What those brochures say -- and what they actually mean

We've all seen those brochures that describe a lodging place or packaged tour as just one step short of heaven.  Here, with thanks to Resources for Attorneys, is a translation of the brochures' glowing terms:

Old world charm = No bath
Tropical = Rainy
Majestic setting = A long way from town
Options galore = Nothing is included in the itinerary
Secluded hideaway = Impossible to find or get to
Pre-registered rooms = Already occupied
Explore on your own = Pay for it yourself
Knowledgeable trip hosts = They've flown in an airplane before
No extra fees = No extras
Nominal fee = Outrageous charge
Standard = Sub-standard
Deluxe = Standard
Superior = One free shower cap
All the amenities = Two free shower caps
Plush =  Top and bottom sheets
Gentle breezes =  Occasional gale-force winds
Light and airy = No air conditioning
Picturesque = Theme park nearby
Open bar = Free ice cubes

$99 NYC hotel rate, with breakfast included

Until Labor Day, rates at the recently opened Ace New York hotel begin at $99, and that includes breakfast.  Ace New York, in the city's NoMad (north of Madison Square Park) neighborhood, features local art throughout the lobby and guest rooms, turntables and records for a retro touch,  Other fun touches include in-room turntables with record selection curated by Other Music, fully stocked mini-bars, with lounges and restaurants to open in fall.

Visit www.acehotel.com/newyork or call 212-679-2222.

Trivial question

In which country will you find the Nullabor Plain? (Answer somewhere below.)

Pioneer Village is back in historic Salem

Pioneer Village in Salem, Mass., which calls itself America's first living history museum, has been around since 1930 but often has fallen on hard times, partly because it is a distance away from most of the city's other attractions. But now it is open again, under the management of Gordon College, and the college's theater group History Alive! stages performances there. What's more, a trolley offers a shuttle service from the city's Old Town Hall during July and August. Show tickets, which include trolley transportation, are available for under $10 and tours, with no shuttle service, are $5.

Visit www.pioneervillagesalem.com.

Worth quoting

"Visits always give pleasure -- if not the arrival, the departure."

                                                                                               -- Portuguese proverb

$59-$120 in complimentary extras on some deals

Hotwire travel-ticker has posted a variety of discounted offers with some complimentary extras, worth $59-$120,  thrown in. Depending where you stay, those extras may take various forms, airport transfers,   a  credit on laundry services and phone calls, spa credits, and free stays for children. In Ludlow, Vt., for example a stay at  Castle Hill Resort & Spa starts at $99, Sunday-Thursday, or $50 more on weekends. Plus, guests get $120 in extras.

Visit www.travel-ticker.com. And don't forget the hyphen.

Fascinating fact

Twenty-seven U.S. states have land north of Canada's southernmost point,  Middle Island, Ontario. Those states are Alaska, California, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. (With thanks to About.com.)

$18.72 gets you a complete meal at Maine resort

The Cliff House Resort & Spa in Ogunquit, Maine, is celebrating the fact that it has been owned and operated by the same family since 1872. Even day visitors can have lunch on the Ocean Terrace with the celebration menu's  entrée, dessert and glass of house wine or flight of Maine microbrew costing $18.72. At  dinner in the historic oceanfront dining room specials with choices like cornmeal dusted scallops and Fried Maine Lobster Rangoon, with glass of house wine,  also come in at $18.72.

Visit www.cliffhousemaine.com.

Trivial answer

Nullarbor Plain is in Australia. Nullarbor, which means "no tree, " lays claim to being the world's largest single piece of limestone and occupies an area of 77,200 square miles.

The (rowf!) 10 dog-friendliest beaches in the (woof!) USA

Photo from Petside.com

Montrose Dog Beach in Chicago

So you've taken your dog on your travels and now he's ready for a romp on the beach. As dog owners well know, every beach doesn't welcome their furry friends. But Petside.com has just released its list of the nation's Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches, calling them fun for dogs and their owners alike. The list:

1. Cape San Blas (Port St. Joe, Fla.) has year-round, leash-free policies and plethora of dog-friendly activities. A sailing program welcomes dogs aboard and many pet-friendly restaurants are nearby. 

2. Quiet Waters Park  (Annapolis, Md.) reserves a fenced-off area as a beach just for pooches. Moreover, the beach sponsors the annual “Howl-O-Ween Barkin Bash” costume parade for dogs and owners. 

3. Block Island (Rhode Island)  is a small dog-friendly island open year-round.  The beach has a relaxed leash policy, and bans all motor vehicles.

4. Cannon Beach (Cannon Beach, Ore.) is a four-mile stretch of beach along the Pacific, near a town filled with dog-friendly hotels, restaurants and shops. Dogs must stay on-leash, but Petside says the view is worth it. 

5. Fort De Soto Park (St. Petersburg, Fla.) has a unique Paw Playground, consisting of fenced-in areas for  big  and small dogs. The park provides dog showers, a dog beach and fresh drinking water.

6. Carmel City Beach (Carmel, Calif.)  is breathtakingly beautiful beach is perfect for the couple looking to stroll along in the sand with their pet. And after a peaceful walk on the beach, you and your dog can meander up to the charming town of Carmel, where many restaurants and shops are completely dog friendly. Carmel City Beach is ideal for a romantic day that can include your pooch.

7. Jekyll Island (Georgia) is an  eco-friendly getaway with 10 miles of unspoiled white sand beaches.

8. Coronado (San Diego) is a fun beach for pets and owners alike. The sunny beaches around Coronado are also famous for hosting some of the most unique dog competitions in the area. Our favorite is the Loews Coronado Bay Resort surf dog competition in Imperial Beach - the nation's largest surfing competition for pups.  

