Panama Cruisin'

I haven’t seen cruise prices like this in … forever! Maybe since I was a travel agent in the 70’s. An email arrived in my inbox from Princess Cruises offering – and I quote - a "10-day Panama Canal cruises from $599*". Brochure rates start at over $1,000.

Of course, that’s plus tips, taxes, surcharges and airfare to Ft. Lauderdale/ Acapulco. (air add-ons are available from $399.) And it’s an inside cabin. But bargain hunter/cruisers should check this out quick! Departures are Mar. 23 and April 2.

Cruise 51 miles from Atlantic to Pacific through the jungles of Central America. The Canal celebrates it’s 95th birthday this August. Ports of call include Puntarenas, Costa Rica (visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve); Fuerte Amador (Panama City’s port) on the Pacific side of the canal; Ocho Rios, Jamaica (and famous Dunn’s River Falls); and Puerto Quetzal, Guatamala (tour the capital or Lake Azitlan’s volcanoes).

Bon voyage!

My Two Favorite Little Words: Let's Go!

To get away from one's work environment is, in a sense, to get away from one's self; and this is often the chief advantage of travel and change.

~ Charles Horton Cooley

Wow! Ed just turned a normal week into an exciting one. He said, “Let’s go!” So, we’ve decided to take off after Thursday’s business meeting for a long weekend. The anticipation bubbled up in the middle of cleaning and laundry this weekend like fizz in my favorite cola. Mini-vacations do that … add an element of excitement, anticipation, and joy before we leave. Then there’s the relaxation and joy of the trip. We’ll see family and friends, plus we’re going to get our one-year-old Japanese Chin a brother: Bojo’s birthday Buddy. And when we get back, we’ll have photos, memories and be recharged for next week.

Where are you going next? Why not plan a mini-vacation as a surprise for your spouse, kids or significant other? Maybe get a group of friends together for a weekend away. And if you’d like some planning tips and destination ideas, go to www.magicalminivacations.com It’s a great resource and dream-builder. Go ahead! Short trips save you time and money. And there are some great bargains out there. Most travel venues are discounting prices right now to stimulate their economies.

Let us know where you decide to go. We’d love to hear about your travels! And as always – remember, LIFE is a journey, travel first class!

Favorite Vacation Spots

You can fall in love at first sight with a place as well as a person.
-- Alec Waugh

Hello, dear reader, and welcome.

Someone asked recently where our 'favorite' place is. That's a hard question to answer.

Home comes first, filled with memories and favorite things. It's the refuge we come back to after we've been away.

Our favorite seashore is Virginia Beach for sentimental reasons. We started going there when our daughter was small. We've been dozens of times, and keep going back. Another favorite is Ft. Meyers in Florida, again for sentimental reasons. It was my dad's favorite – the place he took us for Christmases long ago. After that, it's anywhere with sun and sand …

For mountains, Aspen CO tops the list. It's not at chic as some other resorts in the Rockies, but it's filled with historic flavor in a beautiful setting. Of course, the Great Smokies are also magnificent. We see them more often since we live east of the great Mississippi.

For fun, it's Oatman AZ, a real 'ghost' town, turned tourist mecca and artist colony on old Route 66. Clark Gable and Carole Lombard honeymooned there. We also enjoyed Williams AZ, a former pony express stop and rail depot, also on Route 66. It's now home to the Grand Canyon Railway – an experience in itself, and a great way to see the Grand Canyon.

We'll tell you more about each of them in future posts. You can also join our mailing list at www.touringwithus.com to get our monthly travelzine. It's loaded with travel trivia, vacation ideas, tour and cruise information, and some fun. We hope you'll join our TWU family – whether you're an armchair traveller or a vagabond. Happy travels!

Family Vacations

The only way to live is to accept each minute as an unrepeatable miracle, which is exactly what it is - a miracle and unrepeatable. ~ Margaret Storm Jameson

Well, we're off again on the family vacation circuit: 15 relatives, 2700 miles, eight states, 14 days. South from PA to friends in WV, a recently widowed uncle in Charlotte, Ed's parents in GA; back through VA. Scattered along the route are various siblings, nieces & nephews. Maryland is just a blip on the route, but I still count it! It's quite a trip, but a wonderful way to hug everyone and tell them how much we love them.

