Rates through spring at this 5 diamond resort start at just $139.99 per night .  The resort which is located within the World Golf  Village and within walking distance of the World Golf Hall of Fame, offers play on two championship golf courses and an 18 hole putting course.  The resort also offers guests a complimentary shuttle to the Serenata Beach Club at Ponte Verda Beach where guests can enjoy it’s magnificent coastal setting.  For a bit of shopping there is also a complimentary guest shuttle to downtown St. Augustine.

Sounds like a great chance to get it all on your next Florida vacation!

It’s hard to overstate the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands; their palm-fringed beaches and vivid blue seas are some of the nicest in the world, offering residents and visitors alike countless opportunities for fun in the sun. The 50th state is known for lush tropical jungles, fiery volcanoes, cascading waterfalls and excellent snorkeling and diving sites. In short, Hawaii has a lot to offer visitors – but many tourists never get the opportunity to experience it all.

Waterfalls of Hawaii

Thanks to its tropical Pacific climate and mountainous composition, scenic waterfalls abound in the state of Hawaii; in fact, many are even visible from popular drives, such as along Maui’s Road to Hana. A number of the most spectacular waterfalls, however, require more effort to reach and it’s often this very remoteness that, in fact, lends to their overall beauty and tableau. One of my personal favorites is the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls in Maui, which lies at the end of a gorgeous, roughly four-mile round-trip hike. This hike includes a bonus waterfall, the 185-foot Makahiku Falls, amidst a trek through an enchanting bamboo forest. There are a few areas on this trail that may present a bit of a challenge to some; for instance, hikers need to be prepared for a bit of a climb, as there is a 650-foot rise in elevation, and this trail can be quite muddy. Depending on water levels, there may be some areas where hikers have to hopscotch on rocks across the Pipiwai Stream. In the end, I’ve always found that the surrounding natural greenery and the lovely sight of Waimoku Falls itself makes this trek worth all the effort.

Authentic Molokai
Another destination that I feel gets left off too many Hawaiian itineraries is the small island of Molokai. As the most “un-touristy” of all the major islands, Molokai has no traffic lights and no large shopping malls. This is the island that I believe still best retains the feel of old Hawaii. Molokai’s Kalaupapa National Historical Park was once the site of a leper colony run by the famous humanitarian Father Damien. Today, visitors can take a memorable mule ride 1,700 feet down the side of a sea cliff to reach the village of Kalaupapa. I would highly recommend this ride, which includes 26 switchbacks and gorgeous ocean views, except for those afraid of heights. One of the more unusual attractions on Molokai is Kauleonanahoa, which is also known as “Phallic Rock” because of its resemblance to – well – its namesake. According to local legend, women who want to get pregnant should bring offerings to Kauleonanahoa and spend the night at this site. I can’t guarantee results, but it does makes for an interesting photo opportunity!

Oahu Unspoiled Scenic Sites

Because of money or time concerns, I realize that traveling to another island like Molokai isn’t always a possibility. Luckily, even Oahu – the most visited and popular of the Hawaiian Islands – has plenty of remote, scenic sites where you won’t feel like you’re part of a hoard of tourists. Halona Beach, for example, is a world-famous strip of sand and surf, yet it’s not overrun with tourists, partly because it can only be reached by a steep, rocky, downhill trek. This picturesque little cove is also known as the “From Here to Eternity Beach” because the movie’s iconic and often parodied kissing and rolling-in-the-sand scene between Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr was filmed here. I consider this a very worthwhile side trip, as it kills two birds with one stone. The Halona Blowhole, another very famous Hawaiian attraction, is also located close by. The Halona Blowhole is a natural lava tube that, when hit just right by a wave, will spout water up to 30 feet in the air. The best time to see this phenomenon is at high tide.

Dramatic Big Island Sites

If you’re looking for a beautiful, remote escape on the Big Island of Hawaii, I would recommend that travelers either kayak or find a boat to take them to Kealakekua Bay, which is only accessible by water. This lovely bay, which is also known as Captain Cook’s Bay, is an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, and it is also home to a family of friendly spinner dolphins. In addition, Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park was the site of Hikiau Heiau, a major native Hawaiian religious site.