9. Stewart Beach (Galveston, Tex.) is  well regarded as one of the better family-oriented beaches in Texas. So bring your dog and your youngsters.

10. Montrose Dog Beach (Chicago)   is home to a wonderful dog park where residents  bring their dogs to run in the sun (off-leash) on a stretch of beach.   

Honorable mentions went to St. George Island (Fla.), Hunting Island State Park (Saint Helena (Island, South Carolina), Mission Bay (San Francisco), Jennings Dog Beach (Fairfield, Conn.) and Prospect Park Dog Beach (Brooklyn, N.Y.).

For photos and more details, click here.

Trivial question

Which two states border the most other states? (Answer somewhere below.)

Free pot brownies -- but don't get too excited

To commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Woodstock, Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego will serve free Pot Brownies to  guests checking in Aug. 14-16.  But relax: The brownies, which will be served a la mode, may not exactly be what you are thinking of. They are named for the ceramic pots in which they are baked and not for any "secret" ingredients.

For hotel information, visit www.hardrockhotelsd.com.

Worth quoting

"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance."

                                                                                           --- Bongo Bob

Mozart, Merlot and river rafting in Oregon

On Sept. 16-20 James Henry’s annual Mozart and Merlot and Gourmet California Cuisine Trip is offered on a rafting/kayaking/camping trip along Oregon's Rogue River. Participants can listen to the  melodies of guest violinist Cindy Albers whiledining  on wild salmon, chicken fajitas, pasta primavera, and Lamb Tagine. River sojourners will also sip  the Zinfandels, Chardonnays, and Cabernet Sauvignons of Sonoma County’s Ravenswood Winery. This is also an opportunity to hike or run the  Rogue River trail.  Cost is $975 for adults and youths. The price  includes all on-river meals and wine, services of professional guides, musicians, winemakers, oar, paddle rafts, inflatable kayaks, and transportation from Galice, Ore. and return.

Visit www.riverjourneys.com or call 800-786-1830.

Vancouver, New York hotel prices drop most
According to the the July Hotwire Hotel Rate Report, which charts the top 10 cities in North America where hotel rates have dropped the most, Vancouver and New York City lead the list, meaning there are great bargains out there. Vancouver had a 33% price reduction compared with last year, and New York had a 25% cut. The others on the list and the percent of the drop: Tampa, 24%; Oahau, Hawaii, 24 %; Portland, Ore., 21%; Las Vegas, 20%; San Antonio, 19%; Toronto, 18%; Nashville, 18%; and Miami, 18%.

Fascinating fact

Bhutan is known to its inhabitants as Druk Yul  -- Land of the Thunder Dragon.

Trivial answer

Tennessee and Missouri each border eight states. Tennesee is bordered by  Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and Virginia. Missouri is bordered by Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennesee, Kentucky and Illinois.

Philadelphia region gets set for a busy, bracing autumn

Photo by Peddler's Village

Summer travel is well underway, so let's think about the fall. The Philadelphia area, for example, will welcome autumn with special exhibitions, Halloween haunts and annual events for all ages. Princess Diana, Jim Henson, Henri Matisse and George Washington Carver lead the lineup, which also includes Body Worlds 2 at The Franklin Institute Science Museum, tattoos aplenty at the Independence Seaport Museum, "Terror Behind the Walls" at the Eastern State Penitentiary, and a variety of festivals.

As part of the new With Love, Philadelphia XOXO campaign, visitors who book one of the nearly 100 featured packages on www.gophila.com/withlove will receive a Philadelphia Privileges coupon book, a five-pack of With Love postcards, a With Love pin and Philly Fill-Ins word games, along with brochures, coupons and maps.Visitors can book packages online or by calling the hotels directly. Here are some of the events coming up in the Philadelphia region:

History and Science

Diana: A Celebration, a 10,000-square-foot National Constitution Center exhibition, showcases the life and work of the princess of Wales. Diana’s childhood, her engagement to Prince Charles, her lavish royal wedding, her children and her works as a global humanitarian are all part of the exhibit. Oct. 2-Dec. 31. 525 Arch St., 215-409-6700, www.constitutioncenter.org.

Visitors to The Franklin Institute can uncover the intricacies of human anatomy during Gunther von Hagens’ Body Worlds 2 & The Three Pound Gem. More than 200 specimens, including 20 whole bodies, healthy and unhealthy organs and body sections, provide an unprecedented view inside the human body. And The Three Pound Gem delves into the mysterious world of the brain. October 2009-spring 2010, with exact dates to be announced. 222 N. 20th Street, 215-448-1200, www.fi.edu

Born into slavery, George Washington Carver devoted his life to science, education and humanitarian efforts. Videos, hands-on activities and more than 150 artifacts at The Academy of Natural Sciences guide visitors through Carver's life and work. Nov. 12-Feb. 28. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 215-299-1000, www.ansp.org

The Arts, from Matisse To Kermit

Including about 35 paintings and sculptures, Matisse and Modern Art on the French Riviera at the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s Perelman Building celebrates the French Riviera’s mythic allure for modern artists. Through Oct. 25. Fairmount & Pennsylvania Avenues, 215- 763-8100, www.philamuseum.org

