There was a time when traveling had its perks; buying tickets for an airline, showing up to check in for a hotel, or being the first to show up would come with some kind of a reward deal. Now, it’s becoming more and more expensive to simply book a flight and hotel, or even travel by car, with service fees, convenience charges, and toll road payments that you may not see coming.

Airlines – Some airlines have now started charging for carry-on bags; that’s right, carry-on. Some are even charging up to $100 for a carry-on if you do not pay the fee in advance, and more airlines are picking up the same idea. There are also small fees popping up secretively, like $20 for someone calling in to upgrade, $20 if you request that your itinerary be resent, or $5 if you decide to not use the kiosk at the airport and just ask the customer service agent to print and process a boarding pass. From now on, it seems, your ticket does only one thing, which is transport you from here to there; everything else might be subject to fees.

Hotels – Get ready to start paying fees for parking, Wi-Fi, early departures, in-room safes, and even so far as luggage storage, almost all of which used to be included in the cost of a hotel room, now are the target of fees. Some customers have found that the parking fees add up to almost another room rental. And some Wi-Fi charges are separated for your laptop, smart phone, and tablet; that’s three times the fees!

Cars – Not only are toll roads racking up fees, especially if you don’t own a toll card or pass, but if you have to rent a car, there are fees that will no doubt be added which, in some cases, can have you end up paying double. From getting a GPS, car seat, toll passes, fuel charges, late returns, it all adds up, and you may be less than pleased with your final bill.

In all of these cases, it pays to double check, or even call ahead, and ask about the fees related to your trip.

Read the full story here.

Savor the Flavors Lexington’s Bluegrass Region  

Commemorate the legacy of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War.

Savor the flavors of the Bluegrass with a tour of Kentucky Bourbon distilleries, a tasting at one of many beautiful wineries, or a sampling of local cuisine—from spoonbread to burgoo!

Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts at the region’s art galleries, or discover your own treasures in antique shops and world-class boutiques. Berea’s local artisans offer hands-on learning experiences for visitors looking to create their own masterpiece.

Commemorate the legacy of the 150^th Anniversary of the Civil War at forts, battlefields, civil war tours, and historic homes. From Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill’s living history to the reenactment at the Battle of Perryville this fall, the region’s history and heritage leaves a lasting legacy.

Play outdoors on hiking & bicycle trails, scenic byways, and lakes and rivers throughout the region. For an authentic “horse country” experience, try horseback riding or a tour at the Kentucky Horse Park!

An experience difficult to describe, impossible to forget.

www.BluegrassKentucky.com  

Anna Marie Island: Your Island in the Sun

Anna Marie Island - Fun in the Sun!

Anna Maria Island is a quaint Barrier Island nestled in the Gulf of Mexico. Beautiful turquoise waters and white sandy beaches are the main attraction here. It is a place where “old” Florida charm can still be found, flip flops are a way of life and the speed limit never exceeds 35mph. High rise condos and fast food restaurants are pleasantly absent from our pristine “get away from it all” island. Our accommodations and restaurants offer something for everyone. We offer quaint cottages by the sea to deluxe suites, from million-dollar villas to rustic cottages to own. One visit to Anna Maria Island and you will be calling it “My Island in the Sun.”

Once a best-kept secret among local Floridians…

Anna Maria Island has always been known for its sugar-white coastline, emerald Gulf waters and quaint business districts. Today, it is now known as a vacation favorite among local, national and international travelers. From honeymooners to Hollywood film crews, youngsters to the young-at-heart, people from around the world have discovered what’s awaiting you. Your Piece of Paradise, “An Island in The Sun,” Anna Maria Island, Florida.

Enjoy a sunrise overlooking Tampa Bay and a picture-perfect Florida sunset all in a day…

You need never leave the island to find fun and relaxation. Our island is only 7 miles long and no more than a few blocks wide, which leaves you with sounds of waves and visions of the sunset in every location. Enjoy a day at the beach and watch the kids play in the sand. Walk along pristine beaches and dine in award-winning restaurants, Enjoy fresh grouper sandwiches on a pier and sipping martinis while enjoying live music. Go shopping in our specialty shops and boutiques all along the island. We even have a free trolley to take you where you want to go. The friendly environment and endless activities will keep you coming back for more. Hop aboard and experience island paradise!

Get Swept Away…

Anna Maria Island is an ideal place to relax and get away from it all. This stretch of land, 7 miles long is home to the island’s three cities – City of Bradenton Beach, City of Holms Beach and City of Anna Maria. All three cities provide access to spectacular beaches, accommodations and outdoor activities – while at the same time offering an enjoyable selection of shops, restaurants, performing arts, wildlife, history and other attractions. Rent the accommodation of your dreams. From beautiful beachside hotels, featuring a wide array of room sizes, to rustic cottages, remodeled homes, luxury condominiums, just take a look at what we have to offer. We offer the perfect mood for an island way of life. “Anna Maria Awaits You!”

