FREE Babysitting and more! The Athenaeum hires 3 real-life Mary Poppins!

THREE REAL-LIFE MARY POPPINS HIRED BY THE ATHENAEUM AFTER NATIONWIDE SEARCH FOR BRITAIN’S BEST NANNIES
London’s Most Family-Friendly Five-Star Hotel Offers Complimentary Nanny Services Until September 30, 2010

“What’s your favorite bug?” “What would you put in a magic garden?”

These were among the questions posed to the finalists for the position of “Fabulous Nanny” by The Athenaeum, London’s most family-friendly five-star hotel. After completing a nationwide search for Britain’s best nannies in conjunction with Norland Nannies, which places nannies with Lords and Ladies, The Athenaeum held the final interviews on August 5, 2010. The interview panel consisted of Serena Zandegu, the hotel’s Kids Concierge, six-year-old Alexander Clement-Davies, 10-year old Honor Robson and actress Lynda Bellingham, star of “Calendar Girls” and “All Creatures Great and Small.” After an intense afternoon they chose three real-life Mary Poppinses – Deborah Walker, Angela Elis Webster and Anthea Lindsey – who fit the “Fabulous Nanny” job description: “Must be fun, creative and caring; practically perfect in every way!”

Beginning on August 23, 2010, The Athenaeum’s three Fabulous Nannies will assist Serena, the first hotel Kids Concierge in London, to look after and entertain the children of guests on weekends and evenings, leaving the parents free to enjoy a romantic respite. To introduce their Fabulous Nannies, The Athenaeum is offering up to three hours of complimentary nanny services for guests and more with the Family Fun Package:

The “Family Fun Package” offers room rates guaranteed in dollars, beginning at $450 for a Deluxe Room, $799 for a Suite, with a three-night minimum. A second room or suite of the same type is offered at a 50 percent discount. Also included:

Daily full English Breakfast for two
Complimentary meals for children under 12
Picnic lunch for the family
Free Babysitting (three hours)
Complimentary transfer from any London airport
Complimentary snacks and soft drinks from the mini bar
Complimentary Wi-Fi

The Family Fun Package is available until September 30, 2010. For reservations email info@athenaeumhotel.com.

Children staying at The Athenaeum are given a choice of drinks, snacks, magazines and music upon arrival. They’re welcome to borrow from the Athenaeum’s “Toy Shed” filled with board games, DVDs, London colouring books and London sticker books. If they feel like flying a kite, riding a bike or feeding the pigeons in Green Park, across the street from the hotel, Serena will make the arrangements.

“As a family-run hotel we know how to create a truly family-friendly experience,” says Jonathan Critchard, General Manager. “We understand kids need to feel relaxed and at home – as well as to be entertained. Ensuring this happens helps parents relax and thoroughly enjoy their stay with us too!”

Really Useful Back to School Gift Ideas

If you're like me, you think about sending your kids off to school with some sort of back-to-school treat but don't want the hassle of checking the crystal ball for what they really need or want.

That's why I love gift cards. For spring semester, I bought a cool pink card from Dunkin' Donuts and that was a big hit....   you make a lot of friends when you can treat everyone to hot chocolate, a latte, donuts and muffins.

But now I've found this one from Amazon that makes a lot of sense, because kids can use it to buy books or, more likely, a new sweater or hoodie or CD they're dying to hear.




Does anyone bake and ship cookies any more? I did and never got a 'thank you' but our college freshman did bring home a clean, empty cookie tin for refills!

Let us know what other gift ideas you have.

"ULTRA-Inclusive" Fall Travel Deals in Mexico

Fall travel deals are kicking into high gear so I thought your readers might be interested in an “Ultra-Inclusive” escape to Mexico where they can enjoy unbeatable savings at Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta Beach Resort and Spa, a five-star luxury resort in one of Mexico’s hottest destinations, just 20 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport.

Rates for this “Ultra-Inclusive” package (not just your typical all-inclusive!) start at just $488 per night with minimum three-night stay, and represent a savings of up to 50 percent! The “Ultra-Inclusive” package includes:

– Accommodations in a luxury one-bedroom ocean view villa – Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an array of dining options and specialty menus featuring regional cuisine, theme dinners, chef’s table and wellness options – Unlimited premium cocktails and specialty beverages at resort bars and restaurants – Complimentary specialty services at Tatewari Spa along with exclusive access to spa facilities and complimentary private training services – Complimentary greens fees at Vallarta’s Jack Nicklaus-designed La Vista Vallarta Golf Course and Marina Vallarta Golf Course – Unlimited use of recreation facilities and entertainment; water sports; afternoon tea daily; discounts on market and boutique purchases – and much more!

* Package is available now through December 20, 2010. Based on double occupancy. Minimum stay of three consecutive nights.
 *To book visit http://www.villagroupresorts.com/resorts/villa-la-estancia-vallarta and speak with a live agent, or call 888-844-8169.

About Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta
Located in Vallarta-Nayarit on the shores of Banderas Bay north of Puerto Vallarta (just a quick 20-minute shuttle from the Puerto Vallarta airport), Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta is the newest property on this stretch of unspoiled beach. The resort’s lushly landscaped grounds feature colorful gardens, a freeform swimming pool, fountains and whirlpool spas. Each of the 135 units is stylishly decorated with marble floors, granite countertops, whirlpool tub, walk-in shower, walk-in closet and spacious balconies. All suites offer a complete kitchen, individually controlled air conditioning, plasma TVs and laundry room. The resort also features a 17,000-square-foot Tatewari Spa which pampers with massages, facials, hydrotherapies, body scrubs, wraps and salon services in an upscale European-style facility that is the newest and largest in the region. Villa La Estancia is part of The Villa Group, one of Mexico’s leading privately owned hotel, resort and real estate development companies. For more information visit www.VillaGroupResorts.com. Follow Villa Group Resorts on Facebook and Twitter: www.facebook.com/villagroup and www.twitter.com/villagroup

Smithsonian Journeys Announces Egypt Tours for 2011

Smithsonian Journeys provides more ways than ever to experience the cultural treasures of Egypt's Old Kingdom in 2011. Travelers can join "Egyptian Odyssey" as a general escorted-highlights tour, an exclusive women's departure or a family adventure. These popular tours feature a unique aspect specific to each audience, yet all visit World Heritage sites in the company of an Egyptologist, who makes travel more meaningful by providing lectures and informal commentary.

"We've taken special note of the different ways our travelers want to experience a destination and have applied those insights to our most popular destinations," said Amy Kotkin, director of Smithsonian Journeys. Yet another way to see Egypt is "Ancient Civilizations of the Red Sea" featuring a four-day cruise of the Red Sea along with land excursions to important sites in Egypt and Jordan. Photographs, video and specific details on itineraries, experts and hotels can be found at www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/Egypt.

