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10 Last-Minute Vacation Ideas To Escape Winter (PHOTOS)

November 29, 2013, 4:25 am
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What's with the white stuff covering the sidewalks? Newsflash, if you’re Canadian, you’re all too familiar with snow. And there are really only two ways to cope with it: Fight or flight.

Either get out the shovel, or book a trip to warmer climes. For many, the choice is clear: it's time to pack your bags and get out of town. But time may be something you don't have much of. If you're the kind of traveller that needs months to plan a winter escape, fret not.

With plenty of flights less than three hours from many places in Canada, heat-seeking travellers are fortunate enough to travel back into the sunshine and warmth. The question now isn't when to go, it's where to go. Here are some ideas to get you started. Let the thaw begin.

10 Ideas For Last-Minute Vacations
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10 Towns That Go Big For Christmas

November 29, 2013, 4:43 am
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Oh, so your town has a Christmas tree? That's cute, but it doesn't compare to the 600-ton one made of sand in Florida.

This season, make a plan to visit these 10 U.S. cities that commemorate Christmas with something more creative than your standard evergreen.

A 600-ton sand tree
West Palm Beach, Florida
Yup. In West Palm Beach, Florida, sculptors managed to build a massive Christmas tree out of sand -- and host a lighting ceremony -- in less than a week. Their “tropical winter wonderland” includes four other 25-ton sand sculptures… no big deal.
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A fruitcake toss
Garrison, North Dakota
What a brilliant way to get rid of everyone’s (least) favorite dessert. At the Dickens Village Festival, revelers perform something similar to a water balloon toss, but with the loathed baked goods. Age brackets from six-and-under to adult men chuck cakes for hundreds of dollars in prize money.
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A one-man rendition of “A Christmas Carol”
Skaneateles, New York
For two and a half hilarious hours at the Dickens Christmas festival in Skaneateles, New York, resident Kim Tenreiro stars in “A Christmas Carol” …all by himself. Dickens characters roam the Finger Lakes town by day, and you can share dinner with them at a local inn.
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A Santa Claus postmark
Santa Claus, Indiana
More than 400,000 letters to Santa will wind up at the post office in Santa Claus, Indiana this season. Many of them will receive a special Santa Claus postmark, designed each year by a local high school student. People from far and wide mail bulks of Christmas cards and personally drive their Santa lists to the post office, just to ink that special cancellation mark on their letter.
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A yule log on a sled
McAdenville, North Carolina
In the small town of McAdenville, there is one twinkling, lit-up Christmas tree per every two residents. The town goes all out for Christmas-- last year there were more than 375 trees placed all around the town of 654 people, and houses got drenched in festive wreaths. In McAdenville’s Yule Log Parade, dozens of kids drag a piece of wood around on a sled before igniting it in the big town fireplace to the sound of carols.
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A hotel cookie tour
White Mountains, New Hampshire and Maine
On the Annual Inn to Inn Holiday Cookie and Candy Tour, sweet-toothed treasure hunters drive from one quaint mountainside property to the next, collecting fresh-baked cookies as they go. Visit all 13 inns on the tour, and you’ll score a shiny new ornament.
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A 100-foot megatree
Los Angeles, California
Only L.A. could do it this big. At over 100 feet, the tree in The Grove outdoor shopping mall is routinely one of the country’s tallest, topping even the one in Rockefeller Center. This year, Mary J. Blige, CeeLo Green and Gavin DeGraw sang till it was all lit up.
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A ride on the Polar Express
Lincoln and North Conway, New Hampshire
The magical children's book comes to life at two New Hampshire train stations, where kids and parents (and anyone yearning for Christmas magic, really) hop aboard real trains for a real, two-hour ride to a land of Christmas enchantment. Santa greets them at the end with a reading of "The Polar Express."
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A Christmas museum
Paradise, Pennsylvania
At Dutch Country’s National Christmas Center, window-shop for vintage toys on the “Street of Memories” before visiting exhibits that include an animal storybook village and “1950s Christmas Morning,” a re-creation of a typical holiday living room from the decades of yore.
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A visit from Charles Dickens’s kin
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
The Inn at Christmas Place is already pretty festive-- it’s decked in evergreens and twinkly lights 365 days a year. The holiday spirit goes into overdrive each November when Gerald Dickens, great-great-grandson of “A Christmas Carol” author Charles Dickens, visits to recite the play aloud.
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An Island You Can't Even Find On A Map

November 29, 2013, 4:44 am
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Escape all that is holiday hullabaloo and head off to your own private island getaway on Motu Teta in Rangiroa, French Polynesia.

The Rangiroa atoll, the second largest in the world, consists of about 415 islands and sandbars, Motu Teta being one of them.

Voila!
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The all-inclusive 9-acre private island resort is really far removed from basically everything. Guests fly into Papeete, Tahiti, then take an inter-island flight to Rangiroa and then a 1.5-hour boat ride to the island--exclusivity ain't easy, after all.

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Guests will have a private chef and 24-hour staff, excursions like shark lassoing (whatever that is) and a Coconut Crab hunt (because, natch). Oh, and there's limited cell service, so you're really, really disconnected.

