Vacations

My family and recently took a trip to Florida. We rented a lovely minivan and spent several days visiting family, animal attractions, etc. When we were planning the trip, we realized that we'd have to either print off a bunch of maps to get everywhere we were going, or rent a GPS unit, or buy a GPS unit to help us get around.

For ease of travel, we decided we'd use a GPS rather than maps. We also decided we'd buy a GPS rather than rent one because rental rates run $10 a day or so, so buying would save us money in the long run. We'd also have it to use on other trips as well.

We totally loved our GPS on that Florida trip and have used it several times since. We settled on a Garmin 550c that we got off eBay. We got an incredible deal on it and found that it worked terrifically.

What that little GPS unit did was make our trip go smooth! It helped us find all kinds of places. We'd punch in where we wanted to go and it'd help us figure out how long it'd take us to get there as well as help us find new places to visit along the way.

My sister brought her Magellan brand GPS unit. She'd thought it'd be helpful as well. However, hers got her into all kinds of problems because it couldn't figure out where she was and/or couldn't figure out how to tell her to get places.

Obviously, from her experience, we learned that it pays to get a high-quality brand of GPS units! It wasted a lot of her time and cost her extra money as well trying to deal with that little machine.

Getting a GPS unit for any of your navigational needs is a fantastic idea. We've really enjoyed ours and highly recommend them to anyone who asks!

You can almost guarantee that if there is going to be a problem it will be when you are on vacation in an unfamiliar place but by following a few simple rules, the consequences can be minimized. Travel can be expensive enough as it is without expensive mistakes which could be avoided, resulting in a dislike for your chosen location and its people. Some people are affected so badly they will not leave the resort they are staying in which is not the way to spend a vacation. The most important weapon in your armory to travel safely is your common sense so don't dismiss this invaluable ability if you want to enjoy your vacation.

Whatever it is you are doing or wherever you are, when you get that feeling that something doesn't feel right, that is your instinct; learn to listen to it. When you go out to discover new places, bars and restaurants, think about what you are taking with you; are all your credit cards, passport and airline tickets for example necessary where you are going? Consider just what you require for your trip out and take that, placing everything else that is of importance in your room or hotel safe.

A handy tip is to place a small amount of money in a number of locations like bags or pockets then if you happen to lose a bag, visa card or money, you will still have something there to keep you going until it can be resolved.

Unfortunately, the convenience of having two credit cards on the same account in your own country can be a problem in a foreign land so another travel safely tip is to use two completely separate accounts; this provides a back-up should one be lost or stolen. Some people just make it easy for snatch thieves who specialize in grabbing bags and cameras from unsuspecting tourists who have them hanging from their shoulder; to prevent this make sure the strap is over the head as well.

Some of the easiest crimes involve snatch thieves that may actually work in teams; they locate unsuspecting victims who have a bag on their shoulder for instance that can be easily grabbed by a passing cycle or scooter. There are many ways to scam tourists and you are vulnerable when you are on vacation so it is an easy task as these people are very good at what they do.

It is often our arrogance that lets us become victims of theft and other deceptions because we do not believe that anyone will pull the wool over our eyes but this is how the criminals earn their living. If you carry a bag of any kind, buy yourself a small padlock or combination lock as the few dollars you spend will be well worth it as it will deter the majority of sneak thieves. To prevent you losing your keys, trying using a small D-Shackle, like they use in rock climbing and while it doesn't lock it acts as a deterrent for unwanted hands getting into your bag.

One of the biggest problems is with wallets as the vast majority of men carry them in a back pocket and this is an easy target for any criminal so try varying your normal routine and place it in a front pocket or similar. The majority of problems could be avoided if people didn't let their guard down, which is common on vacation; if you can remember to travel safely, it won't halt your enjoyment but could stop many untoward events from happening.

A favorite destination for many people is Orlando, Florida, with its many theme parks, it has become 'the' place to visit but there is much more to an Orlando vacation than this. Orlando Town is also your destination for museums, galleries, historical places, edifices, flea markets, churches and much more. Whilst many people that visit are first timers, more are returning for their second, third or more time as there is always something new to see.

