Tag: Summer Travel

Unforgettable Southern Lakes

The ideal southerner loves iced tea, preferably a little sweet and sipped on the dock of a gorgeous summer lake, spending full days barefoot unless dinner calls for flip-flops, and they happily live life at a slower pace. Collected by Southern Living Magazine, here are a handful of can’t-miss southern lake visits to brighten up your year. Whether you crave the speed of water sports, prefer the solitude of a mountain lake, or count down the moments to the daily floating hour, you’ll find a place to dive right into some of summer’s greatest pleasures.

Lady Bird Lake, Texas

Located downstream from the large homes and powerboats of Lake Austin is the quieter, more memorable southern lake named Lady Bird Lake, which allows only non-motorized boats. Imagines as a reflection to this music-loving town, Lady Bird boasts its own venue at Auditorium Shores, a wide riverbank slope that hosts concerts. Discover Lady Bird’s hidden local secret: a side trip on the lake’s famous tributary, Barton Creek. Rent a kayak from Rowing Dock and discover the small dam that holds Barton Springs Pool.

Stonewall Jackson Lake, West Virginia

There’s not enough hours in a single day to contain the amount of fun had at this luxurious state resort set  in the middle of 2,000-acre Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park. Book a room at the lodge on the lake’s shore, cruise the waters of Stonewall Jackson Lake on a pontoon boat, or tee it up on an Arnold Palmer Signature Golf Course.

Missouri’s Table Rock Lake at Big Cedar Lodge

Started by Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, this heavenly lodge property is located on a nearly 60,000-acre lake just outside Branson, Missouri.Big Cedar Lodge’s gentle call of the wild fills all 81 cabins, 3 lodges, 4 restaurants, and 100 boat slips. Guests can choose between cottages, cabins, and handsome hotel rooms in one of three ridge-side lodges. Access is incredibly easy―the brand-new $140-million Branson airport is just 10 miles from the lodge.

Lake Guntersville, Alabama

This quintessential southern lake experience is known as one of Alabama’s prettiest patches of fresh water―Lake Guntersville. But the small city holds a few shopping and dining surprises that could have easily been plucked from much more urban areas such as Birmingham and Huntsville. Though, you’re here for the lake and its calming qualities will ease you through this relaxing weekend.

Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina

Lake Santeetlah’s 76 miles of shoreline are mostly protected as national forest.Enjoy the silence via canoe, sea kayak or stand up paddleboard. Afterward, head to the lakeside bar and dock at Blue Waters Mountain Lodge. Editor’s tip: For lakeside camping with a few amenities–hot showers and flush toilets–Cheoah Point Campground has car campsites for $20 a night.

Lake Martin, Alabama

Known as a popular second-home lake to Birmingham and Montgomery residents, this southern lake, Lake Martin, holds a population of full-time lakeside dwellers. On the weekends, boats raft up at Chimney Rock, a prominent cliff-jumping spot near the dam, inviting you to partake.

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Looking Ahead to Your Summer Travel

Need something to look forward to in these trying times? Let’s get to planning a summer travel or a summer camping getaway. Once we flatten the curve and life returns to normal for us all, small businesses are going to need us more than ever.  Pack up the coolers and your favorite grilling apron, and check out these great options below, courtesy of GlampingHub.

New York State of Mind

Upstate New York has something for everyone and is the perfect getaway for summer travel 2020. There are vast opportunities to explore – cabins, safari tents, and natural landscapes (including the Hudson River and Niagara Falls), just to name a few.  If you’ve been dreaming of an escape to the wild outdoors, this is the place for you.  What better way to unwind after the last few stressful months than to take in the majestic calm of fresh mountain air in the Catskill Mountains? This is a great option for Fall 2020 too since Upstate New York is also known for its beautiful autumn leaves.

