Destination Bahamas

The Bahamas' 700 islands promise something for everyone—from the vibrant streets of Freeport to the glistening sands of countless tropical beaches.The Bahamas, 700 islands and 2,400 cays, dot the Atlantic Ocean from Florida almost to Haiti. Only 30 of the islands are inhabited. When Christopher Columbus first set foot in the New World on San Salvador in 1492, the Arawak Indians were the only inhabitants there. Today, about 85 percent of Bahamians are of African heritage. New Providence, one of the smallest of the major islands, is home to almost 70 percent of the population. The Bahamas takes in more than three billion dollars annually from nearly four million tourists. International banking and investment management augment the economy, with more than 400 banking institutions from 36 countries.

Freeport is a city in the Bahamas located on Grand Bahama Island. Freeport Grand Bahamas operates as a free trade zone, and businesses in the area pay no taxes. This, combined with the efforts of entrepreneurs has made Freeport Grand Bahamas the second most popular tourist destination in the Bahamas after Nassau. A major casino and a multitude of popular outdoor attractions add to the allure of Freeport Grand Bahamas.

The Abaco Islands in the Bahamas are a group of islands located in the northern section of the Bahamas. The two main Abaco Islands, Great Abaco Bahamas and Little Abaco Bahamas, are where tourists will find the most popular attractions. The Abaco Islands have become a popular destination due to the great sailing and fishing available in the area, and travelers generally come looking to avoid the mega resorts found on Paradise Island or in Nassau.

Andros Island Bahamas is the largest island in the Bahamas and the closest island to the Florida coastline. Andros Island is famously the last island in the Bahamas that is still largely unexplored, undeveloped, and uninhabited. Flamingos migrate here every year, and a host of incredible tropical wildlife covers the island. Tourists who want to see animals in their natural habitat should come to Andros Island Bahamas, as should fishing and scuba diving enthusiasts.

Located about 50 miles off the coast of Florida are the Grand Bahama Islands. The Grand Bahama Islands feature gorgeous white sand beaches and the popular tourist towns of Freeport and Lucaya. Tourists staying in the Grand Bahama Islands will have golfing, dolphin swims, boating, diving, eco-tours and more to choose from when planning their vacation. The Grand Bahamas are the second most popular tourist destination in the Bahamas (after Nassau), and thanks to its growing popularity looks to retain that popularity.

Harbour Island Bahamas is located off the northeast coast of Eleuthera Island. The largest city in Harbour Island Bahamas is Dunmore Town, and the island still maintains much of the old time charm of the Bahamas that has been obscured by resorts and casinos on larger islands like Paradise or New Providence. That isn’t to say, however, that Harbour Islands Bahamas doesn’t have some excellent resorts of its own. The island also features the famous three mile stretch of pink sand beach, which is the perfect place for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.

Long Island Bahamas is located in the southeastern section of the Bahamas and is bisected by the Tropic of Cancer. The island is about 60 miles long and 4 miles wide, and a main road runs along the length of the island. Once called “Fernandina” by Christopher Columbus on his first voyage to the New World, the name changed to Long Island Bahamas in later years. Long Island Bahamas is best known for its excellent fishing opportunities.

Nassau is the largest city in the Bahamas and the capital city. Nassau vacations and Nassau spring break parties have in recent years become increasingly popular. In addition to the many Nassau Bahamas attractions there are many hotels and beautiful beaches that beckon travelers. From nightclubbing to snorkeling, Dolphin Encounters to Nassau spring break parties, the island of New Providence and the city of Nassau are a great choice for any vacation.

Paradise Island is currently the most expensive place to stay in the Bahamas. The small island was not always so glamorous, however. Paradise Island in the Bahamas was once known as Hog Island and was a major site for farming in the Bahamas. Paradise Island in the Bahamas is situated near New Providence, and the two islands are connected by a bridge between Paradise Island and Nassau Harbor.

