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Check Out These Fun Facts About U.S. National Parks

May 22, 2015 by

If you’re looking for an affordable vacation that enables you to get in touch with nature, visiting a national park is a great option. There are numerous National Parks throughout the country that offer outdoor activities, camping, and much more. Here are some facts about the nation’s most interesting parks.

  • The National Parks System has 397 national parks on record, but some of them don’t seem like parks at all. Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace, for example, is considered a National Park.
  • Perhaps the most famous National Park, Yellowstone National Park, is also the country’s first. Ulysses S. Grant signed a law deeming it a National Park way back in 1872.
  • Mount McKinley, the highest point in North America, is located in Denali National Park and Preserve. The lowest point in the Western hemisphere is also located in a National Park; it is Death Valley, and it is found in Death Valley National Park in California.
  • There are two National Parks located north of the Arctic Circle: Gates of the Arctic National Park and the Kobuk Valley National Park. Both are located in Alaska.
  • More than 280 million people from all over the world visit American National Parks each year.

National Park System Fun Facts [ NPS]
Facts About US National Parks [U.S. National Parks]
Little-Known Facts About America's National Parks [Huffington Post]

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How to Overcome a Fear of Flying

September 12, 2014 by

Having a fear of flying is very common, but this phobia can be quite a hindrance when it comes to traveling for work or taking a cross-country trip. If you’re afraid of airplanes and can’t seem to calm your nerves, these tips will help you to overcome your fear.

  1. Become familiar with the plane. Many people are afraid of plane crashes, but these are incredibly uncommon. Learning how an airplane works will help you to feel more secure once you’re on board, and finding out facts like how a plane can continue to fly even after an engine failure will make you feel much more trusting about traveling on one. Research facts about your specific type of airplane, and even ask to meet the pilot before boarding.
  2. Allow yourself plenty of time. Airports are known for being hectic and stressful, and this will only intensify your fear. Be sure to arrive at the airport a few hours early so that you have time to get to your terminal and relax before it’s time to board.
  3. Choose an aisle seat. If you’re afraid of flying you probably don’t want to look down at the ground from the plane’s window. Choosing an aisle seat will eliminate this stressor, and you can even wear an eye mask to close off your view entirely.
  4. Avoid caffeine. Stimulants like caffeine will only make your anxiety worse. Avoid drinking your morning latte the day of a flight, and be sure to stay hydrated to keep yourself from feeling fatigued.

Fear of Flying [Independent Traveler]
How to Overcome Your Worst Fears [Lifehacker]
10 Tips for the Fearful Flyer [NBC News]
How Can I Overcome My Fear of Flying? [ADAA]

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Two of Washington, D.C.’s Must-See Museums

July 29, 2014 by

Our nation's capital is home to some the most visited museums and attractions in the world. Take advantage of D.C.'s diverse cultural scene with a visit to these fascinating museums, which are two of the city's very best.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History
Marvel at more than 126 million natural science specimens and cultural artifacts at The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Some of the must-see attractions include the Hope Diamond, an incredibly old, mummified cat, and the Neanderthal exhibit. Take a journey through the past at this fine American institution and see with your own eyes why it's the most visited natural history museum in the world.

International Spy Museum
Since 2002, the International Spy Museum has engaged the public with the largest collection of international espionage artifacts ever to be on display. Attempt to stay as stealthy as a spy when you participate in the exhibits and learn the important role of espionage throughout history.

Public Domain/Public Domain
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Traveling on a Budget? Check Out These Kid-Friendly Attractions in Washington, D.C.!

July 22, 2014 by

Washington, D.C.'s Smithsonian Institution provides some of the most visited museums in the world, and they cover a wide variety of topics to suit any person's interests. Their vast collections have something for everyone, including the kids! Here are two of the best kid-friendly attractions in our nation's capital. Bonus: Both offer free admission!

Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Also known as the National Zoo, the Smithsonian National Zoological Park is home to more than 400 species of animals. They offer daily tours and interactive exhibits just about every day out of the year. Stop by the Asia Trail to see the famous giant pandas, clouded leopards, and sloth bears. Go on safari through the African Savanna exhibit to find cheetahs, Cape buffalo, black rhinos, and more. The National Zoo is dedicated to providing a fun learning experience for everyone who visits, so admission is always free!

