Jamaica

Despite its location almost smack in the center of the Caribbean Sea, the island of Jamaica doesn’t blend in easily with the rest of the Caribbean archipelago. To be sure, it boasts the same addictive sun rays, sugary sands and pampered resort-life as most of the other islands, but it is also set apart historically and culturally.

Today’s visitors will appreciate their trip to Jamaica all the more if they embrace the island’s unique character and the inherent ‘African-ness’ of its population. Aside from its people, Jamaica has much to offer, the curious, thirsty or weary traveller. The Blue Mountains boasts the world’s best coffee, try a cup in the century-old factory at Mavis Bank. There are world-class reefs for diving including those at Runaway Bay and Ocho Rios and great stretches of palm-fringed sand at Treasure Beach or Frenchman’s Cove near Port Antonio. There are offbeat bush-medicine hiking tours, congenial fishing villages, pristine waterfalls, cosmopolitan cities, wetlands harboring endangered crocodiles and manatees, unforgettable sunsets – in short, enough variety to comprise many utterly distinct vacations.

Nowhere else in the Caribbean is the connection to Africa as keenly felt as it is in Jamaica. Kingston was the major nexus in the New World for the barbaric triangular trade that brought slaves from Africa and carried sugar and rum to Europe, and the Maroons (runaways who took to the hills of Cockpit Country and the Blue Mountains) safeguarded many of the African traditions – and introduced jerk seasoning to Jamaica’s singular cuisine. St Ann’s Bay’s Marcus Garvey founded the back-to-Africa movement of the 1910s and ’20s; Rastafarianism took up the call a decade later, and reggae furnished the beat in the 1960s and ’70s. Little wonder many Jamaicans claim a stronger affinity for Africa than for neighboring Caribbean islands.

This is a country infused with pride in its unique history, stunning landscape and influential culture. Welcome to Jamaica.

http://www.visitjamaica.com/default.aspx 

Top 10 Vacation Spots in the U.S.

Everybody knows about Myrtle Beach, Las Vegas and Yellow Stone National Park but some of the best vacation spots can be found in little known destinations all across America. We have compiled a list of what we believe are the best vacation destinations in America.

Amelia Island – Florida

Amelia Island is a little known Florida hot spot. While walking the beaches, keep your eyes peeled for turtle nests, eggs, and babies. You’ll find thousands of incredible seashells and, if you’re lucky, you may even find a prehistoric shark tooth or two. The island, a great place for horseback riding and hiking, is also home to a military fort that dates back to the civil war.

Teton Range – Idaho

Sure, the Grand Teton National Park is a huge draw, but on the other side of the mountain you’ll find Teton Range – a great place for anyone who loves fly fishing. The hiking and biking trails here are rarely crowded, the camping is incredible, and kayaking on the lake is a serene experience.

Florida's Forgotten Coast - Florida

Florida's Forgotten Coast refers to a quiet section of coastline stretching from Mexico Beach to Carrabelle, including the areas of Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, Indian Pass, Apalachicola, St. George Island and Eastpoint. This portion of Old Florida was indeed "forgotten" during the period when much of North Florida's coastline was developed...and subsequently over-developed. The Forgotten Coast is a special place today, more for what has been preserved than for what has been developed. Pristine bays, sugar white beaches, coastal marshlands, estuaries rich with sea life, and barrier islands with impressive dune formations.

Folly Beach - South Carolina

Many beaches on the South Carolina coast have become so overrun with people, restaurant chains and tourist-trap shops that the natural beauty of the coast is tarnished. Despite its popularity, Folly Beach has retained a family-friendly, laid-back atmosphere that serves to enhance the natural environment rather than detract from it.

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Tucked away in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge offers something for everyone. From amusement parks and minature golf to outlet mall shopping Pigeon Forge has it all. Gatlinburg, only a few minutes to the South is a mountain resort destination, packed with Smoky Mountain cabins and lodging of every sort, dozens of local to national restaurants, and attractions galore. Unknown may not be as accurate for these destinations but because of what they have to offer in the way of relaxation and fun activities, they couldn't be left off of our list.