The Independence Seaport Museum presents Skin & Bones – Tattoos in the Life of the American Sailor, a new and original exhibition using historical and contemporary images, objects and tattoos to illustrate sailors’ stories and recount the meaning of their tattoos and the belief in their power to protect sailors at sea. Through Jan. 3. Columbus Boulevard at Walnut Street, 215- 413-8655, www.phillyseaport.org

Jim Henson’s Fantastic World at the James A. Michener Art Museum documents Henson's visual thinking through works of art, photographs, documents, puppets and film and video clips. Sept. 12-Nov. 29. 138 Pine St., Doylestown, 215-340-9800, www.michenermuseum.org

During the 10th annual Philadelphia Open Studio Tours, known as POST to locals, visitors can look into the workshops of local artists across all mediums in neighborhoods throughout the city. Oct. 3-4, 10-11. 215-546-7775, www.philaopenstudios.com

It’s all about me at the First Person Festival of Memoir and Documentary Art, called the only event in the nation dedicated to artistic creation based on real-life experiences. The multidisciplinary festival features performance art, experiential tours, visual art exhibitions, concerts and film screenings at The Painted Bride Art Center. Nov. 4-8. 230 Vine St., 267-402-2055, www.firstpersonarts.org

Halloween All Month

A free family favorite, the 31st annual Scarecrow Festival at Peddler’s Village features scarecrow displays, pumpkin-painting workshops and pie-eating contests. Sept. 12-13. Routes 202 & 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000, www.peddlersvillage.com

Thrill-seekers celebrate the Halloween season at Eastern State Penitentiary with Terror Behind the Walls, a haunted house inside an abandoned prison that once held notorious criminals like Al Capone. Sept.18-Nov. 1. 22nd Street & Fairmount Avenue, 215-236-3300, www.easternstate.org

Miniature ghosts and goblins can wear costumes, trick-or-treat throughout the park, watch Elmo’s Halloween show and take a hayride during The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place. Weekends, Sept. 26-Oct. 31. 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne, 866-GO-4-ELMO, www.sesameplace.com

The area’s crafters display their best scarecrows for Morris Arboretum’s Scarecrow Walk (Oct. 3-18). After picking their favorites, visitors can catch the Great American Lighthouses-themed Garden Railway display (through Oct. 13). 100 E. Northwestern Avenue, 215-247-5777, www.morrisarboretum.org

Laurel Hill Cemetery can be unsettling even when programming doesn’t include happenings like Dead Men Do Tell Tales, the South Jersey Ghost Research presentation of paranormal investigations at Laurel Hill (Oct. 10); Halloween flashlight tours (Oct. 23-24, 30); or Fall Family Day, celebrating costumes and all-things Halloween (Oct. 25). 3822 Ridge Avenue, 215-228-8200, www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org

The revitalized Franklin Square, one of Philadelphia’s original public parks, gets fun in a creepy way in October with Spooky Mini Golf every Saturday and Sunday night, scary storytelling and pumpkin decorating (Oct. 10, 17) and a trick-or-treat trail (Oct. 24, 31). 6th & Race Streets, 215-629-4026, www.historicphiladelphia.org

The Philadelphia Zoo calls all kids to Boo at the Zoo, a masquerade party and trick-or-treating extravaganza. There are also storytelling, face painting, games and music. Oct. 24-25. 3400 W. Girard Avenue, 215- 243-1100, www.philadelphiazoo.org

Annual Festivals

Longwood Gardens’ Autumn’s Colors festival, monster pumpkins, unusual gourds, a garden railway and live entertainment fill the floral sanctuary. Sept. 7-Nov. 22. 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, 610-388-1000, www.longwoodgardens.org

The 27th annual Philadelphia Shell Show and Festival at The Academy of Natural Sciences features treasures of the seas on display and for sale. There will be free shells, naturalist presentations and crafts for youngsters. Oct. 10-11. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 215-299-1000, www.ansp.org

The free and fruity 38th annual Apple Festival at Peddler’s Village honors the healthy treat with old-fashioned country apple butter, apple cider, apple dumplings, apple fritters and caramel-dipped apples. Nov. 7-8. Routes 202 & 263, Lahaska, 215-794-4000, www.peddlersvillage.com

For more information about travel to Philadelphia, visit www.gophila.com or www.uwishunu.com or call 800-537-7676.

Trivial question

Name the U.S. state capitals that have "City" in their names. (Answer somewhere below.)

The healing power of Hawaii

It was an emotional reason that brought Rebecca Lane of Port Orchard, Wash., to Hawaii. "My son, who had cystic fibrosis for thirty years, passed away recently and and it turned my world upside down," she e-mailed me. "I desperately needed to do something to turn it right side up again ... I wanted to take some of his ashes someplace special. I knew it was Hawaii and I didn't want something "touristy." I found this place on line called Wellness With Aloha [on the Big Island] and something just clicked when I talked to them." She spent several days with energy and massage healers and writes, "If there ever was such a thing as Hawaiian Healing, I think this is it. After I got back, people said how I looked like I had found peace. I think I found something authentic on a different level in Hawaii and it helped heal my heart."

Fascinating fact

The Tigris river, which runs through Baghdad,  is about 1,150 miles long. The name "Tigris" comes from Old Persian and translates as "the fast one."

By the sea, in Charleston

The Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina is offerings a Sullivan’s Island Beach Experience package starting at $129 per room, per night, including accommodations, transportation to and from Sullivan's Island, a boxed lunch and beverages for everyone registered in the room, and a cooler, too.

For more information, click here.

Trivial answer

The cities are Salt Lake City, Carson City, Oklahoma City and Jefferson City. Although there is a Kansas City in both Kansas and Missouri, neither is a capital.

