Women's Vacation Blog

Sunday is National Girlfriends Day!

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:17:25 GMT

Who knew? I've never heard of National Girlfriends Day, but hey, let's celebrate! Get together with your girlfriends, your sisters, or your mom and let them know how much they mean to you. Then plan on a weekend getaway together!

Keeping Your Home Safe While You're Gone

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:13:05 GMT

There's nothing worse than coming back from a relaxing vacation to find that your house has been burglarized. Stopping your mail is the first step - but what do you do about lights and curtains? (I have an ongoing discussion with a neighbor about this; I'm glad to find that the Independent Traveler agrees with my way of handling it!) Take a look at the list to make sure you're not forgetting anything before you take off this summer.

Travel Without Luggage??

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:55:44 GMT

Now that airlines are charging for checked bags, many people are opting to bring everything they need in their carry-on bags. But now Spirit airlines is also charging for the carry-on - now what do you do to avoid fees??? Well, most airlines allow one carry-on bag and one "personal item" (like a purse or laptop). My personal item is always a large tote with a small purse tucked inside. It's not only handy for the plane, I use the tote when sightseeing for books, water bottles, camera, etc. Smarter Travel has taken this idea a step further. They have ways of packing everything you need into that "personal" tote bag! (It also helps to stuff the pockets of your coat or jacket, since outerwear is also free). OK, you may look a little strange with stuffed pockets and a bulging tote - but it saves the baggage fee!

"Hay-cations"????

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 23:55:58 GMT

Well, we've had "stay-cations" (when you spend your vacation at home) and "spa-cations" (spending your vacation at a spa) - why not "hay-vacations"? (spending your vacation on a farm!). I come from a long line of dairy farmers, and I love the idea of staying at a farm - but only for a week! As a lifestyle, it's just too much work for me (so please show respect to our hard-working country cousins). If you're interested in organic and/or artisan foods, it's a great way to discover new foods and flavors. Smarter Travel has put together a list of 10 farm stays, from "get your hands dirty and milk the cows" to luxury country retreats, ranging from Vermont to Hawaii! What fun for a girlfriend getaway!

Great Savings For Our Readers from Sandals Resorts!

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 17:37:38 GMT

Sandals Resorts is offering a special discount to readers of Great Women's Vacations: ---------- Guests who book 3 nights or more at Sandals Grande Ocho Rios (Jamaica) will receive a Free Island Routes Catamaran Cruise! ---------- This is in addition to the great prices they are offering on this resort right now. You can get the resort specials by going to their website, but the extra catamaran cruise is only available by clicking the photo below, and entering code SGOAFF at checkout. Your vacation must be booked by August 4th, but you can travel through next year! Hurry to take advantage of this great offer just for our readers!

What NOT to Pack

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 03:08:51 GMT

Packing is one of the hardest parts of planning a trip. How many pairs of shoes do you really need? Do you really need full-sized bottles of everything in your bathroom? Probably not. It's probably easier to list what NOT to bring than to go through all of the possible items you could bring! In that spirit, The Independent Traveler, which has lots of packing tips, has a great article about what you can leave at home (or purchase at your destination). Print it out and keep it for your next trip!

Beyond "Glamping" - it's Adventure Travel with Gourmet Food!

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 22:34:03 GMT

Glamping brought comfy beds and fine linens to the traditional camping experience. Now, a new tour company is adding white tablecloths and gourmet food to it's whitewater rafting trips! ROW Adventures, among others, offers whitewater rafting in the Pacific Northwest, with culinary classes teaching you how to make salmon, prime rib, and more - with a Dutch oven and other packable campground tools. It sure changes the meaning of "roughing it", doesnt' it?

The Mason Cottage Cape May Bed and Breakfast

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 02:15:52 GMT

The Mason Cottage is a Victorian Bed & Breakfast located in historic Cape May, NJ. The great thing about the inn is that it's within walking distance

A New Tour for Fans of "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo"

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:51:07 GMT

I'm a fan of mysteries, but I havent' started this trilogy yet - but if you're one of the millions of fans of Stieg Larsson's books, you'll love this tour. The guided tour is 2 hours and takes you to many of the locations described in the books, with narrative by a guide well-versed in the book's action. There is also a self-guided tour available.

