For many people it can be tough to travel because they have to leave their furry friends behind. However, there are many options available to make your traveling worry- and guilt-free, even having to leave your cat behind.

Utilize this checklist to make sure your cat is left in the proper conditions and will be happy and healthy for your return:

1) Does your cat need any medication? If so, assign a sitter to come medicate your cat as needed, or you can find a friend that will take your cat into their home for closer supervision.

2) Does your cat like to claw/tear at furniture and the like? You may want to look into a kennel for you cat to make sure you are not coming home to a mess.

3) Can your cat handle a large bowl of food without spilling it over or over-eating? If so, you can leave your cat for a longer period of time without worrying about your kitty going hungry. You can also have a friend check in from time to time to make sure your cat’s food does not run empty.

4) Is your cat needy? Arrange for a friend or familiar who is ok with taking your cat in for the duration of your trip. Or you can check with the local kennel to see if that will be a good option for your cat.

5) If you are deciding to leave your cat at your house, do a run through the house to make sure that you eliminate anything that would be dangerous or harmful to your cat if they found or got a hold of it. Also check to make sure all of your windows and doors are closed and locked so your cat will not run off. Also remove glass objects like vases that can be knocked over.

Read the full story here

Many people who travel internationally do so in order to gain knowledge and experience of a certain country or culture. The main function of Ecotourism is just that: To build awareness and, more importantly, respect for a certain culture and for the environment. This is to preserve and better local populations all over the world, and is a great way to try something new, by traveling to a natural environment to contribute, volunteer or just have vacation time, all the while using non-destructive means; it’s environmentally-friendly travel, and a great motivator to get out in the world.

There are different types of Ecotourism: Agritourism, where tourists are encouraged to explore the agricultural life of rural communities in a first-hand way, either working alongside the people of the community, or shopping there locally; Community Development, which normally takes place in developing countries, and is a means of experiencing a culture by essentially living there with a local family to learn about the community and find ways to help; Ecolodging, which is an eco-efficient accommodation venue, usually with sustainable water sources and very environmentally sensitive waste disposal, all in order to instill a reverence for nature and the culture of the location; Eco Trekking, which is basically a way to gain awareness about a certain region’s culture and environment while being active, by traveling to a destination to go hiking, climbing, water rafting, etc.

Ecotourism is a totally new way to travel. It’s not only exotic and exciting and something totally outside of your everyday, it’s also morally uplifting as well as educational. If you are into getting to know mother earth, and if you’re up for adventure, then Ecotourism might just be your new favorite way to travel.

Read the full story here: http://traveltips.usatoday.com/types-advantages-ecotourism-105924.html

While the holidays are a great time to go visit family and friends, it’s also one of the most expensive times; since everyone will be thinking the same thing and packing up to leave, hotels and restaurants know they can charge top dollar. Here are 10 ways to save while traveling with your family this holiday season:

Eat Well, For Cheap – Skip the fancy sit-down dinners, and start eating out, locally, for cheap. Not only will you be saving money, but you also get the full experience of the cities you are traveling to or through. Also, try to find food trucks whenever possible.

Pick Hotels That Serve Meals – Best way to get bang for your buck, is choose lodging that provides a meal.

Always Pick Rooms With Refrigerators – One of the best ways to save is to bring your own foods, however, bringing perishables like lunch meats won’t do any good without a fridge, so be sure to ask that your room has one.

Book A Condo – Booking a condo rather than a hotel can be considerably less expensive, and there will be a kitchen to cook in so you can avoid the high cost of eating at restaurants.

Compare Your Travel Options – Before you commit to flying, be sure to do the math and see if driving would be more cost effective. Or compare prices of other airlines, and consider whether it may be cheaper to book two separate flights.

Read the full story.

Dale E Peterson Vacations is your premier vacation rental source on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. We offer a wide selection of vacation rental homes, condos and cottages available in Navarre, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, The Beaches of South Walton and Panama City Beach. We represent properties ranging in size from quaint seaside rooms for two, to five bedroom condos and private homes that will suit your whole family. Dale E Peterson Vacations has an accommodation to suit any size group or budget and is available to assist you in planning your perfect beach vacation on the Emerald Coast.

Dale E Peterson Vacations
877-275-8001
www.DestinResorts.com/GQ

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.