Presidential Resting Places- Virginia

Washington’s Tomb, Mt. Vernon

It’s the burial place of America’s first President George Washington and his wife Martha Washington. They are buried right on the grounds of Mount Vernon, their famous plantation estate on the banks of the Potomac.

Washington died in the master bedroom at Mount Vernon on December 14, 1799. In his will, he directed that he be buried on his beloved Mount Vernon estate. The tomb was completed in 1831 and Washington’s body was moved there along with the remains of his wife, Martha and other family members.

Arlington National Cemetery

Located in Arlington, Virginia it’s the resting place of U.S. President John F. Kennedy. Kennedy actually selected the place where he wanted to be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Kennedy is buried with his wife and two of their children. He was placed here March 14, 1967. His grave is marked with an eternal flame.
Besides being resting place of John f Kennedy the Arlington is often visited for the Tomb of the Unknowns which is the final resting place for unidentified combat soldiers from both World Wars and the Korean War.

Hollywood Cemetery

Hollywood Cemetery is a large, sprawling cemetery located at 412 South Cherry Street in Richmond, Virginia. Characterized by rolling hills and winding paths overlooking the James River, it is the resting place of two United States Presidents, James Monroe and John Tyler.

It was designed in the rural garden style, with its name, “Hollywood,” coming from the holly trees dotting the hills of the property.

Brazil: The Land Beautiful

Brazil has long been known as a land of sexy people, seducing travelers with its music and splendid beaches. The country bordering almost every other country in South America offers a

blend of cultures, cuisine, ethnic groups, as well as many natural wonders. One can just be left amazed, gaping at the variety this place has to offer.

Visit to the Iguassu Falls or Iguacu Falls

Often described as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Iguassu Falls is a treat to watch. The falls are an awesome sight as tons of water tumble over cliffs, and the mist rises in the jungle. It’s well worth spending a day to watch this natural beauty.

The Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro

The Brazilian Carnival is an annual celebration in Brazil. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is known worldwide for the elaborate parades staged by the city’s major samba schools in the Sambadrome and is one of the world’s major tourist attractions.

Eat at the Churrasco

In Brazil, churrasco is the term for a barbecue. Brazilian churrasco contains a variety of meats which may be cooked on a purpose-built “churrasqueira”, which basically means a grill. Some of the brazilian “churrasqueiras” do not have grills, only the skewers above the embers. The meat may alternatively be cooked on large metal or wood skewers and roasted with the embers of charcoal.
Hungry, anyone?

Gulp down the Caipirinha

Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail, made with cachaca, sugar and lime. Cachaca is Brazil’s most common distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane. Nothing better to quench your thirst then glass full of the local spirit topped up with pounded ice and limes. Cheers!!

Have you been to Sao Paulo? Or other parts of Brazil? What is your favorite part? Where do you suggest a first time visitor go?

CheapOair’s Afternoon Escape

Need to take a break from work? Here’s an airfare sure to inspire some afternoon daydreams for you!

Flights from Miami to Sao Paulo for $272!

At fares this cheap, this could be you-

Top 10 Gambling Destinations around the Globe

Chances of hitting a jackpot or being dealt as a black jack have a certain allure that attracts most of us to the casinos. Now you need not to roll the dice when planning your next gambling getaway. Choose from some action-packed gaming vacation destinations where the odds are in your favor for good times both on and off the floor.

1. Las Vegas: One of the fastest growing cities in America, Las Vegas is often known as the “Sin City”. With mega-casino resorts like the Bellagio, the Wynn, the Sands, Mandalay Bay and dozens of others, Las Vegas has a hotel room and gambling chair for everyone.

2. Macau: Home to the Venetian Macau, the largest casino in the world by far, Macau is becoming one of the most famous of gambling destinations. Many people call as the “East Las Vegas” of China. All the major gambling brands have plans for five-star hotel and casinos in this Southern China region and gambling receipts for 2006 were higher than those from Las Vegas, according to some reports.

3. Atlantic City: If you are an East Coaster, it is sometimes hard to make your way to Vegas when you get the gambling itch. Luckily, Atlantic City also features their own selection of themed casinos open 24 hours a day, conveniently close to the beach and stylish boardwalks.