Kauai’s Na Pali Coastline

With its lush tropical foliage, gorgeous views of azure seas, and ruggedly impressive cliffs, Kauai’s Na Pali coastline boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes in all of Hawaii. There are few roads that lead to this area and most of the Na Pali coastline is also inaccessible by sea, as its famous cliffs drop straight down into the sea. Although travelers can fly over the area by helicopter or skim its coast by boat, I would highly recommend that those who want the full Na Pali experience should hike into this pristine area instead. A two-mile hike will take a visitor to scenic Hanakapi’ai Beach. Travelers looking for a longer hike can continue on for another nine miles on the Kalalau Trail, as this beautiful trek crosses over five stunning valleys.

Kauai’s Cacoa Farm

Travelers to Hawaii can enjoy many different types of tours, including traditional excursions to macadamia nut farms, kite factories, and pineapple or coffee plantations. For something a little more unusual, stop by Kauai’s Steelgrass Farm, which features a cacao tree orchard. Hawaii is the only state in the union where the cacao pods, from which chocolate is made, will grow. The Steelgrass Chocolate Farm’s three-hour tour includes an eleven-course tasting of different samples of dark chocolate from around the world, a walk through the cacao tree orchards, and also rare black bamboo groves. Interestingly enough, Steelgrass Farm is also the site of a Bamboo Sculpture residency and a professional voice-over and music recording studio.

Although it’s not possible to hit every gorgeous site in Hawaii, I believe every visitor should take the time to check out at least one of these less touristy sites – they won’t be disappointed!

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About the Author: Aloha Tony is a real estate agent who specializes in luxury properties on Oahu. He has lived in Hawaii for decades, and currently resides there with his loving family.
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So this year, rather than rushing to get that perfect reservation, consider planning a little road trip down the California coast, complete with romantic playlists for your MP3 (the modern mix tape) and stops that include rose petals on the bed and chilled champagne.  Here are a few tips to plan a trip your honey is sure to love.

At this time of year you’ll definitely want to avoid the cold and stormy northern roads, so fun in the sun on California’s southern coastline is a great way to go, and a cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway (1) starting in San Francisco and ending in San Diego is just the ticket for a relaxing and romantic road trip.

Start your adventure in San Francisco by renting a convertible.  Does it get any better than touring the coast with the top down?  Then pick up some sourdough bread and a few chocolates in Ghirardelli Square and take a punt out on the pond at the Exploratorium.  Spend a leisurely day picnicking at Golden Gate Park, riding the trolley, sampling fresh fortune cookies at Golden Gate Fortune Cookies in China Town (try the almond cookies, too), and then spend the night in Union Square (where a bevy of inexpensive establishments look down on the bustling titular square).

In the morning, head around the corner for some amazing breakfast at Dottie’s True Blue Café; the lines get long later in the morning, so go early!  Then hit the road, stopping in Monterey for a stretch and a snack at vegan-friendly Café Lumiere (try the Chai) before continuing on to the quaint town of Cambria for a stay at El Colibri Hotel and Spa (set up spa appointments ahead of time if possible).  You’re just a few miles from the historic Hearst Castle, so spend the day taking tours to see how old Hollywood lived and played (paper-man Hearst was famous for his exclusive parties).  Then tour the town on foot (it’s just a couple of blocks) stopping at kitschy antique stores and art galleries galore.  Finish off the evening with dinner at the Black Cat Bistro (reservations advisable) – the Rabbit Liver Pate is a must, and ask for a local wine pairing from one of the many area vineyards.

The next morning you’ll continue south, with a stop for lunch at Nobu in Malibu for some world-famous sushi (and practically guaranteed celebrity sightings).  Or if you like your seafood cooked, try Paradise Cove Beach Café for some tasty fried calamari and tables on the sand.   Continue on to Venice Beach for some fun and funky shopping on the boardwalk and a stay at the Venice Breeze Suites, an ocean-side hotel that has swanky, modern rooms with amazing ocean views (starting at $265/night).

