Myrtle Beach

Or maybe you are a "beach body."  Myrtle Beach, located in South Carolina, is the east coast's ultimate vacation spot. The many beaches on the 60-mile Grand Strand attract tourists from all over the world.  The beaches, which offer opportunities to swim, fish, sail, and surf are in close proximity to museums, nature preserves, and outlet shopping.  There are also over 100 golf courses and dozens of great eateries/restaurants!  This region is rich in activities and has maintained the 'family getaway' image.

Bear Mountain

As the summer is quickly approaching, there are many different types of vacations you can take.  If your not a "beach body" but still prefer the outdoors, maybe camping is for you!  Bear Mountain in Salisbury, CT has the tallest peak in the state.  There are many campsites located on the state park territory.  It is the perfect opportunity for you and your friends or family to take advantage of the local beauty.  Hiking, fishing, and biking are among the many activities you can do to stay busy.

Opening Day

It's that time of the year again where fans grab their tickets and a hot dog and catch a baseball game at their favorite ballparks.  There are 30 teams in the MLB and each ballpark provides a separate unique experience.  I have always loved watching baseball but being in an environment that provides not only the game, but an entertaining venue as well.  There is nothing better then getting to the field an hour or two prior to first pitch and walking around enjoying a ballpark.  Since this is a traveling blog and we want to go somewhere different, the list that I will provide will not include teams from the Northeast.

Coors Field

Wrigley

Marlins Park

Petco Park

Chase Field

Each of these ballparks are unique and a lot of fun.  Coming from my roommates who have almost visited all 30 parks combined, recommended these 5.  If anyone knows Hunter Phillips, he recommends Coors Field strictly because it is named after a brewing company. 

Mexico!

According to Forbes, the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit resort in Mexico is ranked among the '10 coolest all-inclusive resorts.'  In July, my sister and I will be staying here for a few nights.

Just 20 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, this 'beyond all-inclusive resort' has tons to offer.  Last summer, my parents vacationed here.  They had nothing but amazing things to say about this hotel.  The service, the dining, and the accommodations were all exceptional.  Aside from its breathtaking views, the Grand Velas has much more to offer.  There are fun things to do for people of any age.  Such activities include tropical jungle expeditions, parasailing, whale-watching, golfing, and canopy tours.  There are a million ways to experience the gorgeous scenery!  This particular resort can be rather expensive but they are constantly offering special promotions.

The Grand Velas offers a unique experience to each of its guests - one that is both relaxing and exhilarating.  The resort prides itself on the spa concierge and all the other amazing features they have to offer.  I cannot wait to experience this for myself :)



http://vallarta.grandvelas.com/

Montauk

For people who love the beach but don't have enough time to travel to the luxurious beaches down south, Montauk is perfect.  Whether your from the city or anywhere in the tri-state area, Montauk is a get-a-way in your own backyard.  Living on Long Island, I rarely ever go because it's still is a few hours away.  There is so much to do there and you never have enough time to do it.  Below are the top attractions you can do while visiting Montauk.

Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum













Whale Watching












Sunset Cruises















Fishing

These are just some of the more known activities you could do out in Montauk. There are also a tropical island like nightlife, mini-golfing, hiking, and of course, laying on the beach and soaking up the sun.  If you have never been to Montauk, you have to take time and spend a weekend there.  Once you go you will be dying to go back the next weekend.

Lake George

Sometimes you don't have to stray that far.  Warren County, located in upstate NY, is home to more than twenty lakes and endless amounts of outdoor activities/attractions.

Lake George is a great summer spot for couples of any age and families of any size.  Swimming, tubing, kayaking, boating, hiking, and horseback riding are some of many activities offered anywhere in this exciting town.  There are plenty of resorts/hotels/motels (you can spend as much or as little as you want) and tons of great restaurants to choose from.  There is something for everyone... museums, biking, shopping, arcades, mini-golf - you name it!  There are also numerous sites for camping and fishing.  Many tourists flock to this area simply because of its beauty.  A vacation here could be calm and relaxing or thrilling and exciting.