I dunno, wasaaap with you?

Some sayings are universal, as shown by this "engraving" spotted in Tanzania.

(Photo by Richard P. Carpenter)

Are hotel loyalty programs worth the trouble?

For some of us, frequent-flier programs are no longer worth the bother. For others, the same can be said of hotel loyalty programs. According to a new survey from hotels.com, those who belong to loyalty programs are finding a number of shortcomings:

 * Ninety-three percent want improvements made to their memberships. 

 * Almost six in ten (59 percent) want fewer restrictions on how they can use their program benefits.

  * More than one-third (37 percent) don’t think the value added bonus is ever really as great as the program wants them to believe.

 * Nearly one-quarter (24 percent) don’t like the fine print that comes with benefits.

* Nearly half (49 percent) didn’t book anything in the last year using their reward travel benefits, such as a hotel stay, a flight or a car rental. 

Now, hotels.com isn't exactly neutral in this matter, since it is promoting its own program, welcomerewards, which it calls "a simple program that offers one free night after every 10 nights booked." But the most enjoyable part of the survey centers on what most people (93 percent) would give up to get a free hotel night:

* 71 percent would give up clothes shopping.

* 65 percent would abstain from chocolate. 

* 31 percent would drop their cell phone. 

* 29 percent would give up watching television.

Or so they say.

Worth quoting

“He who has seen one cathedral ten times has seen something; he who has seen ten cathedrals once has seen but little; and he who has spent half an hour in each of a hundred cathedrals has seen nothing at all.” 

                                                                                                                                      -- Sinclair Lewis

A Family Adventure Retreat in Vermont

In Ludlow, Vt., Okemo Mountain Resort's Family Adventure Retreat, Aug. 14-17,  is designed for families with children  7 and older. It includes three nights of lodging and two full days
of activities with options for children only, adults only, or for the entire family together.  Total cost for the long weekend, including activities, equipment, guides, lunch on Sunday, and lodging, starts at $369.60 per person, for a family of four with two children.

For details, click here.

Fascinating facts

Forty-six percent of the world's water -- about 6 sextillion gallons -- is in the Pacific Ocean. The Atlantic has 23.9 percent; the Indian, 20.3; the Arctic, 3.7 percent.

Telluride ski pass sale starts Aug. 3

The Telluride Ski Resort has announced 2009-2010 season pass pricing, keeping rates the same as last season. However, if four adults purchase season passes together during the annual Pass Sale Aug. 3-Oct. 30, the price drops to 2007 rates. An individual adult season pass will cost $1,198 when purchased during the sale, but the 4Pass will cost $998 per person.

Go to www.tellurideskiresort.com or call 970-728-7517

What's in a name?

Just beyond Hope, Idaho, there is a resort community named Beyond Hope.

Ya gotta love it!

This sign was spotted at a gift shop on Tangier Island, Virginia.

Photo by Richard P. Carpenter

Amazing questions -- and equally amazing answers

Not long ago, we looked at some, er,  dopey questions asked by visitors to Walt Disney World in Florida. Now let's cross the country and look not only at questions asked at Disneyland in California but also the clever (or is it sarcastic?)  answers that employees have been known to give. Information is from the book "Mouse Tales" by David Koenig.

Q. (During a downpour). Is that real rain?

A. It's not real.  Mr. Disney has arranged to have an artificial rainstorm in the park every day at 3.

Q.  Is that actual water in the Submarine Lagoon?

A. No, that's cellophane with blowers underneath.

Q. Are the ducks in the Rivers of America real?

A. No, the birds have to be wound up every morning.

Q. (While staring at a large trash can) What ride is this?

A. It's the Can Ride.

Q. How long is the submarine ride?

A. Two days. (So, the book reports, the couple went back to their hotel, packed their bags and returned with suitcases in hand.)

Discount book may cut the cost of NYC visit

New York CityPass contains tickets to the Empire State Building Observatory, the Museum of Modern Art, Statue of Liberty from Liberty Island or from a Circle Line Cruise, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim Museum. New York CityPass is $79  for adults, a savings of $61 over Individual ticket prices, and $59 for ages 13-17, a $42 savings. Booklets are valid for nine days.

Visit www.citypass.com.

Friday's trivia answer: the Caspian Sea

We asked for the name of the world's largest sea, and it is the Caspian.  The sea,  which some term a lake, has a surface area of 143,244 square miles.

Write an essay and win a $780,000 home

Roscoe, a comical Jack Russell Terrier – and his owners – will be awarding their $780,000, fully furnished North Conway, N.H., resort home to the winner of a creative essay contest, to benefit the Conway Area Humane Society. The 3,100-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath home is in the planned community of Hale’s Location, and abuts the first fairway of the golf course. Hiking and cross-country ski trails can be accessed directly from the community, and Echo Lake Park is a five- minute walk from the house. The entry fee is $50.

For details, visit www.newenglandhomecontest.com.

The most popular attractions in New England

According to the AARP Bulletin, these are the top attractions in the six New England states, along with the annual number of visitors: Maine, L.L. Bean's flagship store, Freeport, 3.5 million; New Hampshire, White Mountain National Forest, 5 million; Vermont, Ben & Jerry's factory, Waterbury, 293,000; Massachusetts, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, 20 million; Connecticut, Hammonasset Beach State Park, 1.9 million; and Rhode Island, Roger Williams Zoo, Providence, 505,409.