Wake up to some Intelligentsia (coffee, that is…the locals swear by it) and you’re off on the last leg of your journey (San Diego, here you come!).  A couple of days in “America’s Finest City” simply won’t be enough to catch everything, but if you want to hit the highlights try a tour of Balboa Park (thanks to sunny weather you might even see a few roses), hit the San Diego Zoo (peacocks greet you at the entrance and it only gets better from there), hit the trendy shops at the Wharf, and head to the Gaslamp District in the evening for some fantastic food and drinks.  And don’t forget to book a boat tour – dolphins and whales are prevalent at this time of year and a little hand-holding while you listen to a whale song will make for the perfect finish to this indelible romantic road trip.

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About The Author:  Evan Fischer is a contributing writer for Used GMC Engines where GMC engines are shipped nationwide every day
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Don’t look now but Cupid is making moves.

If you’re thinking of planning a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day, you might want to consider a bed and breakfast. From complimentary champagne toasts and chocolate-dipped strawberries to couples in-room massages and breakfast in bed, these inns will help warm your heart. But, make sure to plan ahead. These inns fill up fast with amorous couples looking for an intimate adventure.

Here are some B&Bs where Cupid can be found spreading the love:

Abigail’s Hotel—Victoria, BC.
Warm up and then cool down together with the inn’s “Fire & Ice Package.” Cozy up by a crackling fire (Abigail’s hotel is one of the only hotels in Victoria with actual wood burning fireplaces) while sharing a complimentary bottle of Brute before heading to the soaker tub for a relaxing bubble bath. There’s no need to leave your room the next morning because a “Breakfast in Bed” basket will be delivered to you.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/British-Columbia/Victoria/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/19753/Abigails_Hotel

The Weller Haus—Bellevue, KY.
At this inn, your wish is your loved one’s command. As part of their “Enchanted Evening Romance Package” you’ll “compete” in a romantic board game for couples where the winner will have their secret wish (written down at the start of play) fulfilled. Your actions around the game board are directed by playing cards and the answers to the questions are both playful and verbal. Although only one of you can end up the champion, the time spent getting to know each other all over again makes your relationship the real winner.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/Kentucky/Bellevue/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/6263/Cincinnatis_Weller_Haus_Bed_and_Breakfast

Chestnut Street Inn—Sheffield, IL:
As the saying goes, the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, and Chef Monika Sudakov is prepared to get your there with a sumptuous Valentine’s Day menu. She’ll start you off with mushroom pate immediately followed by a roasted butternut squash and chestnut soup. A homemade banana and crystallized ginger sorbet will cleanse your palette for the main course of filet mignon with gorgonzola cream sauce and spinach soufflé. The epicurean meal will conclude with a maple pumpkin crème brulee.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/Illinois/Sheffield/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/20713/Chestnut_Street_Inn

The Platinum Pebble—West Harwich, MA:
Cape Cod in the heat of summer brings to mind busy sidewalks and boisterous crowds. Winters, while cold, are spacious and serene making the popular Massachusetts vacation spot perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day escape. Stroll hand-in-hand along the quiet, secluded beaches of the Nantucket Sound while enjoying the soothing ocean sounds. Once you’re back at the inn head to your room where you can pop open the complimentary bottle of champagne and raise a celebratory toast…to one another.
http://www.bnbfinder.com/Massachusetts/West-Harwich/Bed-and-Breakfast/Listing/22589/The_Platinum_Pebble

Cupid doesn’t play favorites. He’s targeting couples everywhere with his charm offensive. So, if you and your loved one are in need of a romantic getaway, try visiting a bed and breakfast this Valentine’s Day. The winged cherub has taken up residence and added his signature, romantic touch. Your relationship won’t be able to resist!

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About The Author:  Rich Rodriguez is the PR & Marketing Coordinator for BnBFinder.com, one of the world’s most comprehensive B&B directories. You can read more about B&Bs and travel at the BnBFinder blog. Follow along on Twitter at @BnBFinder and Facebook.
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Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is one of those countries that (even though there are only a few hours of daylight) comes alive in the winter. I can’t say that I know what Iceland is like in January…because I traveled there in March, but I can tell you that traveling to Reykjavik during the winter months was an experience I will never forget.