4. Cruise ships: Whether touring the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Indian Ocean of the coasts of the Pacific, cruise ships feature some of the best gambling action including many boats with the up and coming Pokertek tables, the highly touted electronic poker tables threatening to take the world by storm.

5. Australia: Home to more than 400 casinos and racetracks, Australia boasts one of the best gambling scenes worldwide with many famous gamblers coming from the land of down under. Sydney, a premier vacation destination in its own right, is home to the Crown Casino and the Star City Casino, both excellent establishments for the general gambler or the poker player.

6. Mississippi: Even the torrent winds of Hurricane Katrina couldn’t dampen the immense gambling spirit of the Mississippi River area. Numerous Casinos line the Mississippi River coast from Louisiana to Canada. The unofficial birthplace of American gambling is still and exciting place to experience the old river boat frontier in a now corporate casino heavy United States.

7. France: France is wonderful gambling destination, even though they are one of the many confirmed enemies of online gaming. There are more than 450 casinos in France, according to a Casino City survey.

8. Los Angeles: Los Angeles is a breeding ground for many of poker’s best professional players and a thriving gambling scene. The Bicycle, Commerce, Hollywood Park the Hustler casinos serve as the cities major gambling attractions with more than 30 other casinos located along the beautiful coast all the way to San Diego.

9. Bahamas: Home to amazing beaches and coveted vacations spots, Bahamas is well known for its Islands. The Atlantis, located on the appropriately named Paradise Island, is a treasure for both its gambling space and its beach-themed allure. The Westin Grand Bahamas Island Our Lucaya Resort in Nassau and the One & Only Ocean Club on Paradise Island are also five-star resorts. The Caribbean gambling age of 18 and the spring break parties running from February to April also make this a gambler’s paradise.

10. Connecticut: This rural section of Southern New England is not exactly a world wonder, but it does contain two major casinos and one dubbed “the wonder of it all.” Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun are located within 30 minutes of each other. Foxwoods is home to the one of the world’s largest poker rooms and Mohegan Sun boasts both world class entertainment and high-end shopping. This area is conveniently situated between the tourist heavy cities of New York City and Boston and is a favorite destination of college-aged gamblers who flood the region annually.

Top Spring Destinations For a Wonderful Vacation

Spring Vacations are one of the most splendored things. With changing weather, spring is the time to explore those untouched destinations you have been planning to see since long. So, what are you waiting for? Shake off the winter blues and celebrate this spring with your family, friends or beloved! Check out the list of destinations you must not miss this season.

California: For those in the western side of the US and Canada, the Golden State California glitters during spring break. Disneyland is a top draw, of course; and you may catch Kids Fly Free to Disneyland deals.

Amsterdam: Amsterdam, the capital of the world’s best-known tulip-producing country the Netherlands is a must visit destination. April and May are the best times to see the graceful flowers abloom in the city’s markets and public gardens, while tulip festivals in the heart of “bulb country” beckon as day trips.

Arizona: Arizona has a lot more to see than idle tumbleweeds and cactus-lined desert roads. In fact, the southwestern state is home to some of the globe’s most spectacular natural landscapes, including the breathtaking Grand Canyon. Equally stunning are the dramatic red rock buttes and pinnacles that cradle the state’s splendid new-age town of Sedona.

Florida: With its long stretches of beach on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, Florida has plenty to offer families besides (land-locked) Orlando. Remember, though, that Florida beaches are hugely popular for college spring-break partying.

Washington, DC: Washington DC is one of the top destinations for spring break, and for many families, school break coincides with the weeks of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the original gift of 3,000 cherry trees from the city of Tokyo, back in 1912. Dates are March 28 to April 12 2009.

Travel Trends for 2009

Specialists from American Express revealed top travel trends for 2009, including the continued growth of trends that have been building steadily over the past year. Though some emerged out of economic downturn in 2008, others show travelers determined to create new and fulfilling travel experiences despite the economy.

Second City Travel – Visiting smaller, lesser known cities within a destination can yield more affordable, though equally enriching, and vacation experience. For example, visiting Birmingham, England instead of London; or vacationing in Calgary, Canada instead of Toronto.