"Egyptian Odyssey" (multiple departures February through May 2011), begins with a visit to Cairo's Museum of Antiquities then on to sites related to the more modern influences of Islam, Judaism and Christianity. Flying to Luxor, travelers will experience an in-depth view of the ancient Pharaohs during visits to the Temples of Karnak and Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. They will also veer off the beaten track to the Valley of the Nobles. Following a four-night cruise up the Nile with stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo, the highlights in Aswan include the Nubia Museum, a traditional felucca ride and the Aswan Dam. Travelers then spend a morning at the World Heritage site of Abu Simbel, the colossal temples of Ramses II and his queen Nefertari. Returning to Cairo, the tour concludes with excursions to enjoy the timeless beauty and mystery of the Pyramids of Giza and Step Pyramid of Sakkara, followed by an engaging panel discussion about modern Egypt. Prices start from $4,995, airfare included, and can be found at www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/Egypt .

The Nov. 23, 2011-Dec. 4, 2011, departure of "Egyptian Odyssey" is exclusively for women. Only women guides and Egyptologist are featured, which enables lively discourse with Egyptian women, something rarely featured on other programs. This departure also embodies women-focused conversation and lecture topics, which allows an often eye-opening perspective on Egypt's contemporary culture and society. Further information can be found at www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/EgyptWomen.

Special family departures of "Egyptian Odyssey" (Dec. 27-Jan. 3, 2011, and July 6-13, 2011) feature a similar itinerary along with family-friendly activities such as a camel ride, special four-wheel drive excursion into the desert, sound and light show at the Pyramids, scavenger hunt in the bazaar and family bike ride along the Nile. Additional staff also provides special enhancements for the children's program (ages 7-12). Prices for the December departure start from $4,145, airfare included, based on a child rate and special offer. Further information can be found at www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/EgyptFamily .

Smithsonian Journeys also features a unique cruise of the Red Sea, "Ancient Civilizations of the Red Sea" (Jan. 23, 2011-Feb. 7, 2011), which combines a five-night cruise with in-depth land tours of Egypt and Jordan. Following tours of important sites in Cairo and Luxor, and an opportunity to take a sunrise hot-air balloon ride over the Nile, travelers embark the 52-passenger Harmony V. The ship calls at ports along the Red Sea, including the World Heritage site of St. Catherine's Monastery on the Sinai Peninsula. On arrival in Jordan, passengers travel by land to other significant sites such as Petra, Mount Nebo, Jerash and Amman. (Prices start from $5,995, airfare included from New York City if booked by Sept. 30, 2010.) A pre-tour extension in Syria features sites along the old Silk Road, including Damascus, Palmyra and Krak des Chevaliers, and a post-tour extension in Alexandria, Egypt, features the new Royal Library of Alexandria. More information can be found at www.SmithsonianJourneys.org/RedSea.

Montrose, Colorado Hosts Old West Heritage Events in August & September

Montrose, Colo., puts its western heritage on full display in August and September when the city plays host to a handful of events that celebrate the spirit of the American West.  This is one of the most spectacular times to visit Montrose, which is such s treasure chest of outdoor activities that it was recently named to Outdoor Life magazine’s annual list of the 200 best towns in America for outdoorsmen.

Visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for nature walks, hikes or fishing gold medal waters.  Curecanti National Recreation Area offers panoramic views, as well as three reservoirs, perfect for boating, fishing, hiking, camping or bird watching.  Gunnison National Conservation Area is located just northeast of Montrose and encompasses more than 62,000 acres of BLM-managed lands. Here, sightings of elk, bighorn sheep, deer, bald eagles and waterfowl are possible.    

Annual Chipeta Day – Aug. 28Chipeta Day honors the life of Chipeta, the wife of the leader of the Ute people, Chief Ouray.  A legend in her own right, Chipeta’s legacy is forever tied to the Uncompahgre Valley, where she and her husband fought to keep the Ute people.  The celebration includes cultural presentations, a sunrise blessing, a three-mile walk, and other ceremonies signifying peace and unity.  The Ute Indian Museum, which lies on the original 8.65-acre homestead owned by Chief Ouray and Chipeta, will also be open for visitors to enjoy perusing one of the most complete collections of the Ute people.

1^st Annual Honor the Traditions – Sept. 4

This free event will be held at the Ute Indian Museum, a unique treasure and an historical Colorado landmark.  The purpose of the event is to bridge a better understanding of cultural heritage and awareness and to promote cultural diversity.  Activities include a plein-air art festival, Jemez Pueblo Indian dancers, an Indian market, a wine reception, free admission to the Ute Indian Museum, a silent auction, an evening buffalo feast and an outdoor Native American movie at dusk.

17^th Annual Antique, Gun and Western Show – Sept. 17-18Take home a piece of the Old West at this show that focuses on everything western.  Show highlights include antique and modern collectible arms and accessories, authentic cowboy and Native American artifacts, Civil War memorabilia, western art and jewelry. 

1st Annual All Nations Indian Nations Powwow – Sept. 24-26This colorful celebration is likely to rival the fall foliage blooming in the region!  Gourd dancing, the Powwow Grand Entry, drum and dance contests and authentic Native American food are all in store.  Traditionally, powwow was a time for Native American leaders to negotiate with the U.S. government.  It was also a celebration of traditional song and dance and renewing of old friendships.  

About Montrose (www.visitmontrose.com)

Montrose is a uniquely-authentic town that has carved out a place for itself in the landscape and culture of Colorado.  Montrose was recently named to Outdoor Life magazine’s annual list of the 200 best towns in America for outdoorsmen.  Seventy-three percent of the land surrounding the city is public land, making Montrose a Mecca for all kinds of outdoor activities, including: hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, road biking, and mountain biking.  A multi-faceted community, Montrose serves up layer upon layer of discoveries, each more unique than the last.  Whether visitors are looking for adventure, agritourism, history, culture, shopping, fine dining or anything in between, Montrose has a little something for everyone. 

Fall Foliage Cruises to Canada/New England with MSC from $429

Take advantage of last-minute cruise deals with MSC for its fall foliage cruises to 
Canada/New England onboard MSC Poesia with prices from $429 through August 31. 

MSC Cruises is offering up to a three-category upgrade (inside to ocean view, ocean view to balcony standard, and balcony standard to balcony superior) for guests who book select fall foliage cruises from New York City and Quebec City for six to 14-nights.

