Sailing is not only a hobby, but also often considered an art form.  Newport Rhode Island, also known as “The Sailing Capital of The World,” offers a variety of sailing options for all ages and ability levels.  From the experienced captain looking for a challenging day at sea to a novice looking to learn the ropes, Newport has a little something for everyone.

If you’re interested in learning the ins and out s of sailing, there are a variety of charter services and sailing schools in the area ready to assist you in achieving your sailing goals.  Relaxation more your style?  Book a day trip on a charter boat instead, and let someone else do the work while you take in the beautiful scenery!  Become everyone’s favorite boss with a corporate or team building retreat, or get the family together for some much needed bonding -everyone will be thrilled to spend some time on the water!

Coming from out of town?  Be sure to check out one of the area’s charming Newport Bed and Breakfasts -Newport’s innkeepers will make you feel right at home while visiting.  Many of these inns offer great rates, and are located within walking distance of popular downtown,  beautiful beaches, historic mansions, and amazing restaurants!

Be sure to consider Newport, Rhode Island when planning your next getaway!  Newport is the perfect locale for great family fun, quiet romantic getaways, and memorable corporate retreats!

Images Courtesy Kables

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The 2009 Mendocino Music Festival is rapidly approaching, will you be attending?  The festival has been running for over 20 years, established in 1986 by a group local musicians with a passion for classical music.  The festival is comprised of a combination of both local and professional artists with the mission of bringing musical education to the Mendocino coast.

If you enjoy great music and amazing seascapes, this concert is not to be missed!  The festival takes place in a beautiful venue overlooking the Pacific, and is close to many of the area’s finest attractions.

Coming from out of town? Check out one of the Mendocino bed and breakfasts that the area is famous for.  Also, be sure to check out some of the amazing area wineries, no matter your preference, the local wineries offer something for everyone!  From  rich Cabernets to sweet Rieslings, the region is sure to please!  The Mendocino Valley has long since made it known that charming bed and breakfasts pair excellently with fine wines.

Images Courtesy *clairity*

Sitting around 7,000 feet above sea level, Park City is the perfect locale to escape from the summer heat!  Park City, Utah is home to the US Ski Team and the Sundance Film Festival, and is widely known as a great winter vacation destination.  What many people don’t realize, is that Park City is also an amazing summer destination.  With a fun, bustling downtown area, wildflowers as far as the eye can see, golf, fishing, and a variety of festivals, the mountain village is the perfect summer vacation destination!

The same mountain that provides world-class skiing also offers some amazing mountain biking in addition to an alpine slide, ziprider, alpine coaster, a climbing wall and more!  For the less adventurous traveler, there is also the option of a scenic chairlift ride, hiking, and mini golf.  Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and The Canyons Resort  all offer a little something for everyone in the summer.

When planning your vacation, be sure to check out some of the amazing Park City vacation rentals.  Amazing mountain condos and private homes that command high rates in the winter are often offered for a fraction of the price throughout the summer months!

You may want to center your trip around one of the many festivals that Park City is famous for.  Here is some information on a few of the area’s most popular summer events:

• Park City Food and Wine Classic [July 9-12] -An “Epicurean Extravaganza” featuring master winemakers, amazing chefs, and an impressive guest list!  This delectable event is a must if you love food, wine, and good company!
• Fidelity Jazz Festival [August 21-23] -An annual festival featuring amazing musicians.  In addition to nightly performances, this festival features daily workshops and clinics for budding musicians.
• Deer Valley Music Festival -A variety of musical styles to suit all tastes and ages!
• Park City Farmer’s Market -Held every Wednesday between June and October from noon to seven pm at The Canyons Cabriolet parking lot.
• Park Silly Sunday Market -An eco-friendly open market and street festival.  Every Sunday from mid-June through September.
• Fourth of July Celebrations -There are a variety of celebrations surrounding Independence day! Starting with the July 3rd celebration at The Canyons Resort, finishing up with activities and fireworks at Park City’s Traditional Independence Day Celebration and The Flying Ace All-Stars Show at The Utah Olympic Park.

What are you waiting for? Start planning your Park City getaway today!

Images Courtesy ArtBrom

Visit Newport Rhode Island and experience New England as it was meant to be.  A bustling waterfront village, impressive colonial estates, and amazing hospitality are just a few of the things that make Newport “a shining gem in the coastal crown” that is New England.

Newport offers a little something for everyone, from exhilarating nautical excursions to leisurely strolls through famous mansions and vineyards.  For those who enjoy early American history, Newport is not to be missed.  Beautiful New England scenery provides a dramatic backdrop for the amazing architecture of the gilded age.  Stroll through homes that were built by Vanderbilts and Astors, check out some of the historic forts and museums, or spend a day relaxing at the spa.  You’re sure to be taken with the rich history of the area.

To really experience the charm of the area, check out one of the charming Newport bed and breakfasts.  Many are within walking distance of the downtown and beachfront areas, and provide a feeling of stepping back in time without sacrificing modern comforts.

Check out Newport, Rhode Island -you’re sure to be pleased!

Images Courtesy Sarunas B

There arent many things on earth more beautiful than the Tetons. I visited Jackson Hole once in the summer many years ago and I still think about that trip almost weekly. We did a lot of sightseeing, ate great food, shopped like crazy and had a great time in general. One thing we did NOT do was whitewater raft. I wish we had, especially after seeing this video on YouTube!

Video Courtesy Karen Eason Photography

This is the ultimate commercial for why Jackson is so much fun in the summer. I cant imagine having a better time with friends and family. Some best bets from our visit and from reviews I’ve read lately are:

Get a vacation rental - even though the food is great here, it can be expensive. If you choose a condo or home rental you will have a kitchen to cook a few meals in, even if you just do breakfast in you can save a good deal of money.

If you’re headed to Grand Teton or Yellowstone, leave early. Summer time traffic in both parks can be a bit of a problem sometimes, so be prepared to wait and be prepared to have FUN!

Book your “extra-curricular” activities before you get there. Rafting, climbing and other types of activities book up quick, if you make reservations for these things before you even get to Jackson you’re guaranteed the chance to participate.

The animals are WILD, people - dont try to feed them skittles or some other sort of “people food.” Buffalo are not nice animals, they’re beautiful, but mean - stay away! Same with elk and moose.

Most of all, come with a few extra memory sticks for the camera, let loose and have a good time - you wont regret it.

Dining Recommendations:
Breakfast - You cant miss The Bunnery - best bread in the country, let along Jackson Hole
Lunch - We enjoyed the Cadillac Grille when we were there, but the Tripadvisor.com reviews are mixed a bit. Their burgers over at Billy’s Giant Hamburgers were great (one side is the grille, one side is the hamburger joint)!
Dinner - We liked the Mangy Moose - and they have decent Tripadvisor reviews. The gift shop that is attached is great fun also.

Lodging Recommendations:
Mountain Property Management of Jackson Hole offers great vacation rentals and is definately a Jackson Hole Lodging alternative to hotels.
Wagon Wheel Village - Motel rooms for budget travelers to Jackson - I havent stayed here but they have pretty good reviews in Tripadvisor.