Perhaps the most striking thing about Iceland during the winter is the landscape itself. When I traveled there, we took a day and rented a car, and just traveled around the Icelandic countryside, visiting various landmarks and just having our own mini-road trip experience. The landscape was quite stark, but very beautiful – the black volcanic rock against the white snow and ice is made for taking photographs.

If you’re someone looking for an escape in the more traditional sense of pampering and relaxation, the Blue Lagoon was probably made just for you. One of Iceland’s more popular geothermal pools, the water is usually between 95 and 100 degrees F, with eddies of warmer and cooler water. The contrast of the hot water and the cool air is a sensation that makes the outdoor geothermal pool that much more gratifying…and amazing.

I’m not usually a pampering person, but I think we stayed in the lagoon a good 5 hours. Our wrinkles had wrinkles, but it was well worth it.

If you are someone who prefers “party” to “pamper” Reykjavik could be your perfect spot as well – but make sure that you have a Friday and Saturday in your travel plans! Because alcohol is relatively expensive in Iceland, many choose not to imbibe during the week and instead splurge on the weekends. There is even a name for the drink-till-the-sun-rises experience in the city – runtur. Why not try your luck and see if you can keep up with the hardy Icelanders?

Aside from the landscape, the pampering and the parties, the most compelling reason to go to Iceland in the winter is another one of nature’s landscapes – that is, the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis. Check the weather forecast before you go, though, I was unfortunately unable to see this show because of a few clouds in the night sky when I went!

That didn’t stop me from fully enjoying my winter experience in Iceland, though, and I suggest that everyone look beyond the expected and find the extraordinary in your winter travels.

Budapest, Hungary

Imagine your favorite fairytale; that is Budapest in winter. Hungary has a people and a culture that are no stranger to harsh winter, but you wouldn’t know that walking around the city in January or February with snow falling softly on medieval buildings or the banks of the Danube.

Winter is typically the off-season for Europe, so if you go in the winter you will enjoy a bit more quiet and serenity – plus you’ll get to take advantage of the city’s famous hot baths or indulge in tea and a pastry at one of their amazing cafes.

Trans Siberian Railway

Want to enjoy the Russian winter landscape without the Russian winter? Then a ride on the Trans-Siberian rail is just your ticket. Russia is another one of those countries that (albeit stereotypically) comes alive in the winter months, with everything covered in a layer of white, from the onion domes of St. Petersburg to the squares of Moscow. Enjoy the landscapes and vistas of Russia in the comfort and warmth of the Trans Siberian Railway.

And for those that want to frolic in St. Petersburg, you’re welcome to do that too! The Trans Siberian Railway is one of those seminal travel experiences, and I wouldn’t be able to pass it up, especially not in the winter.

Park City, Utah

If you want to stay a bit closer to home, but still find your perfect winter-weather getaway, try Park City, Utah. It’s a ski town, but one of the lesser known ones – at least compared to places in Colorado like Vail.

If you’re a movie buff, Park City is probably familiar to you, though for other reasons – Park City is the location of the Sundance Film Festival – this year Sundance takes place at the very end of January. The winter retreat of Hollywood, Park City is a chill skiing location that you (and a few stars of the silver screen) can make a winter getaway.

These are just a few travel locations for the more winter-weather inclined of us – do you have any suggestions?