Tried and True Travel – Travelers are expected to return to destinations that they know and love in greater numbers. Not only is it a safe way to ensure an enjoyable vacation, it allows travelers to explore destinations more thoughtfully, while giving them a true sense of costs.

Closer to Home Travel - Expanding beyond previous year’s “staycation” trend, travelers are expected to seek “closer to home”, affordable alternatives to overseas destinations. For example, visiting Montreal instead of Paris.

Vacation Home Rentals Support Multi-Generational Travel – Vacation home rentals and villas that offer multi-generational families a “home away from home” experience while on vacation, will continue to gain popularity.

Value Vacations Expected to grow - Value oriented vacations, such as all-inclusive resorts and cruise lines that continue to expand their offerings will become more appealing to travelers that had not considered them in the past.

Other trends indicating that some consumers are moving forward with their travel plans regardless of the economy are:

Climate Sightseeing – A growing number of travelers are moved to visit destinations threatened by climate change such as the Galapagos, Machu Picchu, Alaska and Canada’s Churchill, an area whose polar bears are threatened by extinction.

Authentic Travel and Niche Tours – According to American Express travel agents, demand for vacations driven by special interests will continue to rise in 2009. Among these, agents named both “authentic travel”— experiencing a destination more intensely through longer stays and deep cultural immersion— and niche tours, where groups of people with like-minded interests travel together.

Solo Travel – Travel agents expect to see a rise in solo travel due to lifestyle factors, and the rising age of couples getting married.

Top 10 New Year Party Destinations

Searching for the right Christmas gift for each friend and relative? Most of us are looking for something fun and memorable to do on New Year’s Eve these days. If you really want to do something original, use your vacation time wisely and visit a top party destination.

Hawaii : Whether part of an all-inclusive package or on your own, there is a lot to do in Hawaii during New Year’s. Romantically inclined couples will want to reserve a table at some of the state’s finest restaurants and then relax on the beach with nothing more than a Mai Tai and some privacy. Even single men can keep busy, as many hedonistic-like parties take place along the beaches of Oahu and Hawaii’s Big Island.

Must-do: Try to get tickets to a Hawaiian gala, where traditional New Year’s practices are mixed with good old-fashioned fun.

Vienna, Austria: True metrosexuals will appreciate a New Year’s stay in Austria’s fine capital. Substitute nightlong dance raves with dignified balls and loud club music with the world’s best symphonies. Numerous other classical music concerts are organized in Vienna, and there are several private galas organized by hotels.

Must-see: On New Year’s Eve, the Vienna Philharmonic puts on a concert at the great Musikverein hall.

Madeira, Portugal: The Portuguese island of Madeira is heaven on Earth year round and only gets better with the busy holiday season. The linking of a great culture and unforgettable food with a party atmosphere makes this place a prime New Year’s destination. You can rent out a villa and soak up the atmosphere and beaches, or join the populace in watching Madeira’s famous fireworks and outdoor parties.

Must-do: Prior to the festivities, eat out and try Madeira’s local dishes, like black swordfish and espetada (meat brochettes).

Goa, India: For five-star hotel treatment and white sandy beaches with a romantic backdrop, think about bucking the trend and visiting India’s beautiful state of Goa. Here you’ll find a great combination of sun, sand and surf. As such, this paradise is ideal for couples who want to spend New Year’s away from loud parties and drunks singing Auld Lang Syne.

Must-see: Preface a memorable romp on the sand with a visit to scenic Baga Beach and a drink at Tito’s, Goa’s most popular nightclub.

Tokyo, Japan: For New Year’s, two different but equally fun opportunities present themselves in Japan’s greatest city. Traditionalists enjoy visiting Tokyo’s Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples to celebrate in style and pray for good luck in the New Year. Amazing festivals are held in these shrines, replete with music and dancers dressed in ornate costumes.

Must-see: On January 2nd, the Imperial Palace is open to the public. You can tour the grounds and catch a glimpse of Japan’s Emperor.

Morocco: When the champagne-filled parties get old, it’s time to consider something completely different. Certain Moroccan tour companies organize desert tours for New Year’s, where travelers get to spend the memorable night in an incredible oasis. You can stay in the ancient city of Ouarzazate, then move out into the Sahara and experience a nomadic lifestyle with the natives.