Some scholars believe that San Salvador Bahamas was the first stop for Columbus in 1492, thought others dispute it. Either way, San Salvador Bahamas has a number of attractions for tourists looking to escape the modern world and sink into the soft white sands of a quiet Bahamas island. San Salvador Bahamas is one of the eastern-most islands in the Bahamas, located near Long Island and Rum Cay.

Treasure Cay Bahamas is located on the eastern side of Abaco Island. This Out Island paradise is becoming more popular with time, and the area continues to grow. An enormous resort is currently located in Treasure Cay Bahamas as has become a city center of sorts for the area. Treasure Cay is also home to one of the best marinas in the Bahamas, as well as 3½ miles of what some consider to be among the top beaches in the Bahamas. Although Treasure Cay Abaco is becoming trendier, there are still deals to found for visitors and prices will almost always be lower than on Paradise or in Nassau.

Destination Florida

Everyone is familiar with Florida's top vacation destination Disney World. However, there are several other destinations that draw millions of visitors to the Sunshine State each year.If you're looking for a can't-miss place to go on vacation, you should consider one of these tried-and-true Florida vacation destinations.

1. Disney World

Who can resist the fairy tale? Not many. Disney World is Florida's most popular vacation destination. Why shouldn't it be? Where else can you vacation at a magical and happy place? Where else can you exchange your simple life for a few magical days of castles, princesses and characters taken out of story books and your favorite Disney movies?Unfortunately, Disney World can easily be the most expensive vacation you'll ever take too, but it doesn't have to be. Disney provides hotel resort accommodations for every budget — including value, moderate and deluxe — as well as a wide range of ticket choices.

2.Orlando

There is more to Orlando than just Disney World. Universal Orlando is a popular destination resort with its own hotels and theme parks. Nearby, SeaWorld Orlando anchors the popular International Drive area that plays host to over 100 hotels and 150 spectacular restaurants.The fun in Orlando doesn't stop there. Plenty of options abound for both the budget minded traveler as well as the discriminating vacationer.Additional resort opportunities, golf, themed and dinner theater experiences and plenty more attractions are conveniently located within a few miles of the major theme parks.

3.St. Augustine

Whether you're looking for romance or a family destination, you'll find in St. Augustine what you are seeking. Its Old-World charm, historical monuments, unique attractions, world-class shopping, and beaches just minutes away make it an ideal vacation destination for couples and families alike.

More Info

4.The Keys

Although they are becoming increasingly touristy, Florida's Keys still draw over a million visitors a year. This string of islands bound together by the Overseas Highway have become a diving and sport fishing mecca. Each island has its own ambience – from Key Largo's suburbia, that serves as a bedroom community to Homestead and Miami, to Key West's Old Town that oozes with peculiar Key West charm that has made the town famous.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a wealth of things to do and see – world-class snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and camping. Others will enjoy the history and endless entertainment.

5.Amelia Island

Florida's northernmost barrier island, Amelia Island, boasts 26 square miles of rich history and natural beauty. Whether you're looking for all-inclusive resorts or a quaint oceanfront cottage, a sea-side villa or an ocean-view hotel... you'll find all that and more - dining, shopping, golf and tennis.

Although the all-inclusive resorts can be a bit pricey, there are alternative accommodations for the budget-minded — from camping at area state parks to affordable hotels. While this may mean you might not enjoy oceanfront views, there is plenty of public beach access for a sand-sational vacation.

6.Miami

While the mention of Miami may conjure up visions of a tropical paradise — beaches, palm trees and ocean surf — it is also one of the world's centers of commerce, fashion and entertainment. Greater Miami offers visitors the cutting edge of urban chic. Miami has evolved into an international destination and the world's most famous fun-in-the-sun playground. Visitors are lured to the area year round with perfect weather, award-winning beaches and a celebrity-driven, sizzling nightlife scene that grooves to an only-in-Miami beat.