Spa Deals for the Summer

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:51:07 GMT

It's off-season in the warmer parts of the world, so it's a great time to find a spa on the beach! Spas in the Caribbean, Mexico, and the southern states are offering some spectacular deals these days. Spas in Miami are offering $99 treatments during July. And Miraval Spa in Tucson, AZ. is offering FREE AIRFARE for stays through Oct. 1 (must be booked by mid-August). What could be better than that?? Take advantage of these prices and have a great summer!

20 Tips to Blend In with the Locals

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 20:15:17 GMT

If you hate looking like a tourist, the Independent Traveler has some tips to help you blend in, no matter where you're headed. First and foremost, become familiar with your destination - know where you want to go and learn a little bit about the culture (and a few words of the language) before you go. Then read these tips about ways to act and dress that won't make you stand out as a tourist (although sometimes that's not a bad thing!)

Summers at the cottage

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 17:41:36 GMT

Nowadays, when I think of a beach vacation, I think of Hawaii or the Caribbean. But when I was a kid, the beach was a small strip of sand on a tiny little lake in the middle of Wisconsin. My parents built a cottage there and we'd spend every single weekend and our annual 2-week vacation at the cottage every summer. (I guess they're called "lake homes" these days; it's classier, but not as much fun). If you yearn for the days of a vacation at the lake, take a look at this article from Budget Travel. They'll tell you about several lake towns across the country that still have that small-town, laid back summer feel.

Enjoying Local Cuisine - at the airport!

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 23:42:16 GMT

Have you ever left a city regretting that you never made it to that "it" restaurant everyone was talking about? Well, you might be able to find it at the airport! Airports are attempting to improve their food offerings, and local hot spots are a great alternative to fast food or the same chains available everywhere. From Chicago hot dogs at O'Hare to Gordon Ramsey's new restaurant in London's Heathrow, you'll have the opportunity to savor one last taste of the local flavors as you wait for your flight. Bon appetit!

Top 10 Travel Pet Peeves

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 22:13:13 GMT

Ed Hewitt of The Independent Traveler has posted a list of his top 10 annoying habits of travelers (he's talking about us, folks!). I have to say, though, that I share his sentiments on just about all of them. I think many of these transgressions are unintended - sometimes we're so frazzeled by the whole airport experience that we just focus on getting on, or off, the plane as quickly as possible. We don't always think about how it affects our fellow travelers. Take a look at the list - anything you'd like to add?

Antico Casale di Scansano

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 18:24:21 GMT

The 'Antico Casale di Scansano', an ancient farm house restored with elegance and simplicity for your vacation in Tuscany is now a lovely 4-star hotel

More Reasons for Taking a River Cruise in Europe

Sun, 27 Jun 2010 14:52:06 GMT

I love the idea of taking a river cruise to tour Europe rather than a land tour. It's so much more relaxing and scenic than sitting on a bus all day and unpacking at a different hotel every night. I really don't even compare river cruising and ocean cruising - they are entirely different experiences. A river cruise, especially in Europe, is just a lovely way to explore the continent. You'll find out more about it in this article by Budget Travel and this video from Uniworld:

Red Horse Mountain Dude Ranch - All Inclusive Girlfriend Getaway Week

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:58:02 GMT

Girlfriend Getaway Packages September 5th ~ September 11th All Inclusive Pricing Arrival: Sunday, September 5th, 2010 Departure: Saturday, September 11th,

Top 10 Culinary Tours 2010

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 18:51:20 GMT

Culinary tours make great women's vacations. Most of us cook, and even those of us that don't (including me!) certainly enjoy eating! Sherman's Travel has put together the top 10 culinary adventures for 2010 from around the world. Italy and France are represented, of course, but what about Japan, Morocco, or even Syria? Closer to home, there are great adventures in New Orleans and northern California. If you're sick of spas and shopping trips, join your friends on one of these culinary tours!

Cheap Food in Hawaii!!!