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About The Author:  Amber Daniels loves to travel, but likes to explore close to home as well – especially around Broadway – most recently she has tried to buy tickets to Spiderman: Turn off the Dark tickets – but hasn’t had the chance to go see it yet. Of all places, New York City is one of her all-time favorite winter locations, nothing beats it.
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Photo Credits: #1 Amber Daniels, #2 Amber Daniels, #3 Flickr-Alex E. Proimos, #4 Flickr-Boccaccio1, #5 Flickr-Wickenden

Vail, Colorado
At Vail, skiers experience 300 days of sunshine-filled days to ski on 5,289 acres, including seven miles of front side groomers, seven miles of Back Bowls and nine children’s adventure skiing zones. Vail offers ski lessons for children, teens and adults, both in ski school and private lessons. Besides skiing, guests can participate in other winter activities at Adventure Ridge, such as snow tubing, snowmobiling, or ski biking down the mountain. The resort also offers Nordic cross-country skiing and back-country snow-shoeing. Vail’s lodging is divided into six neighborhood’s: East Vail, offering condominium rentals, Golden Peak, located near the Children’s Ski School, Lionshead Village, a cosmopolitan hotel, Vail Village, steps away from Vail Mountain, Cascade Village, both a hotel and vacation rental and Sandstone, offering value-priced options.

Vail is known as a great party resort, making it a great place to visit for college students or anyone interested in having a great time. Every Thursday night is the free Bud Light Street Beat concert series, bringing free music and fun to the streets of Vail for visitors and locals to enjoy. Vail also hosts snow events like the Teva Mountain Games, bringing professional and amateur athletes to the slopes as well as art, film and music events.

Big Sky, Montana
When you are ready to forgo the $12 bowls of chili, $10 bottled beers and “skiers” who only want to be seen in the latest Gucci snowsuits, head to Montana and the slopes of Big Sky.

Big Sky is a ski and snowboard mecca. This is the place to go when you want to hit as much vertical in a day as possible, without having to wait in long lift lines or spend a mortgage payment for a lift ticket. The mountain has three terrain parks and eight square miles of runs covering 4,350 vertical feet. Play in- or out-of-bounds in the bowls at the top and back of the mountain. If you choose to go out-of-bounds, be sure to have an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe and know how to use them.

After a big day of going hard in the terrain parks, head into Big Sky’s brand new 3,000 square foot Solace Spa and Salon to unwind and relax your tired body. There is also a fitness center, pool, shopping and 3 different nightclubs with live entertainment every night; whether you visit Big Sky with your closest friends or travel with your family, there is something to keep everyone entertained.

Aspen/Snowmass Mountain, Aspen
Sure, Aspen is Hollywood in the mountains, but don’t kid yourself, Aspen/Snowmass complex is one of the best hills for terrain and challenges. Ajax, as it’s sometimes called, represents the best of a skier’s mountain, with 3,267 feet of vertical rise, 300-inch average bases per year, and 673 acres of pure white snow covered bliss. Runs for all levels of ability are at Ajax, and the runs are serviced by gondola, chairs and bars. When you are finished skiing the slopes, head into town for an experience that is consistently ranked as the best nightlife; with over 100 bars and restaurants to chose from, you’ll never be bored when the sun goes down.

If you’re looking for a more glamorous trip, Aspen is the place to be. It’s teeming with celebrities and winter athletes, alike. Aspen is also home to the annual ESPN Winter X Games as well as the Bud Light Spring Jam; both bring exciting competitions and plenty of party events.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming
It’s hard to imagine Jackson Hole not making a list for best of the west; though not for those who are afraid of a challenge. Jackson has legendary snow falls of blissful champagne powder and runs that challenge even the most hardcore of snow enthusiasts. Boasting 4,139 feet of continuous vertical rise, the longest of any ski area in the U.S., Jackson Hole Resort is known as a very trying mountain. Primarily made up of intermediate level terrain, this mountain is also a great adventure for experts because it is known to have some of the most challenging terrain in North America. This year a new lift has also been added, the Marmot, which allows people to get to the top of the upper mountain quicker without having to descend the entire mountain.

Apres-ski fun is had in town, or in nearby Yellowstone National Park. Ski one day, then snowshoe with buffalo and elk the next. There is also The National Elk Refuge, located just outside of Jackson, where visitors can take a sleigh ride to catch a glimpse of some of the wildlife.

All of the resorts mentioned above are a just a handful of the great places to visit and get out on the trails. Think you can’t afford a trip to some of these famous spots/ Check out a list complied by OutsideMagazine to get the best deals on skiing, lodging and meals so you can realize your snowy adventures this season.