7.Daytona Beach

Twenty-three miles of sparkling white sandy beaches and beautiful blue-green waters make Daytona Beach an irresistible playground for kids of all ages. This popular family vacation spot pretty much makes child's play out of having fun.

If you and your family can manage to tear yourselves away from the beach, you'll discover the Daytona Beach area is full of fun activities and attractions.

8.Panama City Beach

The hub of what's often called the Redneck Riviera, Panama City Beach is not just a spring break hot spot, but a top beach destination for families. Rated the #1 beach in 1995 by world-renowned geologist, Dr. Stephen Leatherman (Dr. Beach), Panama City has over 27 miles of beach, emerald green waters and sugary white sands along the Gulf of Mexico.

9.Ft. Myers/Sanibel Island

While Fort Myers and Sanibel Island were hard hit in 2004 by Hurricane Charley, they seem to be well on their way to a full recovery. The area is known for its nice beaches and great shelling, but also holds a few surprises — the J.N. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge and some unique shopping and dining experiences among them.

10.Tampa/St. Pete/Clearwater

This tri-city area, better known as Tampa Bay, is a favorite among those that prefer the white sand and gentle surf of the Gulf of Mexico. While Clearwater Beach is seemingly in transition — losing many of its quaint mom-and-pop motels to the queenliness of condo towers — it still boasts one of the best beaches in the area.St. Petersburg not only offers a great beach, but a downtown waterfront wonderland featuring The Pier.While Tampa can't brag about its beach, it has a busy cruise port and attractions like Busch Gardens and The Florida Aquarium, as well as Raymond James Stadium, home to the Tampa Bay Bucs.

The colors of Hawaii

The colors of Hawaii reflect a sense of place found no where else. This autumn, hike through a tropical rainforest, bike down a volcano, swim with the dolphins, and immerse yourself in a world of constantly changing color.

KAUAI – How can so much beauty be found in just one place? From the soaring cliffs of the Napali Coast to the vast chasms of Waimea Canyon, Kauai enchants the senses like no other island. Plunging ravines. Cascading waterfalls. Unforgettable cliffs, canyons, beaches, and bays. "The Island of Discovery," begs to be discovered.


OAHU – The timeless, natural radiance of the islands meets the modern luxuries of today, on Oahu. Hike down a lush mountainside, just minutes away from a soaring cityscape. Feast at a luau under the stars one night, dine at a five-star restaurant another. Sun-bathe all day on the North Shore then dance all night in Waikiki. Theres no shortage of things to do on Oahu.

HAWAII'S BIG ISLAND – It isn't just big, it's still growing. Famous for the active Kilauea volcano, Hawaii's Big Island is home to a list of fascinating anomalies. Eleven different climate zones generate everything from lush rain forests to arid deserts, black sand beaches to snow-capped mountaintops. The Big Island is Hawaii's biggest playground.

MAUI – Drive above the clouds. Watch a humpback whale breach the sea. Tee off at a championship golf course. Voted "Best Pacific Island," by readers of Conde Naste Traveler, Maui does not disappoint. From the summit of Haleakala Crater to the shore of Big Beach in Makena, Maui has a breadth of exhilarating outdoor sights, activities, and entertainment for every visitor.

Top 9 Golf Vacation Resorts to Love

If one or both of you golf, you probably want to take your next vacation -- even if it's your honeymoon -- at a resort with a superior golf course and golf facilities plus other amenities.

At the following golf resorts both players and non-players can expect to have an exceptional vacation. The majority offer golf vacation packages, and some also feature romance packages. So if you one of you wants tee times and the other loves dinner by candlelight, you can choose a place that offers both.

1. The American Club, Wisconsin

The Midwest's only AAA Five-Diamond resort hotel, the American Club is located in Kohler, named the top golf resort destination in the United States by readers of Golf Magazine. Golf course designer Pete Dye created two championship courses at both Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits. For non-golfers, a vacation at the American Club can include shopping for antiques, visiting the innovative Kohler Design Center, spa treatments, hiking, and canoeing. The resort also hosts weddings.