Little things mean a lot

When I stayed at the Hampton Inn in Smithfield, R.I., over the weekend, I was delighted to find that the included breakfast buffet had a choice of regular coffee or dark, robust coffee. As I sipped my coffee (the dark, robust kind), I pondered how little things like that can add greatly to a hotel stay.

Fascinating fact

In Japan, tipping is largely viewed as an insult.

Hawaiian resorts that the children will love, too

Photo by Hilton Waikoloa

Hawaiian resort prices are near, or at, all-time lows. But if you're traveling with children, in addition to a good price you will want  activities that let parents rest while knowing their youngsters are well supervised. Here, from Hawaii.com, are resorts that fit that category. Although rates are given, they are constantly changing and new specials are offered daily.

Turtle Bay Resort, Oahu. This resort on the North Shore boasts some of the best surfing in all of Hawaii, as well as the island's only on-site helipad. For teens looking to "catch a wave," group lessons begin at $75. (For safety reasons, children under 13 require private lessons, starting at $95 for one hour.) For future equestrians, The Stables at Turtle Bay offers a 20-minute pony walk for children under age 7. Plus there are  clear-bottom kayaks, allowing them to see the sea life in an unforgettable way. There's also a "buried treasure" hunt and 12 miles of hiking trails to accommodate any age. Prices for an oceanfront king room have been spotted for $237 a night.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, Koloa, Kauai. Youngsters can choose from a variety of complimentary activities available in the lobby atrium each day including lei making, hula lessons or ukulele lessons. Or there's a meandering river pool, a 150-foot waterslide and an active pool for basketball or volleyball. At the saltwater lagoon, they can swim, float or kayak together. Non-water options include an easy hike along a sea cliff with spectacular views; they might see endangered humpback whales, green sea turtles or monk seals. Prices start around $300 a night for a garden-view room.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Honolulu. This resort has a  Keiki Club (keiki is the Hawaiian word for child) for ages 5-12.  Among activities are reef walking, snorkeling, bamboo pole fishing, lei making, hula dancing, crabbing and cavorting with dolphins. Possible rates are $395 a night for a scenic view room.

 

Hilton Waikoloa Village, Kohala Coast, Big Island. The Dolphin Quest, where you meet and swim with the lovable creatures,  is a hit with children and parents, and there are classes in hula and making flower, ti leaf or shell-and-bead leis. Also,  Waikoloa Family Golf Days take place every day after 3 p.m. through July 31. Families can inexpensively play nine holes. Hawaii.com has seen prices starting at $199 and calls it one of the best island deals for a major resort.

Hyatt Regency Maui, Lahaina, Maui. Camp Hyatt Ka'anapali gives cameras to children of all ages, and their favorite picture will be turned into a photo T-shirt. Youngsters can also play tennis, try "coconut bowling," fish and explore Maui's wildlife and volcanoes. By night, children can learn about the Hawaiian  sky with the Tour of the Stars astronomy program. Rates have been spotted at $240 a night.

 

Prince hotels on Maui, Oahu and the Big Island.  You can request a private nanny for about $18 per hour or have your children participate in the Prince Keiki Club. Half-day and full-day programs are available, with many fun activities. Counselors are certified. Rates usually begin at $415 a night, but currently there is a special rate beginning at $269, with the possibility of a fourth night free.

For more information or to book, visit www.hawaii.com.

Busted guitar can't stop this fellow's music 

Dave Carroll's You Tube video for the song "United Breaks Guitars" has gone viral, receiving more than 600,000 hits as of yesterday. To view the saga of a guitar that Carroll says was broken by United Airlines, click here.

Last-minute specials on Nantucket

Summer rates on the Massachusetts island of Nantucket can seldom be considered inexpensive, but you will pay less with these last-minute specials: The Cottages & Lofts at the Boat Basin, July 12-16, starting at $350 a night.  The Wauwinet, July 12-16 and July 21-22, $395. And the White Elephant, July 11-15, $395.

Fascinating fact

The lowest recorded temperature, minus 129 degrees Fahrenheit, occurred in Antarctica in 1989.

$129 summer rate at some Kimpton hotels

Through Sept. 7, Kimpton Hotels has a Sunday-Thursday online rate of $129-$179 a night, along with your choice of a $30 dining credit or free parking.

Click here.

Worth quoting 

"A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike. ... We do not take a trip; a trip takes us."

                                                                                                                         -- John Steinbeck

Trivial question

What is the world's largest sea? Answer Monday.

 

Where your money goes further in Europe

There's something decidedly medieval about Carcassonne.

Europe isn't always inexpensive for the traveler, but there are places where you can stretch those newly acquired euros -- places that are sometimes offbeat but always enjoyable. The European Travel Commission suggests these destinations for a late-summer or off-season getaway:

* Medieval marvel. The walled city of Carcassonne, France,  still dazzles with its fairy tale splendor. The largest fortress in Europe now attracts families , not invaders. Entrance is free, and youngsters can imagine carrying out their own feats of knightly derring-do. The Museum of Fine Arts is also free, with French and Dutch paintings spanning the 17th-19th centuries. Visit www.franceguide.com.

* Musical Manchester. With one of Europe’s largest university campuses, Manchester, England,  is young, edgy, creative, musical,  and easy on the wallet. Lower-priced  hotels and hostels abound and transport is free on the hop-on/hop-off Metroshuttle bus. There are nightclubs, bars, culture, shopping and the legendary music scene.  The Manchester International Festival is going on now, and free festivals and events fill the calendar year round. Check it out at www.visitmanchester.com.