Some of the fall foliage cruise itineraries include:

• 10-night “Dazzling Fall Foliage” cruise roundtrip from New York City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Quebec City, Quebec; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York, New York.  September 22; rates begin at $699 [(plus $72.90 pp. government fees and taxes (GFTs)];
• 7-night “Scenic Splendors of Fall” cruise from New York City and calling in Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and an overnight stay in Quebec City, Quebec. October 2; rates begin at $429 (plus $78.50 pp. GFTs);
• 7-night “Captivating Colors of Canada” cruise from New York City and calling in Halifax, Nova Scotia; Sydney, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and an overnight stay in Quebec City, Quebec. October 16; rates begin at $499 (plus $79.25 pp. GFTs);
• 9-night “Autumn Leaves to Palm Trees” cruise from Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; New York, New York; and Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. October 23; rates begin at $699 (plus $102.40 pp. GFTs);
• 6-night “Maple Leaves & Mansions” cruise from Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York, New York. October 23; rates begin at $499 (plus $81.40 pp. GFTs).

The 7-night, October 16 and 6-night October 23 cruises can be combined into a 13-night roundtrip, New York cruise with rates from $899 representing an additional savings of $100 per person. Other cruises with longer durations are available. 

Rates are available for residents of the US and Canada; offer is per person, based upon double occupancy, cruise only, and subject to availability. 

For more information, call 877-665-4655, or contact a local travel professional.

Purr'N Pooch, the First Dog Resort, Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Purr’n Pooch Inc. (PNP), the nation’s fi rst pet resort, celebrates 40 years of providing the very best in boarding , training, grooming, and daycare. With an astounding number of over 500,000 clients who have enjoyed their warm welcome, world-class facilities, and top-notch services since 1970, PNP leads the pack in award winning service.

Ruby Red Valentine Special
Throughout 2010 PNP will host discounts to honor its 40th Anniversary. For the month of February Purr’n Pooch will offer a Valentine Special of 40% off a 30-minute pet massage. Your pet will relax to the soothing touch of our professional certifi ed masseuse as tranquil music is played and the scent of aromatherapy candles fi ll the air. The restorative, relaxing experience is a wonderful gift for your lovable bud!

“The staff at Purr’n Pooch has been essential in improving our pet’s mental and physical well-being. We know
that when we take Loki to daycare he is in a loving, nurturing environment where he is well looked after. It really is his second home,” The Freeman Family of Eatontown.

Purr-fect Accommodations
Open 365 days a year, Purr’n Pooch’s Tinton Falls and Wall Township locations boast beautiful grounds uniquely designed for the comfort and care of its pets. PNP Tinton Falls features a bright, expansive training hall; swim park; custom-designed 1,000 square foot cattery that features a 22-foot tranquil waterfall and playground; and luxury feline and canine accommodations and suites. Private dog suites feature sleep sofas with comforters, television, music, skylights, plants, and storage. The cattery features private condos with windows, television, perches, and multiple levels for play, climbing, and napping.

PNP also invites your pet to enjoy our affordable on-site services that include daycare, training, private and
open swim and play, massage therapy, grooming, and spa treatments. Services also extend beyond PNP’s
doors with transportation, pet sitting, and estate planning. Daycare and boarding dogs also enjoy a wide
variety of complimentary monthly events. February’s program includes story time; Valentine’s crafts; birthday
celebrations; and luaus, Super Bowl, and Mardi Gras parties.

Passion & Purpose
Purr’n Pooch staff are professional groomers, trainers, daycare supervisors and kennel technicians. All are certified in American Red Cross Pet First Aid & CPR. Nearly 50% of the staff has been with the company for ten years or longer, several for 25 years. PNP affi liations include: American Boarding Kennels Association, Independent Professional Pet Transportation Association, The Association of Pet Dog Trainers, International Association of Canine Professionals, and the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.

Dick Palazzo, President and CEO of Purr’n Pooch, is an industry innovator and passionate animal welfare advocate. Dick’s impressive background in veterinarian science and as a trainer, behaviorist, groomer, and businessman has been essential to Purr’n Pooch’s success. Thanks to Dick’s vision, commitment, knowledge, and love of animals, PNP has become one of the largest and best-known pet care facilities in the country. “My passion is love for animals. Motivation, development and creativity cannot exist without passion,“ said Dick Palazzo, President & CEO, Purr’n Pooch.

In the 1970s, Dick introduced the revolutionary practice of socialization to his clients. At Purr’n Pooch, each
dog’s temperament is tested and evaluated, then assigned to a playgroup where they can safely play off-leash
with other dogs while enjoying PNP’s grassy, clean outdoor play areas, splash in a waterfall and pool, or just
bask in the sun. Thanks to Dick’s groundbreaking practices, PNP’s pets enjoy life and learning by leaps and
bounds.

Dick’s wife Mary and daughters Koren and Elizabeth have also made amazing contributions to the health and
success of PNP. Each brings their own set of talents and expertise ranging from collegiate degrees in dog training and grooming, holistic health, and nutrition, to certifi cations in masseuse and reiki. Additionally, every family member is hand-on assisting with the day-to-day operations of the facilities, care of the pets, event planning, and customer relations.

PNP Charitable Foundation Launches a Legacy of Love
As the ruby is associated with the 40th anniversary, it represents one of the rarest gemstones and symbolizes
health, wealth, wisdom, and passion. It is also an appropriate symbol for the Palazzo Family and their clients,
who have contributed endless hours of their time and resources to benefi t hundreds of animal rescue and welfare organizations across the globe. Inspired by their clients and pets, the Palazzo Family and a Board of individuals who share their passion for animals will launch the PNP Foundation to benefi t pets in need at a special event in fall 2010.

New Haven, CT Turns College Visits Into Vacations To Remember

This is the season when many parents pack-up their soon-to-be high school senior teens to begin touring prospective college campuses.  These information-packed trips, with dormitory overnights and tastings of “campus cuisine” are a necessary right of passage, but they’re often an unsatisfactory substitute for the family vacation – unless that campus tour is in New Haven.

Perhaps best known as the home of esteemed Yale University, New Haven and the Greater New Haven area actually boast a plethora of institutions of higher education, from Albertus Magnus College, a small, liberal arts college founded in 1925 to Southern Connecticut State University, a New Haven institution since 1893, with 12,000 students located three miles from downtown, to nearby University of New Haven and Quinnipiac University.   All boast one essential, common asset toward attracting students: their vibrant hometown of New Haven.

Conveniently located on the I-95 “college corridor” midway between New York and Boston, New Haven was established in 1638 as America’s

first planned city and has never stopped innovating with fantastic architecture, a strong cultural and fine arts community, vibrant dining scene, commitment to sustainability and a roster of year round entertainment and sporting events.  As many local residents proclaim, “New Haven is small enough to be friendly and large enough to be interesting.”