The elders are in their mid-80s so we travel this route more often than we used to. Now it's three times a year or more. Sad to say, when they are gone, this trip won't be such a priority. Somehow, once parents are gone, traditions change and many families lose touch. It's part of our scattered lifestyle.

Sometimes, though, the loss of a parent brings siblings closer. That's true for my brother and me. Now we make an effort to get together on a regular basis (he lives in NY), something we never did while mom was still alive. Our sister is on the 'relative vacation' route, so we don't see her as often.

It's interesting to compare stories of our childhood. They are younger than I so the memories are different. I remember vividly our Christmas trips to Florida; he recalls only snippets. My sister remembers almost nothing. I was in college when the 'family' toured New England – no memories for me there. But we love to share stories.

I hope that 2009 is your year for family ties. With cell phones, email and gas prices lower, there's no reason not to keep in touch. No matter what has happened in your past, it's the only family you've got. We lost a much loved younger brother last May – to cancer at 52. There will be no more reunions with him. Forgive, forget, remember the good. And stay in touch. God bless you and your family. ~ Ruth & Ed

Backward A-B-C's are the answer ...

What the mind of man can conceive and believe,

the mind of man can achieve. ~ Napoleon Hill

This backward ABC – conceive, believe, achieve – has been running through my mind a lot lately. It's the conception that always starts a thing … whether it's the worlds greatest invention, a new project or your next vacation.

First, we have to think a thing. Then we meditate on it until it becomes believable. Finally, we act on what we now believe … and whatever it is you thought of becomes physical reality. How awesome!

Where do you want to go? What do you want to do? What would you like to accomplish? In life, for your family, on your next trip?

Dream it.

Think it until it becomes real … until you can 'see' it in your mind.

Then go do it. The world is waiting for you …

Share your dreams with a comment below.

And remember: Life is a journey, travel first class!

Mini-Vacations not "Nay-cations"

Just read an article telling the reader that 2009 will be the year of "nay-cations". He listed nine reasons why Americans will say NO to travel, among them: the economy, the hassle, and the added costs/fees/surcharges.

I'd like to disagree. Giving up vacations is like giving up chocolate! No matter how tough life gets, we still need to reward ourselves with things to look forward to ... things to enjoy. Travel is important to personal well-being.

Here are some tips to make your vacation planning more cost-effective.

Mini-Vacations Not "Nay-cations" - Seven Money-saving Travel Tips

Don't give up the things that keep us sane. Knowing there's a trip in your future gives you something to look forward to. Happy Traveling!

Happy New Year!

We've been neglectful for several months. Sometimes life just throws more at us than we can handle. Two surgeries, ailing parents, two family deaths, crises at our 'regular' jobs … last year was a roller coaster, and we're glad to see it go. We have great hope that 2009 will be easier, happier, more peaceful. We also have more travel plans for the coming months and are looking forward to sharing our explorations with you, our dear reader and friend. In the meantime, start this new year with anticipation. Meditate on the good things that you want to draw into your life. Stay focused on the goodness around and always be thankful! May this year be your best ever …

Mini-vacations: easy, economical and everywhere!

Have you made plans yet
for your annual vacation?
Are you thinking about
the fun and relaxation,
Or are you bumming
about the airfare or fuel expense?
The cost of a hotel for a week or more?

Here's a suggestion …
plan shorter trips
more often,
closer to home.

Mini-vacations are a great way to add
more playtime to your life without a lot of expense.

Explore your own hometown like a tourist.
Then explore the next town!
Pick a destination that's only a few hours away
for a quick three-day getaway.

Then let us know how much fun you had!
We'd love to hear your vacation stories.
Happy travels!

A Mini-vacation in Chocolate Town!

We're off on another mini-vacation!
This one's in Hershey PA. Ed has
a conference. I came along for the ride.
(I told you I'd go anywhere, anytime!)