The island holds 6 adults--or 10 people, including children starting at 530 Euros a night per person... not bad. Here's the place. Yup.
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It's over 6,200 miles from New York. Here it is on a map.
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This could be you. Just sayin'.
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Aït Benhaddou, Setting Of 'Gladiator,' Is Your New Favorite Wintertime Destination

November 29, 2013, 4:45 am
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It's getting icy out there, folks. Which means you totally deserve an escape to a ksar, one of those fortified mud brick cities in the deserts of Morocco.

The most famous of ksars is called Aït Benhaddou-- it was dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 because it is "a striking example of southern Moroccan architecture."

Aït Benhaddou is also the setting for many movies you might have seen, like "The Mummy," "Babel," and "Prince of Persia." Russell Crowe's character receives his combat training here in "Gladiator," and it's been featured in a some recent episodes of "Game of Thrones."

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With warm winter temperatures and even warmer, friendlier people, Aït Benhaddou is a winter destination that will thaw your cold soul.

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Aït Benhaddou is about a three-hour drive from Marrakesh, and you can enter the town by hopping across stones in a shallow river.

After your visit, hunt down the nearby Atlas Studios, a desert outpost where additional scenes are shot for the area's many films.

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Canada Jetlines Ltd., Vancouver-Based Airline, To Offer Cheap Flights

November 29, 2013, 9:24 am
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A group of aviation veterans is working to launch a Vancouver-based airline that would offer cheap flights throughout western Canada.

Canada Jetlines Ltd., which would fly under the name "Jetlines," is the brainchild of David Solloway, Jim Scott and Dix Lawson, and their vision is to offer low-cost flights to areas such as Prince Rupert, Kamloops, Edmonton and Winnipeg, with long-term plans to fly internationally to Orlando, Las Vegas and Cabo St. Lucas, The Financial Post reports.

“We think there’s a vacuum,” Solloway, who used to work at Canadian Pacific Air Lines, Oasis Hong Kong Airlines and Air China, told the newspaper.

"We think we can fill it as a British Columbia-based airline."

The company would be modeled after low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, Allegiant Air and Spirit Airlines. An investor briefing cited by the Post states that a flight from Vancouver to Prince George would cost $72, compared with an Air Canada flight at $144.

But launching the airline would largely depend on how much interest the founders can generate from investors.

They're raising $1 million in seed money through Robson Capital Markets, and there are plans to raise an additional $25 million in financing with Salman Partners Inc., The Globe and Mail reported.

From there, the investors hope to raise $25 million in each of three additional rounds of financing, and long-term plans for the airline could be solidified if they manage to raise $101 million in total.

Jetlines plans to introduce two Airbus A319 planes next summer and expand to 16 planes by 2017.

Solloway told The Province that he's already spoken with Shirley Bond, B.C.'s minister of jobs, tourism and skills training, about flying workforces to northern communities..

The company has also spoken with airports in Prince Rupert, a site for proposed LNG terminals.

The current average fare for a flight from Vancouver to Prince Rupert is $232 and Jetlines could tackle the same route for $93, Solloway said.

A search of Air Canada flights, however, found that one-way trips can cost as much as $441.

Lindsay Meredith of SFU's Beedie School of Business told The Province that LNG development could create a lucrative travel market if resource plans go ahead.

As it stands, Jetlines may not be without competition among cheaper carriers. Calgary's Enerjet is rumoured to be seeking financing for a low-cost operation, the Post reported.

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Annoying Airplane Passenger Thinks She's The Only One Who Celebrates Thanksgiving (PHOTOS, TWEETS)

November 29, 2013, 9:51 am
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This extremely passive-aggressive airplane feud is one for the ages.

It took place on Thanksgiving Day between a middle-aged woman known as "Diane" and a righteously-indignant TV producer, Elan Gale, who live-tweeted the entire hilarious, maddening encounter as it happened.

The saga began when the US Airways flight to Phoenix was delayed at takeoff:








































































































































Elan, you are our Thanksgiving hero.
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Panama Gunmen Seized Canadian Couple From Car

November 29, 2013, 3:53 am
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A P.E.I. couple is safe at home in Cardigan after a holiday in Panama that ended with an attack by armed gunmen.


Andrew Mirtle and Natalie Bears were on the last day of a week-long vacation in Panama when their rental car was surrounded by three vehicles. Inside were five men carrying guns.


"The first three minutes was absolute terror," said Mirtle.


"He put the gun in my face and told me to get out of the car," said Bears.


Mirtle was forced into one of the abductors' cars. Bears was left behind.


"The guy dragged me across the road, and there was quite a steep ditch and he threw me down there," she said.


It took Bears some time to attract the attention of a passing car and get in touch with police.


Mirtle, meanwhile, was facing intense questioning in the car about what he was doing in Panama. He was hit repeatedly with the butt of a gun.


"My main concern was what they had done with Natalie," he said.


"I concentrated on that, and just my breathing, and sort of OK, let's keep the peace let's ride this out and see where it goes."


After a drive of about 30 minutes, the men let him go.


He and Bears managed to make it to separate police stations. Their rental car was found with their passports and finally they reconnected. They made their scheduled flight, returning to Canada on Saturday.


"You can't describe it, knowing the person you love is safe and in one piece," said Mirtle.