2.Greenbrier Resort, West Virginia

Three 18-hole championship courses and the Golf Digest Academy, which offers advanced instruction, attract golf aficionados to White Sulphur Springs. Non-golfers can swim in indoor and outdoor pools, depending on the weather, use the fitness center, and play tennis. They can also tour the bunker, secretly designed to harbor members of Congress during the Cold War. Additional recreation choices include whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and romantic carriage and balloon rides.

3.Williamsburg Inn, Virginia

Golf course designer Robert Trent Jones Sr. called the Golden Horseshoe's Gold Course his finest design, and many leading golf publications concur. Yet there's so much to do and see on a Williamsburg vacation that the allure of the links may fade. Travel back in history as you walk the streets, attend a town hall meeting at the brink of the American Revolution, stroll among the gardens, and dine on authentic 17th-century cuisine in the historic center or sophisticated fare at the elegant Inn.

4.Sea Pines Resort, South Carolina

Twelve-mile-long Hilton Head Island holds an astonishing 22 golf courses, including three at 5,200-acre Sea Pines Resort. When you're not playing golf, there's boating, biking, fishing, horseback riding, kayaking, birdwatching, parasailing, and swimming to keep you active on your vacation.

5.The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples, Florida

Ritz-Carlton boasts two award-winning hotels in Naples. This one, where golf is the focus, was named no. 1 hotel in Florida on Condé Nast Traveler's Gold List. It contains the Tiburon Golf Club with two 18-hole courses designed by Greg Norman and the Rick Smith Golf Academy. Guests have access to The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, also a Mobil Five-Star property, located just three miles away on the Gulf of Mexico. Non-golfers can use the pristine beach, fitness, and spa facilities.

6. Mauna Lani Resort, Hawaii

Rated the no. 1 golf resort on the Big Island by Condé Nast Traveler, Mauna Lani has two extraordinary golf courses carved out ot black lava fields that overlook the sparkling Pacific. At this ultra-luxury resort, you can unwind in a canopied chaise for two on the immaculate beach, experience an open-air sauna as part of the extensive spa, and dine at Canoe House, named the best restaurant on the island. While on the island, don't miss touring still-simmering Volcanoes National Park.

7. Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, Arizona

No mention of great American golf resorts is complete without acknowledging the world-class resort golf courses of Arizona. From the Phoenician Hotel to the Boulders Resort to the Four Seasons, it just doesn't get much better. So take your pick, and rest assured that the non-golfer in your relationship with find that the spas, shops, swimming, tennis, restaurants, and weather on your golf vacation fit him or her to a tee.

8. Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, California

Northwest of Santa Barbara, the Alisal has been welcoming guests since 1946. Two 18-hole championship courses satisfy those who come to golf on either the private and secluded Ranch Course or the scenic and popular River Course. Set on a 10,000-acre working cattle ranch, the Alisal is also favored by horseback riders, who can choose from 100 steeds. If you like, the management will give you directions to a private spot overlooking the lake and a gourmet picnic basket to fortify you.

9.Turning Stone Casino Resort

In the midst of central New York's rolling farmland lies Turning Stone Casino Resort, an ever-expanding complex that features five golf courses. Among the designers: Tom Fazio, Rick Smith, and Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Non-golfing partners can gamble, swim, use the spa, or visit local attractions (including a huge mall).

Ultimate Golf Vacations

The sport of golf is enjoying a renaissance, and just about any first-class resort nowadays features a decent golf course. Below are a few Ultimate Golf Vacations where a duffer can enjoy a swinging golf vacation.

Florida: Turnberry Isle Resort and Club

Located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Turnberry Isle Resort and Club features two Robert Trent Jones Sr. courses with contoured fairways and deceitfully tranquil hazards and traps. Its famous Island Green on the 18th hole of the South Course pits man against nature.

