Enjoy the Fall Colors from the Water

Ready or not fall is on its way. While most of us are still enjoying dips in the pool, sipping tropical libations, and soaking up the sun savvy travelers are scoping out fall deals to view the autumnal foliage. If you’re growing tired of leaf peeping from the car then why not change things up this year? Fall cruises to Canada and New England abound right now and by booking early you can save hundreds of dollars on your tour. Take a look at these bargain sailings that coincide with the traditional peaks of fall color in the region — … Continue reading

Set Sail on a Mediterranean Adventure

Don’t let the threat of hurricanes, tropical depressions and other foul weather dampen your desire to set sail on a fantasy cruise. After all, the Caribbean isn’t the only spot where cruise ships voyage. If you are looking to save some money on a fall cruise head to the Mediterranean. The following deals to Spain and Turkey are going quick so book now if you want to make the most of the weak dollar. NORWEGIAN Expedia is currently offering a great rate on a 7-night cruise that will take you roundtrip from Barcelona to Valletta, Malta; Naples, Italy; Civitavecchia, Italy … Continue reading

Freebies at the Mall

Who doesn’t love to go to the mall and find free stuff? This week, my daughter and I had fun shopping for a new bunch of freebies. We visited Wet Seal, Bath and Body Works, Origins, and New York and Company. I printed double coupons so she could shop with me. She is learning the art of shopping including how to pay for purchases, asking for what she wants, and using coupons to get more for her dollar. Our first stop was Wet Seal. They have a coupon for a free Chilosa tank top by Prima J Tank. They also … Continue reading

Celebrating the Fourth in Hawaii

Despite what you might think we do celebrate with fireworks, BBQ’s, and parades just like the rest of the country. Spending Independence Day in the 50th state is a dream come true for most folks, and as someone who was born and raised there I must admit there are quiet a few tourists that time their Hawaiian vacations to coincide with Fourth of July celebrations… and rarely are they disappointed with their decision to do so. This year Waikoloa Beach Resort is once again hosting the Great Waikoloa Rubber Duckie Race. The annual Fourth of July festival has been going … Continue reading

Basking in the Bermuda Sun

If you are looking to take a summer holiday that you will remember for years to come then head to the pink sands of Bermuda. The British-owned archipelago that is home to historic towns and sprawling golf courses has a reputation for being high priced, but right now several travel sites are offering unbelievable deals to the Atlantic getaway. Take a look: Under $900 Right now Vacation Outlet is offering a whopper of a deal to Bermuda. For just $829 per person you can get a four-night getaway at the newly reopened Grape Bay Beach Hotel plus airfare from Boston. … Continue reading

Inspiration for Famous Comic Strip Mommy Dies

Sad, sad, sad. The woman who served as the inspiration for the mommy in the world famous “Family Circus” comic has died. Thelma Keane was 82. According to news reports, Thelma, who was the wife of “Family Circus” creator Bil Keane, died of Alzheimer’s disease last Friday. I happen to be a huge “Family Circus” fan. I started collecting the comic when I was 7 years old (decades ago). I would use all the money I would get from Christmas and birthdays to fund my addiction to the small paperback books that followed the lives of two good-humored parents and … Continue reading

Choosing a Photo Retreat

From Bali to Monte Carlo, Nice to Honolulu some of the world’s most exotic cities are serving as the inspiration for amazing photo retreats. Have you ever participated in a photo retreat? Those who have often remark that they help nurture creativity, expose them to extraordinary scenes and allow them to experiment with new compositions. Whenever I fly home to visit my parents in Hawaii I always promise myself that I am going to make time to participate in a local photo retreat. I’ve done the research on one in particular located on the Big Island of Hawaii. Hawaii Photo … Continue reading

Hawaii’s Value Season

I recently received a question from a reader who asked: “When is the cheapest time to visit Hawaii?” I was born and raised in the 50th State and have spent the last 20 years flying back and forth from the “mainland” to my family’s home on the Big Island and I can honestly say the most affordable month to travel to Hawaii is May. With September, April, October, and February following in that order. May is when the airlines and many hotels and resorts in Hawaii roll out their best deals. I once got a roundtrip non-stop flight from Minneapolis … Continue reading

Affordable Accommodations in Hawaii

It might sound hard to believe considering a mere ticket to paradise can often cause serious damage to your credit score, but there are ways to save on lodging expenses when visiting the Aloha State. Okay, so it might not be as cheap as staying with your parents in their oceanfront home, but the following options are worth checking out: OAHU Home to Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the world famous North Shore, Oahu is quintessential Hawaii and the most populated (See: crowded) of all the Hawaiian Islands. To save money stay away from pricey Waikiki and head to the Manoa … Continue reading

Valentine’s Day Travel Packages for the Special “Girls” in Your Life

Regardless of their age there is one thing most “girls” have in common—a love for shopping. Some might not willingly admit to the obsession, but give a girl the chance to walk away with new goods–no strings attached–and I doubt you would find many who would turn the other cheek. That being said here are a couple of ways you could make the day of your favorite female just in time for Love Day: BOSTON Beantown is getting ready to open its first American Girl Place store and to celebrate it will be hosting an American Girl Fashion Show, on … Continue reading