Mirtle said that before the trip, he researched Panama and checked Ottawa's travel advisory page. He found no warnings for the specific area they would be in.


The couple hopes by speaking out, the government might change the advisory, to warn other Canadians.


"We hope that the Canadian government will reflect a little bit more accurately what is going on," said Mirtle.


The two have been in touch with their local MP, Lawrence MacAulay, who said he has written to Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird.


"I hope ... the government updates the website, makes sure that Canadians when they travel to places like Panama, that they're aware that these situations very well could take place and to take proper precautions," said MacAulay.


Mirtle and Bears said this experience hasn't changed how they feel about travelling, but next time, they won't limit their research on safety to the government of Canada's travel advisories.



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Moonwalking Shetland Pony Looks To Lure Tourists To Scotland (VIDEO)

November 29, 2013, 10:11 am
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Remember these guys? Well, they've made a friend.

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Everyone, meet "Socks", the moonwalking sweater-wearing Shetland pony. See, Socks is something of a celebrity in the United Kingdom. He's famous for his dancing exploits after teaming up with Three Mobile, a cellular provider in Scotland.

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Now with the holiday season fast approaching, Socks has teamed up with VisitScotland and Promote Shetland for "The Knitwear Before Christmas" campaign. Together, they're producing "The Christmas Pony", a festive take on the 71 seconds of pure pony dancing joy, only this time, with 100 per cent more Christmas cheer.

Socks will also don a Fair Isle Christmas sweater decked out in ads as part of the project. The sweater will be created by Doreen Brown who designed the original cardigans used in the first promotional photos, the Evening Standard reports.

Back in January, VisitScotland launched their "Year of Natural Scotland", an initiative to promote the country's "outstanding natural beauty" as well as highlight the region's strong knitting traditions. Naturally, Shetland ponies wearing sweaters were a perfect fit and the campaign became a viral hit. Now the tourism board is hoping to recapture that magic, according to Steve Mathieson, VisitScotland's island manager.

“The sight of Socks strutting his stuff on Shetland captured the imagination of millions and helped thrust the Northern Isles into the global spotlight," Mathieson told The Scotsman.

"We are delighted to see that he is once again showing off not just his dance moves and new Fair Isle knitwear, but also the spectacular scenery of this unique and magical part of the world.”

What do you think of the campaign? Adorable or has VisitScotland become something of a one-trick pony?

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Classic Surf Cars From Around The World

November 29, 2013, 11:17 am
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Surfers love telling tales about the best rides of their lives. Usually these stories have to do with their best wave rides, but sometimes it’s the ride that got them there that is more legendary.

Tasmania-born and Oahu-based photographer Sean Davey has been shooting surf culture for over thirty years. He has seen it all, from monstrous waves to some of the more unconventional surf vehicles around the world.

We asked Davey to tell us a little about his iconic surf car shots. His reflections are full of serendipitous photo ops, a couple of the world’s most famous surfers, distant lands, remote breaks, and cars you’d never expect could make the trip.

His experiences will inspire you to hit the road for your own adventure -- surfboard or not. When you’ve got a ride like one of these, it truly is about the journey rather than the destination.

To see Davey’s full collection of surf vehicle photos, check out his gallery on The Inertia.

1. "Plain Place," aka Oakhampton, Tasmania
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This car belonged to my surf buddy Alan Davis, in Tasmania, Australia, way back in the 80's. We used to take this thing everywhere, simply because it was a good economical car for those long missions. He also had one of those home mini component stereo systems inside his glove box. That car was way cool....

2. 7 Mile Beach, Hobart, Tasmania.
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This is a classic old Australian 80's Ford Falcon and it was obviously owned by a guy who cared for it well, until this day when he was putting his boat in at the ramp under a much bigger than normal swell. He got bogged. He opened his door right when a wave came, so it went all inside his car. I saw it for sale the very next week.

3. Laniakea, North Shore, Oahu
classic surf car

I was up in the helicopter shooting big wave surfing and we were crossing over Kamehameha Highway just as this old vintage woody was passing by. Serendipitous timing, you could say.

4. City of Melbourne Bay, King Island, Australia
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This is from King Island, a small island in Bass Strait, just under Melbourne, Australia. King Island is a farming community, world famous for their beef and dairy products especially. This is the only kind of traffic jam you will ever encounter on King Island.

5. West Cape, Yorke Peninsula, South Australia
yorkes surf

This is a mid-70's Australian Ford Falcon which Australian Surfing Life Magazine purchased, then sprayed "Operation Tubequest” on the doors and sent it off into the much-feared South Australian desert knowing that they would get great waves and cause all kinds of mayhem in an area where outsiders were generally not welcome. The trip went for 6 weeks and resulted in three major article features. Before you pack your bags, you should know that this location is just a couple of miles from where they filmed the real Great White sharks for "Jaws."

6. "The Deep, Deep Scrub," near Currie, King Island, Australia
surf forest

A classic old Australian Holden from the late 60’s. These were very rugged vehicles and would go off road to surprisingly great extents. This photo was taken by my late friend Jeremy Curtain. It’s his mate Salty's car. Those boys on King Island pioneered all the island’s surf breaks back in the day, using these cars where there were no roads.