Here’s a suggested New Haven itinerary for turning that college visit into a vacation to remember:

Get comfortable.  New Haven offers its visitors various options for a good night’s rest following a day of campus exploration.  For this trip, consider The Study Hotel at Yale, situated in the heart of downtown Elm City and within walking distance of most major restaurants and attractions. The hotel features a synthesis of technology and bookie culture, with the most up-to-date electronics and a library stocked with everything from Chaucer to Stephen King and offers fabulous views of the Yale campus.

Dine.  New Haven offers a rich and varied culinary scene and boasts two American “firsts:” hamburgers and pizza.  Stop by Louis Lunch for a taste of the original hamburger sandwich and try it like a local, sans ketchup, and don’t let the lines that form every night outside Frank Pepe’s dissuade you from what many claim is the best pizza in town. Or, grab a pie at nearby competitors like Sally’s Apizza, Modern Apizza, and BAR.

Fine diners will find an option to please every palette, from the daring creative Spanish cuisine of Ibiza to the Parisian Style Brasserie at Union League Cafe to the farm-fresh modern American food of Zinc to Bentara, Connecticut’s first Malaysian restaurant.  Casual diners should not miss Claire’s Corner Copia, a New Haven institution where owner Claire Criscoulo has been serving up sustainable vegetarian cuisine and her decadent Lithuanian coffee cake since 1972.

And for diners literally on the go, indulge in New Haven’s own roving Cheese Truck for a gourmet grilled cheese or satisfy that sweet tooth with a Red Velvet Jones from the Cupcake Truck.  For current locations, follow these gourmands on the go at twitter.com/caseusgrilled and twitter.com/cupcaketruck.

Explore.  New Haven is easily walkable and known for its outstanding examples of architectural styles that range from Trinity Church’s 17th Century Gothic to iconic modern buildings such as the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, the largest building in the world reserved exclusively for the preservation of rare books. Tour these impressive structures on foot or by bike—Devil’s Gear in Wooster Square and College Street Cycles on College Street rent bicycles and gear for the day. The city’s art galleries, theaters and cultural centers are also unrivaled. Two of the very best, the Yale University Art Gallery, comprised of  more than 185,000 works, including Vincent Van Gogh’s famed “The Night Café” and The Yale Center for British Art, the largest and most comprehensive collection of British art outside of the United Kingdom, are completely free.

Also worth visiting: The Peabody Museum of Natural History, famous for its Great Hall of Dinosaurs, ArtSpace a non-profit organization showcasing local and national visual art, and the Knights of Columbus Museum, dedicated to the preservation, reservation, interpretation and exhibition of materials relevant to the history and activities of the Knights of Columbus that USA Today calls a "top ranked U.S. museum with religious themes."

Check-out.  There’s always something happening in New Haven.  This summer, Music on the Green presented by Smilow Cancer Hospital, a series of free, live music performances on New Haven Green takes place July 17, 24 & 31.  Pilot Pen Tennis Tournament is the only combined men’s and women’s pro tennis tournament leading into the US Open, held at the Connecticut Tennis Center at Yale August 20—28.  Pilot Pen Tennis serves up plenty of action on and off the court including: live music, great food, autograph sessions, Kids Day and the third annual New Haven Food and Wine Festival, showcasing New Haven’s award-winning, international restaurants alongside a wine tasting on August 25.

Leaf-peep.  Should your college visits stretch into the fall, New Haven offers even more adventures including that vibrant fall foliage New England is famous for plus Yale football games at the historic Yale Bowl and the start of the Yale Repertory season. This season the Yale Repertory Theatre will host the World Premiere Musical of We Have Always Lived in the Castle, beginning on September 17, 2010. The musical is adapted from a 1962 novel by Shirley Jackson and chronicles the life of the infamous fictional character Mary Katherine Blackwood in the form of flashback.  The Study offers guests free available day of tickets at their front desk.

For more information, please visit www.infonewhaven.com.

PCMag.com Names the 10 Best Smartphone Apps for Vacations

Does the summer heat have you feeling stir-crazy?  Just grab your smartphone and start planning your next adventure.  PCMag.com’s Lead Mobile Analyst Sascha Segan has named the 10 free travel apps that make traveling—or planning your next trip—a breeze.

1. Google Maps. The single most useful travel app is available on every smartphone, and in fact on any Web phone. Google Maps tells you where you are, where anything else is, and how to get between those two spots. When I needed diapers in Barcelona on a Sunday, Google Maps knew where the three nearest OpenCor convenience stores were, and even gave me subway directions.

2. TripIt. There are a lot of "travel management" programs out there that help you keep track of things like flight confirmation numbers, hotel confirmation numbers and such. I prefer TripIt, because it's extremely good at parsing the confirmation emails you get from hotels and airlines. TripIt has apps for Android, BlackBerry and iPhone, and you can access your data from even the simplest phones by sending them to m.tripit.com.

3. TripCase. Sabre's TripCase does a few awesome things TripIt doesn't do. TripCase gives you continually updated flight delay and gate status for your flights, and suggests alternate flights if you're about to miss yours. That said, it can be a bear to import more than just basic flights into TripCase; you often end up generating multiple duplicate itineraries and having to merge them. So I use both TripCase and TripIt. TripCase is available for BlackBerry, Windows Mobile and iPhone.

4. Kayak. There are many travel-booking apps, but Kayak is my pick for the simplest, smoothest, easiest, quickest and most complete. The app lets you search for flights, hotels, and car rentals using Kayak's reliable meta-search engine, which captures the fares both from travel agencies and from vendors' own sites. Kayak's apps are available for Android, BlackBerry and iPhone.

5. Yelp. Yelp is the king of the user-review sites - especially for restaurants in major American cities - and their mobile app is an excellent way to search for places to eat. The Yelp app is available for BlackBerry and iPhone, but other phone owners can go to m.yelp.com with their browsers.

6. WeatherBug. WeatherBug delivers a solid experience across a range of OSes including Android, BlackBerry, iPhone, Windows Mobile and Nokia. Beyond basic weather, it does a few tricks like integrating with your contact list and letting you tap on maps to see how the weather is where you're going.

7. SitOrSquat. Need to pee? SitOrSquat is a crowdsourced bathroom locator that can take you a step beyond the old mainstay of hotel lobbies in most US cities. It's a pity it doesn't work nearly as well overseas. The app is available for BlackBerry and iPhone.

8. JiWire Wi-Fi Finder. If you travel internationally with an iPhone, you know you basically have to turn off cellular data, or when you get back to the States, you'll find your house mortgaged to AT&T. JiWire's WiFi Finder only exists as an app for iPhone, but iPhoners really need it; it tells you where the next little puddle of Wi-Fi will be for you to huddle in while you desperately transfer information from the Internet.

9. Priceline Hotel Negotiator. Priceline’s Hotel Negotiator app, available only on the iPhone, lets you book last-minute hotels at super-cheap rates up until 11 PM ET.