Ocean Isle Beach, NC

Ocean Isle Beach is one of the southernmost of North Carolina’s unique barrier islands. Miles and miles of powder white sand, sun-danced waves, and windswept marshlands make it one of the loveliest places on the earth.
Ocean Isle has chosen to avoid the everyday hustle and bustle. Instead, this resort island has sustained a family beach atmosphere and has proudly kept itself on a low-key, low-rise course. It’s the perfect place for vacationers who want to relax and enjoy a quiet, refreshing time.

Oak Creek Canyon - Sedona Arizona

Get your camera ready for this one, and don't forget your swim suit, hiking shoes, and fishing pole. Just south of Flagstaff, State Rt. 89A descends a breathtaking series of switchbacks into a scenic, smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon. Known for colorful rocks and unique formations.

Deer Isle - Maine

Deer Isle is a large island located along the eastern edge of Penobscot Bay. Deer Isle has the flavor of New England life in the 1950’s: rural, neighborly, safe. This cluster of small communities with 2400 residents comprise the year-round population. There is an active art scene, and a few good restaurants.

Marco Island - Florida

Marco Island is little-known when compared to Florida's other vacation hot spots. Marco Island has 3.5 miles of sandy beach and is convenient for exploration of nearby Everglades National Park.

Dauphin Island - Alabama

Dauphin Island is a barrier island located three miles south of the mouth of Mobile Bay in the Gulf of Mexico. Attractions include Fort Gaines, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, Dauphin Island Campground, Audubon Bird Sanctuary, numerous boat launch sites, beautiful beaches of sugar white sand, public golf course and parks are added attractions located on the west end of the island. Dauphin Island is a wonderful laid-back resort destination.

Top 10 According to http://bestvacationdestinations.info/?gclid=CILdhYyh7qQCFVvW5wodbDzX2w

Niagara Falls

For generations, the majestic beauty and humbling power of Niagara Falls State Park has fostered a sense of awe and wonder. Through the years, countless people have enjoyed the magnificent scenery of the falls, making the Niagara Falls vacation spot a favorite for the whole family. Writers, artists and famous figures have also flocked to the falls to feel the spark of creativity only the park’s amazing views can create. 

There’s so much to discover at Niagara Falls!

Experience Niagara Falls State Park’s rushing torrents, spectacular scenery and one-of-a-kind attractions while letting your excitement flow as freely as the waters. The American Falls feature a variety of adventures to help you make the most of your trip. Dine at the Top of the Falls Restaurant, walk right up to the base of Niagara Falls during the Cave of the Winds tour, or let the water fall all around you during the Maid of the Mist boat ride.

Niagara Falls State Park draws millions of visitors each year who want an opportunity to view the spectacular falls from one of the many outlooks. But there are many more Niagara Falls attractions to experience while you’re here. Get up close and personal with the Niagara Falls by taking a short walk to the bottom of Bridal Veil Falls to feel the mist on the Cave of the Winds tour. Or take the Maid of the Mist boat ride, which takes you right down to the base of the falls. Take on the history of the region at the Visitor’s Center and Niagara Gorge Discovery Center, or do something truly adventurous like feeding a seal in the Aquarium of Niagara. If you’re a nature lover, you can also tour Niagara Falls’ miles of trails and explore the park on your own before dining at Top of the Falls Restaurant, the world-famous Niagara Falls restaurant. Guests of all ages will find there’s so much more to discover than just the falls, including famed Niagara Falls restaurants, where good food, fun and fantastic scenery are always part of the experience.

The incredible power of Mother Nature is just 30 minutes from Buffalo; this breathtaking New York attraction is a must-see for families and couples alike. It is thought of as one of the most romantic sites to see! And whether you love nothing more than heart-pounding adventures, the serenity of walking among the trees or fall somewhere in between, this popular New York tour spot offers the perfect way to spend the day.