7. Currie, King Island, Australia
classic car surfboard

Again, this one's on King Island, Australia and features an old chevy from the 20's. It belongs to this really nice old guy who let us borrow it for a few pictures. (Thanks, mate.) The surfer is Hath Joske.

8. Nettley's Bay, Tasmania
mullet surfers

Another classic old Australian Holden. This one is from the early 60's. My mate Alan Davis bought it off this old guy who had owned it since new. The thing was awesome. It was the 80's and we named it after the movie “Greystoke.” It was such a fitting name.

9. Huntington Beach, California
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I was just cruising along one morning and saw this guy with his old Kombi van and asked him if I could shoot a portrait. He was stoked that I was interested.

10. Joel Tudor, Pipeline, North Shore, Oahu
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I was walking along one day and just happened upon this scene and instantaneously focused and shot. The scene was lost within seconds. Perfect example of being ready for the moment.

11. Martha Lavinia Nature Reserve, King Island, Australia
surfboard on truck

Another image still from King Island. Loads of the local farmers have very practical utility trucks. This guy just throws his board on his work truck after work and drives down for a surf.

12. Shark's Cove, North Shore, Oahu
painted vans

This is the work of Drew Toonz. One hell of a talented artist who sometimes goes around and beautifies the place by painting up old wrecks that are visually polluting the North Shore. He gives them beauty and humor.

13. Pipeline, North Shore, Oahu
surf limo

It's amazing what you'll see surfers driving up here on the North Shore. Especially out of town surfers. They are typically on a bit of a holiday and something like an old limo would rock as a holiday car, would it not? So yeah, you do see some neat vehicles about the place. The production trucks parked across the street were there for the filming of "Blue Crush."

14. Mark Occhilupo, Bondi Beach, Australia
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This was during the first coming of Occy the pro surfer. He was young and just about unbeatable. I guess he was hanging out with Rabbit [Bartholomew] about this time because I think this is Rabb's old RX7 with the Queensland license plates. I happened to see Occy waxing up in the Bondi Beach parking lot and grabbed a couple of portraits of him. His wetsuit sponsor at the time was Peak wetsuits. To this day, my Californian friends ask where they can get the old Occy Peak suits.

15. Porky's Beach, King Island, Australia
truck on sand

This is probably just about the right kind of vehicle when driving around rural beachy areas. It's 4wd and it's light, meaning you can push it out if it does get bogged.

16. Huon Highway, Tasmania
surf snow

Tasmanian surfers have their lot to deal with in the winter months. Blizzards are known to happen in the more frontier areas to the west and south. This is what surfers put up with to get a few waves at that time of the year.

17. Ehukai Beach Park, North Shore, Oahu
aloha license plate

I spotted this license plate in the Ehukai beach parking lot one afternoon and was immediately drawn to it for a picture. It is still one of my favourite symbolic images of Hawaii.
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10 Best Solo Escapes This Winter

November 30, 2013, 5:18 am
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Traveling alone as an outdoor lover has its own unique set of requirements. Whether you are traveling to an isolated location to quiet your soul or plan to join in outdoor activities with others, the key to a successful solo vacation is knowing what you want to experience and finding the spot that comfortably meets those needs. Do you want to get away from snowflakes and freezing temperatures or get the most out of winter? Do you long for a beach and margarita poolside while the rest of your friends are bundled up? Find your ultimate alone-time escape with these 10 spots. --Robin Enright

Kauai, Hawaii
The vibrant lush green scenery of Kauai might be the result of a wet climate, but don't let the rain scare you away from this little piece of heaven. The South Shore has lodging minutes from the airport and if you're looking to make a resort your solo adventure home base, check into the Kauai Marriott Resort. Those who long for some isolation and beautiful scenery might enjoy the wetter North Shore. Regardless of where you stay, a rental car is necessary to explore and take advantage of the island's microclimates. Plan to explore Waimea Canyon and Hanalei's beautiful beaches. Hikers won't want to miss the extraordinary views along the Na Pali Coast and should be prepared for slick mud (bring a hiking pole and waterproof shoes). Plan to go stand-up paddleboarding on the Hanalei River in Hanalei. Book a whale watching or sea kayaking tour through Outfitters Kauai. Get your fill of fresh seafood in Hanalei at The Dolphin, or enjoy a lively happy hour at Keoki's Paradise in Poipu has a lively "Aloha hour."

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Kauai Guide

Tulum, Mexico
If your idea of a winter escape is to soak up some rays and relax for hours, then Tulum is the spot for you. With miles of serene oceanfront to stroll, this Caribbean ocean vacation might be the ultimate solo R&R destination. Turn off your cell phone, leave your computer behind and set your inner clock to match the rise and fall of some extraordinary sunrises and sunsets. The cabanas at Maya Tulum will lull you into a zen state of mind the moment you arrive. Take a yoga class with ocean views, meditate while walking the labyrinth, or treat yourself to a salt scrub massage before heading out to dinner at Hartwood Tulum.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Tulum Guide