Georgia On My Mind

Looking for a southern camping experience?  Georgia is on our mind. With its gorgeous national parks including Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests and the pristine Blue Ridge Mountains (part of the Appalachian Mountain range), Georgia is the ideal place for a summer camping getaway.  A little known fact is that Georgia is also home to some amazing coastline sights and sounds.  Escape into The Peach State with a stay in a cabin or even a tree house rental.

O Canada

Due north of Seattle, Washington is Vancouver, Canada – a western coastal seaport in the lower mainland of British Columbia.  Although Vancouver is the most populous city in the province, don’t let that distract you from its abundance of gorgeous summer travel and camping opportunities. We can’t wait to check them out!  From Banff National Park with its many trails (including pet friendly options) to countless cabins in their majestic mountains and even beach rentals along their sprawling coastline, you just cannot go wrong taking a camping trip into The Great White North of Vancouver, Canada.  You deserve to treat yourself to the forests, mountains, and rivers of Vancouver this summer!

Down & Out? Let’s Go Down Under

If you’ve never visited the outback, you should know there’s more to it than the kangaroos, koalas and “throw a shrimp on the barbie” (although there are definitely plenty of grilling opportunities exploring the outdoors there). Sydney, Australia – in New South Wales – is the perfect destination for your post-quarantine getaway.  Escape the humdrum and spread your wings exploring this beautiful country. Check out all that their great outdoors have to offer, including the Blue Mountains National Park on the outskirts of the city suburbs, or lay claim to your own personal piece of paradise at one of their over 10,000 distinct beaches.  Australia is rife with natural beauty, and Aussies pride themselves in being laid back and fun people, so be sure you plan to stay a while and take in all they have to offer.  You won’t regret how many “g’days” you’ll experience down under, mate.

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Top 5 Beaches to Vacation at this Summer if Possible

Already dreaming of your days on the beach this summer once we are allowed to travel again?  So are we!  Heading for a vacation at the beach is perfect for almost anyone – family vacations, romantic getaways, a long weekend with some friends, or even a solo-vacation! You can spend your days with your toes in the sand or opt for more adventure and go snorkeling and surfing.

In honor of our upcoming summer vacations, here’s a list from Travel + Leisurethat covers the best beach vacations on a budget.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Florida

We’ve all heard that Miami,Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beachare the go-to beach destinations in Florida, but this beach town is way more affordable. Plus, you’ll experience smaller crowds and experience life in an authentic beach town.

Lauderdale-by-the-sea is hidden on the east coast, sandwiched between Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach. When you’re here, make sure to visit the pier and walk through Anglin’s square, where you’ll find cafes, restaurants, and gelato shops.

Gold Beach, Oregon-Vacation 

Gold Beach is the perfect (and cheaper) alternative to the popular Oregon beach Canon Beach. You’ll find crowd-free beaches, ocean kayaking, jet boat tours, fishing, and tidepooling.

Try to visit between March and May, which is the prime time to see northbound pods of migrating gray whales as they pass through these waters.

Islamorada, Florida

Although it’s only 20 miles long, this tiny island located in the Florida Keyshas plenty to offer its visitors. Choosing a smaller, lesser-known island like this can help keep the cash in your wallet compared to the popular islands.

Here, you can explore Indian Key, an 11-acre historic state park that has the remains of an 1800’s shipwreck. You can also head to Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park to see an exposed coral reef and take a self-guided nature trail hike.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina-Vacation 

This fun beach is bursting with fun-filled activities for the whole family. Known as the mini-golf capital of the world, this beach town has more than 50 themed miniature golf courses.

Aside from mini-golf, you can explore the pier at Myrtle Beach State Park, shop at Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market, and explore the shops and restaurants in Market Common.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Only about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, you’ll find that this beach destination has plenty to do without the price. The beach is 5 miles long, with several separate beaches. It makes for a perfect vacation spot.  Visit Savannah and Tybee Island in one great trip.

The North Beach is perfect for bird and ship watching. Head to Mid Beach if you’re looking for seashells and shark teeth, and South Beach is the place to be for volleyball and dolphin-spotting. Back River is a more secluded beach that has a fishing pier and picture perfect views of Little Tybee.