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About The Author:  Megan Gates is an active blogger who provides written work to the blogosphere pertaining to NYC Real Estate Properties, Hamptons Homes, home improvement and the latest architecture, design, fashion and travel.  Follow her on twitter @MEGatesDesign.
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It’s all perfectly accessible in the Hawaiian Islands. However, the islands are remote and all of this beauty and compelling culture comes at a cost. It is expensive to get there, and once in Hawaii, everything from food to gas and lodging is costly.

One of the best ways to carve off some of the expense associated with a pacific island vacation is to avoid staying in a hotel room.  Hawaii vacation rentals have advantages over Waikiki hotel rooms by providing a deeper experience while costing less. Renting a home, cottage, condo or apartment for your vacation is a great way to not only cut lodging expenses dramatically, but also the cost of meals because you will be able to cook at home.

When searching for a vacation rental in Hawaii, there are many rental companies that advertise available properties online with comprehensive information layouts, contact numbers and all other pertinent details.  Rental agencies, especially ones that are Better Business Bureau approved, are a safe and reliable bet.

Here are 5 things to remember when renting a vacation home in Hawaii:

Location is everything. Renting in a more popular tourist area will generally mean higher lodging rates and more difficulty finding a fabulous property. Look to less-traveled areas such as Makaha on Oahu’s west shore where 5-6 bedroom beachfront homes can be leased for as little as $200 per night.

Know the season. Hawaii doesn’t really have seasons, but the closest it gets are what is referred to as summer and winter. When picking a vacation rental, understand that the summer season brings large waves to the southern shores of the Hawaiian Islands, while winter brings massive waves to the north shores. In other words, if you’re looking for placid water, don’t pick the North Shore of Oahu in January.

Get it in writing. Before you send any money make sure that official, and legally binding documents are signed by all parties. You are, again, at an advantage in this situation dealing with a licensed real estate agent. Make sure to read all documents – especially the fine print. Understand what your obligations are so that you don’t run into a nasty surprise later on (such as a $100-$250 “cleaning fee” that is typical to most rentals).

Comparison shop. With so many options available with the Internet, there is no reason not to spend considerable effort researching to ensure you get the perfect vacation property to fit your individual budget and preferences. In some cases, you may even be able to negotiate a rental rate by having knowledge of competing properties.

Book well in advance. Hawaii is one of the most popular tourism destinations in the United States. Most of the islands are sparsely populated and rental properties – the good ones anyway – will get snapped up pretty quickly, especially in the high tourist seasons – June, July and August; and December, January and February.

With a little due diligence, an intrepid traveler can find a one-in-a-million vacation rental for an once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Hawaiian Islands. You don’t have to be a victim of high prices if you follow common sense guidelines. Aloha!
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About The Author:  Post written by Karl N who runs HawaiiSuperGuide.com an online resource for visiting Hawaii on a budget.
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Aulani Resort, Oahu, Hawaii
Disney Does Hawaii – The much anticipated Aulani Resort on the island of Oahu opened this past fall.  The expansive resort executed in subtle earth tones (not the usual Disney primary colors) takes center stage along a calm half-moon bay in Ko Olina, a quiet community approximately 1/2 hour from Waikiki. Highrise towers offering impressive views and comfortable accommodations sit on either side of Waikolohe Valley, the heart of the resort.

Waikolohe Valley has a rambling water park with pools, shallows, and water slides. Float through the resort in the Waikolohe Stream, and snorkel in Rainbow Reef a mini aquarium filled with tropical fish.  Keep a keen eye open for Aunty and Uncle, Disney characters that have been developed exclusively for this resort.  Aunty’s Beach House is where kids gather to learn Hawaiian culture, hear stories of the islands and learn local crafts.  This is a five-star resort designed for adults with children in mind.

Inn At The Presidio, San Francisco, California
It’s not often that a US National Park gets a new hotel, but 2012 will see Inn At The Presidio in San Francisco become the first and only hotel within the Presidio, an urban National Park at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge.  The 1,492 acres that make up the Presidio were established in 1776 by Spain as their furthest outpost in North America.  The Presidio is the site of the oldest military post in the United States.   Pershing Hall, the former officer’s quarters, are being converted to a grand inn set to open on April 1, 2012.