White Mountains, New Hampshire
Powder-lovers will be dazzled by the winter wonderland of New Hampshire's White Mountains. An impressive 100 km Nordic ski trail network and 464 acres of alpine skiing will keep skiers occupied for days. Or earn bragging rights by doing a 3-day guided winter hike up the 6,288 feet Mt. Washington with REI Adventures. Ice climbers will enjoy some of New England's best at nearby Frankenstein Cliff. Visit Franconia Notch for a variety of trails and hikes best done on snowshoes. Stay at the historic Omni Mount Washington Hotel and relax with a drink at the end of the day with other adventurous souls inside the renovated Cave, a former speakeasy.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's White Mountains Guide

Breckenridge, Colorado
A historic gold-mining town founded in 1859, Breckenridge is the perfect spot to experience the quintessential Colorado ski town. With 187 trails, 33 lifts, and a summit elevation of 12,998 feet, there is enough terrain diversity for any skiing level. Beginners should check out Breckenridge's First Time Discovery Series, which includes lessons, lift tickets and rentals for three days. When you aren't gliding the slopes shop 'til you drop at the 200 shops on Main Street, or sit down at Angel's Hollow to order one of their famous margaritas. Ullr Fest, an event celebrating the mythological Norse God of snow, is held the second week in January and festivities include a frying pan toss, ski boot relay, and parade. Singles looking for fun should consider applying to be a bachelor or bachelorette at Breckenridge's version of the Dating Game on January 8.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Breckenridge Guide

Costa Rica
Escape winter and treat yourself to a solo adventurer's dream in Costa Rica to experience volcanoes, rain forests, waterfalls, rivers, and the ocean. Sign up for a horseback riding tour on the beach or get your adrenaline racing by exploring Manuel Antonio National Park via zip line or on a canopy tour through the rainforest. For the water sports enthusiast, there are countless spots to surf and stand-up paddleboard depending on your level. For land-based outings enjoy a round of golf at Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort in Playa Tamarindo or visit the Osa Peninsula for a rainforest adventure. For a secluded and tranquil lodging book a luxurious room at the Hotel Capitan Suizo in Tamarindo and enjoy mingling during their weekly Friday night beach barbeque with live marimba music.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Costa Rica Guide

Taos, New Mexico
Outdoorsy travelers looking for a side of culture might consider Taos as their next destination. Writers and artists will find their creative mojo just by being in the space that inspired Georgia O'Keefe, D.H. Lawrence and Thomas Wolfe among others. Enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoe adventures in the Enchanted Forest Cross-country Ski Area in the Carson National Forest with over 33 km of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing and 15 km of snowshoe trails. Alpine skiers have a number of resorts to choose from with those seeking a challenge best served by Taos Ski Valley. Enjoy fantastic mountain views and privacy at Adobe & Pines Inn, a 170 year-old adobe hacienda with country charm.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Taos Guide

Providenciales
Best known for its luscious white sand beaches, Providenciales offers a great blend of natural wonders and modernity as the most developed island in Turks and Caicos. The island will soothe tired souls, and offers plenty of aquatic activity options once you're reenergized. Stroll on the sand at the 12-mile Grace Bay Beach and look for the rare West Indian Whistling-Duck and countless other species of birds on the tidal flats on the south side of the island. If you want to experience the island in the company of others, take advantage of an adventure with one of the islands many outfitters who offer fishing expeditions and kayaking tours, or dive and snorkel with Provo Turtle Divers. Don't forget to explore the shipwrecks at Chalk Sound. Fronting Grace Bay Beach, the Seven Stars resort has awesome beach access with complimentary kayaks, surfboards, and snorkeling equipment. Wander down from your room to their deck bar by the beach, which becomes the hot spot on Thursday and Saturday nights with live music.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Providenciales Guide

Belize
Head to Belize not only to escape from winter but also to slow down and reconnect with nature. Stay in a thatched roof cottage or treetop suite on a 365-acre nature reserve at Chaa Creek, located on the banks of the Macal River in the foothills of the Maya Mountains, and you'll wake to the sounds of the rainforest. Float away your days in the pool or a canoe. Snorkel and scuba dive in one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world with over 500 species of fish. Or stay in the simple tent-walled cabanas at Glovers Reef basecamp located on Glover's Reef Atoll and wake to the sounds of waves right outside your door.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Belize Guide

Valle d'Aosta, Italy
Bordered by France and Switzerland, Valle d'Aosta is also known as the heart of the Alps. Indulge in a European ski adventure in this magical location that has a charming village to suit every ski personality. Stay and ski at the quieter Pila, a car-free resort known for it's extraordinary snow and weekend atmosphere, and a 20 minute gondola ride to Aosta below. Or experience the livelier ski town of Courmayeur with shops and fun après-ski culture. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers will want to check out Cogne. When your legs are worn out from skiing, get your culture on by exploring the rich history in Valle d'Aosta's Roman ruins, castles, historical churches, and museums.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Valle d'Aosta Guide

New Zealand
Active solo travelers heading to New Zealand will find their biggest problem is choosing what to do. New Zealand is an outdoor adventure heaven with cycling, caving, bungee and rafting adventures. Best of all, the ideal time to visit is during their summer which happens to be our winter. Plan to spend at least three weeks and be wowed by extraordinary sights at every turn. Cyclists will enjoy the New Zealand Cycle Trail, which stretches across the North and South Islands and includes breathtaking views of beaches, lakes, mountains, lush rain forests, and wetlands. Walk or cruise through North Island's magical Waitomo Caves, featuring a "starry" glowworm illuminate ceiling. Maximize a visit to South Island's Abel Tasman National Park, known for its golden beaches and cliffs, with a multi-day stay at Wilsons Abel Tasman beachfront lodge with guides ready to help you explore.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's New Zealand Guide
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Riomaggiore, Italy Is The Most Beautiful Place In The World Right Now

November 30, 2013, 5:21 am
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You've heard of the Cinque Terre, those five Italian fishing villages that tourists often hike through one at a time. The one that starts the chain is called Riomaggiore, and if it were up to us, we might stop there and never continue to the rest.