West Virginia: The Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall

Opened August 2000 in the island's historic plantation area and close to Montego Bay International Airport, The Ritz-Carlton's 200-acre White Witch 18-hole championship golf course is five minutes from the resort. Sixteen of 18 holes overlook the sea, for one of the more thrilling golf vacations.

Scotland: The Old Course Hotel Resort

Send a traditional Dad to the birthplace of the sport: The Old Course Hotel Resort is adjacent to St. Andrews, the world's most famous golf course, and stands amid the largest golf complex in Europe.

What to do in Europe

Accessible Europe
Tours, cruises, and rental accessible rental properties thoughout Europe.

Accessible Italy
Custom Italy tours and services for individuals with disabilities.

Accessible Rotterdam - Netherlands
Find our the accessibility of Rotterdam buildings for disabled people. Also sections on transportation access and wheelchair rental.

Disability Now
Activist group; all sorts of stuff on the website including information on travel--in some cases about travel with a zing few will forget, like the story "rally cool" about ParaRallying at Blyton Park, near Gainsborough, Lincolnshire. Race a car at speed on loose gravel without a hand to put on the wheel? No problem.

Disabled Travel Guide - West Jutland, Denmark
West Jutland, the western part of Denmark "jutting" into the sea, has made a huge effort to accommodate dissabled travelers, even going so far as to send teams called "usergroups" out to test the facilities of local establishments.

Eurail Disabled Travel
Eurail and BritRail accessibility options and door widths, as well as contact info for tourism boards.

Freewheeling
Self guided trip suggestions with links to accessible resources within each city or festival. Some small airport info as well.

iBOT™ Mobility System
Wheelchair access in Europe is spotty at best. Here's a new weelchair that claims to allow a user to climb stairs and reach high shelves.

Paris Accessible Resources - iCan Online
Paris hotels offering wheelchair access, with commentary about the extent of the access.

Travel for Handicapped
Links to accessible travel information from around the world.
Natural hot springs are a major attraction in Europe. Spas bring the mineral spring water inside, for a more formal spa experience. Find resources for a European spa or hot spring vacation.

Planning your Trip to Europe

Planning a Europe trip? You'll have to do some travel planning before you go on that European vacation. Find information on obtaining a passport, staying healthy, making sure your electronics will work in Europe, language help, currency, and how to save money planning your Europe vacation.
Budget traveler? Yes, you can skimp on your vacation. But good budget travel is when you plan enough to save money without much sacrifice. In the budget travel category I'll guide you toward good budget food, cheap accommodations, and cheap(er) transportation that'll save you money so you can travel longer and better.Budget Travel Tips - Saving money on your vacation.Budget travel tip--diesel cars in Europe are efficient and quicker than you might think, and diesel fuel is widely available and often quite a bit cheaper than gasoline. Check out this feature and save on your vacation transportation.Budget Transportation Tip - Rent a Turbo Diesel
A list of the major Western European cities and the best (and worst) times to go considering climate, tourist concentration, holidays and events. Clicking on the City name gives you more detailed information.Europe Travel - When to Visit the Best Cities.Here's a chart of the current temperatures in Europe. Click the map for a forecastCurrent European Weather.Find just the right snow conditions in Europe, look toward the bottom of the page to links to European ski weather.On the Snow Ski Weather - Europe

Getting a Passport without a Birth Certificate
Don't have a birth certificate? Looking to get a passport? Here's how to go about applying for a US passport if you don't have a birth certificate.

Passport Services from the US State Department
News and information on how to get or renew a passport from the United States Department of State.

How to obtain a Canadian Passport
Step by step instructions on obtaining a Canadian Passport from the Passport Office (Bureau des passeports).

Passports of the World
Ever wonder what each of the World's passport covers looks like? Here's a picture of each one sorted by country.