10. Google SMS. A lot of people don't have smartphones, or they're in places where their smartphones' data plans don't work. If you SMS some search terms to 46645 - that's "GOOGL" - you'll get Google search results back as a series of texts.

Last Minute Summer Trip: Wisconsin Dells

As summer winds down, there’s still a chance for families to getaway at Kalahari Waterpark Resort in Wisconsin Dells, Wis. A family-owned property celebrating its 10th birthday in 2010, Kalahari specializes in no-hassle, fail-safe vacations, particularly for busy families.

The resort, which recently introduced a new cast of characters and a fun new “dance along” hip-hop theme song this summer, features an under-one-roof concept ideal for family travel. Showcasing one of America’s largest indoor waterparks and an amazing indoor theme park, Kalahari has its finger on the pulse of the special amenities and resources needed for an ideal family getaway.  As part of its celebration of a decade of family vacation adventures, the resort compiled a “Top 10” list – based on customer comments over the years – of what makes its property a great find for families in search of spending quality time together.  

1.    No hassle planning. Kalahari offers an extensive website featuring room styles, special deals, and a tour of its offerings at www.KalahariResorts.com that makes it easy to research. Throughout the summer, Kalahari guests will receive four free tickets to the popular Tommy Bartlett show. 

2.     Ideal itinerary. Kalahari’s reservations agents can suggest an itinerary for you at the resort based on your children’s ages, e.g., splash in the daytime and ride the carousel in the theme park after naptime.

3.    Keep it indoors. Nothing spoils a vacation more than inclement weather. Kalahari offers tons of outdoor excitement and even more indoors to ensure your children a tear-free getaway.
  
4.    Keep them entertained. From pottery making to cookie decorating to hair braiding, the resort offers several onsite activities for to keep the boredom factor at bay. 

5.    Fun for all ages. Kalahari’s indoor waterpark and theme park offers fun splash play and age-appropriate games for younger kids, and high octane excitement, such as the Flowrider surfing ride, bowling, and go karts for energetic teens and young adults. 


6.    Chill out. Many room styles offer a refrigerator and microwave to make snack time easy. Stretch your budget and serve up last night’s leftovers at snacktime. 

7.    Group activities. Ramp up your time together with group activities the family can enjoy, such as the ropes course in the indoor theme park, or a trip down the lazy river in the indoor or outdoor waterparks.   

8.    Freedom for teens. Mom and Dad can feel more comfortable letting their teens roam around the property thanks to its under-one-roof concept and easy-to-follow resort signage.

9.    Vacation education. Kalahari features thousands of art pieces, furnishings, and décor items that were shipped from Africa. Ask an associate about these items to engage your children.  

10.    Babysitting service. Kalahari has a relationship with a local Pop-in Nanny Service. Call ahead to book a babysitter so Mom and Dad can get in a round of golf at Trapper’s Turn, relax at Spa Kalahari, take in a movie, or catch a show at Crystal Grand Theater.   

“At Kalahari, we get families. We know how hard it can be to travel with kids and have worked to make our getaway experience fun, simple and helpful,” says Todd Nelson, Kalahari president and owner, who has five children who have all grown up in the resort over the years.  

Kalahari, which first opened as a 100-room hotel with a 60,000-square-foot indoor waterpark in 2000, is now home to a 756-room convention/waterpark/theme park complex, thanks to investments around $129 million over the years. In 2002, the property doubled the size of its indoor waterpark and added major attractions such as the region’s first Master Blaster water coaster and later, the FlowRider, a simulated surfing ride, in its indoor waterpark. And more recently, the resort completed an Indoor Theme Park complete with an indoor Ferris wheel, go-cart tracks and climbing wall. The resort was recently touted as “a major asset to Wisconsin tourism” by Wisconsin Governor, Jim Doyle. 

Duesseldorf, Germany Stages Weeklong Urban Olympic Adventure Summer Camp for City’s Youths

The 7th annual OAC – Olympic Adventure Camp - in Duesseldorf is the city’s free 8-day event offering more than 50 sports and programs.


Duesseldorf, Germany – Many local families make sure they won’t be out of town during the last week of summer recess so their kids, teens, and young adults can participate in Duesseldorf’s OAC (2010 dates: August 21-28), 8 days of free sports and exercise-focused activities right in the city, a large-scale city program now in its 8th year.

The events take place daily from 1 – 7 pm at Duesseldorf’s Apollo Square. The organizers include the city’s Youth Affairs and Recreational Departments, and the Dusseldorf Sports Coalition.

In an unusual and wildly successful example of long-term public programs, OAC engages the city’s 6 to 21 year-olds and their parents with an extensive program of sports and adventure-related events and entertainment. The list of more than 50 activities includes exotic sports like sumo wrestling and dirt surfing, as well as a large variety of popular options like canoeing and inline skating clinics. All activities are fee of charge and led by professional instructors. Family and budget-friendly options for food and beverages are also offered.


This organized effort by the city to engage younger generations in more physical activity -- thanks to its popularity -- has been hailed as a possible factor in the slimming down of children from Dusseldorf and neighboring towns. A study conducted by the city’s Department of Physical Education (Sportamt Stadt Duesseldorf) and the Department of Sports Sciences at the University of Wuppertal, showed a reduction in the percentage of overweight and obese children by 3 percentage points. We hope that Mrs. Obama's "Let's Move" initiative in the U.S. national parks will meet the same success.


For more information on Olympic Adventure Camp 2010, visit www.duesseldorf.de.

Utah Ski Passes Already on Sale!

Even though it is still August, it is ever to early too start thinking about ski season.  Passes for Utah's Brighton Resort are already on sale!  Hurry; the offer ends September 15th.

Late Summer Deals in Philadelphia

As summer winds down, Philly gears up with end-of-season deals at two great Center City hotels and some fun must-dos, including weekly fireworks over the Delaware River at Penn’s Landing. The end of summer also marks visitors’ last chance to take in some big exhibitions and fun happenings, including Late Renoir at the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the James A. Michener Art Museum’s Icons of Costume: Hollywood’s Golden Era.