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:55:03 GMT

If you've ever traveled to Hawaii, you know how expensive it is - not just the airfare from the mainland and the resort or hotel, but EVERYTHING on the islands costs a whole lot more than back home! Meals are a major expense and unless you're staying in a condo with kitchen (and are willing to cook), most of your meals will be eaten out. The LA Times can help you out, if you're staying on the Big Island - they've compiled a list of 20 meals under $20 on the BI. I know I've been to a few of these - Kona Brewing and Huggo's stand out in my memory, and they were both very good. If you're heading to the Big Island, print this article!

Beyond Maui's Beaches

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:46:19 GMT

Maui has some of the best beaches in the world and, of course, that's the reason most people visit Maui. But take a day and explore beyond the beaches; there is so much more on Maui than sand! The upcountry area, along the narrow roads leading up to Haleakela, offers a view of a very different world. Quaint towns and farms dot the scenery and give Maui a very different personality. I was on Maui a couple of months ago and visited the winery and general store mentioned in this article while on a tour along the Hana highway (and that gorgeous, scenic trip is a MUST on Maui!). My sisters and I also spent a day exploring Paia and the Alli Kula Lavendar farm. The lavendar lemonade and scones are a wonderful treat!

Peninsula School of Art

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 05:47:00 GMT

Nestled in the quaint harbor town of Fish Creek, in Door County, WI, the Peninsula School of Art offers one- to five-day workshops throughout the year

What You Need to Know About the State of Tourism in Gulf

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:30:22 GMT

If you've planned a trip to the Gulf of Mexico region, you're probably worried about how the oil spill has (or will) affect your destination. The good news: most travel destinations have NOT been seriously affected by the spill. Smarter Travel has some tips to guide you - most importantly, monitor the situation using local information; find the local newspaper's website or other resources to get the latest updates on the situation in your destination.

Door County Plein Air Festival

Sat, 05 Jun 2010 07:14:20 GMT

The quaint harbor towns, rolling farmland and pristine sandy beaches of Door County, WI will again become both muse and studio for the 42 plein air master

Get a "Nook" and Stop Carrying All Those Books to the Beach

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 18:38:14 GMT

The Nook is the Barnes and Nobel version of Amazon's Kindle - it allows you to download tons of books into one neat little package that's easy to carry and easy to read. Right now, B&N is offering a $50 gift card that you can use toward the purchase of downloadable titles when you buy the Nook. Check it out - it sure beats a bag full of heavy books in your beach bag - or in your luggage!

Fall Foliage Cruises

Sat, 29 May 2010 19:38:44 GMT

With over 30 years of experience, American Cruise Lines is not only your perfect guide to some of the most spectacular views of fall foliage, but also

Top 5 New Culinary Destinations

Fri, 28 May 2010 03:08:57 GMT

I love the idea of focusing on food when traveling - and for me that means eating it, not cooking it! But whether you're interested in learning how to cook the foods of different cultures or, like me, just enjoy sampling the flavors, there are so many places to visit with wonderful cuisine to experience. Here's a list of 5 of the newest culinary destinations - places to go when you've finished with Italy and France! I'm glad to see that one of them is Poland; I've been promoting Poland Culinary Vacations for a long time. Check out the other four destinations, too...

So.....Why not stay on a volcano?

Tue, 25 May 2010 17:49:53 GMT

If lava and volcanic ash don't bother you (!!), maybe you'd like to stay near a volcano. MSNBC has a list of 10 hotels located on, or near, a volcano. They don't say whether or not these volcanoes are active, and they don't include Volcano House on Hawaii's Big Island (which is on an active volcano!). In any case, these are lovely areas, and well worth looking into regardless of the volcanoes nearby.

Good News! The Icelandic Volcano Seems to be Dormant

Tue, 25 May 2010 17:49:53 GMT

The Icelandic volcano (which I can't even spell the name of, much less pronounce) appears to have run out of steam (sorry, bad pun!) for the time being. This is good news for those planning a trip to Europe. Ash from the volcano interrupted travel to most of Europe for weeks; if you have a vacation coming up, looks like you'll be good to go!

Six Destinations You Thought You Couldn't Afford - But You Can!

Mon, 24 May 2010 19:03:34 GMT

Ever dream of doing the tango in Buenos Aires? Or exploring other off-the-beaten-path destinations like New Zealand, India, or Vietnam? They're not as far out of reach as you might think; especially with today's values in travel, many of these exotic destinations are really affordable! Smarter Travel has put together a slideshow of destinations you might want to consider this year....