Passports - First Time
The Department of State's Bureau page can answer your questions if you're a first time applicant.

What the traveler needs to know about the Euro

If you're traveling this year, perhaps the one major difference you'll find is in the currency. Travel through the 12 participating countries and you won't have to go through the hassle of converting currencies because the Euro is now their official monetary unit. The participating countries and the old currency values representing one Euro are shown below.

Country--Old Currency Rate
Belgium--Belgian franc 44.3399
Greece--Greek drachma 340.750
France--French frank 6.55957
Italy--Italian lira 1936.27
Netherlands--Dutch guilder 2.20371
Portugal--Portuguese escudo 200.482
Germany--Deutsche Mark 1.95583
Spain--Spanish peseta 166.386
Ireland--Irish pound 0.787564
Luxembourg--Luxembourg franc 40.3399
Austria--Austrian schilling 13.7603
Finland--Finnish markka 5.94573

Things you need to know about traveling with an ATM card

It used to be that the savvy European traveler loaded up on free Traveler's Checks before getting on the plane, fully expecting to stand in a long bank line to cash them every few days. Not anymore. ATM use, once the value leader in money conversion for travelers, has all but decimated the Traveler's Check industry.

The bad news is that the banking folks noticed. Like in a loony cartoon you could imagine huge dollar signs popping into their eyeballs as they read the reports of money flowing out of European ATMS. Fees were quickly added to enrich the coffers. Still, although those fees have made it more expensive to use a credit or debit card to get cash from an ATM in Europe, it's still the least expensive and most convenient way to get local currency.

So don't be afraid to use your card to access cash at a European ATM.

The Top Romantic Caribbean Vacation Spots

With over 20 islands to pick from, a Caribbean Island vacation could take you anywhere from Puerto Rico to the Port of Spain.But there are the most romantic spots in the Caribbean - the places most appealing to couples wanting a holiday to remember.

Things you have to consider:

Activities for romantic travel, including the best beaches and scenic spots in the Caribbean

Romantic hotels in the Caribbean, as well as villas and all-inclusive Caribbean honeymoon resorts

Suggestions for romantic Caribbean dining

Fun places to shop, as well as up-to-date Caribbean travel info on flights, weather and more.

The sun is warm, travel around the island is hassle-free, and romantic Barbados hotels and resorts are world class, with top-notch amenities and service.

Barbados Attractions

Here's just a sample of romantic things for couples to do in Barbados.

• Atlantis Submarine Expedition - a full-scale submarine ride under the Caribbean a to explore ancient shipwrecks and colorful coral reef.

• St. Lawrence Gap - an exciting place to stroll through, especially in the evening when the restaurants, open-air nightclubs and discos come alive.

• Rum Tour - The Mount Gay Barbados Rum Tour is great fun, with free tastings and optional luncheon tours with Bajan cuisine.

• Andromeda Gardens - 6 acres of lush, well preserved Barbados fauna such as palms, ferns, hibiscus and bougainvillea. Keep exploring and you'll also discover tropical pools and a waterfall!

• Harrison's Cave - take the tram ride deep into this limestone cave for it's unique subterranean rock formations, waterfall and streams.

• Bajan Roots and Rhythms Show - If it's musical, and its Caribbean, you'll find it here at the Plantation Theater. Experience reggae and calypso music, dancing, island costumes, fire eating and the limbo.

• Dinner Cruise - No romantic Barbados vacation should be without a sunset cruise on the Caribbean.

Best Beaches on Barbados

You'll find some of the most romantic spots in Barbados along it's wonderful picture-perfect coastline. There are lots of romantic beaches and coves. Here's some highlights:

Best Secluded Beach on Barbados - it just might be Bottom Bay Beach on the southeast coast, a fine place for a beach picnic or long walk in the sand.

Barbados Beaches on the East Coast - this is the Atlantic side, so expect higher waves great for surfing. Better for sightseeing than swimming. The coastline here is very pretty.