There are many reasons to love Riomaggiore. Firstly, the photos are just plain stunning.

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Secondly, dusk is the town's prime time.

You can savor it on the cool, seaside rocks with the fishermen or from way up high on a cocktail bar's terrace.

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Thirdly, Riomaggiore's water is the bluest of blues.

The village sits right on the Gulf of Genoa, at the upper edge of Italy's boot, where water is unspoiled and serene.


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When night falls, Riomaggiore only gets prettier.

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And daily life is more beautiful, too.

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Not even bad weather can ruin its glory. Riomaggiore and the other Cinque Terre villages were hit with heavy rainfall in 2011.

Some of the other towns experienced devastating flash floods, but Riomaggiore's high altitude allowed it to escape with less damage. It's rebuilding and thriving today.


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We love you, Riomaggiore!

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10 Reasons You Should Take A Gap Year

November 30, 2013, 5:22 am
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Taking a gap year between high school and college doesn't mean you're lazy, or that you're skipping out on life.

In fact, it means that you're living life to the fullest. Here are 10 reasons why.

1. You’ll perform better in college.
Students might worry that college admissions officials or professors will look down on them for taking a gap year. This isn’t necessarily true: many schools report that gap year students have higher GPAs and are more involved on campus, so their attitudes toward gap years are far from unfavorable. Acceptance letters from Harvard even suggest that students might want to take time off before they enroll.

2. You’ll realize what you love before you start studying.
More often than not, college students commit themselves to one area of study, realize it’s not for them, and then swap to a completely different major… often two or three times. You’ll cut down on coursework, tuition bills and stress if you take time before college to decide which role in the “real world” is most appealing to you.

3. You’ll get to adventure at your prime.
When else are you going to be 18 years old with no job, no mortgage payments, no significant other, no kids, no homework and no worries? Never. The answer is never.

4. You’ll know what’s important in life before most people do.
College is insanely fun, but it’s easy to get so caught up that you begin to believe your fraternity or friend group is the absolute center of the universe. As such, any small crisis or fight might seem like the end of the world. However, if you’ve traveled the wider world in all its complexity and glory, you’ll understand there are bigger issues for humanity than a failed date night or lost game of beer pong.

5. You’ll be an expert at adapting to new places.
On a gap year, you’ll be forced to integrate into a new society, a new group of friends, and maybe even new languages or cultural norms. College requires similar adaptation skills, and you’ll be much more ready to handle it if you’ve already shifted societies once before.

6. You’ll have something to talk about.
Skip the same old “where are you from?” and “what’s your major?” chitchat, and nail the “what’d you do this summer?” question with stories from your gap year. You’ll have first-hand opinions to share about people, places and ideas that your peers might have never even heard of.

7. You’ll have a shinier resume.
Oftentimes, a gap year involves staying in one spot and soaking up its culture, part of which means getting a job. No matter where you work -- a sandwich stand in India or the embassy in London -- you’ll have valuable (international!) experience for your resume and can explain your ability to do business with customers from different cultures. If you’re a real cheap traveler, you might even have some earnings left to use on college tuition.

8. You’ll pick up the pieces you missed in high school.
Slept through every Spanish class? Head to Argentina for your gap year, where you'll be forced to speak the language for reals. Wish you knew more history? Spend time touring government buildings in Europe. A gap year is your time to refine the specific skills you feel like you’re lacking and sharpen them up for college.

9. You’ll have time to think.
Life feels like it’s unfolding fast right now, and in college, things only move faster. Give yourself room to think and breathe and be on long train rides from country to country or days spent strolling through new towns. You’ll be surprised where your mind wanders when you give it free rein.

10. You’ll make new friends.
How cool would it be to go through life knowing you have a best friend in Italy or a pen pal in New Zealand? Their unique perspectives on life will hugely enrich yours as you compare all the major events that happen in your 20s and beyond. Plus, you’ll have crazy awesome places to visit during college breaks.
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6 Reasons Hawaii Will Ruin Your Life

November 30, 2013, 8:11 am
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Maybe you've only been to Hawaii once. Maybe you come every year. Or maybe you come any chance you can get.

Regardless of your time spent in Hawaii, this list serves as a warning. And those of you who have ever left the Honolulu International Airport with tears in your eyes and that stinging, lump feeling in your throat, you'll understand why.

Because falling in love with Hawaii isn't easy. In fact, it turns your whole world upside down.