Plus, you can find plenty of free parks, playgrounds, and hiking trails. During the summer, the City of Tybee hosts free movies in the park. Just bring a blanket and some snacks, and relax!

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The Best Museums in Each State

Trying to escape the summer heat? Museums are the perfect go to for day trips or even for a whole vacation. What about a road trip that stops at the coolest ones in eachstate? The Discoverer Blog has a list of the Coolest Museum in Each State. We are here to share 8 of them!

Colorado

Located in Denver, the Denver Art Museum is one of the largest in the west. The outside alone is enough to draw visitors. However, the inside is filled with traveling collections, Western art, and contemporary pieces. The Denver Art Museum could be classified as an encyclopedia that holds many different types of artistic expression. They even have hand-dyed Native American blankets.

Georgia

World of Coca-Cola is located in Atlanta and is interactive. Not only does the museum contain the vault that holds Coke’s famous secret formula, but there is a tasting room where its visitors can try samples of Coca-Cola. Over 100 different samples! There is a 4D theatre and there is even a pop culture gallery.

Kansas

Wichita’s museum, the Museum of World Treasures, is the perfect museum to spend an entire day at. There are three floors of over 30,000 different artifacts. There is a little something for everyone. There is a Sea Creatures of the Plains exhibit that displays a giant prehistoric sea creature called the Xiphactinus fish.

Minnesota

Taking a huge leap and being the “leading exhibition of modern art”, the Walker Art Center is located in Minneapolis. This museum is also known for its architecture. The array of modern art exhibits located within the museum is amazing. The sculpture garden holds the “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture.

Montana

The Museum of the Rockies is actually a Smithsonian affiliate. Located in Bozeman, this museum is famous for its Siebel DInosaur Complex, which holds the most fossils of T. Rex in the world. If you are looking for a Museum that explores the Montana Landscape, this is the perfect stop. Learn about the history of Yellowstone and geysers.

Ohio

What about a music museum? The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, located in Cleveland, is perfect for those rock and roll lovers. Multiple exhibits display the rock legends who have helped create music to be what it is today. David Bowie, Elvis and the Beatles are just a few. Visit to see artifacts and costumes from artist who have truly made rock and roll what it is.

South Dakota

The Mammoth Site and Museum was discovered when a housing development was leveling the grounds. In 1974, a 7-foot tusk was found and the excavation began. The museum was created a year after the original find. There are 3 wooly mammoths that have been uncovered and visitors can actually watch the excavation happen. It is believed that there could still be over 1,000 bones and fragments that actually are still buried in the sink hole.

Tennessee

Located in Memphis, the National Civil Rights Museum is housed in the Lorraine Motel, which was where Martin Luther KIng Jr. was shot. It includes personal accounts of people who experienced the movement and there are even exhibits that focus on Jim Crow laws. Visitors can even tour a bus, a vintage one, and listen to the interaction between Rosa Parks and a public transit worker.

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Perfect Cities to Beat the Summer Heat

It is summer time, which means vacations. Living in Louisiana, the heat could drive anyone insane. But also researching the best place to go can also be a little overwhelming. Travel Trivia posted an article on the 8 U.S. Cities with Perfect Weather in June. We are here to share seven of the eight cities in the United States that have the perfect weather in June.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles can be extremely hot but summer is a perfect month to visit. Take a slow stroll along Hollywood Boulevard; the TCL Chinese Theatre and Walk of Fame give their visitors the perfect opportunity to stop and see the sights. The beaches of Venice and Santa Monica are also the perfect getaway. The ocean is right there meaning there is a breeze, and there is always the opportunity to take a dip in the water.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

This island is famous for its horse drawn carriages and no cars are allowed on the island. May might be cold and rainy, but June  and other summer months are the perfect time to visit this beautiful island. The island is actually a state park, which means the views are amazing and nature is always around. Take a carriage tour or even visit a Horse Stable/Carriage Museum.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe has unlimited options for all of its visitors. The beautiful architecture makes anyone want to walk around outside all day, but the outskirts of the city make the view even better. The city offers over 400 miles of different types of terrain for its visitors to hike and bike.