On the southeast coast, Crane Beach is rated as one of the top beaches in the Caribbean. Pink sand, calm waters and fantastic sunsets add to the romance (for an engagement this would be a great place to propose in Barbados!).

Beaches on the West Coast of Barbados - quiet waters, and fine white sand. Perfect place for swimming, renting a "raft for 2", or maybe spotting a celeb (some stars holiday on this part of Barbados). Mullins Beach and Paynes Beach are both good.

The west and south coasts are where you'll find many of the best oceanfront hotels and resorts in Barbados.

Romantic Barbados Vacation Resorts & Hotels

Some of the top Barbados resorts for couples would include:

The Crane Hotel - an historic hotel with gorgeous rooms and a spectacular setting on a bluff 60 ft above one of the most dazzling strips of pink sand anywhere. The views, dining and sunsets are unbelievable.

Barbados Honeymoon Resorts - The The South Beach Resort is a small boutique hotel & resort on Barbados' south coast with an excellent honeymoon package. Accommodations are in a special honeymoon penthouse suite with a jacuzzi and ocean views. Extras include spa treatments, a catamaran cruise, champagne and cocktails poolside.

For sheer opulence, it's hard to top the Sandy Lane Hotel, one of the finest luxury spa resorts in Barbados, with a fully-equipped heath spa, white sand beach, fine dining, shopping, recreation and luxury amenities galore.

A cheaper option, but equally romantic and very popular with couples is the Little Arches Hotel, with it's quiet setting, super friendly staff, and a private jacuzzi for honeymooners. It's just a short walk to a white sand beach with calm waters.

For an even more affordable and romantic Barbados vacation, consider:

• Bed and breakfast accommodation in Barbados - read reviews and rates of Barbados B&B's here.
• Romantic Barbados vacation rentals & villas - Barbados Villa Vacations has a nice variety of cottages, holiday homes and apartments in various price ranges.

Romantic Restaurants in Barbados

Romantic dining in Barbados requires you to try flying fish, an island specialty served up steamed, fried or baked. Here's some fine romantic dining options:

• The Cliff Restaurant on Barbados western shore is certainly one of the best restaurants in Barbados. Popular for weddings and special occasions. Open air candlelight dining with perfect views of the Caribbean. (246) 432-1922
• The Mews Restaurant is a cozy spot in St. James with a wonderful diverse menu. Live jazz on Fridays. (246) 432-1122
• Daphne's Restaurant is Barbados is from the same family as the renowned London eatery. Silk curtains give the tables extra privacy, and the west coast beachfront setting makes dining here memorable. (246) 432-2731
• The Restaurant at Southsea on Barbados south coast is the place to enjoy pan-fried alligator or oven roasted wild boar chops. Dine on a romantic veranda overlooking a secluded cove. (246) 420-7423

Tips on Travel to Barbados

The Best time to travel and visit Barbados would be from March to June (travelling in low or shoulder seasons, and shopping for air & hotel vacation packages in Barbados are the keys to an affordable romantic Barbados vacation). Hurricaine season runs from Aug through November.

Flights to Barbados - The main international airport in Barbados is located on the south coast, and the taxi costs about $20 for the 45 minute ride to most hotels on the west coast.

There are direct flights to Bridgetown from New York, Miami, Washington DC and Piladelphia. American Airlines and US Airways are the main US carriers with flights to Barbados. Air Jamaica and BWIA also fly there, and Air Canada has service from Toronto and Montreal.

From the UK, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic fly non-stop from London (Find out more here on seatsales and special airfare offers to Barbados).

The airport code for Bridgetown, Barbados is BGI.

Flight Time to Barbados:

USA: Flying time from New York (JFK) to Barbados is 4.5 hrs, and from Washington DC (DCA & IAD) to Barbados is 4.5 hrs. The flight time from Miami (MIA) to Barbados is just over 3 hrs.