Hershey is always fun.
Even though the amusement park isn't open,
there is still plenty to do.

My favorite spot is Hershey Gardens.
It's too early for the roses to be in bloom,
but strolling the grounds is enjoyable any time.
Hershey Gardens sits atop a hill overlooking the town.
It's 23 acres with more than a dozen themed areas,
including a new Children's Garden and Butterfly House.

No one should visit Hershey PA
without seeing the original Hershey Hotel.
The lobby, circular dining room and grounds
remind visitors of the mansions in Newport –
an era of refined comfort and elegance,
recaptured for the guests of the Hotel.
I particularly like the Spanish-style lobby
with its ornate tilework. Even if you're not staying there …
go see it! Have a drink in the lounge;
stroll through the formal gardens at the rear of the hotel.

Next stop – Chocolate World, a simulated tour
through a chocolate factory –
complete with a free sample at the end of the ride.

Hershey is the town where street lights
look like Hershey kisses,
and everything smells like chocolate,
especially when it rains!

For more information, visit
www.touringwithus.com/articles.

We'll visit with you again soon.
Happy travels!

Mini-vacations don't have to be travel …

That sounds kinda weird, but let me explain.

Mini simply means 'small'.
And Webster defines 'vacation' as a respite,
a time away from something …
an intermission.
The concept of travel –
of being away from home and work –
is the third meaning … not the first.

So … anytime you take a break from something,
you're creating a mini vacation
for your mind and body.

Of course, vacations away from home
are wonderful!
If I could, I'd be gone every weekend.
But in the meantime,
I've decided to add more 'mini vacations' to each day.

A cup of tea out on the deck before work …
A ten-minute walk at lunch …
A quick game of 'Spider'
before I start the next project.
A Saturday afternoon hike.

The older I get,
the more I realize that life is short.
And it's meant to be enjoyed.
So, I'm headed outside with that cup of tea.
Why not join me?

Don't forget our book give-away.
There's a new book out called
"The Secret To True Happiness".
It's by Joyce Meyer, and she tells us
how to create more joy in our lives … every day.
I'd like to give away a few copies to some of you.

Use the comment box below to tell us how
you've found more joy in your own life.
We'll celebrate your joy with you

Mini-vacations – Rethink your life

Most folks are about as happy
As they make up their minds to be.
Abraham Lincoln

I've got a suggestion for you:
re-think how you plan your life.

Stop making BIG plans that don't work out
the way you want them to.
Stop thinking in terms of days,
and weeks and months;
As in "next month, I'm going to …"
or "Today, I need to …"
Stop putting pressure on yourself
all the time to do more, to be more.

I read recently that we work best
in short, focused spurts.
So instead of saying to yourself,
"I need to do ___ today",
tell yourself
"I need to do ___ in the next 30 minutes".

Make smaller plans in shorter increments.
Then congratulate yourself when it's done!
Enjoy the feeling of contentment.

Break big projects down into smaller pieces.
Work for an hour, then do something else.
Go back to it after you've given your mind
a 'mini-vacation'.
You'll be fresher, more productive.

How do you eat an elephant?
One bite at a time!

No matter what's going on in your life,
think smaller.
You can handle ANYTHING …
an hour or 20 minutes
or even a minute at a time.

Now, I've got a surprise for you.
There's a new book out called
"The Secret to True Happiness".
It's by Joyce Meyer, and
she tells us how to create more
joy in our lives … every day.
I'd like to give away a few copies to some of you.

Use the comment box below to tell us how
you've made more time for joy in your own life.
We'll celebrate your joy with you
and award a winner on a future blog.

Mini-Vacations are Good for You!

From the beginning, God designated
the seventh day as a day of rest.
He set aside one day each week
to give joy to your soul
and refreshing to your body.
Your brain –
the computer system that runs
your physical and mental life –
needs 'down time' to avoid overload.

