there are some things you need to do before leaving home.

A map, for instance, could save your life. You never know when the GPS stops working or your smartphone gets lost. With an actual map, it’s easier to find your way through the woods and explore the surroundings.

The question is: what should your camping backpack look like? Do you really need all that stuff experts recommend? Let’s find out!

How to Choose the Right Camping Backpack

First, choose a quality backpack that has enough room for your gear. Consider your destination and the length of your trip.

Camping backpacks come in all shapes and sizes. There are several options to choose from, such as:

  • Daypacks, which are perfect for single-day camping trips
  • Canvas backpacks, which appeal to weekend hikers and urban travelers
  • Internal frame packs, which offer a lot of storage space
  • Frameless backpacks

If you’re only traveling for a day or so, a daypack will do the trick. For longer tips, choose an internal frame pack.

These accessories range in volume from 15 liters to 55+ liters. A backpack for two or three nights will require at least 45 liters.

Besides volume, you must also consider the fabric, frame, pockets, padding, and attachment points. Ideally, select one made from waterproof materials. Make sure it has lockable zippers and multiple compartments.

Certain features, such as a padded hip belt, padded back, and padded shoulder straps, will take pressure off your body and provide extra comfort. If you’re planning to sleep outdoors, pick a backpack with sleeping bag compartments.

As a rule of thumb, keep your pack light. Don’t take anything with you unless it’s a must-have. The lighter your load, the faster you’ll walk and move around.

Ready to pack your gear? Put these camping supplies on your list:

Shelter

Start with a tent, sleeping bag, and blankets. Another option is a sleeping pad. Eventually, you can also pack a headrest.

These accessories will keep you warm and protect you from the elements. Plus, you’ll feel more comfortable during your trip.

Navigation Gear

A map and compass are must-haves for your camping backpack. If you’re traveling in the mountains, consider using an altimeter too.

Traveling with a group of friends? Two-way radios will make it easier to communicate.

Illumination

Pack a flashlight or a headlamp, and extra batteries.

Look for compact, waterproof flashlights with laser lights. These models send signals that can be seen up to 20 miles at night.

Hydration

The human body can survive for 30 to 40 days without food, but only three or four days without water.

Even the slightest dehydration can ruin your trip and make you sick. Every cell in your body needs water to function optimally.

Your camping backpack should contain several water bottles.

Choose one that’s leakproof and has double-wall vacuum insulation. Stainless steel bottles are better than plastic because they last longer and resist bacteria.

Nutrition

Depending on your plans for the trip, you can either stick to canned foods and snacks – or take enough ingredients to cook a full meal.

Camping snacks will curb hunger and boost your energy. They should consist of whole foods that nourish your body and can last for days.

Homemade granola bars, protein bars, canned tuna, trail mixes, nuts, fruit leather, and peanut butter are all a great choice. Other healthy options include energy gels and electrolyte drinks.

These treats will prevent dehydration and keep you energized all day long.

First-Aid Supplies

When you’re out in the wild, anything can happen.

Tick bites, for instance, can cause allergic reactions and even Lyme disease.

If you or a loved gets bitten by a tick, you might be able to get to a Lyme disease clinic right away. Prevention is your best defense.

Take a quality insect repellent that works against ticks. Don’t forget about sterile pads, gauze pads, bandages, and antibacterial ointment.

If you suffer from allergies, pack antihistamine medications as well.

Spare Batteries

Nowadays, most smartphones have a short battery life and won’t carry you through the day on a single charge. Extra batteries are a must for your camping backpack.

Take a power bank and spare batteries for your mobile phone, radio, GPS, and other gadgets. This will ensure that you’re connected to the outside world and can easily call for help in case of emergency.

Clothing

When it comes to camping, layers are the absolute best. Pack your clothes according to the climate. Even if it’s warm and sunny during the day, the temperature can drop at night.

Your camping backpack should include one or two T-shirts, an extra pair of jeans or shorts, socks, and sweaters. A rain jacket and a cap are essential. Don’t forget about underwear.

Fire

Even if you’re not planning to spend the night outdoors, you still need a lighter or a fire starter. Matches can help too.

Depending on your budget, opt for a basic lighter or one with extendable burner head that can be used upside down.

Fire starters can be a lifesaver if you get lost or find yourself in a critical situation.

Toiletries

Last, make sure you pack basic toiletries like a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, and antibacterial soap. Sunscreen is a must-have.

Take a few towels or wet wipes with you. Shampoo and conditioner are not necessary unless you’re planning a long trip.

Now you have it – a complete camping checklist for you and your family! If you have enough room in your backpack, you can also take fun stuff like bats, balls, board games, or fishing gear.

Get Ready for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Planning your trip doesn’t have to be a chore. All you need are a few basic items to keep you safe and cozy.

Pack your gear ahead of time to make sure you don’t forget anything. Use this handy list for inspiration. The right gear can take your outdoor adventure to a whole new level!

Do you have any camping tips? Are there any must-have items you can’t travel without? Share your thoughts below!