Canada: Flight time from Toronto (YYZ) to Barbados is 5 hrs, the same for Montreal (YUL) - Barbados flying time.

UK: Flight time from London (LHR) to Barbados is 8 hrs.

White Mountains NH

New Hampshire's White Mountains offer many outdoors activities: hiking, backpacking, paddling, cycling, fishing... ,And one way to enjoy this Great Outdoors is through the Appalachian Mountain Club, which has many seasonal activities and packages. For example, fall activities at the AMC Highland Center at historic Crawford Notch might offer fall foliage hikes, nature journaling, make your own cider -- and programs are free to all comers. The Highland Center at Crawford Notch also has All-inclusive Seasonal Packages that include lodging, meals, activities, and gear--see below. Location is near Bretton Woods (a well-known ski area). Sample driving times are: 160 miles, 3 hours, from Boston; 370 miles, 5 hours, from NYC; 190 miles, 3 hours, from Montreal.
All-inclusive Getaways
Lodgings options include the Highland Lodge, with private rooms and private or shared baths, multi-course meals, linens, daily programming, gear room, etc.; and historic Shapleigh Bunk House, recently renovated, with shared lodging, and B&B.

Highland Lodge also has shared two, four, and six-person rooms with common bathroom.
Daily programs might include guided hikes, naturalist talks, interactive educational programs, junior naturalist programs, and more. Guests can borrow free outdoor gear such as sleeping bags, boots, trekking poles, backpacks, and fly-fishing rods.
Prices are reasonable; kids' rate for ages 15 and under.
Packages vary throughout the year, but here are two excellent family choices to look for:
Thanksgiving Family Fun Fall Harvest Package Three-night stay includes lodging in a private room (with private or shared bath) ; Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet, and Annual Bavarian Alpine Dinner Buffet; daily programs and activities geared toward families; complimentary use of gear from L.L. Bean Gear Room. Call 603-466-2727, or see Appalachian Mountain Club for prices and more info.
Family Gingerbread Weekend - early December Join an award-winning chef for the an Annual Gingerbread Jamboree. Bake and build your own gingerbread house; other activities include holiday party, crafts, gingerbread cookie decorating, guided walks and hikes with an AMC naturalist, and more. (Or do holiday shopping at nearby outlet stores.)
Stay includes two nights' lodging in a private room, with private or shared bath; dinner and breakfast; Family Holiday Party on Saturday; activities; complimentary use of gear from L.L. Bean Gear Room; 10% discount in the retail store. Call 603-466-2727 and mention "Family Gingerbread Weekend."
Other Special Programs
look for other seasonal programs such as Christmas Day brunch, New Year's Eve dinner, Bethlehem Christmas Package with a nearby tree farm that includes a cut-your-own Christmas tree and wreath
in winter, ski and stay packages team up with Bretton Woods Ski Resort and Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch
in summer, look for Family Adventure Packages (weekend, week-long)
special programs every month-- see calendar

Fall Foliage Vacations

Autumn is a splendid time for weekend vacations or even lingering expeditions, for families not bothered with school timetables and fall foliage vacations can be amusing and bearable. Parents can go gaga over the color show, while kids get a admirable times in The abundant Outdoors.Peak time for vacations will vary in different locations. Primarily, leaves change color when trees stop producing chlorophyll. This will appear in mid-September at alpine, colder elevations; elsewhere the top weeks will be in early October. color changes begin at alpine altitudes and latitudes and move down-slope, and southward through North America.Leaf colors change in three main waves, starting with yellow ( - yellow-poplar, birch, some maples and hickory, sassifras, sweetgum and aspens.) The second color wave is orange: some of the species mentioned above change into orange; silver maples and white oaks add orange too.The third wave is red, in such trees as black tupelo, sumac, tallow tree, some oaks and maples.
The transition from orange to red is considered "peak," and lots of factors can affect color intensity. Amount of sunshine, frost, night temperatures-- all come into play.