Smart Money Magazine ranks Lake George as one of eight top places in the nation for fun, affordable family vacations.

A B C Islands

Aruba, Bonaire, & Curacao

A few years ago, I vacationed with family in Aruba and Bonaire.  Next summer, we will be traveling to the last of the ABC Islands - Curacao.  If you are interested in any sort of water sports, from scuba-diving to wind-surfing, these three islands located in the Caribbean are extraordinary places to visit.  The islands are lined with miles of white sandy beaches and are completely surrounded by crystal-clear water.  I snorkeled for the first time in Aruba, and the coral reefs were simply beautiful.  The colors are so vibrant, as are the fish that inhabit them.  Most hotels offer a majority of the same excursions -- scuba-diving, snorkeling, wind-surfing, glass bottom boat rides, parasailing, jet-skiing, horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, etc.  I highly recommend doing a banana-boat ride (so much fun!!) The list goes on...

Although unique in their own various ways, the three islands are actually very similar.  Dutch is the official language.  All three islands have beautiful beaches and weather, and a visit to either one would be an unforgettable experience.  Aruba offers more of a party atmosphere, a noticeable American influence, big hotels, shopping, and a vivid night life.  Bonaire is a quiet place - perfect for relaxing and getting away from noise and stress.  Curacao has a good mixture of beach and nature, while rich in culture and history. 


If you are looking for a luxurious, relaxing get-a-way, any of these islands are perfect.  The views are breathtaking.  


Here are the resorts I stayed at in Aruba and Bonaire and the hotel I will be staying at next summer:

Aruba: Costa Linda
(http://www.costalinda-aruba.com/)

Bonaire: Sunset Villa
(http://www.bonairesunsetvilla.com/)

Curacao: Floris Suite (http://www.florissuitehotel.com/)

Punta Cana, DR

Just got back from Punta Cana on Sunday and it was amazing!  I had the most incredible time with my friends.  Our resort (Ocean Blue & Sand) was absolutely beautiful and there was so much to see and do.  Just two days after our arrival, a bunch of us chose to enjoy a day in the sun on a booze cruise.  We got to snorkel with sting rays and nursing sharks (amazing, amazing, amazing)!  The day after, two of my roommates and I went horseback riding on the beach at sunset.  Although these excursions were tons of fun, it is important to book any sort of day trip through a hotel tour operator.  The resorts in the Dominican Republic are gorgeous, but surrounding areas are actually very dangerous.  (Side note: Never travel alone and be aware of your surroundings!!)

There were many other excursions we wished we could have done, but one week is not enough time.  On other days, we hung out poolside and simply enjoyed each other's company.  It was an all-inclusive resort so food and drinks were free at any time of day.  The food was just okay, but my experience in total was one I will never, ever forget.

P.S.  On certain days, the hotel had a different animal that anyone could take professional photos with. One day was a tiger, a monkey, parrots, and an iguana.  Here's a picture of me and Mario (iguana).

http://www.oceanbluepuntacanaresort.com/

How did you guys spend your spring break?!

Hollywood

If you are ever in California, a must see is the historical Hollywood.  It is a sight to remember because of everything that is in this small area.  Located in the district of Los Angeles, they are mandatory places to visit.

Here are the Top 5.

1. Kodak Theater-

2. Paramount Pictures














3. Hollywood Walk of Fame















4. Capitol Records Building















5. Ripley's Believe It or Not















Enjoy!!!

The City That Never Sleeps!

Before choosing a vacation spot, one of the main requirements is to be as far away from home as possible.  This may seem obvious but when you think about it, a vacation is a period of time spent in a foreign place where you can put any and all responsibilities on hold.  However, we sometimes fail to realize that there are many amazing places to visit just minutes from your front door.  Both of us live in New York, just minutes outside of the city and no matter how many times we visit, we still feel like tourists.  Yes we can navigate our way around, but there is still so much to see.   No matter what time of day, NYC is always crawling with adventurous and cultured tourists.  Whether you’re a food extraordinaire, or into music and art, Broadway & Off-Broadway productions, fashion, or simple sightseeing, there is something for everybody.  The possibilities are endless… literally!