• Cave of the Winds
• Maid of the Mist
• Niagara Scenic Trolley
• Discovery Center
• Niagara Falls Observation Tower

In addition to these New York attractions, the park also offers 14.5 miles of trails for beginners and advanced hikers, a wide range of seasonal events and several shopping and dining options that allow you to take a break, yet still enjoy the sights and sounds of the falls.

If you’re planning a New York tour that allows you to spend a full day (or two) at the park, you can purchase the Niagara USA Discovery Pass. Featuring admission to Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, Niagara: Legends of Adventure Movie, Niagara Gorge Discovery Center and Niagara Aquarium, the pass allows you to experience the park for less.

I personally have never been to Niagara Falls but have always wanted to go. It has such great beauty and wonder that it should defiantly be seen in your life time. Don't miss out on the Grand Niagara Falls.

Cocoa Beach, Fl

My family has traveled to Cocoa Beach twice and it is defiantly a place to keep going back to. It has warm sandy beaches, beautiful sunsets, and lots of tourist attractions just minutes away. When we go, we stay at the Ron Jon resort. Our Time Share there allows us to go every other year. We start out by road tripping from Evansville WI all the way to Cocoa Beach Fl. The trip is amazing and driving through the mountains is thrilling. It is also fun to feel the weather change every time you stop. The air gets warmer and warmer. The trip takes about 24 hours. Once in cocoa beach, there are many things to do. Visit the beaches, surf, eat, visit the Kennedy space center, or go shopping! The first year we stayed, we got to watch a rocket launch from the space center. Our front row seats on our balcony were the perfect end to our vacation. But it doesn’t end there. Travel to Orlando to Sea World. Visit Historical site or museums or travel out to sea on a romantic cruise. From our room we can see cruise ships come and go. Our favorite is the Disney cruise ship. If a cruise is not for you, then go boating in the bay, travel across the state to the gulf, go deep sea fishing or hang gliding.

Now Ron Jon is actually located in Cape Canaveral, but it is five minutes away from Cocoa Beach. It's been called the quintessential beach town, and Cocoa Beach, an hour's drive east of Orlando on Florida's beautiful Space Coast, offers endless ways to enjoy recreation and leisure. Whether you are planning a family beach vacation, leisure travel, a business trip, a weekend getaway, or just a day at the beach, you'll find everything you need in Cocoa Beach and the Space Coast area to make your stay one to remember.

One of the more affordable vacation spots in all of Florida, there is never a lack of exciting things to do and see in and around Cocoa Beach. Besides offering the best of "sun and fun," while on the Space Coast you can even go parasailing, try your luck aboard a casino cruise ship, or take a fabulous eco-tour to get up close and personal with Florida's awesome wildlife.

You can visit attractions like the Brevard Zoo, then spend time doing some fabulous shopping or golfing. You can even drive just a short distance to all the Orlando attractions, and then return to Cocoa Beach to enjoy dinner at one of the many dining spots on the beach, ranging from elegant to sand-in-your-shoes casual. After dark, kick back and enjoy the easy beach-style nightlife activities that run the gamut from cool jazz clubs to beach side cafes. Then stay overnight in the perfect accommodations and wake up to a spectacular sunrise on the beach.

And, in addition to being the closest beach to Orlando, Cocoa Beach is situated just minutes from Florida's fastest growing port - Port Canaveral - where you can embark from the world class cruise terminals aboard affordable cruises to exotic destinations. Disney Cruise Line makes its home in Port Canaveral, as well as Carnival and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines.

If an affordable beach vacation, offering the best of sun and fun, is what you're looking for, Cocoa Beach and the Space Coast of Florida is the place to come. Start planning to do so right now on CocoaBeach.Com!