Hotel Specials:

• To celebrate its Travel + Leisure rankings as the #52 hotel in the world and the #10 hotel in the U.S., The Rittenhouse Hotel invites their guests to stay over with the Remarkable Rittenhouse Relief Rate—just $249 per night. What’s more, visitors receive a $100 food and beverage voucher for use at Lacroix, Bar 210 or The Mary Cassatt Tearoom. Available through September 6. 210 W. Rittenhouse Square, (215) 546-9000, rittenhousehotel.com
• The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown offers a cool “Beat the Heat” rate on summer Saturdays for guests who book both Friday and Saturday nights. At 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, the hotel applies the number of current temperature listed on weather.com to the rate for that night. The offer is valid every Saturday through September 18, including Labor Day weekend. 12^th & Market Streets, (800) 320-5744, philadelphiamarriottdowntown.com

Fireworks For All:

• Families, couples and friends can get their fill of summer magic each Friday through Labor Day weekend. Friday Night Lights at Penn’s Landing is the perfect start, end or middle of a great night in Philadelphia. Fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Columbus Boulevard at Chestnut Street, (215) 928-8801, delawareriverevents.com

Last Chance:

• Time is running out for art lovers to see Late Renoir at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of only two U.S. stops. Through 100 works of art, the exhibition follows Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s later years as he considered his legacy and created masterpieces that draw comparisons to those of the old masters. Through September 6. 26^th Street & the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org
• Fashionistas and movie buffs still have a chance to see the James A. Michener Art Museum’s Icons of Costume: Hollywood’s Golden Era exhibition, where designs created for by Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean and other big names take center stage. More than 60 items, such as Kate Winslet’s “Heart of the Ocean” from Titanic, are sure to make any movie lover swoon. Through September 5. 138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown, (215) 340-9800, michenermuseum.org

Backseat Travel Toys for Easier Road Trips

If you haven't invested in some fresh toys and distractions for that upcoming road trip, now's the time. The Toy Industry Association has just released a list of recently reviewed items that are compact, washable and pretty affordable. Take and look and see if any of them would interest your backseat passengers --

These are some of their selected toys to take on the go – for kids (and adults!) of all ages.

Plus here's a link to a video review of the following products, all tested by the Toy Industry Association -
TIA | Summer Travel

Toys they reviewed:

* Mini Mandalas (Ravensburger) Ages: 6+ MSRP: $9.99
* Red Rover (Mattel) Ages: 5-7 MSRP: $19.99
* Dry Erase Travel Pack (Crayola) Ages: 4+ MSRP: $11.99
* Zibits (Senario) Ages: 8 and up MSRP: $9.99
* Barbie in a Mermaid’s Tale (Mattel) Ages: 3 & up MSRP: $16.99
* Sleep Sheep (Cloud B) Ages: Birth & up MSRP: $26.99
* Dozy Dolphin (Cloud B) Ages: Birth & up MSRP: $24.99
* Zoobies (Zoobie Pets) Ages: 3 and up MSRP: $39.99
* Twilight Turtle (Cloud B) Ages: Birth & up MSRP: $32.99
* Table Talk (U.S. Game Systems) All Ages: MSRP: $6.00 5
* Linkology Animals Game (Learning Resources) Ages: 7+ MSRP: $9.99
* Take N’ Play Anywhere Go Fishing, Tic-Tac-Toe, Matching and Dominoes (Patch) Ages 3 and up. MSRP $7.99
* Second Rule (Patch): Ages 10 to adult. MSRP: $24.99
* To Go Games Flippin Frogs (Mattel) Ages: 5 and up MSRP: $9.99
* To Go Games Kerplunk (Mattel) Ages: 5 and up MSRP: $9.99
* 5 Second Rule (Patch): Ages 10 to adult. MSRP: $24.99
* Discovery Beach (I Can Do That Games) Ages: 3-8 MSRP: $16.99
* 8” Sand Mold Pail and Shovel (American Plastic Toys) Ages: 18 months and up MSRP: $5.99
* Super Soaker: Soaker Wars Bottle Blitz (Hasbro) Ages: 6 & up MSRP: $7.99
* Boogie Board (Wham-O) Ages: 8- 11 MSRP: $31.99

Kids Spa Premieres at Mall of America with Give-away Beauty Products!

Saturday August 14th  marks the fun opening ceremonies for Scoops Kid Spa, a new wellness and beauty center for kids at Minnesota's Mall of America.

The two-hour Pink Carpet Premiere will begin at 11am at the North Garden entrance to Mall of America’s Nickelodeon Universe, under the ferris wheel.

Children can walk down the pink carpet in style with the signature Scooops Kid Spa robe and their very own tiara. In addition to sampling the spa’s delicious chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla lotions, attendees will have the chance to win giveaways from Radio Disney and Scooops Kid Spa, including an ice cream-themed manicure and pedicure, a dessert-scented haircut or a goodie bag full of sweet-scented products.

The kids spa concept originated with Great Wolf Lodge, a chain of indoor water parks, and this is the debut of their first freestanding Scooops. Similar to the smaller ones at their waterpark resorts, the ice cream-themed spa offers manicures, pedicures and hair treatments, specially designed for children ages 4 to 15. Featuring whimsical wall murals, ice-cream-cone stools, and oversized banana split pedicure thrones, Scooops Kid Spa plans to be  the go-to spot for Minneapolis and St. Paul birthday parties and girls' get togethers.

Larger than any other existing Scooops Kid Spa, the Mall of America location can cater to more than 30 children at one time, so advance reservations for visitors to the Twin Cities won't be necessary.

Foodies Flock to Puerto Vallarta

It's a beachfront city with lots of watersports, eco-adventurers, a gay friendly vibe that attracts same-sex couples with their kids and, perhaps most of all, a true foodie destination.

Along Puerto Vallarta's famous seafront promenade, foodies must pause and look out to sea when reaching the Vitea Restaurant. It's not because of Vitea's food, though that is quite good. In front of the restaurant is a bronze sculpture dedicated to the art of the kitchen, and embedded in the boardwalk are bronze plaques that honor the city's famous chefs in a Culinary Walk of Fame.

 Vitea Restaurant, Malecon

If this place sounds delicious, read reviews of the many family-friendly hotels of Puerto Vallarta at this Pacific coastal resort.

Butler Makes S'Mores for the Ritz Carlton Family

The press release reads like this:  "A resort guest relaxes on the terrace of an ocean-view room, thinking how glorious it might be to have a warm flame going in the terrace’s private fire pit, a glass of wine in hand and the chance to roast hand-made s’mores under the stars... Suddenly, the traveler’s fantasy comes to life, as a vision in a specially-outfitted golf cart takes form beside the private terrace, offering to assist with fire lighting, outdoor wine service, after-dinner drinks, dessert on the terrace, and even hand-crafted s’mores for the family..."

It's true, at the glamorous Northern California Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, there's a so-called "Fire & Wine Butler" who will serve guests anything and custom cook s'mores for the family who's afraid of scalding marshmalow burns!

Check out this place on the Pacific:  www.ritzcarlton.com/hmb

Book Before August 22! Altantis Fall Travel Deal!

Atlantis, Paradise Island resort in The Bahamas is offering the ultimate fall getaway with the Fall Special package.  Stay 3 nights and get the 4^th night free* plus free companion airfare** and includes an Atlantis Experience Pass.   The package for the five day/four night package starts at $299* per person (kids 11 & under are no charge).  It must be booked by August 22 for travel August 15 through December 22. 