The 22 room inn will feature historic memorabilia and amenities appropriate for “top brass”.  The grounds within the national park will serve as a hidden getaway for guests with miles of walking trails and magnificent views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.  Sit for a bit in a front porch rocking chair, enjoy a blazing fire by the fire pit, or play a round of golf.  Inn At The Presidio is within walking distance of the San Francisco marina district and other popular downtown attractions.

The Fishing Lodge, Cap Cana, Dominican Republic
While most Dominican Republic resorts vie for plane-loads of mid-market vacationers,  The Fishing Lodge, at Cap Cana attracts guests seeking a more secluded and pampered vacation experience.  The recently opened ultra-luxe 5 star resort features 298 Mediterranean-styled villas circling the largest inland marina in the Caribbean.  Low-rise docks and private infinity swimming pools are unique highlights to many of the villas, as well as beautifully crafted Dominican inspired furnishings.

Villas at The Fishing Lodge can be reserved on an a la carte or all-inclusive basis and vary in size from executive to 3 bedroom.  The resort which enjoys a dramatic waterfront setting, has amenities including a rustic Dominican stone chapel, secluded beach reached by water craft, boutique shopping along Maine Street and nearby famed Jack Nichlaus Punta Espada Golf Club.   Spring and summer brings a number of celebrated sports fishing tournaments attracted by the local world renowned Billfishing waters.  This is a resort where bathing beauties and sportsmen will feel right at home.

Magdalena Grand Beach Resort, Tobago
The island of Tobago located deep in the Caribbean is emerging as a destination to be discovered by adventurous tropical vacationers.  Recently the island saw the opening its first new hotel project in a decade.  The colonial style Magdalena Grand Beach Resort boasting 178 all ocean-front rooms and suites, is set on a sprawling former sugar plantation. Large terraces and balconies overlook a secluded  beach 2 1/2 mile beach.  The resort features 3 pools, 5 dining options, an English pub and piano bar, dive center and acres of nature trails.  Tobago itself has the oldest forest preserve in the Hemisphere, and is lush with virgin rain forests, waterfalls, pristine beaches, picturesque boating grounds and offers many opportunities for eco-adventuring.

Emakoko Lodge, Nairobi
Africa luxury camps and lodge specialists, Bush and Beyond, are introducing a new Safari Lodge that sits at the border of Nairobi National Park in Kenya.  The Emakoko Lodge sits on the banks of the picturesque Mbagathi River amidst 15 acres at the edge of Nairobi National park.  It has long been a problem for vacationers arriving by plane in Kenya to access prime safari territory without enduring harrowing transfers through Nairobi.  Emakoko Lodge solves the problem with it’s location just 20 minutes from the Nairobi airport, with the river creating a natural divide between city and park. Visitors to the Nairobi National Park can expect to see lions, zebra, hippos, rhinos, and giraffe, as the region has become home to a huge number of wildlife species.

Photo Credits: #1-TheDisneyBlog.com, #2- Artwork by Art Zendarski, #3 – Grand Resorts at Cap Cana, #4 – Magdalena Grand Beach Resort, #5 – Emakoko Lodge

We checked into our favorite Old City hostel, Auberge Internationale de Quebec, double checked our layered sweaters, scarf knots and general bundled-ness, and headed out to the Plains of Abraham. The cold seriously hits you in the face like a bucket of ice water. We didn’t care. As we strolled towards the activity hub of the Carnivale, the Plains of Abraham, we ducked into shops and bought hand warmers, additional gloves and hot cocoa to combat the numb fingers and frozen faces.

Tickets to the festival come in the form of an “effigy” of Bonhomme, the Carnivale’s mascot. Part Michelin Man, part Stay-Puff Marshmallow Monster from Ghostbusters, Bonhomme’s grinning face is found throughout the city. Effigies proudly clipped to our coats, we headed to the Plains, where we zip-lined, (laughing so hard the tears froze to our faces), admired artful snow sculptures and shared a plate of steaming poutine, (Gravy covered mittens was a small price to pay to keep our hands from freezing off!).