Many of the physical problems
we experience are caused by stress.
You are pressured by work,
family needs, over-full schedules.
Vegging in front of the television –
absorbing more negative input
from the shows you watch –
only adds to your mental and emotional strain.
That's especially true if your mind
keeps running its own commercials of
'what am I going to do about …?'

Wisdom tells you to get moving,
eat healthy, rest and create peace in your life.
Say no to some of the demands
that others try to place on you.
Say yes one day each week (or more!)
to step outside your routine and do something fun.
Explore your world.
Take mini-breaks throughout your day,
and a mini-vacation each week.

Go do something fun for yourself.
Try something new.
Change the patterns of your life
to include more 'down-time'.
You'll be healthier and happier.
And you'll be more productive!

Remember ... life is a journey.
Make the time to travel first class.

Mini-vacations in top US cities: New York, Las Vegas or San Francisco

I travel a lot;
I hate having my life
disrupted by routine.
~Caskie Stinnett

I saw a list the other day
of the ten most popular
tourist destinations in the world.
Interestingly, three are right here in the US:
New York, Las Vegas and San Francisco.

Now, we don't gamble much,
but we do like the shows (and the weather!)
in Las Vegas.
Even the 'cheap' ones are pretty good!
When we go, we try to do one or two
'big ticket' events, like Cirque Du Soleil,
then we stretch our travel budget farther
by hitting the smaller productions.

San Francisco is exciting for its history
and for its reputation as an
avant guarde culture and art center.
It's also close to Muir Woods and the giant redwoods.
From Alcatraz to the famed streetcars
(the only moving National Historic Monument!)
'Frisco has something for everyone.
Tour the USS Pampanito, a WWII sub,
anchored on Fisherman's Wharf.

New York City is another 'has-it-all' mecca.
Broadway shows.
Historic neighborhoods.
Shopping!
I've always been fascinated with
Grand Central Station.
And Ellis Island requires a day to soak up the history.
Ed's grandparents came through
that famous immigration center
from Sweden and Denmark.

Any of these exciting cities
would make a great mini-vacation!
So, which would you most like to see?
Or what one do you visit most often?
We'd love to hear your comments …

The Good Life: Add Joy; Mix with Gratitude

Don't minimize the power of
small things to add joy to your life.
~ Joyce Meyer

I had a lady in my office today
(yes, I have an office and a 'real' job)
who was complaining about her job.
She says she hates it,
but doesn't want to give up
the benefits or her hourly rate.

So often, when we're not happy,
we complain, making ourselves miserable
with our own thoughts, words and attitudes.

How much better off we all would be
if we focused on the positive things in our lives.
Let's be grateful instead of complaining.

Find things that you enjoy;
and plan ativities you look forward to.
Make time for small 'vacations'.

Webster says a vacation is a respite,
a rest, a time of recreation,
or freedom from any activity.

So … give your mind and emotions a break –
a mini-vacation.
Relax, and rejuvenate.
Often, the anticipation is as valuable –
and full of joy – as the actual activity.

Give yourself something to look forward to,
something to anticipate and get excited about.

Take control of your attitude with gratitude.
And plan 'small things' that add joy to your life.
What's your next 'mini-vacation' going to be?

Add a comment and tell us about
your favorite stress-reducing,
joy-bringing, happiness-sharing
thankful-heart activities.
We’re all looking for new ideas!

And remember, life is a journey …
travel first class!

Wishful Thinking - Beaches in my Mind

Today's our 32nd anniversary.
And it snowed!
Someone asked me last week
what two things I could do without.
My answer – winter and cold weather!

Winter in northwestern Pennsylvania
almost requires a get-away
for sun and relaxation.

One favorite spot – Virginia Beach.
It's a one-day drive,
it's a LOT warmer than home,
and we've gone so many times
that we know just where to shop and eat.

If you'd like to tag along, check out
Virginia Beach - An Off-Season Love Affair

If you're at the beach right now … enjoy.
If you're not, start planning
for some R&R in the sun!
… Or a mini-vacation to anywhere.

Watch for our new ebook on mini-vacations.
It'll be out soon and
it's loaded with ideas and information for
you to use in planning your next weekend away.