Below, the 6 reasons you should never fall in love with Hawaii if you ever want a chance at a normal life anywhere else:

1. Home will never feel like home again

Your own bed will never be as comfy as that lazy Sunday afternoon, dozing off in the sand at Papailoa Beach. And your favorite morning coffee spot? It's got nothing on your acai bowl breakfast ritual that left you rejuvenated and ready for your next waterfall hike.

2. Who needs a career path?

Spend enough time around dramatic cliffs, awe-inspiring valleys and scary powerful waves and your career goals will suddenly seem so insignificant. Who wants a fancy job title anyway? It's not that you've lost your motivation or drive to be successful; it's just that your definition of success has changed. Your goals have less to do with money and more to do with beating your best time up a crater and learning how to do a headstand on a paddleboard.

3. And work ethic? Forget about it.

It's your first day back at work after a few weeks on the islands. You look around at the co-workers who you once thought were so interesting and diverse and the buzzing office that once made you giddy with excitement ... and you let out a deep sigh. You spend the rest of your days dreaming about the wonderfully eccentric surf bums you met, the most refreshing cocktail you've ever tasted at a pau hana on the beach, and the uncontrollable urge to applaud the sun just for setting.

4. You will stop appreciating the beauty of your own city

Sure, at one point you may have appreciated those city lights but now they just seem like a distraction from all the stars in the sky. And all those tall buildings? When compared to the green mountains in your memory, they seem pretty pathetic, not to mention depressing. By the way, where are all the trees? We should definitely be planting a lot more trees here...

5. Your Hawaii stories have stopped being charming and are now just annoying

Your first few stories about those spontaneous firedancers at sunset or that 3 a.m. hike up the "Stairway To Heaven" will be fun to hear, but when every sentence starts with, "Well, in Hawaii..." all of your friends will be rolling their eyes. Soon, you'll find that you have less in common with your friends and more in common with those drifters sitting on the sidewalk.

And yes, your neighbors are tired of hearing you play the same songs over and over again on your ukulele.

6. Eventually (after you've finally made the big move), your family and friends will hate you

Well, not really. They'll think you hate them. They'll say that you have abandoned them for a care-free breezy life in Hawaii and they'll always refer to you as "the free spirit that ran away to the islands."

But you won't really care. After all, you've fallen in love with Hawaii, which means it will still be worth it, every day, when you look out to the horizon during the "golden hour" and watch the sky change a thousand different colors. "Yes," you'll say to yourself then, "I am so very lucky to live Hawaii."

kauai sunset
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Now This Is A Bridge We'd Like To Cross

December 1, 2013, 5:43 am
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Admittedly, we have a soft spot for bridges. From actual living bridges to proposed trampolines across the Seine, we just think bridges are super nifty.

Enter the "Mobius" bridge that's proposed for the Dragon King Harbor River development in Changsha, China. The Dutch firm NEXT Architects recently won a competition over the design for the pedestrian bridge, which would span over 490 feet long and 78 feet high across Meixi Lake.

Pedestrians will be able to walk across the bridge at different heights, which is based on the appearance of a Mobius ring as well as a knot found in ancient Chinese folk art.

Construction is scheduled to begin next year.

Check it out.

bridge

bridge

And in case you're wondering how it will all work:
bridge

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The Eiffel Tower Replica In Slobozia, Romania Is Especially Awesome

December 1, 2013, 6:05 am
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There are numerous Eiffel Tower replicas around the world, because why not?

But one stands out for being particularly interesting.

Located outside Slobozia, about 75 miles from Bucharest, the replica stands at about 177 feet tall (the actual Eiffel Tower stands at over 1,000 feet). It stands in a private park and was built by a Romanian billionaire. What makes it especially awesome--and gives us even more reason to go--is that there's also a replica of the ranch from "Dallas" on the property of course.

eiffel tower slobozia

eiffel tower slobozia

It gets lit up at night, too. Look for it on a map as "Turnel Eiffel."

But that's not all there is to see in Slobozia. The saltwater Lake Amara, which has healing muds and waters, is the main draw of the area.

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2014 Themed Cruises Bring Knitting, Baseball And Metal Bands To The High Seas

December 1, 2013, 7:17 am
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(Relaxnews) - Have a hobby or interest? There's a cruise for that.

From fans of the show “Dancing with the Stars,” to heavy metal music; baseball fanatics and self-confessed geeks, here’s a selection of themed cruises headed to the seas in 2014, as curated by Cruisecritic.com.

Boston Red Sox Fan Cruise
January 12-19, 2014
This one’s for serious Boston Red Sox fans. Want to relive the magic of the World Series championship? Early next year, the Celebrity Silhouette will take guests around the Caribbean in the company of Red Sox legends and alumni like Keith Foulke, Dave Stapleton and John Tudor. Stops include Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Labadee, Haiti.

celebrity silhouette

Knitting Cruise
Several dates in 2014
Those passionate about the art of knitting will find like-minded hobbyists on an Ama Waterways cruise themed exclusively on stitching. Hosted by Barry Klein, who’s been called one of the “top 10 influential men in the world of knitting,” the cruise will sail the Danube from Prague to Budapest. The itinerary will showcase the latest in luxury yarns, fashion trends, and classes on new stitching techniques.

knitting cruise

Dancing With The Stars At Sea
Several dates 2014
Fans of the reality TV competition “Dancing with the Stars” can pretend they’re the stars of their own show while cruising the Caribbean or Alaska on Holland America’s MS Nieuw Amsterdam. In addition to sailing with some of the stars of the show like Kym Johnson, Tristan MacManus, Sabrina Bryan and Carson Kressley, the cruise also features dance classes and competitions.


dwts at sea

70,000 Tons Of Metal
January 27-31, 2014
Unapologetic head bangers will unite on the Majesty of the Seas sailing the Caribbean with bands like Victory, Satyricon, and The Haunted. Billed as the world’s largest heavy metal cruise and open-air stage at sea, the cruise also includes all-night karaoke for budding metal artists.