* Filled with flowers. The floral capital of Europe, home to Northern Europe’s greatest portrait painter and ancestral seat of the first settlers of Manhattan, Haarlem in the Netherlands  charms with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, churches, museums and antique shops and grand mansions.  St. Bavo Protestant Church  boasts an 18th-century organ that was played by Mendelssohn, Schubert, Liszt, Handel and Mozart. The St. Bavo Catholic Cathedral has an acclaimed choir and a pipe organ, with free recitals in summer.  Go to www.holland.com.

* Walled wonder. One of only three cities with complete walking walls, Lucca, in Italy's Tuscany region,  has had walls since Roman times and is still encircled by its medieval ramparts, for three miles surrounding the car-free old city. The tree-lined top is paved for easy walking and biking. One highlight is the Guinigi Tower, the 15th-century seat of Lucca’s leading family, easily spotted by  the oak trees growing out of the top ...  and into the room below. It’s 230 steps to the top for spectacular views in all directions.  Click on www.italiantourism.com.

* Gaudi, not gaudy. In Barcelona, budget travelers can  bunk down in hostels, pensions
or small hotels, and take advantage of all the free and inexpensive attractions of this Catalonia capital, beginning with Park Guell, Antoni Gaudi’s mosaic fantasyland with 84 stone columns and a tiled, sinuously carved bench overlooking the city. At ground level, La Rambla is one of the world’s great boulevards with people-watching galore. The Gothic Quarter’s meandering byways are free to visit, and the Barcelona Cathedral is filled with medieval splendor. City museums, such as the Picasso Museum, are free on the first Sunday of the month. Visit www.spain.info.

* Summer in Slovenia. Kranjska-Gora, near the borders of Italy and Austria, is Slovenia’s leading ski area and the site of the Alpine World Cup. Nestled in the Zgornjesavska Valley amid
the towering peaks of the Julian Alps, laced with alpine lakes and fast-running rivers, it is beautiful in summer as much as in winter. Prices are far lower than at other mountain resorts, too. In addition to hotels,  accommodations runs from tourist farms to Alpine hostels and wellness resorts. Activities include a summer toboggan run, hiking for all levels, cycling, golf, rafting, canyoning and fishing. Go to www.kranjska-gora.si.

* Viking voyage. For about $600, you can sail ancient Viking routes amid the archipelagos, shallow channels and hilltop forts from Västervik, Sweden, to Stockholm or vice versa. With five nights on
board, you’ll learn about  he Viking era and experience shipboard duties including steering, cooking, cleaning, setting sails and navigating. The journey is just  one of many ecotourism tours endorsed by the ecologically-minded Nature’s Best. Visit www.naturensbasta.se.

Fascinating fact

St. Paul, Minn., was originally called Pig's Eye, after Pierre "Pig's Eye" Parrant, a tavern keeper tavern there. But Father Lucien Galtier, the first Catholic pastor of the region,  put a stop to that and gave the settlement its current name.

Still time to snag some really low airfares

You have to act quickly and there are conditions, but three airlines are offering fares starting at $30, one way.  Southwest, Air Tran and Frontier have the offers.

For details, go to www.southwest.com, www.airtran.com and www.frontierairlines.com.

Wednesday's trivia answer: It's Monaco

The most densely populated nation on earth is Monaco, which is a mere .75 square miles and has a population density of 43,780 people per square mile. But if you exclude microstates, then Bangladesh, with 2,200 people per square mile, wins, according to about.com. Macau, which is a region and not a nation, has a density of 48,450. And we know we will get an argument about these statistics.

Not so fast on Four Corners location  

The other day we cited reports that the famous Four Corners marker, where people go to  stand in four states at once, is 2 1/2 miles from the actual junction. But those reports are erroneous, writes Dave Doyle, chief geodetic surveyor for the National Geodetic Survey. For his organization's complete response, click here.

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Blueberry pedicure comes with Maine deal

Through Labor Day, The Cliff House Resort & Spa in Ogunquit, Maine, is offering one free Maine Blueberry Pedicure per room with any three- or four-night package. Those  packages  include Seaside Shopper (a girlfriend getaway), Spa & Golf Combo  and Celebration (recommended for romantic retreats, special occasions like reunions and anniversaries or just a long weekend .) Prices vary. As for the blueberry bonus, which normally costs $70, it is a 50-minute pedicure said to combine the antioxidant benefits of blueberries with the moisturizing properties of a Blueberry Smoothie Mask. 

Visit www.cliffhousemaine.com or call 207-361-1000.

Let's hear it for this flying fellow!

Kudos to Mark Malkoff, 33, who broke a Guinness World Record with 135 flight segments within a month. (The previous record was 128.) We hope he sat back, relaxed and enjoyed his flights, but we wonder about the "enjoy" part.

To learn all about his adventure, click here.

Meet Costa Rica, the happiest nation in the world

Travelers embrace Costa Rica's beaches and the greenery in its scenery.

This weekend's announcement declaring Costa Rica the happiest place on earth may have surprised many people. Ah, but there are other ways to measure happiness than the amount of bills stuffed into your wallet. The Happy Planet Index looked at three principal areas: a life expectancy,  citizens' satisfaction with their lives,  and a country's ecological footprint. While pondering all that, let us take a closer look at that pretty and peaceful Central American country.

* Costa Rica means "Rich Coast."  Good thing, because the country has 800 miles of coastline.

* Their McDonald's restaurants have home delivery.