Must-see: After midnight, catch the bonfire and nomadic dances, which help transform the desert into an outdoor dancehall.

Sydney, Australia: All of Sydney comes alive for New Year’s Eve as Australia’s great harbor city offers a stunning array of activities that keep the energy up and the champagne flowing. The most popular spot to visit is the Harbor Bridge, where people come in droves to watch an impressive display of fireworks that starts over the water at the stroke of midnight.

Must-do: Prior to partying, grab a window seat in one of Sydney’s high-rise restaurants to get a view of the city’s activities while dining on great food.

Las Vegas, Nevada: The standard Las Vegas activities are revamped for New Year’s Eve, as the strip is closed to traffic after 5 p.m. and is transformed into an enormous block party. Four hundred thousand people come to eat, dance and drink before visiting the shows or casinos. As an added bonus, you’re likely to spot as many street performers as you do celebrities.

Must-see: The fireworks at midnight, which are best seen in front of Caesars Palace’s Forum Shops or on the observation deck of the Stratosphere.

Cape Town, South Africa: There’s a lot to see and do in this diverse, vibrant South African metropolis. Cape Town holds a New Year’s carnival, attracting 80,000 enthusiastic tourists and locals. This festival entertains in every aspect, offering great food, music and shows all night long.

Must-see: The V&A Waterfront, which is Cape Town’s fine harbor area and a great place to grab a drink and watch traditional African song and dance in the many lounges nearby.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Rio is a party city all year round, so imagine the ruckus that occurs when it’s time to ring in the New Year. Copacabana Beach serves as the setting for many of the outdoor parties, which are characterized by thumping samba music and many, many beautiful Brazilian females. In accordance with tradition, the two million partiers who drink and groove on the sand are usually all dressed in white, so follow along and soak up the wicked atmosphere.

Must-do: At the stroke of midnight, celebrate by going for a dip in the ocean.

Europe’s Top 10 Christmas Markets

Christmas markets are a wonderful part of the Christmas Celebrations. If you are planning a trip to Europe, check out the list of top Christmas Markets.

Christmas Market

Antwerp: The Christmas market (December 7 to December 26, excluding December 8 ) takes place in the Grote Market, with dozens of stalls and a temporary ice rink in the shadow of the cathedral and evening carol concerts.

Basel and the Black Forest: Basel boasts Switzerland’s largest and most traditional Christmas market (November 29 to December 17) and Europe’s longest illuminated Christmas Street. The city is also home to the celebrated Johann Wanner Christmas shop.

Berlin: There are some 50 markets in Berlin; the main ones are at Gedächtniskirche (November 24 to December 28), Unter den Linden (November 24-December 28) and Alexanderplatz.

Copenhagen: It is in winter that Tivoli Gardens are at their most magical, with a market and an outdoor ice rink. No wonder the market (November 10 to December 30, excluding December 24 and 25) is visited by almost a million shoppers every year.

Dublin: This is the first time Dublin has held a European-style Christmas market in Georges Dock (December 12 to December 23; from noon). Expect seasonal food, handicrafts, mulled wine, carol singing and a German-themed bar.

Frankfurt: Frankfurt has one of Germany’s oldest and largest Christmas markets (November 30 to December 23) and for many locals buying all their gifts here is an important part of their Christmas tradition. Quality is high and prices are reasonable.

Hamelin: Hamelin, south of Hannover, is the Pied Piper’s home town, which adds an extra fairytale quality. The market takes place in the medieval Old Town (November 28 to December 23), where 70 decorated wooden huts sell gifts, handicrafts, hot food and mulled wine.

Jersey: The Fête de Noué in St Helier (December 7 to December 23) takes place under a canopy of lights, with Dickensian storytellers, carols by candlelight and lots of Christmas crafts.

Prague: The city’s markets take place in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square (December 5 to December 23), with smaller ones at Namesti Republiky and Havelske Trziste. Tradition dictates that you sip svaree vino (mulled wine) as you visit huts selling handicrafts and hot food.

Stockholm: The Skansen Christmas market (December 1-2, 8-9 and 15-16) sells everything from sausages and spices to children’s toys and fine linen. There’s also an indoor market at Bollnas square.