Here are some of our personal favorites…

1.     Broadway plays

2.     Metropolitan Museum of Art

3.     Empire State Building & the Brooklyn Bridge (Amazing vantage points)

4.     Top of the Rock

5.     Concerts & sporting events at Madison Square Garden

6.     Canal Street

7.     Shopping in Soho (Girls, this is a must!)

8.     Times Square

9.     Circle Line: Tour the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

10.  Restaurants & Bars:

-       Johnny Utahs

-       Joshua Tree

-       Frying Pan

-       Le Bain

-       Gansevoort

-       Veranda

-       Tao

This list does not even come close to explaining how great Manhattan is.  There is just so much to experience! Do you guys know of any great spots? 

http://www.nycgo.com/

Calling All Baseball Fans...

For those of you out there that can't wait for Opening Day 2012, take a quick vacation to either Florida or Arizona to watch Spring Training! Some of the best talent to be seen head south to work on their hitting, pitching, and defense in hope to make in to the playoffs in October.  If you think these guys go down south to just tan, you are mistaken.  These guys go through vigorous training, high intensity simulated games, and go through hard times making the team.  Luckily for travelers, we can actually watch them do all of this.  Spring Training is an exciting adventure to get away and watch ball during the winter months. Florida is well known for their places but Arizona has more recently stepped up to be the starting gates of the season.   Here are the teams that play in Arizona and their locations.

Glendale Stadium- Dodgers
Location:   Southwestern Glendale




Goodyear Ballpark-  Cleveland Indians and Cincinnati Reds
Location: Goodyear

Hohokam Stadium- Chicago Cubs
Location: Mesa

















Maryvale Baseball Park-  Milwaukee Brewers
Location: Southwest Phoenix













Peoria Sports Complex-  Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres
Location: Peoria
















Phoenix Municipal Stadium-  Oakland A's
Location: Eastern Phoenix
















Salt River Fields at Talking Stick- Diamondbacks and Rockies
Location: East Scottsdale


Scottsdale Stadium- Giants
Location: Southeast Scottsdale
















Surprise Stadium-  Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers

Location: Peoria
















Tempe Diable Stadium- LA Angels
Location: Tempe




















http://www.arizona-vacation-planner.com/diablo-stadium-tempe.html

Cruises

Carnival, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Disney are just a few of the many cruise liners available to travelers.

At the end of the semester my family has offered to pay for a cruise trip for me and my friends.  After doing some research, I found that choosing a certain cruise liner is a lot harder then it seems.  There are hundreds of boats and dozens of locations for me to choose from.  I have narrowed it down to the following three:

Carnival- Destiny
Ports: Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
Depart From: Miami, Fl

Carnival- Destiny
Ports: Key West, Fl and Cozumel, Mexico
Departs From: Miami, Fl

Norwegian- Epic
Ports: Miami, Phillipsburg, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, Nassau, Bahamas

Departs From: Miami, FL

What do you guys think?  Have any of you ever been to these places or recommend anything? All comments are welcomed.

When in Rome

If you ever have an opportunity to study abroad, take it! 

Two summers ago, I studied abroad in Rome, Italy for the summer semester.  There is no better way to experience a new culture... From the minute the plane landed, I was instantly emerged in the Roman lifestyle.  Some people believe that when you go abroad all you do is school work in another country.  I chose to take an art and religion elective and on most days, my class was held on site in a museum or a church.  Other than a few hours spent in the classroom, I had the ability to travel and explore different regions in Italy.  The learning experience was unlike any other.  