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History
See for yourself why the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is the most visited natural history museum in the world. The kids will never grow tired of the more than 126 million natural science specimens and cultural artifacts. Enjoy a guided tour that will take you back in time, or set your gaze upon the world famous Hope Diamond. The little ones will love to walk among mummies and grow their minds with one of the richest collections of historical artifacts in the world. The museum is open 364 days a year, and admission is free of charge.

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Washington, D.C.’s Must-See National Parks

July 18, 2014 by

The national parks in Washington, D.C. encompass both the rich history of our forefathers and the beauty of the land as it was centuries ago. Visit some of the most famous monuments in the world and stroll through the majestic forest, both of which are within reach of our nation’s capital.

National Mall and Memorial Parks
Popular landmarks like The Washington Monument, The Lincoln Memorial, and The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are just a few of the famous destinations within National Mall and Memorial Parks, which are located in the heart of Washington, D.C. Visitors enjoy taking walking tours through the National Mall, guided bike tours starting at the Jefferson Memorial, or teeing off at the East Potomac Golf Course. All of the tours are free, and the park is open 24 hours a day.

Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park intersects the northwestern side of Washington, D.C., providing the beauty of nature as well as a range of public park amenities. It was one of the first National Parks in the country, and the park is known for how closely it brushes with the massive urban area that is our nation’s capital. See a show at the Fort Dupont Summer Theater, catch a concert at the Carter Barron Amphitheatre, or visit Linden Oak, the largest known white oak tree in the United States.

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Beauty Is in Bloom at These Botanical Gardens in Washington, D.C.

July 11, 2014 by

Washington, D.C., is home to some of the most treasured museums in the world. These two garden-based collections are certainly the greenest, and many D.C.-based plant lovers may even say they're the most beautiful.

United States National Arboretum
Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., the United States National Arboretum is a calming retreat from the hustle and bustle of the nation's capital. Walk through numerous elaborate gardens, admiring the countless species of trees and plants. The arboretum is not only home to plants, but also houses several pieces of fine art, including "Split Ritual," a beloved American sculpture by Beverly Pepper. This historic site is also home to the National Capitol Columns, which were once an original piece of the Capitol Building's architecture.

United States Botanic Garden
Enjoy a tranquil walk at the United States Botanic Garden, which occupies the grounds of the United States Capitol. Here, you'll be reminded of the large role that plants play in our every day lives. The garden is open 365 days a year, and it frequently provides interactive classes that are both fun and educational. Stroll through the peaceful gardens on your own, or take advantage of one of the many tours this living museum has to offer.

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Five of the World’s Most Unusual Hotels

December 6, 2013 by

Make your vacation a little more interesting by staying in one of these five unusual and unique hotels. We bet you've never stayed in any hotel like these! 

La Balade des Gnomes
Relive your childhood by staying in a fairy tale-inspired hotel in Durbuy, Belgium. La Balade des Gnomes features ten rooms, each inspired by myths and fairy tales. Each room is a completely unique and different experience. Bunk with a troll in a cave-like room, or sleep in a Trojan Horse. In the morning, enjoy a delicious breakfast full of local specialties. 

Treehotel
Looking to connect with the great outdoors? Stay at the Treehotel in Harads, Sweden, in one of the five tree houses built in the middle of nature. You'll sleep among the tree tops and take in the serenity of nature. Each tree house is unique, with names like The Cabin, Bird's Nest, and UFO. 

Propeller Island City Lodge
Located in Berlin, Germany, this hotel has something different in store for every guest. Each of the 30 rooms is unique in its own way. One room may appear normal — if you were standing on your head! Another room features a king bed cut in half by a guillotine. There is even a room that uses coffins as beds.

Hotel de Glace
Do you love the cold? Stay in a hotel made entirely of ice just outside of Quebec City in Canada. Hotel de Glace is only open in the winter, when each room is constructed from ice. Even though the hotel may be cold, you'll still be warm with fireplaces and comfy blankets. You don't have to stay the night to enjoy the hotel, you can stop by the popular ice bar for a drink or even get married in the wedding chapel.