Money-Saving Tips for European Vacations

Sat, 15 May 2010 17:56:48 GMT

If you've been putting off a trip to Europe because the exchange rates are unfavorable, take heart: there are things you can do to keep your costs down, allowing you to go ahead and take that trip to Paris or London! The Independent Traveler has 25 tips to get you started. I like the idea of "slow travel" (staying in one city instead of spending time and money traveling to several). I also use ATM's exclusively for currency - lots of other good tips in the article!

What NOT To Do In San Francisco

Thu, 13 May 2010 18:29:04 GMT

If you're a fan of the Amazing Race, like I am, you know that they ended the most recent race in San Francisco. Seeing them run through the city reminded me of some great times I've had there.

I found this article telling us what not to do there - (first, don't call it "Frisco"!).

Besides telling us what not to do, they offer great alternatives (better shopping areas than Union Square, for example!).

The Ultimate Christmas Craft Workshop

Mon, 10 May 2010 17:09:34 GMT

Come to Eden, Utah for a 3day - 3night craft workshop and get a headstart on your Christmas Crafts. Checkin is Sunday at 4pm and Checkout is Wednesday

Wonderful New Wine Bars in Europe

Fri, 07 May 2010 16:09:33 GMT

If you are a wine lover, this is something I think you'll enjoy. Wine bars have been popular in Europe for ages (since Pompeii, according to this article!). But today's wine bars are far from the cozy, quiet enclaves of the past. Brighter lighting and modern decor bring wine bars up to date - and they still, of course, have a huge selection of wines to sample!

Keeping Yourself Entertained During a Long Layover

Mon, 03 May 2010 17:58:02 GMT

I love these ideas for things to do at the airport while waiting for a flight or connection. Airports seem to be getting more aware of the boredom and restlessness of waiting passengers, and are doing something about it. But this article also has some great suggestions for entertaining yourself, even if the airport doesn't provide much in the way of distractions. Good article!

Vacation at a French Vineyard!

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 17:40:27 GMT

If you're a wine aficionado - or just a lover of the French countryside - these hotels are for you! The Independent of London has found 6 French vinyards with accommodations for visitors. Nestled in the vineyards of Bordeaux, Provence, and others, some of the estate buildings date back to the 13th and 14th centuries! All, of course, have renovated rooms and elegant restaurants. Some also have spas on site. What a lovely way to spend a vacation in France!

Time to Get Rid of These 5 Travel Myths

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:35:04 GMT

People are always telling you not to drink the water when you travel, or to avoid Mexico altogether because "it's dangerous". While you can't leave common sense at home when you travel, these, and other myths, are outdated and just plain wrong. I know people who are afraid to come to the US because of the violence they see depicted on TV - avoiding an entire country because of a news item that took place in one small part is kind of silly, no matter what country you're considering. Do your homework, and you'll find that most of Mexico is fine (as is most of the US!). This article offers some things we should all keep in mind....

More Unique Hotels

Sun, 25 Apr 2010 21:19:25 GMT

I always enjoy seeing strange and unusual hotels and places to stay on vacation. I think a really unusual place to spend the night is a good enough reason for a trip! The following article has 10 more unusual "hotels", none of which I had heard of before. I kind of like the "eyeball"-looking sphere!

MexicaChica Getaways

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 21:57:55 GMT

MexicaChica Getaways is based in Merida, Yucatan and provides learning vacations exclusively to women travelers. Among the high quality thematic workshops

Bargain Destinations in the Caribbean

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:38:19 GMT

There are so many islands to choose from in the Caribbean. The most popular and best-known, of course, are also the most expensive. But there are plenty of bargains out there - and I'm not talking about short-term sale prices. Some of the lesser-known islands are quite inexpensive and offer a glimpse into the local culture that the more "touristy" destinations have lost. Even some well-known destinations are affordable; it depends on what part of the island you're visiting (Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, for example, rather than Punta Cana). Smarter Travel has put together a list of the top 10 for you...

