Solo travel is starting to get some respect
For many years, true solo travel was the Rodney Dangerfield of travel: It “got no respect” from the industry.Standard cruise and tour pricing was almost always “per person double occupancy,” or PPDO.Solo travelers were generally told to conform to the “Noah’s Ark” formula: If you don’t want to pay an outrageous single supplement, pair up with... READ MORE
Tips for vacationing (or living) in an RV
Recreational vehicle sales sagged during the Great Recession, but lately they have ticked back up, thanks to gas prices that have stayed below $3 a gallon for over a year.If you’ve thought about investing a small fortune in one of these mobile motel rooms, perhaps because you’re contemplating a nomadic retirement, think about renting one first to try out the lifestyle for a week ... READ MORE
Beyond beaches on Hawaii’s Big Island
Polynesians were the original settlers of the Hawaiian Islands. Extending along the lava flats of the Kona Coast, Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park is home to a reconstructed Polynesian royal compound that once served as a sanctuary for people who had angered the gods.Photo by Big Island Visitors BureauOn beaches with white, black and even green sand, vacationers soak up the ... READ MORE
Who knew wine country was so close by?
Virginia is home to more than 250 wineries — from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. Two dozen of them are in Loudoun County, in the state’s Middleburg area, so close to Washington that it calls itself “D.C.’s Wine Country.” Middleburg is about 80 miles from downtown Baltimore — perfect for a day trip or even a long weekend for metro area residents. October is ... READ MORE
Airport lounges make travel less stressful
My recent trip to the Mosel Valley started out with a (delayed) flight on United from my home airport, Medford, Ore., to San Francisco, followed by a long layover at San Francisco.Although I had a coupon for a visit to a United Club, I decided to try out the new American Express Centurion Lounge, also located in United’s post-security area.And it’s a real winner:... READ MORE
Branson, Mo. — family fun on grand scale
Music and entertainment fans flock to Branson, Mo., where more than 100 live music venues vie for attention. This tribute group is performing at Silver Dollar City, a theme park with interpreters who illustrate life in the 1880s — plus musical groups and roller coasters.Photo courtesy of Branson CVBA gaggle of excited women filled the auditorium’s front row, thrusting gift bags, ... READ MORE
Your age can save you money on travel
If you’re at least 60 years old, depending on where you are, you may qualify for a senior discount on many travel services. And AARP members age 50 or over can also get in on some of the deals.Air and train travelOver the last two decades, seniors have lost out almost completely in scoring good airline deals. Only two serious deals are still offered:Although Southwest’s fares... READ MORE
New ways to encounter, enjoy fall foliage
As they gently sail above the treetops, Jill and Bill Kelly enjoy the scenery passing below their hot air balloon.The ride is very different for Mark and Marylee Sutherland as they help steer a rubber raft through a stretch of rock-strewn river and over a 12-foot-high waterfall.Meanwhile, Nancy and Victor Goodman travel at a much slower pace, in a horse-drawn covered wagon rolling along a... READ MORE
Go beyond the beaches in sunny San Diego
With an average of 250 days of sunshine a year, any time is good to visit San Diego. Here’s the latest. A nine-story public library and its signature dome opened in downtown San Diego in 2013. It is an architectural gem with the glass-and-steel building flowing seamlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces. A three-story reading room with giant windows gives a sweeping view of Coronado... READ MORE
Balkans, now at peace, are worth a visit
Ban Jelacic Square in Croatia’s capital of Zagreb is a gathering spot for locals. Zagreb’s history dates to Roman times, and today the city has a population of about 800,000.Photo by Victor BlockAs I strolled along ancient ramparts that encircled the small medieval city, the view changed with each twist and turn. On one side was a labyrinth of narrow streets lined by tile-roofed ... READ MORE