Featherbed Railroad
You don't need to travel outside of the United States to find an unusual hotel. On the shore of Clear Lake in Northern California, you will find this charming bed and breakfast. Each room is made out of an old railroad car. Each antique caboose has a different theme, like the Orient Express and Casablanca. 

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Trip Idea: Frankfort, Kentucky

October 25, 2013 by

If you are a history lover, take a trip to Frankfort, Kentucky. The capitol city of Kentucky was settled in 1786. Since then the city has been through a lot, leaving it filled with tons of historic sites. Make sure you check out these great attractions during your trip! 

Buffalo Trace Distillery
Visitors say Buffalo Trace makes fantastic bourbon. You can tour Buffalo Trace for free or just head over to the gift shop where they offer free tastings of the bourbons like Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream and Eagle Rare. The tour guides are very friendly and knowledgeable. You'll learn about history as well as bourbon on these tours. 

Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary
See beautifully preserved prairie land in Frankfort. This excellent center has several hiking trails, clean bathrooms, a pond, and a small nature center. Watch birds in the scenic bird blind room. For a scenic view and beautiful walking trail, the $4 admission is worth it. 

Rick's White Light Diner
Delicious Cajun cuisine is on the menu at Rick's. Stop in for a delicious lunch of New Orleans’s Muffaletta, Shrimp Po’ Boy, Crawfish Etouffee on a Bed of Grits, and Fried Catfish. Make sure you save room for a slice of fresh baked Bourbon Pie!  All the meals are made with high quality, locally sourced ingredients. Open Tuesday through Saturday. 

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Traveling? Avoid These 4 Travel ‘Don’ts’

October 22, 2013 by

Traveling can be a great way to escape the stresses of everyday life, but it can also cause its own set of problems. Avoid being stressed on vacation by following these great tips. 

1. Don't leave things to chance. Unexpected problems are bound to arise, even if you're heading to paradise! Factor how much time you'll need for each task, like driving to the airport, and then give yourself some extra time. This way, you won't be scrambling at the last minute. 

2. Don't over/under pack.
Don't pack too much or too little. Plan for inclement weather by bringing a rain jacket and an extra pair, and throw in a scarf. Some locations in other countries require certain dress, like shawls covering a woman's shoulders. 

3. Don't leave tasks to the last minute.
It will really ruin your vacation if you pull out your passport the day before you're set to leave and realize it's expired. Make sure all the documents you need, like a passport and travel insurance, are all ready to go well before you leave. Also, be sure to notify your bank if you'll be using credit and debit cards outside of the U.S.

4. Don't become a victim of low blood sugar. 
Unexpected delays and impromptu museum visits can cause meal times to be pushed back. Don't let yourself get cranky because you haven't eaten. Always travel with some water and a small snack you can pull out when you feel hunger taking over. 

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5 Attractions to See During Your Vacation to Italy

October 16, 2013 by

Pizza, pasta, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Rome, Venice, Florence… The list of things to see in Italy can go on and on. When planning a vacation to Italy, you'll want to travel to a least a couple of cities during your trip. Make sure you put these top five attractions on your itinerary.

Amalfi Coast
If you're looking for a place with beautiful scenery, go no further than Amalfi Coast. The 30-mile coastline is filled with resorts, small villas, cliffs, and lemon tree gardens. Head into one of the villages for restaurants, shops, and historic architecture. The coast is easily accessed by a ferry ride from Naples. 

Canals of Venice
Venice is called the "City of Water" for good reason. Travel via gondola along one of the 150 canals that connect the city together, and marvel at the beautiful architecture. It's the quintessential romantic experience. 

Statue of David
In Florence, you'll find this famous statue designed by Michelangelo. If you're a fan of art, make sure you take a visit to the Galleria dell'Accademia to see this famous piece of art in person. 

Naples
Craving some authentic Italian food? There is no better place to indulge than in the home town pizza, spaghetti, and parmigiana. Made with classic recipes and fresh ingredients, you won't get Italian cuisine better than this. 

The Colosseum of Rome
History fans will love seeing all the ancient ruins in Rome, the most popular being the Colosseum. This huge theater was once the sight of gladiator fights seen by more than 50,000 people. Keep an eye out for actors walking around dressed like gladiators. 

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