Travel Tips from People Who Travel for a Living

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 18:09:55 GMT

Travel writers have the best jobs - they get paid to see the world and write about it! (and no, I'm not a paid travel writer, I just do it as a hobby). They also experience the same frustrations we all do when we travel - fees, delays, long lines, etc. The Independent Traveler asked 35 travel writers for their tips on getting the most out of a trip. These are not all practical, "how to pack lightly" tips - some are a simple, "be grateful for the opportunity" tips. But you know, it's things like that that really make the trip better - don't focus on the problems, focus on the experience!

5 Products to Help You Pack

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 18:13:32 GMT

Packing can be a pain, especially now that you really need to limit the number of bags you take to avoid baggage fees. Whether you check your bags or carry them on, you need to get as much stuff as possible into the bag. There are products designed to help you do just that, and Smarter Travel polled its readers to get their opinions on the top 5 products. I personally use the large zip bags that you squeeze the air out of; it gives me more room in the bag, but I'm a little concerned about the weight of the bag when I pack more stuff (so I always use a luggage scale and bring it with me!). But all of these organizational tools are helpful; which ones will work for you depends a lot on your way of packing and what you need to bring. There are several good ideas to get you going in the article....

Mediterranean Holistic Cuisine in Greece

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 17:32:07 GMT

Sun-kissed isles and tantalizing cuisine, holistic nutrition learning vacations from the American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS) offer full immersion

Avoiding Major Mistakes in your Tavel Plan

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 17:25:35 GMT

I enjoy planning my vacations. I like searching for hotels, good airfares, and things to do once I arrive at my destination. But there are things to look out for to make your trip as smooth as possible - and The Independent Traveler has listed 5 mistakes people often make that can ruin your vacation. For me, #1 on the list is a tight connection between flights - I hate sitting around airports, but I'd rather do that than miss a connection. Cramming your schedule with activities is another one I'm guilty of. But there are several more on the list that you might want to keep in mind when planning your next trip!

What's on Your "Bucket List" of Travel Ideas?

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 22:26:18 GMT

What is your idea of the ultimate "dream trip"? Seeing the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall, or another of the Wonders of the World? Or maybe it's tracing your family's heritage in the "old country", pushing the envelope by trying a daring adventure escapade, or exploring the wildlife of Africa on a safari. Whatever's on your "bucket list" of things to do and see before you die, now may be the time to indulge. Travel is still a relative bargain and exotic locales and experiences are more readily available than ever before. Start with this list compiled by Budget Travel...

Into Retro Americana? You're in Luck!

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 19:50:20 GMT

If you love nostalgia, Americana, and all things retro, you'll find it at hotels and restaurants across the country these days. Want to know what it's like to order a sasprilla in an old-time saloon? Or grab a burger and shake at a 50's style drive-in (as opposed to a drive-through)? You'll find places to indulge your tastes in almost any American city. Everything old is new again!!

Top Snorkeling Spots

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 18:43:22 GMT

And if you choose Turks and Caicos for your Caribbean vacation, you can enjoy some really great snorkeling! It's on Forbes list of top snorkeling spots in the world, along with Oahu and Australia's Great Barrier Reef (that one is on my "bucket list"!).

Save Money on Your Caribbean Vacation

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 18:43:22 GMT

The Caribbean is a favorite vacation spot for many Americans; there is a wide variety of islands to choose from, each with it's own culture and personality. And there's something for every budget, too. The Independent Traveler has 25 - yes, 25! - tips for saving money on a Caribbean vacation - from choosing the least expensive islands to finding bargain packages. There are 23 more in the article...

St Lucia Women's Culinary Retreat

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 01:12:56 GMT

The Secret is out Caribbean Culinary Tours will be hosting its annual Women's Retreat to the Island of St Lucia. Join with other like minded women for

The Revival of the Turkish Bath

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 22:44:13 GMT

It used to be herbal wraps. Then hot stone massage. Now, the "new thing" in spas is actually ancient - it's the Turkish Bath, or hammam. Much more than a steam bath, there is a whole ritual involved, with massage and exfoliation a part of the treatment. This article details one woman's experience with a hammam in Turkey...

Poland Culinary Vacations - Cooking and Sightseeing Tours to Poland.

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:35:37 GMT

When you travel with us, you'll know that your Polish experience will be culturally rich, casually elegant, and truly unique. We travel to specially