Door County

For several years, my family and I have traveled to our favorite vacation place in Wisconsin. It's a great get away for anyone who loves the outdoors. For anyone who loves the water. Even for anyone who loves to shop. Door Country has many, many things to do for every type of personality. When my family goes, we stay at one of the many campgrounds in the area. My favorite is the Door County Camping Retreat in Egg Harbor. Here is the perfect place to relax in peace but still be minutes away from the excitement. It is one of the finest private family campgrounds on the Door Peninsula. They have 213 wooded sites nestled on 160 acres. Choose to stay at the camping cabins, RV sites, pull thrus, tent sites, or private group sites. Each site is close to the clean modern showers & toilets. They also have to offer a heated pool, laundry, playground, propane, dump station, and pump out service. Explore the trails throughout the grounds. My boyfriend and I discovered hidden permanent sites that you cannot see nor get to through the main entrance to the campgrounds. The Door County Camping Retreat is centrally located to all of Door County. "2010 Rates: $17-$115 daily; $150-$690 weekly." I do realize that camping is not for everyone, but Door County also has resorts, condos, hotels, motels, Inns, Bed & Breakfasts, cottages, houses, log cabins and many places for pets.

So what’s your idea of a perfect vacation? Live theater under the stars? Canoeing around a remote island? Or maybe sitting in a comfy chair at the water’s edge with a stack of good books? The Door County Peninsula and Washington Island is the perfect destination for all of this—and much more. From the extreme to the serene, your ideal vacation awaits. For those who love ghost stories, Door County is excellent for thrilling lighthouses and even a haunted Inn (stay there if you dare). There is even a haunted tour you can take down in Fish Creek. My favorite thing to do on the Door Peninsula is going to the fabulous beaches, boating on the crystal blue Lake Michigan and jet skiing in the bay. Boat rentals are located all over for the opportunity to explore your dare devil side. If land is what you seek, go on one of the many sightseeing tours. Travel to the islands, explore the lighthouses, visit the farms and orchards, take a calm horse ride, or join several recreational activates, like golfing on the large courses or bike the trails. There are a lot of parks throughout the peninsula that are bound to delight.

If your desiring the beach or it’s a rainy day meant for touring museums, Door County has tons of family-centric activities to please even the most fussy eight-year-old, or forty-eight-year-old. Here are just a few ideas from http://www.doorcounty.com/index.aspx

• Rent bikes, mopeds or try a Segway and explore our State Park trails
• Take a scenic airplane ride over Door County
• Sail the bays and islands discovering bluffs, lighthouses and wildlife
• Tour one of the many historical, nature or maritime museums
• Take the ferry across Death’s Door to Washington Island
• Go on a sport fishing charter and hook a big one
• Scavenge for shells at one of the 32 beaches
• Saddle up and go horseback riding
• Take a lighthouse tour and learn about its keepers and their families
• Go miniature golfing and bet an ice cream on it
• Make your own masterpiece at Hands On Art Studio
• Visit the animal farms and make some new friends
• Try your courage and skills on a Zip line
• Kayak, canoe, jet-ski or just jump in the water and cool off

So what if your idea of a perfect vacation is sleeping in, shopping till you drop, and living it up after the sun goes down? Whether you get your entertainment from the theatre and music or from those entertainers commonly found in the pub, Door County has adventures that last deep into the night. Catch a flick at the Skyway Drive-In Theatre, one of the last drive-ins in the state, or take in a play at The Peninsula Players, America's oldest professional resident summer theatre. The Door County night definitely has life. Go visit the pubs and taverns; they are sure to escort your fun side. For the shopper in you, the peninsula has small towns, such as Fish creek, sturgeon bay, or Egg harbor, with shops aliened along the street. Visit anything and everything from clothing stores to the candy shop, wood carvers to the toy shops, or antiques to the coffee shop. And how can I forget about Door County's famous cherries! Check out some of these places for the best shopping you will ever experience. Baileys Harbor , Carlsville , Egg Harbor , Ellison Bay , Ephraim , Fish Creek , Forestville , Gills Rock , Jacksonport , Little Sturgeon , Sister Bay , Southern Door County , Sturgeon Bay , Valmy , or Washington Island

Door County has so much to offer. It is defiantly one of the best family, or alone, vacations spots. Your trip can cost very little if you want with all the non-cost beaches, parks, sights, lighthouses, and orchards. Get away for the weekend or for weeks. I challenge you to explore Door County. I know there is much for me to discover still, which is why I keep going back every year. Don’t miss your chance to experience Door County. It's like nowhere else.