Travel & Vacation Guide, North Carolina

By Jeff Lakie

For the person who has traveled the world and wants a new adventure, or the person who likes to live by the beat of their own drum, consider alternative travel options instead of the regular site-seeing or beach resort trips. Here are some ideas to help you find a vacation that you’ll remember for years to come:

· Cruises are available that go beyond the typical cruise you’d expect to find sailing the seven seas. Some cruises offer the studious traveler much more, including a well-stocked library as well as workshops and lectures while at sea, usually specifically pertaining to the area of the world you’re exploring.

· If you are a fan of a movie you will find travel destinations that are focused around that particular film. For example, Lord of the Rings movie-lovers will enjoy exploring the sets of Peter Jackson’s take on Tolkien’s middle-earth by touring the sets of the movie.

· If humanitarianism is your thing, there are many organizations, both religious and non-religious, that allow you to help people in cultures less fortunate than us. You can build wells or homes or markets for them to use. You’ll feel great at the end of this vacation!

· For the adventure seekers, a far more exciting experience might be enjoyed by backpacking through rugged wilderness, mountain-climbing, or whitewater rafting.

· For the traveler on a budget, you will have a great holiday if you and a group of friends simply choose a place on a map and drive to it for a cup of coffee. Even if the drive takes all weekend, you will gain a lifetime of memories in just a few short days.

· For aficionados of a certain pleasure, be it wine, beer, food, or cigars, there are tours available for every taste in nearly every region. For example, you could spend weeks (well, actually months) sampling the fine wines of Italy, or touring the pubs if Ireland, or sampling the delectable foods of France. Whatever your pleasure, you’ll find a travel destination for it.

· Or for those interested other pursuits, such as archaeology, architecture, or art, you’ll find tours that are focused on your very interests.

So this year, when you’re deciding what you want to do for a holiday, why choose the same old thing? Go for something daring and different and choose a vacation that will be as unique and memorable as you are. You won’t forget it!

By Jim Berger

The travel industry is booming as the internet helps businesses become more global and the world a bit smaller. With that there’s a new breed of traveler that is armed with much more travel information than their predecessors as a result of changing times.

Here are some tips for the everyday traveler:

1. Try to arrive a bit earlier to your destination so you can rest up. Likewise, on your return trip try and save at least a day (or longer depending on the length of your trip) before having to go back to work.

2. Make sure that you carry water with you so you don’t necessarily have to buy sodas or soft drinks everywhere you go. This can get expensive after a while.

3. If you are visiting friends or relatives, try to let them know any requirements you have prior to arrival, such as dietary requirements, and sleep habits, etc.

4. If you or someone you are traveling with has limited mobility, there make sure that the tour operator (if you seek a tour guide) offers provisions for these situations. Likewise, before booking for hotels, make sure you ask about the walking distance between your destinations and the hotel.

5. Find out if there is a cancellation provision insurance within your travel package.

These are just a few ideas to get you going. Hopefully it’s opened your eyes to a few things that you have not considered yet is applicable to your own situation.