It is a great place to visit even if you only have shopping on your mind as Orlando area is full of beautiful shopping malls, restaurants and shops of every type. An Orlando vacation has far more to offer than this short article can possibly hope to highlight so only a few of the more unusual attractions and places to see are brought to your attention.

Although Zoos have taken a bit of criticism in recent years, their value to education and the preservation of species cannot be dismissed and the Central Florida Zoo in Sanford is one of these. Privately owned, this zoo is also a botanical garden run by a charitable group whose purpose is to protect native and endangered species around the world.

Housed here in the Morse Museum of American Art are the famous works of Louis Tiffany. With the largest display in the world this is the place to visit for Tiffany art lover's, including glass, jewelry, paintings, ornaments and pottery.

Whilst it may seem that Orlando has been created for the entertainment of children that could not be further from the truth as there is plenty here for everyone. For people that prefer the night, the list of things to do on an Orlando vacation is almost endless with families, teenagers and adults all well looked after.

The Orlando Science Center is another of the major attractions and its four-story center is the biggest of its kind in the Southeast; offering 10 exhibit halls that allow visitors everything from the Florida swamplands to the dry plains of Mars. If your preference is in railways then the International Trolley and Train Museum on International drive will be a pleasant surprise with 14 trains running continuously and three waterfalls in a space of about 4,000 square feet.

On International Drive there is the Mercado Center which is the home to the wonderfully moving, sad and at times eerie Titanic exhibition which actually displays a number of original items from the great ship. Lake Eola Park on the other hand has a pleasant 43 acres to stroll around and relax or perhaps a little boating on the lake.

Of course without visiting at least one theme park how could anyone possibly visit Orlando? For those of you who are unsure of which to visit then take heart because there are four theme parks in Disney. Universal has its own theme park versions including Sea world. Since an Orlando vacation has everything you won't be short of things to do! In fact you may need a week off to recover in a resort that has good weather all year round and never closes.

If you travel abroad much, you quickly learn that the reality of various destinations is much less attractive than that offered in the marketing material you see. When it comes to the hype, Costa Rica is one place that stands up to it and produces even more than suggested.

If you like to do different things on your vacations, you are going to love Costa Rica. The most obvious thing to do is enjoy the coasts on both sides of the country. You can pick a beach totally empty or one with a more festive atmosphere.

The beauty of Costa Rica is there is so much more than just beaches. Eco-tourism is hot with some of the most accessible rain forests in the world. Like rafting? The rivers around Lake Arenal in the center of the country are thrill rides.

Ah, but now I am just throwing words of hype around. You need some facts, so here are a few on the country.

For nearly three centuries, Costa Rica was a province, not a country. It was run as part of the Captaincy General of Guatemala under a military governor instituted by Spain.

The Spanish optimistically called the country "Rich Coast." They thought they would find tons of gold. They didn't, but claimed the country because of wood resources and its beauty.

In 1821, Costa Rica joined other Spanish provinces in a joint declaration of independence from Spain. It took 21 more years to gain independence as a country.

The capital city of Costa Rica is San Jose, located in the center of the country.

Costa Rica has four mountain ranges. Also known as cordilleras, they are Guanacaste and Tilaran in the north of the country and Central and Talamanca in the south. Many of the mountains are dormant volcanoes as Costa Rica is part of the Pacific "Rim of Fire".

The country has a relatively small population at 4 million, but is now growing at 1.5 percent. Roman Catholic is the dominant religion, although a surprising 15 percent claim a Protestant faith.

Education is tremendous in Costa Rica with the country having a 96 percent literacy rate. Average life expectancy for a woman is 79 years while men come in at 74. Spanish is the dominant language.

When it comes to protecting its natural resources, the government Costa Rica doesn't go for empty rhetoric. It has moved to protect over a quarter of the land from development and exploitation.

Instead of a military, the Constitution guarantees universal public education for all citizens. Primary education is obligatory, and both preschool and high school are free. The county has leading Universities in biological fields.