In the News…

Anna Maria is becoming an increasingly popular destination for national and international travelers. It is no wonder that this timeless hideaway has been featured in numerous publications over the years including: The New York Times, USA Today, Coastal Living, Southern Living, The Washington Times, The Miami Herald, The Orlando Sentinel, Geo Saison (A German Magazine) and countless others. Take a peek at what so many have already discovered and can’t stop talking about.

www.annamariaislandchamber.org 

Visit Ohio ATV World and Quench Your Thirst for Outdoor Adventure 

Ohio ATV World

If you or your family craves a little outdoor activity, why not be one of the first to ride our exciting ZipRail, the only ride of its kind in the world. With your harness attached, you will fly, float, soar, and glide through the trees, swing up, down and sideways! The thrill will take your breath away!

Here at Ohio ATV World, choose between the Alpine ZipRail and the ATV’S rides, each with their own unique thrills. The Alpine ZipRail winds its way through Hocking Hills natural beauty, through trees, over streams, past large rock formations, finally arriving at our Chalet. Over 3000’ of ZipRail excitement! From the deck of our Chalet, you can then ride our ATV’s through 14 miles of beautiful wooded trails.

Ohio ATV World is located at 15155 Sauerkraut Rd, Logan, Ohio 43138 Reservations are suggested, call 740-592-2500 or visit us at www.ohioatvworld.com  We provide customized packages for your group.

Discover Why RE/MAX of the Islands Was Voted ‘Best’ Real Estate Agency

RE/MAX of the Islands

RE/MAX of the Islands is a family owned and operated full service real estate firm on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. The company is celebrating over 20 years of professional real estate service and was voted BEST Real Estate Agency on Sanibel & Captiva Islands for 2010 & 2011.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands offer a truly unique lifestyle. The islands have become a vacation destination for people from all walks of life. Plan your vacation with RE/MAX of the Islands. Select from beachside condos to island bungalows or your own private hideaway. Beautiful and spacious accommodations are available. Amenities include pools, tennis courts, bike trails and world famous shelling beaches.

With RE/MAX of the Islands, you will find your vacation to be an enjoyable experience from beginning to end.

RE/MAX of the Islands

2400 Palm Ridge Road

Sanibel, FL  33957

877-388-5050

www.remax-oftheislands.com

See Why Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort Was Voted “Best of the Beach”

Sea Mist Resort Oceanfront Resort. Voted Best of the Beach!

See More … Do More … for Less … Voted Best of the Beach in family vacations 4 years in a row, Sea Mist features the largest collection of resort amenities and the largest variety of accommodation types found at a single resort on the East Coast. Nestled in the heart of Myrtle Beach covering over 15 acres, Sea Mist brings family vacationing to a whole new level with incredibly affordable vacation package rates, and endless summertime fun.

Sea Mist affords you Family Vacation Packages that include daily Amusement Park and Water Park Passes, miniature golf and much more for each person in the family! It’s one great price for an entire family of four. And as far as accommodations, the options are endless. There are over 750 units and 50 different room types to choose from making it convenient for any requirement and budget.

The resort amenities are endless including the largest Resort Water Park in the area with a three-story tubular slide and a 670 foot long, 7-foot wide lazy river. There are 10 swimming pools, 2 indoor, 8 kiddie pools, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, a professionally designed 3,000 square foot oceanfront Children’s Activity Pool, a large Arcade, Restaurants, Grille & Tavern, Quick Stop Grocery, Activity Desk, Fitness Center, Gift Shop, a beachfront cabana, and special resorteventsfor guests to enjoy.

Call 1.877.590.1384 or visit www.SeaMist.com to download your free vacation brochure or to request for one to be sent to you in the mail.

5 Reasons You’ll Love Summer in the Enchanted Mountains

Have an Adventure of a Lifetime in Cattaraugus County!

Balance your summer vacation with a visit to the “other” side of New York!

Drive along peaceful country roads, challenge yourself mountain biking on the steeps, ride your horse as far as the eye can see, put your kayak in for a little paddle and golf at every course you can find.

Million-dollar views, amazing art, national sporting events, gigantic metal and wooden sculptures, Native American culture, alpaca farms, chuck wagon dinners, sky high adventures and historic experiences – you can see and do it all in the Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County.

Take a Trip Back in Time

Watch for buggy drivers as you ramble along the Amish Trail. Discover the oldest and largest Amish settlement in New York. Get an intimate peek at a simpler lifestyle without running water, electricity and cars. Visit shops to buy handmade quilts, furniture, baked goods and more crafted by expert Amish artisans. No Sunday sales or photographs please.