The National Historic Landmark the Puye Cliff Dwellings are also in Santa Fe.

San Francisco, California

Famous for its fog, San Francisco’s weather during the early summer is perfect. Stop and check out the San Francisco Bay, but make sure to bring a jacket because it can get a little chilly. Who wouldn’t want to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge?

Flagstaff, Arizona

Not only is this city perfect for the summer, but it offers its visitors year round opportunities. June temperatures during the day are usually high 70s mid 80s, but bring a jacket for the evenings. However, you might want to avoid the city in July and August because the rain can feel like a monsoon.

Denver, Colorado

Denver can get really hot during the summer, so June is the perfect month to visit. This city if filled with outdoor activities. Farmers Markets are usually always around somewhere. Rocky Mountain National Park is a great escape. Or even take a bicycle tour of downtown Denver.

Make sure not to miss out on the festivals that also go on during the summer.

New York, New York

The harsh winters can be made up by the amazing weather New York City experiences during the first month of summer. Central Park is the perfect setting for a picnic and relaxing in the sun. Take a book and lay out. Visit Staten Island on the free ferry and catch some amazing views of the Statue of Liberty. This is even the perfect time to walk along the Brooklyn Bridge.

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Scuba Diving Trips Worth Planning

What a better way to kick off summer than to take a deep dive in our deep seas? Scuba diving gives you one of the most personal encounters with ocean life. Scuba gear has given us the opportunity to see how one of our largest ecosystems on the planet functions. When you dive below the surface you are diving into a whole different world. Not only are you able to explore marine life, but shipwrecks and lost treasure could possibly be found. EscapeHere has an article with The 10 Best Scuba Diving Locations in the World, we are here to share five.

Cozumel, Mexico

Up to 100 feet of visibility, the opportunity for scuba diving in Cozumel is endless. The Maya Reef that runs for 600 miles, reaches from Central America to Cozumel. This gives its visitors multiple opportunities to see what lies beyond the surface. Maybe the sun isn’t really your thing; try looking into night dives. Summer is the best time to visit because the cheaper hotel prices and the water is a lot warmer.

Hawaii, USA

Due to the location, Hawaii’s marine life is not as plentiful as those in the Caribbean. However, this also means that their marine life is unique to its location. The manta ray night dive is one of the more popular scuba dives, located off the island of Kona. Diving into complete darkness, the rays swim overhead. Diving off of Moloka’i gives its visitors the opportunity of getting to see hammerhead sharks and more importantly, the Hawaiian monk seal (pretty rare). Summer isn’t the only time visitors can enjoy diving, humpback whales migrate during the months of December to April. This means divers might have the chance to hear them.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

1,430 miles, the Great Barrier Reef is visible from space because of its size. This size also enables the unique marine life. The coral reef itself is breathtaking, but the large sea turtles can really turn some heads. This is one of the most recognizable scuba diving spots around the world, and there are obvious reasons why.

The French Polynesian Islands

There are over 100 islands and 11 of them offer scuba diving centers. The French Polynesian Islands are known for their beautiful beaches, but what about the water and below? This can be overwhelming, but on the bright side this means there are more options. Starting at the beginner level and then working your way up to advance, the French Polynesian Islands offers its visitors literally endless options.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Due to the choppy conditions and strong currents, the Galapagos Islands can be a better choice for more experienced scuba divers. The waters are not only full of fish and hammerhead sharks; sea lions and fur seals also fill the water surrounding the islands. Most famously known for where Charles Darwin developed his theory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands offers a whole different perspective to diving. July to November is prime time, but remember this isn’t just a short trip. These areas take days to explore.

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