I lived in a small apartment just a quick bus ride from the American University of Rome.  Both of my professors were American but spoke fluent Italian.  I learned quickly that Italy was filled with the most beautiful architecture.  On nearly every corner, something amazing existed.  Whether it was a gelateria or the most elegant museum, the Italian culture was rich in any and every direction.

I had the opportunity to wine-taste in Tuscany, hike on the Via Dell'Amore in Cinque Terre, swim in a grotto near the isle of Capri, and visit a mozzarella farm in Naples.  In addition to traveling all throughout Italy, I took a weekend trip to Paris. (Once in Europe, traveling to other European countries is pretty cheap!) 

If you ever have the opportunity to go, please take it.  Italy is beautiful is every sense of the word... the food is delizioso and the wine is constantly flowing!

This is me in Pisa! 

Winter Get-Aways

Before we start to put our winter clothes away, we wanted to talk about trips that didn't involve beaches and palm trees.  On a weekend in February, my family always likes to take a trip to West Dover, Vermont - home of some of the best ski lodges and mountains on the east coast.  Winter sports fascinate me and as much as I love hanging out on a beach, I equally enjoy skiing and snow tubing.  I have never been out west but there are some really amazing ski resorts that I am dying to visit.  According to Forbes, these are some of the best in the United States....

1. Aspen, Colorado

2. Deer Valley, Utah

3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

4. Salt Lake City, Utah

5. Vail, Colorado

What about you guys?  Do you ski or snowboard? 

We are open to any and all recommendations!

Family Fun in Florida

One of the more popular places to visit in the United States is the Sunshine State.  All year round Florida provides tourists with warm sun even in the winter months.  There are two different times to visit florida. 1. Extremely hot weather during May till September  and then warm weather in the months of October till April.  I personally like going down in the summer.   I have family that lives in Orlando and I go down and visit them numerous times a year.   Regardless of when you decide to go down, the beaches are always open and below is a list of the ones that I believe you have to visit while your in Florida.

Smathers Beach, Key West






















Seiesta Key

Daytona Beach

South Beach Miami

Cocoa Beach

Panama City Beach

Palm Beach

Some of the best beaches in the world are kept a secret.  If you know any other beaches in Florida that you want to share with us or want to tell our other followers please comment and let us know!!!

Spring Break

Well, it's that time of the year again, where students count down the days to spring break.  We have all seen the movies and the TV shows but now it's our turn.  Just a short month away, students will be forgetting what professors (except Professor Micu) taught them and travel to their planned destination.  In this blog we will discuss high publicized retreats as well as what we personally plan on doing.

Here it is!  The top ten 'Spring Break Hot Spots for 2012' (courtesy of About.com-Student Traveling)


1. Cancun
2.Panama City, FL
3.Miami and South Beach, FL
4.Europe
5.Peurto Vallarta
6.Acapulco
7.Bahamas and Jamaica
8.South Padre, TX
9.Peurto Rico
10.North American Ski Resorts (we were shocked too)

Although our spring break destination didn't make top ten, we are still SO excited.  We are both going to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic with our roommates and classmates.  We found great deals and for a relatively cheap price, get to spend a week in paradise at an all-inclusive resort.  Some of us have plans to swim with dolphins, go horseback riding on the beach, or just catch some rays.  We can be as active or inactive as we prefer!

How about you guys? Any plans?

C&R Traveling

Welcome!  We are both very passionate about traveling and experiencing new places no matter where they are in the world.  We have done our fair share of traveling and hope that our stories, advice, and suggestions guide you on your own journeys.  In these upcoming blogs we will discuss certain must-see destinations and talk about places that we are determined to see ourselves.   We believe traveling enhances an individual in so many ways.  Whether it's the Seven Wonders of the World or a small church located in an European village, traveling is always rewarding.  All these adventures make for some amazing memories - if it's with friends, family, or on your own.  Hopefully what you take from our blogs will only help and encourage you to see the world.  Please tell us about your stories as we are so excited to tell you about ours.