* While violence, political and otherwise,  is not unknown in other Central American countries, Costa Rica has a stable democracy. More than that, it was the first country in the world to abolish its army.  

*Instead of referring to their wives as "my better half," men say (in Spanish) that their wives are "the better half of my orange."

* Costa Ricans refer to themselves as  Ticos  (males) or  Ticas  (females). 

* Life expectancy among its 4 1/2 million people is about 77 1/2 years. (The U.S. figure is 78.1.) The literacy rate exceeds 96 percent.

* The diversity of its wildlife is breathtaking. There are about 52 species of hummingbirds, four   species of monkeys, and four kinds of toucans. There are about 34,000 species of insects, not all of whom contribute to the happiness factor.

*Instead of saying, "She gave birth," Costa Ricans often say, "She gave light." 

* There are more than 120 volcanic formations.

* Speed bumps are referred to as "dead persons."

* More than one-fourth of the country's land is in national parks or other protected areas.

The Happy Planet Index report was  published by the New Economics Foundation, which studied 143 countries before placing Costa Rica at the top. And the United States? It came in 114th. 

For Costa Rica tourism information, click here.

Hurry, hurry: Crystal Cruises plans a 3-day sale

On  July 8, 9 and 10,  Crystal Cruises is offering 25 percent  additional savings on five already discounted itineraries this fall and winter. The extra  savings,  from $885 to $2,000 per person, apply to all deluxe outside and veranda category staterooms on its Sept. 26 Mediterranean cruise, a November itinerary from New York to Bermuda and the Caribbean, a Nov. 12 trans-Atlantic voyage, a Dec. 5 South American and the Amazon journey and a Dec. 10 Panama Canal transit. With the savings, and depending upon the cruise, prices will start at $2,300-$4,050 a person. Also, Crystal's  "All Inclusive -- As You Wish" program provides an additional $500-1,000 per person in  shipboard spending credits.  

The website is www.crystalcruises.com.

Trivial question

What is the world's most densely populated country? Answer Wednesday.

Kansas vacations at $30 per person per day

AAA has rated Kansas among the top five least expensive states to visit, and this summer vacation plans start at less than $30 per person per day, including lodging. Among the adventurous offerings, based around dinosaurs and other fabulous fossils; a quirky itinerary that will take you to such sights as the home of the world’s largest ball of twine; nature-based traveling; and a cowboys-and-cattletowns itinerary.

Visit www.travelks.com or call 785-296-2009.

Worth quoting

"He that is a traveler must have the back of an ass to bear all, a tongue like the tail of a dog to flatter all, the mouth of a hog to eat all that is set before him, the ear of a merchant to hear all and say nothing."

-- Thomas Nashe (1567-1601), English playwright

A hotel's reading choices for the digital age

EPIC, a new and upscale boutique waterfront hotel in Miami,  is going to give guests their choice of ways to read books, including  best-sellers and new releases.The EPIC Page Turner guest reading program will provide complimentary books, access to Sony Reader Digital Books, and an online choice where guests can access book excerpts from the  in-room desktop computer.  Author visits and signing events held during EPIC’s complimentary evening wine hour are also planned.

For more information, click here or call 866-760-3742. 

Were you standing where you thought you were?

Thousands upon thousands of people have had their pictures taken standing at the Four Corners Marker, where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah were said to meet. But in case you missed the news reports, the National Geodetic Survey found that the actual spot where you can  stand simultaneously in the four states is about 2 1/2 miles west of the marker. Update: The National Geodetic Survey says those reports were erroneous. See July 8 entry.

When it comes to hotel rooms, it pays to haggle

A new survey by Consumer Reports says that of people who tried to negotiate for a lower hotel rate, 83 percent were successful.

Rainy days don't get New Hampshire down

This picture from the McAuliffe–Shepard Discovery Center seems appropriate for the Fourth of July weekend. Happy Independence Day!

It's been a rainy, misty, dreary month in New England, but that doesn't mean there's nothing to do but rust. Consider the possibilities, indoors and out,  in New Hampshire alone:

* In Manchester, the Currier Museum of Art has reopened with  a 33,000-square-foot addition, a glass-enclosed restaurant, new music and art programs for the public and a new performance space to house world-class collections. Check the museum out at www.currier.org.

* The Waterville Valley resort area has a huge indoor athletic club and an indoor ice rink. Family activities and free "chalk talks" are offered every weekend at the town's Curious George Cottage  Waterville's town square is lined with shops and restaurants, with a  covered walkway in this pedestrian-only zone. Go to www.visitwatervillevalley.com.

* Mount Washington Cruises operates  three enclosed and climate-controlled tour boats

that offer day, evening and charter cruises on Lake Winnipesaukee. Visitors can even take a cruise on the  U.S. Mail delivery boat, the M/V Sophie C.  Visit www.cruisenh.com.

* Rainy or not, you can journey to the stars at the new McAuliffe–Shepard Discovery Center in Concord. Youngsters can take part in rocket-making workshops, help land a space

shuttle or watch the shows in the high-tech planetarium theater. Visit www.starhop.com.

* The Conway Scenic Railroad in Conway or the Hobo Railway in Lincoln can provide an indoor view of  mountainous scenery the old-fashioned way. Another rail option is to chug up Mount Washington on the Cog Railway, an authentic coal-fired steam train based in Bretton Woods. Chug on over to www.mountwashington.org.

* An indoor-outdoor experience can be found at the Polar Caves in Plymouth, which offers explorations through tunnels and rocks. Click here. 

* For more ideas, and deals too, click here.