Package includes:

·         Unlimited access to Aquaventure, our 141-acre waterscape with thrilling water slides and rides; and our marine habitat which has over 50,000 marine animals and is the largest open-air habitat in the world

·         Children (11 and under) always stay and play for free

·         Atlantis Experience Pass is included with every booking and includes: 

§  Two shallow water dolphin interactions for the price of one

§  Two rounds of golf at the championship Ocean Club Golf Course for the price of one

§  Two complimentary margaritas at Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill

§  Sushi and Sake sampler at Nobu

§  Two complimentary cocktails at Seafire

§  One night of dancing for two at Aura nightclub - the hottest nightclub in the Caribbean

§  When you arrive at Atlantis, you will receive the exclusive Atlantis Experience Pass

The Fall Special can be booked by calling 1-800-Atlantis or online at Atlantis.com. 

Explore Lake Ontario Shipwrecks This August!

Noted shipwreck explorer Jim Kennard will present  the “Deep Shipwrecks of Lake Ontario” on Friday, August 13 at 6:30pm and “More Wrecks of Lake Ontario” Saturday, August 14 at 10 am at the Great Lakes Seaway Trail Discovery Center in Sackets Harbor, NY.

Kennard’s shipwreck discoveries – more than 200 since 1970 - have received worldwide attention and have been featured in National Geographic Magazine. One of his recent and more spectacular finds is the HMS Ontario, a Revolutionary War British warship. Kennard and his diving partner Dan Scoville located the wreck in deep water off the southern shore of Lake Ontario using sophisticated side scan sonar equipment and a remote operated vehicle (ROV) they built. The wreck is the only fully intact British warship ever found in the Great Lakes.

The Saturday program that begins at 10 am will include presentations on “The Final Chapter of the US Coast Guard Cable Boat #56022,” “Discovery of the Schooner Orcadian,” and “The Last Flight of the SeaBee.”

The $5 fee for each program benefits the educational programming of the Seaway Trail Foundation.

The Great Lakes Seaway Trail’s Dive the Seaway Trail project in partnership with New York Sea Grant and local communities features world-class freshwater dive sites for exploring shipwrecks and underwater landscapes accessed from the byway that is one of America’s Byways and a National Recreation Trail. For more information, visit www.seawaytrail.com or call 315-646-1000.

Never-Ending Summer At Tucson's Westward Look Resort

Westward Look Resort, where historic past meets modern luxury, has extended its sizzling summer staycation and rolled out a variety of other late summer specials for those who want to sneak in a last-minute vacation and for locals who just want to pretend like they’re far, far away.

Whether guests want to enjoy Westward Look’s newly-renovated suite-sized rooms, three sparkling pools, delicious award-winning cuisine or on-site hiking, Westward Look has a number of amazing specials that will make summer vacation even hotter. Packages include:

• The Sizzling Summer Staycation: Starting at just $99 per night, Staycation rates include a complimentary breakfast buffet in GOLD for up to two adults and two children 12 and under, a complimentary welcome gift and other exciting specials.

• 14-Day Advance Purchase: Guests who book at least 14 days prior to arrival can save up to 50% off daily rates!*

• Spa Tapas Delights Package: Ready for a truly delicious spa getaway? Stay with Westward Look this summer and experience the all-new Sonoran Spa Tapas Menu. The package includes a deluxe-sized guest room, one “main course” item from the Spa Tapas Menu and either the blissful 45-minute balancing massage or a refreshing 45-minute balancing facial. Tax and gratuity not included.

Once guests arrive at Westward Look, they can enjoy first-class dining and entertainment, whether it means spending a day by the pool or venturing out on a horseback adventure. Guests can also escape by indulging in one of Westward Look’s exotic and relaxing spa treatments, including therapeutic herbs, warm stones and cleansing muds of the Sonoran Desert.

For additional information regarding any of Westward Look’s exciting packages please call 1-800-722-2500 or visit www.WestwardLook.com.

* Reservations must be prepaid. Reservations cannot be canceled and are non-refundable.

ABOUT WESTWARD LOOK RESORT
Westward Look Resort is set in the foothills of Tucson’s Santa Catalina Mountains on 80 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert. It offers 244 suite-sized rooms, two award-winning restaurants, a chef’s garden, the Sonoran Spa, eight tennis courts, desert hiking trails, on-site stables for horseback riding and multiple pools. In 2010, the resort was named an AAA Four Diamond Award® recipient, which honors the hotel for its commitment to excellence throughout the entire property, including GOLD restaurant, the resort’s extensive array of amenities, guest services and attention to detail. More information is available at
1-800-722-2500 and www.WestwardLook.com.

Win A VIP Trip to Orlando!

 

 

The Orlando holiday specialist is giving away an amazing VIP Money Can’t Buy Holiday to Orlando, Florida.

 

It’s great fun to enter, so if you are wondering what to do with the kids this summer then go to www.completeorlando.co.uk/moneycantbuy to upload your re-creation (in photo or video form) of a rollercoaster ride in your home, garden, or play area. The competition deadline for entries is the 19th August, in just 12 days time, when it will be judged by the Complete Orlando panel…

 

Steve Silver, managing director of Complete Orlando says: “Everyone that has entered is filming-tastic and having great fun producing rollercoaster re-creations. One ecstatic entrant wrote on Complete Orlando’s Facebook page “I don’t think I have ever got the kids so excited”. We are loving watching the entries on this so far, so keep them coming!”

 

For more information and terms and conditions visit www.completeorlando.co.uk/moneycantbuy

 

Opening/closing date & time and information: Competition opened on 31st July 2010. Competition closes for entries 19th August 2010 at midnight. Judges announce top 5 entries on Saturday 21st August. Voting for best entry from top five entries starts Saturday 21st and ends Thursday 2nd September. The winner is officially announced in The Sun on Saturday 4th September.

Complete Orlando is the Orlando specialist offering some of the most competitive Orlando holiday prices, invaluable experience and security. With so many other operators asking for full payment upfront, Complete Orlando only require an initial deposit of £75 for accommodation only bookings.

 

For more information or to book contact Complete Orlando on 0800 294 8844 or visit www.completeorlando.com 

For Orlando tips and best deals follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/completeorlando

Carnival Debuts Superstar Live Karaoke, Giving Guests Center Stage To Sing With A Live Band

With the band warmed up, amps cranked, spotlight set and the adoring crowd ready to explode, Carnival guests will take the stage, grab the mic and live out their music-star daydreams on the open seas.  Introducing Superstar Live Karaoke, Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest entertainment feature puts guests into the act, fronting a live band and performing their favorite songs to a packed house.