As night fell, the ice palace built along the old city ramparts was a beacon for the downtown. Glowing pink, purple, blue and green, Bonhomme’s ceremonial home for the 17 day festivities was impressive and glittering. A tour through the inside clued us in on the history of the Carnivale, which has been a tradition in Quebec City since 1894.

The highlight of the evening was an unexpectedly swift ice slide ride, which was set up at the foot of the imposing Château du Frontenac. This 400 foot, greased lightning fast toboggan run had us whooping with glee. This ride was so fast our faces were plastered back in frozen grins with tear and runny nose trails.

The next morning we jostled through the crowded downtown in a vain effort to get a front and center view of the dog-sled race. Thankfully, it started to snow, not only bumping the temperature up a few degrees, but giving the race a distinctly wild, Alaska Iditarod feel. Laughing with mock romance, we then took a turn around the open air ice rink, across from the gorgeous Hôtel du Capitole. Even in the day time the lit up ice evoked a glamorous vibe and made us feel like we were starring in our own romantic comedy.

We had a considerably warmer second night. The dance party at the Bonhomme’s Ice Palace was jumping with enthusiastic revelers. We even spied a couple of unzipped parkas in the melee. The Palace was quite a striking polychromatic backdrop for the booming pop music. Unsure what to think when a pair of locals propositioned us for “a sauna and swim”, we decided what happens in Quebec, stays in Quebec and went along.

Turns out, there are outdoor spas and an authentic Scandinavian sauna included in the price of the Effigy. If we didn’t feel like movie stars before, we definitely did now!

What makes the Winter Carnivale so special is, firstly, most Americans don’t know about it. Second, there is fun for literally everyone. If you have kids, head for the snow slide, face painting and parades, if you are a couple looking for romance, the skating, and steamy spas are for you. If you are a party animal, you can “laissez les bon temps rouler” all around the city, for all 17 nights of the festival. Whether young or old, no visitor can resist the majesty of the Ice Palace, the awe-inspiring snow sculptures and overall magical ambiance of the city. Just remember to pack extra socks!

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About The Author:  Noella Schink is a travel writer from Portland, Maine. When she isn’t partaking in shenanigans in the snowy north, she likes to travel around the world and then share her stories. When you head north and book a hotel in Quebec City, she recommends you try Excellent Hotels.
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January
1/09- 1/15   Washington DC Restaurant Week
1/12 – 1/22   South Carolina Restaurant Week
1/15 – 1/22   Virginia Beach Restaurant Week
1/15 – 1/31    San Francisco Restaurant Week
1/15 – 1/22    San Diego Restaurant Week
1/15 – 1/20    Ann Arbor Restaurant Week
1/15 – 1/28   Providence Restaurant Week
1/16 – 2/10     New York Restaurant Week
1/20 – 2/5     Vancouver Restaurant Week
1/20 – 1/29   Baltimore Restaurant Week
1/20 – 1/29   Newport Beach Restaurant Week
1/22 – 1/29  Amelia Island Restaurant Week
1/22 – 1/27 & 1/29 – 2/3  Los Angeles Restaurant Week
1/22 – 1/27   & 1/20 – 2/3  Philadelphia Restaurant Week
1/27- 2/5   Savannah Restaurant Week
1/28 – 2/10   Toronto Restaurant Week

February
2/12 – 2/15    Newark Restaurant Week
2/15 – 2/21    Annapolis Restaurant Week
2/17 - 2/28   Chicago Restaurant Week
2/25 – 3/9    Denver Restaurant Week
2/27 – 3/4   Sonoma County Restaurant Week

March
3/1 – 3/10     Maine Restaurant Week
3/4-3/11      Santa Fe Restaurant Week
3/6 – 3/13     Santa Fe Restaurant Week
3/18 – 3/23 & 3/25 – 3/30     Boston Restaurant Week
3/18-3/25    Albuquerque Restaurant Week
3/25 – 4/1     Taos Restaurant Week