Worth quoting

"They seem to enjoy life a little bit more. They aren't running around as much as in New York. They enjoy time with the family. They don't always have their BlackBerries on." -- Gwyneth Paltrow, telling the Associated Press how a visit to Spain at age 15 changed her outlook and her life.

One way to beat those checked-baggage fees

Eight hotels and inns on Amelia Island in northeast Florida have relaunched a Pack Your Bags for Amelia Island program, offering air travelers up to an $80 room credit for checked baggage fees.  The program is valid through Dec. 31 on stays of three or more nights.

For details, click here.

How's that again?

T-shirt spotted in Tokyo's Shibuya district: "It's so easy to it curiosity what wonderful relaxing?"

A luxe Boston hotel welcomes canines

Boston's upscale XV Beacon Hotel now welcomes dogs as well as guests.  Selected furnished rooms  on the designated canine floor provide a doggie bed and bowl of fresh water.   Furry guests also get turn-down service and fresh baked dog biscuits . The hotel concierge will arrange dog walking, pet sitting, grooming and spa and veterinarian services. The hotel will donate all of its $25 pet fee to   MSPCA-Angell,  a nonprofit organization whose services include veterinary care, animal protection and adoption, advocacy, humane education and law enforcement.

Call 617-670-1500 or visit www.xvbeacon.com.

Trivia answer: The spider is in Ottawa

The answer to Wednesday's "Where are you?" question shown below  is Ottawa, at the plaza of the National Gallery of Canada. Mamanis,  a 30-foot bronze  spider sculpture  by Louise Bourgeois, weighs 18,000 pounds and carries a sac of 20 pure white marble eggs under her belly. 

Where are you?

Today's trivia question is pictorial. Simply identify the city where you will find this scene. (Clue: The country it is located in is mentioned below.) Answer Friday.

Happy Canada Day! Here are some fun facts

Today is Canada Day. Why? Because on July 1, 1867, the British North America Act  united Canada as a single country of four provinces. Here are some more facts (some of them arguable, I suppose) about the second largest country in the world.

* Canada has  6,195,692.16 square miles of land, second only to Russia with 6,592,800 square miles. 

* Canadians are said to consume more macaroni and cheese than any other nation.
 
* With only three people per square kilometer, Canada has the fourth-lowest population density in the world.
 
* The world's smallest jail is believed to be in Rodney, Ontario. It is about 270 square feet.
 
 *Canada claims  many great inventions, including basketball, the electric light bulb, the electric range, the electron microscope, standard time,  television, the telephone, the baseball glove and the zipper. 

*There have been no Saturday deliveries of regular mail in the country since 1969.

A night's hotel stay in Taiwan for just $1

Every year, 2 million travelers make a transfer in Taiwan while en route to  Southeast Asia, India or Australia. With a new tourism bureau promotion, they can add a night's stay at one of eight participating hotels for $1 or 1 euro.  In addition to  discounting fares, China Airlines and EVA Airways will absorb the  stopover fee.  If you need to stop for more than a night, those hotels will discount the additional time. 

To book, click here and go to the list of travel agencies.

Fascinating fact

Maine is the only state in the United States whose name has one syllable.

Fine furniture festival coming up in Vermont

Frank Lloyd-Wright, Shaker, American modern and kitchen contemporary are among many furniture pieces handcrafted that will be displayed Sept. 26-27 during the sixth annual Vermont Fine Furniture & Woodworking Festival in Woodstock, Vt. Last year's event drew over 2,500 patrons who made off-the-floor purchases and orders for home furnishings valued at up to $12,000.

For more information, click here.

Get ready to groan -- here comes a travel joke

Two tourists stopped for lunch in the town of Oconomowoc, Wis., and immediately began arguing about how to pronounce the town's name. Finally, as they stood at the counter, one of them asked the  employee. "Could you please settle an argument for us? Would you please pronounce where we are ...  very, very slowly?

The employee leaned over the counter and said, Burrrrrr, gerrrrrr, Kiiiing."

An inn package especially for 'Twilight' fans

The Inn at Rooster Hill, a French Country Inn on 2-1/2  acres in Port Angeles, Wash., has a Twilight Book Tour offer starting at $368, The package includes a self-guided “Twilight” tour map of  area sites featured in the phenomenally selling book series, a $50 gift certificate to Bella Italia (where Edward and Bella shared their first date), a Twilight t-shirt, overnight accommodations and country breakfast.

Click here.

In N.H., a lakefront cottage for you and your pet 

A lakefront cottage compound called Anchorage at the Lake in Tilton, N.H.,  is offering a 20 percent discount on all two-bedroom cabins if you pay in advance by credit card and stay three or more nights. Anchorage at the Lake will also welcome pets for  $20 per animal per day in designated pet-friendly accommodations. Lodging options include studio cabins for two,  one-bedroom cabins for four or five, two-bedroom cabins for six to eight, an apartment for up to 10 and two large summer homes for up to 16.  Rates are from $89 to $199 nightly, with discounts     for multiple-night and weekly stays. 

Visit www.anchorageatthelake.com or call 800-943-6093.

Beautiful bugs in Beijing

We began today's postings with a buggy photo, so let us end with one. In Beijing, he Opposite House has partnered with F2 Gallery to exhibit work from the insect series by artist Feng Shu in the hotel's atrium, July 2-Sept. 27. Pieces on display  include a larger than "insect" life praying mantis, mosquito, beetle, scorpion, dragonfly, bee and spider.

Visit www.theoppositehouse.com and www.f2gallery.com.