Superstar Live Karaoke combines two popular forms of entertainment – live music by talented musicians and karaoke by Carnival’s singing sailors – and cranks it up. It is fun for all when aspiring singers or fun-seekers have their moment in the spotlight while a few hundred of their friends, family and fellow guests cheer them on and sing along.

Following a high-energy introduction, the would-be music legend hits the stage to belt out a favorite tune accompanied by talented musicians playing the electric guitar, bass, drums and keyboards, as well as versatile backup singers to provide sweet harmonies.

“We’re thrilled to bring this new entertainment option to the Carnival vacation experience.  Superstar Live Karaoke takes Carnival’s participatory fun to a new level with our guests unleashing their vocal talents and fulfilling their musical fantasies while fronting a great live band,” said Gerry Cahill, Carnival’s president and CEO.

Those interested in living their dream as a super star -- for one night, at least -- simply sign up with the on-site host in the designated Superstar Live Karaoke lounge on board.  Participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Guests can channel their inner rock star, pop idol, Motown legend and country crooner, selecting from a list of more than 100 song titles that span a wide variety of musical styles and genres from artists including ABBA to Zac Brown Band and everything in between. 

For those about to rock, there are plenty of classic songs from AC/DC, The Beatles, Pat Benatar, Bon Jovi, Joan Jett and others, as well as contemporary hits by artists such as The Black Eyed Peas, Kelly Clarkson, Lady Gaga and Maroon 5. 

Guests can add a twang with current and classic country songs made famous by Garth Brooks, Patsy Cline, Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Shania Twain, and others, or pay their respects to soul, rap and R&B greats by performing songs by Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Wilson Pickett and Sir Mix-A-Lot, among many others.

“Super Star Live Karaoke is quickly becoming one of the most popular and exciting activities we’ve ever offered.  People love to express themselves through music — we even had a groom sing to his new bride,” said Carnival’s Senior Cruise Director John Heald. “It’s a dream of so many people to perform on a stage backed by a live band, but so few get the opportunity. We’re giving people the ability to live out their dream and just go out and have fun!” 

The program, which recently debuted aboard Carnival Conquest and Carnival Valor, premieres on the Carnival Pride this week.  Superstar Live Karaoke will be introduced to the line’s 12 Fun Ships that operate itineraries of seven days or longer by year’s end.

Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 “Fun Ships” operating voyages ranging from three to 16 days in length to The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, New England, Europe, and Bermuda.  The line currently has two new 130,000-ton ships on order – Carnival Magic, set to debut from Europe May 1, 2011, and Carnival Breeze, scheduled to enter service in spring 2012.

For additional information and reservations on the “Fun Ship” vacation experience, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.

Puerto Vallarta's Packed with Pirates

One of the most fun things we did in Puerto Vallarta was spend the day with The Pirates of the Bay, a wild group of merry pranksters and their prisoners, who showed us all a good time!

Read more at FTF's Guide to Puerto Vallarta Family Adventures.

Get Sold Out Lady Gaga Tickets! Book a Vegas Trip!

Las Vegas, known for the best parties, concerts and events dotting The Strip, is becoming even more Fabulous during a fun-filled, indulgent party weekend August 12-15. Take advantage of these all-access VIP packages to exclusive events, parties and concerts at some of the trendiest Las Vegas hot spots, including limited access to the sold-out Lady Gaga concert, Monster Ball, at MGM Grand!

Pearl Package

• Three-night stay at a participating resort
• Dance, drink and revel at the LOGO Lounge at eyecandy sound lounge & bar at Mandalay Bay
• Pool drink specials at all participating resort pools
• Happy Hour access at bars and restaurants inside participating resorts
• Fashion event entry at Crystals, Las Vegas’ newest and most extravagant shopping district
• Art tours of the Fine Art Collection at CityCenter followed by a cocktail reception at CENTERpiece (must RSVP prior to event)

Cost: Rates start at $220.00 per person based on three-night stay and double occupancy

Purple Package

• Three-night stay at participating resort, LOGO Lounge access, pool drink specials, happy hour access, entry to fashion event, entry to art tour (as detailed in Pearl Package)
• Two Lady Gaga tickets, reserved seating or general admission
• Two tickets to the August 15, 10:00 p.m. showing of Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity and cast party

Cost: Rates start at $449.00 per person based on three-night stay and double occupancy

Gold Package

• Three-night stay at participating resort, LOGO Lounge access, pool drink specials, happy hour access, entry to fashion event, entry to art tour (as detailed in Pearl Package)
• Two tickets to the August 15, 7:30 p.m. showing of Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity and cast party
• Two Lady Gaga reserved seating tickets
• Entry into:
  • The high energy Studio 54 Gaga After-Party
  • Luxor’s Blackjack Tournament with the casts of Fantasy and Thunder from Down Under
  • Moorea VIP Lost ’80s concert featuring Animotion, When in Rome, The Motels, A Flock of Seagulls, Dramarama, Gene Loves Jezebel, The Escape Club and Real Life
  • Heaven’s Bare at The Mirage, an exclusive adult alternative to the typical Las Vegas pool experience with European-style bathing
  • Temptation Sundays at Luxor, an LGBT pool party hosted by J. Son with music by DJ Axis
  • Cirque du Soleil’s Cast After-Party at ROK inside New York-New York where guests can get up close and personal with the sexy cast
  • Closet Sundays at The Mirage’s Revolution Lounge; from the creators of Cirque du Soleil, this LGBT party offers great drink specials for its Fabulous! guests
  • Mandalay Bays’ Mix Lounge, one of the hottest late-night clubs in Las Vegas with one of the best views in town

Cost: Rates start at $549.00 per person based on three-night stay and double occupancy

Onyx Package

• Three-night stay at participating resort, LOGO Lounge access, pool drink specials, happy hour access, entry to fashion event, entry to art tour (as detailed in Pearl Package)
• Two tickets to the August 15, 7:30 p.m. showing of Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity and cast party
• Two Lady Gaga reserved seating tickets
• Entry into:
  • The Gaga VIP Pre-Party where the party starts before the doors open
  • The high energy Studio 54 Gaga After-Party
  • Heaven’s Bare at The Mirage, an exclusive adult alternative to the typical Las Vegas pool experience with European-style bathing
  • Temptation Sundays at Luxor, an LGBT pool party hosted by J. Son with music by DJ Axis
  • Cirque du Soleil’s Cast After-Party at ROK inside New York-New York where guests can get up close and personal with the sexy cast
  • Closet Sundays at The Mirage’s Revolution Lounge; from the creators of Cirque du Soleil, this LGBT party offers great drink specials for its Fabulous! guests
  • Happy Hour at Border Grill and meet and greet Chef Susan Feniger from season two of Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters”

Cost: Rates start at $549.00 per person based on three-night stay and double occupancy