Join avid geocachers and follow the Amish GeoTrail. Collect 10 caches and receive a special NY Amish GeoCoin. Continue your scavenger hunt along the Enchanted Mountain GeoTrail with caches tucked away in towns throughout Cattaraugus County. Collect all 32 wooden nickels and receive a special EMGT GeoCoin free.

Test Your Skills

Summer is the perfect time to show off your skill at 9 exceptional golf courses with a variety of challenge levels and unbeatable views, like Holiday Valley’s Double Black Diamond course. Challenge yourself in the trees at one of eight treetop courses at the resort’s new Sky High Aerial Adventure Park. Kids and adults alike will love the thrilling twists and turns of the Mountain Coaster as it careens through the woods.

Explore Nature’s Outdoor Playground

Bring the entire family for a fun-filled weekend camping trip. Take in the soothing sounds of nature and enjoy quality family time over crackling campfire cookouts. Camp at Pope Haven in the midst of Amish country. Tame the summer heat at Allegany State Park’s Red House and Quaker lakes complete with sandy beaches and breathtaking scenery, perfect for swimming, kayaking and fishing. Explore the park’s 65,000 acres with your mountain bike, rollerblades, hiking shoes and horses. Take advantage of miles of paved and rustic, multiuse trails leading you to unforgettable views.

From late May to late summer, launch your boat or rent one from Bayview Mini-Mart & Ice Cream Parlor across the street from Onoville Marina on the pristine waters of the Allegheny Reservoir. Escape to 91 miles of natural shoreline with quiet, secluded bays. Make it a weekend and camp along the soothing water or in the cozy shade.

Check Out Our Parks and Trails

Miles of multi-use trails crisscrossing the county are waiting to be explored. The Allegheny River Valley Trail offers over 7 miles of paved trails hugging the Allegheny River shoreline. Embark on an eco-adventure as you pass through 9 unique ecosystems and a continental divide on the Pat McGee Trail, stretching 12.1 miles from Salamanca to Cattaraugus. Soak in the warm summer sun and cool wooded paths at Pfeiffer Nature Center in Portville, Nannen Arboretum in Ellicottville and Gooseneck Hill Waterfowl Sanctuary in Delevan. Challenge yourself on Holiday Valley’s mountain bike trails.

Check out the 1,000-square-mile view and see 8-story-tall prehistoric rock formations at Rock City Park or discover intriguing passages and unusual geological formations at Little Rock City Park in Little Valley and Thunder Rocks in Allegany State Park. Interact with more than 250 mammoth sculptures at the 400-acre Griffis Sculpture Park in East Otto. Pretend you’re an early settler at The Crosspatch horse ranch, offering guided trail rides and an authentic, cowboy-style Chuck Wagon Supper Show.

Festivals and Family Fun

Throughout the summer, you’ll find a myriad of festivals celebrating everything from motorcycles to women to art. There’s never a dull moment around here!

The 4^th of July weekend is always jamming in Ellicottville with its three-day Summer Music Festival featuring outdoor concerts and bands in local establishments. For a change of pace, imagine the Wild West coming to life at the annual Ellicottville Championship Rodeo, complete with barrel racing, bull riding and stick horse racing for the young’uns. The Cattaraugus County Fair, one of the oldest in the country, is a guaranteed delight. Savor funnel cakes, ride carnival amusements, cuddle farm animals and cheer at the Demolition Derby.

Make a rainy day fun with a visit to one of the area’s many interesting museums like the Regina A. Quick Center where admission is free. If games of chance are your passion, try your hand at poker and the slots at the Seneca Allegany Casino in Salamanca. While you’re there, tour the Seneca-Iroquois Museum and shop for unique finds at Salamanca Mall Antiques. Feel the pride of over 1,000 years of tradition at the annual Seneca Allegany Veteran’s Pow Wow in July and watch dancers dressed in vibrant costumes as they perform traditional dances to a native beat.

Basketball lovers, get ready for the Gus Macker 3-on-3 Tournament in Olean. Anyone can play – no experience necessary! Motorcycle enthusiasts will surely be impressed by Olean’s Rally in the Valley and Gowanda’s Hollywood Happening, when bikers roll into town for dice runs and merriment. In August, check out the Cattaraugus County Sportsmen’s Rendezvous for hunting displays and gear.

Stay and Play

Turn a day trip into a romantic getaway and spoil yourself at one of our relaxing spas, stay in a four-star hotel and enjoy a fine gourmet meal. Stay in one of our charming B & B’s and meet welcoming, knowledgeable innkeepers who will give you the local inside scoop.

Start planning your visit now, because one trip won’t satisfy your craving for our kind of adventure. With surprises around every bend, visit us and we’ll make your summertime an experience to remember.

Check our website for a list of accommodations, restaurants and spas. For a detailed list of things to do and see, pick up a FREE 2012 Visitors Guide, visit www.EnchantedMountains.com or call 800-331-0543.