America’s Family Vacation Hot Spots
It seems the world economy is still a little down, as least as far as America’s vacation spending goes. This means goodbye to expensive flights to exotic destinations, and luxurious ocean cruises for now. The best news is that America’s own holiday hot-spots are in great shape and getting better. So what not go local this year, and support our leisure industry while you save money at the same time?
San Francisco – You don’t need to go all the way to Mexico to catch the buzz. In fact it’s all there to the north on America’s west coast. You can do the Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown’s Union Square in a single day. While you do so you’ll appreciate the strength that lies in our diversity. In fact, if you’re of that persuasion you could have a gay old time there too.
Washington D.C. – While you’re contemplating the cement that keeps us holding hands despite our differences, why not sightsee in the Capital City when passing through. You don’t necessarily need to spend your time gaping at state buildings and old memorials though. Every year as March turns to April, the streets come alive with cherry blossoms celebrating spring.
San Diego – If there’s one place that caters exclusively for families, couples, singles and everybody else then this might well be it. It has great parks, a historic urban center and a beach you will enjoy no matter what your Mission is. The Maritime Museum has exhibits that include whole sailing ships. After that, you could go hiking in Torrey Pines state reserve right on the coastline, where you can catch a dip too when the going gets hot.
New York – This Big Apple still has everything going for it in terms of Retail Therapy and Broadway shows. You don’t have to pound the streets unless you want to – the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim, the Museum of Natural History and Ellis Island all tell tales that will change your mind about these cultural gems forever. Whatever else you do, mop up the local café culture downtown over coffee and a bagel.
Yellowstone – Let’s get out of town and head to where Old Faithfull’s waiting for us. If watching geyser repeat-shows is not your thing, the park has more hot springs, mountains and waterfalls that you thought was possible. The kids will love the grizzly bears and naturally heated swimming holes. Or you could just settle down and throw in a fishing line together.
Maui – Hawaii has great beaches and some reckon those on Maui Island are the best. You can experience ultimate escapism here, as you go snorkeling or perfect your tan. This is a place for nature lovers who appreciate scenic drives through rainforests and hiking mountains. If you’re a determined surfer, you could try out Ho’okipa Beach. Just don’t complain about the rugged surf and virtually non-existent facilities.
Las Vegas - Feel like rearranging your finances with a little flutter? The risk’s on you and I can’t guarantee you’ll win. What I can promise is the ultimate in resort accommodation and casino extravagance. If you’re feeling a little jaded the next morning, there’s always the Red Rock Canyon conservation area twenty miles away, and the Hoover Dam that helped kick start the nation following the great depression.
New Orleans - This city’s in an upbeat mood despite the hurricane and flood that followed. In fact the attractions are better than they ever were before. The Mardi Gras in late February / early March heralds in the warmer days – days when you can stroll through the French Quarter and picnic in the City Park. If you have green fingers you could also wander through suburbs filled with graceful houses, trees and ivy, while the kids chill out at the Louisiana Children’s Museum that’s pure play-topia, undisguised.
Orlando Disney World - For 100% guaranteed family fun and entertainment with a little subtle education added, there’s nothing quite like grabbing hold of Walt’s dream. For days you can let go of all your cares, while you explore the Island of Adventure, and gape at marvelous creatures in SeaWorld. I reckon there’s been nothing quite like the Magic Kingdom ever before or since. Let your hair down. You deserve it.
America – Holiday Paradise
Sounds trite, but it’s completely true, and I didn’t even touch on the immense potential. There really is no need to travel to exotic destinations elsewhere. We’ve got everything right here, In fact, there’s more than you ever dreamed of and that’s something to be proud of too. So log onto Google and start planning.