Bermuda - Still Fabulous After 400 Years!

It seems incredible to me that the gleaming island of Bermuda is celebrating it’s 400th anniversary this year.  This beautiful island was first settled in 1609 by the survivors of a shipwrecked English vessel, The Sea Venture.  Bermuda was the very first English colony and is the second oldest parliamentary democracy in the world.  All I can say is ‘the years have been kind to Bermuda’ - she is as sparkling and beguiling as ever.

Visitors to Bermuda in 2009 will see the introduction of several new and redesigned resorts as well as gala celebrations all through the year.  In case you haven’t considered the pleasures of Bermuda in some time, here’s a refresher about the charms that have captivated visitors for hundreds of years.  Bermuda has 21 miles of glorious landscape including quaint harbors, pink sand beaches and dozens of mid-size luxury resorts and inns.  Bermuda is one of the world’s top golf destinations with 9 championship courses - more courses per square mile than any other destination.  200 square miles of coral reefs will delight divers, who will find more wreck sites to explore than anywhere else on earth.  Shopping and dining have always been a top priority in Bermuda, and you’ll appreciate that Bermuda’s currency is on par with the US dollar.  Located just a two hour flight from major east coast cities, Bermuda makes a perfect long weekend escape destination. Read the story »

Best African Safari Destinations - 5 Top Game Reserves

Many people dream of traveling to Africa to experience a world far different from what we know in our day to day lives. But the continent is a huge place, and thinking of where to start on your journey can be a daunting task. If seeing big game on safari is a lifelong dream of yours, here are a few game reserves throughout the continent to consider traveling to:

Located on the border of South Africa and Botswana, the Madikwe Game Reserve is a great place to see not only Africa’s “big five” (elephant, rhino, leopard, lion, and buffalo) but to also catch a glimpse of endangered species like the wild dog and cheetah. There are plenty of places to stay during your visit to Madikwe including the luxurious Madikwe Hills, which will assist you on all of your safari trips. Read the story »

Family Adventures ‘Into The Wild’ With The Appalachian Mountain Club

Embrace nature, whirl into the wild; find joy being among the tress, streams and wildflowers!  This summer put yourself in the capable hands of Appalachian Mountain Club to recharge your spirit and put a smile on every family member’s face. I’ve just returned from my second hiking experience with the AMC in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and my endorphins are popping.  What a fabulous experience!!

Last week I joined a group of travel writers for a stay at the impressive Highland Center Lodge at Crawford Notch and did a (not too strenuous) one day hike to Zealand Falls.  The sprawling lodge which opened in 2003, recently won the New England Travel Writers Network award for the Best Green Resort in New England.  Anyone who enjoys getting out of their own backyard will love this Eco friendly resort - the energy and enthusiasm of the AMC staff is simply inspirational.   Here are some of the amenities you’ll find at the Highland Center:

• All-inclusive lodging (with private or shared baths, larger family rooms with private facilities)
• Family style restaurant where you’ll be be treated to freshly made breakfast and dinner.  The Highland Lodge executive chef cooks up delicious offerings and an international crew cheerfully serves the tables. Read the story »