7000 tons of metal

Temples And Safaris
March 10-28, 2014
This cruise itinerary revolves around two mythical elements: temples and African wildlife.The 21-night cruise begins in Singapore and ends in Cape Town, with stops in Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Mauritius and South Africa. The cruise also includes special interest lectures by experts and journalists.

crystal cruises thailand

Culinary Wine And Delights Of Spain
April 19-27, 2014
Foodies are sure to find this cruise enticing, with a gastronomic itinerary that highlights the culinary heritage of Spain and Portugal. The eight-day cruise will be wine-soaked and food-heavy, starting in Lisbon and ending in Barcelona. Shore excursions include visits to Jerez de la Frontera, the “Sherry Capital of the World,” and a wine museum. Guests will also be offered cooking classes for paella, and learn how olive oil is made.

windstar cruises spain

Exploring NOVA
January 25 - February 8, 2014
Curious intellectuals, inquiring minds and self-confessed geeks may be interested in a new cruise package that sails from Miami to Peru with producers and personalities from the highest-rated science series on US TV. Developed by Artful Travelers, which specializes in creating cultural and educational travel experiences, the cruise will sail along the Panama Canal with the people behind "NOVA," an award-winning -- and the most-watched -- documentary series on US public television.

seven seas mariner
(Pictured above is the Seven Seas Mariner, the cruise ship used in the Exploring NOVA tour)
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Hawaii Vog Makes For Incredible Skylines And Horrible Air Quality

December 1, 2013, 9:52 am
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Hawaii has a love-hate relationship with "vog."

On one hand, vog (or volcanic smog) is basically harmful volcanic air pollution. As Kilauea volcano on Hawaii's Big Island oozes lava, it emits sulfur dioxide that reacts with sunlight, oxygen, dust particles and moisture to form an aerosol, better known as vog.

When this vog wafts over the islands, it often leaves people with headaches, watery eyes, sore throats, and can make it very difficult to breathe. (It's like being in a smoky room, but it's everywhere.)

On the other hand, vog is the world's best real-life photo filter. When sunlight (or moonlight) passes through the vog-polluted air, it can create some truly mind-boggling horizons.

In short, vog is bad for your health, but oh-so-good for brilliantly colored -- or ominously muted -- skylines.

Below, take in 10 wondrous views of Hawaii's voggy skies, without any of the health hazards:


Purple Haze
hawaii vog


Silver Stillness
hawaii vog


Golden Hour
vog


Smokey Sunrise
hawaii vog


Rainbow In The Sky
hawaii vog


Lava Flow In The Twilight
hawaii vog


Blankets Of Grey
hawaii vog


Tiger-Striped Sunset
hawaii vog


Reflections In The Lake
hawaii vog


Red Into The Night
hawaii vog

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Stress-Reduction Amenities At TSA Checkpoint Ease Airport Anxiety

December 2, 2013, 5:48 am
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Plush couches. Soothing music. Tranquil pictures on the wall. It could be a hotel lobby. Except at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, these are the amenities at a Transportation Security Administration checkpoint, an experiment to ease tensions as passengers pass through security.
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Take A (Virtual) Post-Holiday Detox At Budapest's Szechenyi Thermal Baths

December 2, 2013, 5:56 am
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In case the idea of lounging around with hundreds of your favorite strangers sounds appealing, may we recommend heading to Europe to take a thermal bath?

Szechenyi Thermal Bath, the largest medicinal bath in all of Europe, sits near the zoo in Budapest (it was the first of its kind on the Pest side of town). Parts of the bath are open from early morning to 10pm at night. It's a big tourist draw--who wouldn't want to chill in a bath in the middle of town?--but it's also popular with locals.

tourists

Visitors can get massages or even a pedicure or just hang out playing chess like these two.
tourists

The water is kept at around 160-175 degrees, which will keep you nice and toasty in the middle of winter.
szechenyi thermal bath

And sometimes it can get a little rowdy, especially in summer.
szechenyi thermal bath

Until next time...
szechenyi thermal bath
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London's Best Winter Pubs: Grab A Nook And Prepare To Get Cosy

December 2, 2013, 8:20 am
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We've had a good moan about how cold it is, and now it's time to move on with life and embrace winter as it settles in for the long run. That means: wooly socks, bobble hats and a cosy perch in your favourite pub, preferably by the fire. (If some jammy git hasn't nabbed the spot first).

We asked the HuffPost UK team to tell us their favourite London winter pubs. Take a look and please do add your suggestions at the bottom:



SEE ALSO:

London's Best Places For Brunch

London's Best Roast Dinners


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