There are Seven Provinces in Costa Rica - Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limn, Puntarenas, and San Jos.

Should you visit Costa Rica on your next vacation? Vacation time is precious, and Costa Rica is the place to use it. The "wow" factor is huge and you will not regret it.

Selecting Edinburgh as a destination for a short break is no different from selecting any other city break destination.

Going away for an enjoyable weekend can depend on what you are looking for and what you expect. It is always a good idea to do some basic research prior to selecting your destination. important factors to consider include the time of year you are planning to travel so you can be prepared for the weather. The weather in Edinburgh can be wet out with the summer months however there is still plenty of things to do and see.

Edinburgh airport has even more direct flights than ever so if you are planning on visiting Scotland's capital city then you should find it easier than ever to get a direct flight to Edinburgh from an airport near to you. There are lots of flights from London to Edinburgh on more than one airline so as a result of the competition on this route it should be easy enough to get a cheap flight to Edinburgh.

Why should you choose Edinburgh? Edinburgh is one of the top city break destinations in the UK and Europe and offers a vast range of attractions, pubs, restaurants and options for the visitor.

Probably most famous of all the attractions in Edinburgh has to be Edinburgh Castle itself. Perched above the main shopping street it is a fantastic back drop to this wonderful historical city. Depending on when you visit you may be lucky enough to attend an event at the castle. Obviously the most famous is the Military Tattoo which takes place every August. Other events include Classical Concerts as well as music events with some of the worlds most famous groups and singers.

Another great choice for a visit would be the Scottish Parliament buildings which offer visitors the chance to join a tour of the building. After a visit to the Parliament you could also visit the nearby attraction called Dynamic Earth and learn about the world in an enjoyable and educational way.

There is of course a lot more things to do and see and by quickly checking the options on the internet you will find lists of them. By planning ahead you will make the most of your Edinburgh city break

Edinburgh offers the traveller various accommodation options from small family run bed and breakfasts and youth hostels to the very best in five star accommodation. As a general rule accommodation in better locations nearer the city centre will cost more than properties that are a short journey away.

If you plan to visit Edinburgh during the Festival months or at New Year make sure you book as early as possible to get the best prices. You may actually fin that everything is full at any price. There is a good selection of small family run bed and breakfast properties all the way up to the best five star accommodation.

Book in advance if possible and you can have a great value short break in Edinburgh and give yourself more money to spend while you are there than on getting there.

Fishing supplies are available at the concession stand. Boats are also available for rental. Fishing supplies are available for the young and old. We know that having the right equipment makes one more confident in their performance in the water.

A Visitor Center is a also a good location for fishing supplies. Alternatively parks sometimes have bait shops, where wildlife and history displays, trail maps, snacks and gift items may also be found.

Lures with frills that make them look like large, colorful insects require a bit of extra work: when they're in the water, they don't do much good unless you wiggle them around. For trout, you can buy paste that rolls into clumps. Lure-tossers should try beetle spins and small jigs in the shallows, experimenting with color to find the best bite. Lure fishing for trout has become something of a lost art, most anglers having gone over to fly-fishing or fallen prey to the darkside of fishing by resorting to bait.

Fly fishing has enjoyed continuous popularity with people of all ages - from senior citizens to children who have. Bobby Ivie is an avid fisherman and owner of Fishing-Hunting-Camping.com. Fly fishing vests come with lots of pockets for you to hold your supplies in and have easy access to them at the same time.

Experienced fishermen know all about the cutthroat trout. That is because it is a huge gaming fish and it is difficult to catch. Experiment with different hooks, weights, line, rods and reels, but my advice would be to eventually work your way into having an exactly matched set of at least 4 rods and reels. When you learn what works for you, you will be much happier with a matching set of gear.

Lake Mohave provides recreation and habitat for fish and wildlife. Additionally, the lake captures and delays the discharge of flash floods from side washes below Hoover Dam. Lakes have been stocked with over 29,600 fish in the past 5 years.