Remember,
Life is a journey … travel first class.

Adding A Mini-Vacation in Miami Beach

Greetings, fellow traveler,

It's Saturday night, a great time to start
dreaming about your next trip.

This time of year, lots of us head to Miami
to board a cruise ship
or fly on to an island destination.
You might consider
adding a mini-vacation in Miami,
either before or after your scheduled plans.

We arrived in Miami two days
before our cruise ship sailed
and stayed on the northern end
of South Beach.

All the atmosphere and amenities
of the Art Deco resort area:
within walking distance of
famed Lincoln Road …

fashionably-late dining
at scrumptious outdoor restaurants …

and the reasonably-priced
Continental Hotel.
Basic accommodations,
but right on the beach.

It was great fun,
and a wonderful way
to start a vacation.
We had two extra days to unwind
and enjoy all the amenities
that Miami Beach has to offer.

Arriving early also guaranteed
we didn't get snowed in
or had to deal with a delayed flight
right before our cruise.

So … think about the possibilities
of adding a mini-vacation onto your next trip!

Remember, life is a journey
… travel first class!
(And add a few days extra!)

Identity Theft: Staying Safe While You Travel

Imagine the anticipation of
heading out on an adventure!
You've made your plans;
your bags are packed.
What else should you think about?

What's in Your Wallet?

Take only the credit card you'll need
and leave the rest safely at home.
If you're taking two cards
(one for back-up),
don't keep them in the same place.

Make a copy – front and back –
of any identification you're taking,
including your passport,
and leave it with someone back home.

Remove your 'extra' credit cards
and all unnecessary identification.
Do NOT take your social security card!

If you need a 'store' card for a special sale,
they can look up your account at the store.

Leave extra cash in the hotel safe.
I lost my wallet in Las Vegas.
It cost me about $100 in cash,
but it didn't ruin the trip because
I had more locked in my room.

For more information on identity theft,
sign up for our newsletter.
You'll receive a series of travel trips,
including more ideas on travel safety.

Remember, life is a journey …
Travel first class!
(and stay safe!)

Anticipation … Anticipation ...

We can never know about the days to come
But we think about them anyway
~ Carly Simon

It's a great song.
It's also a great way to live your life.
Having something to expect in the days to come …
something to look forward to.

Don't you find that just thinking about
and anticipating a trip
helps you cope with what's
happening in your life?

Knowing that you'll be able to
'get away' in a few days or a few weeks
somehow makes life a bit brighter
and easier to handle.

That's one reason why
we'd like to encourage you
to plan mini-vacations into your life.
They can be great stress-relievers
… just by thinking about getting away.

So, where's your favorite place to go?
Where would you like to go next?

Comment here or drop us an email.
Maybe we'll feature your favorite
vacation spot in a future blog.

And watch for the soon to be released
multi-media ebook, Magical Mini-Vacations.
"A convenient guide to weekend pleasures."

Be a Tourist At Home

Looking for something fun to do this weekend?

Be a tourist in your own hometown.

Remember that while you're headed away for vacation,
other folks are traveling to your area
for something new, different and exciting.

Visit all the places you haven't seen …

or haven't been for a while.
Your local Historical Society has new displays
and exhibits, usually seasonally.

Is there an art gallery nearby?

A dude ranch?

A national park?

What have you thought about doing –
but never made time for?

Go exploring this weekend.
Do something new!

We're Ba-a-a-ack!

We're home. Twelve days, 2500 miles, 15 relatives. And a desk buried in mail when we returned. Not to mention about 200 emails.

We spent two days at my in-laws sorting old pictures with my mother-in-law and my daughter. Three generations listening to stories of a wooden shoe factory in Sweden, her father's arrival at Ellis Island, and growing up in the 30's and 40's in New York.

It was fascinating.

Go. Visit your oldest relatives while you can. Hear their stories. Preserve your family's history. A family tree is great, but it just knowing the names can't tell you the tales. So do it while you can.

It's the best use of your travel time, especially if you can get three or four generations together.

Remember, life is a journey - travel first class!