North America’s Best Sea Kayaking Destinations

While vacationing is all about just relaxing and enjoying for most of us, some prefer to participate in fun and exhilarating activities. Kayaking is one of such activities which can be best way of exploring and enjoying provided you have chosen the right destination. So, here are some of the best sea kayaking destinations in North America you can head for:

1. Down East Islands – Maine: This is the best place for people looking for some adventure. Maine’s 920 miles of coastline is reputedly some of the most rugged along North America’s East Coast. The 255 islands that make up Maine’s Down East Islands are ripe for exploration with their many hidden coves and cobble beaches.

2. Prince William Sound – Alaska: Located at the northernmost end of the Gulf of Alaska, Prince William Sound is completely surrounded by rugged mountains, glaciers, and barrier islands, the cove offers breathtaking scenery combined with sheltered waters that makes kayaking easy for beginners. Prince William Sound offers plenty of opportunity for exploration, both in the kayak and out.

3. Pictured Rocks Lakeshore – Lake Superior, Michigan: Pictured Rocks Lakeshore is just as picturesque as its name indicates. It is a national park that stretches along 43 miles of Lake Superior’s southern shore. Explore the park’s caves and coves via kayak, and take the opportunity to camp and hike in the park.

4. Rosarito Beach – Mexico: A local favorite among Californians and college students, Mexico’s Rosarito Beach is a offers perfect waters and picturesque scenery for a fun and relaxing kayaking vacation. The Beach lies in close proximity to Baja, California makes it perfect for a weekend – or longer – getaway.

Grey whales are one of Rosarito Beach’s highlights. Kayakers are most likely to spot the whales during the morning hours. Sightings of sea lions, manatee, and tropical birds are also common.

5. Fox Island – Seward, Alaska: Known for its scenic views and unspoiled natural beauty, Fox Island may well be one of the best kayaking destinations in the world. Kayakers are often graced with sightings of local wildlife, such as sea lions and sea otters, whales, peregrine falcons, and bald eagles. The backdrop is nothing to sneeze at, either: Fox Island offers many miles of beautiful pebbled beaches, rainforests, cliffs, and coves, so don’t forget to bring a waterproof disposable camera!

Zen Dens: Yoga Retreats

Yoga Retreat Vacations

If you are looking forward to shed stress and a little weight, then it’s time for a yoga retreat vacation. Check out yoga retreat destinations where the line between wellness and living well is blissfully blurred:

• Wildflower Hall, Shimla, India
• Como Shambhala at Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
• Chiva-Som, Hua Hin, Thailand
• Begawan Giri, Bali, Indonesia,
• Adventure Yoga Retreats, All over the Americas
• Esalen Institute, Big Sur, California
• Lifetime Retreats, Kangaroo Island, Australia
• Maya Tulum, Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
• The Standard Miami, Miami Beach, Florida

For more read on.

America’s Best Bachelorette Party Destinations

Are you planning to tie the knot? Hey gals if you are one of those moving from their single self to the next level of their life that is “marriage”, then how about celebrating those precious pre-lifetime-commitment moments with your best gals by your side.

Though some of you might be new to the concept; but the idea of celebrating just before the ceremony will really fascinate you. A “Hen’s night” in England or “enterrement de vie de jeune fille” in France; though celebrated with different names in different countries, these parties have same intention to say good bye to one phase of life and welcoming another.

With so many beautiful destinations to choose from; check out some of the top spots to celebrate those final days of your Bachelorette life.

Beat The Crowds and The High Rates – Travel in Shoulder Seasons

Off-season travel is decidedly not for everybody. Some people crave the crowds, the perfect weather and in some locales, the “scene”. If you’ve traveled to Aspen or St. Barts for New Year’s Eve or the South of France in July, these tips are not for you. For everyone else, read on.

Low season travel can be a bit risky. The main reason locations have “low seasons” is weather. If you are an extreme bargain hunter and don’t mind a few rainy days, unseasonable heat or cold and a few less attractions to choose from – then go for it. We prefer the ’shoulder’. It’s the time in between the peak and the low – where deals abound, attractions are a plenty and the weather will hold up nicely. There are three important criteria to planning an off-season getaway that’s right for you. The first is to determine what type of vacation you want. Are you a lay on the beach and read, embark on a cultural tour or find a thrill seeking adventure type of person? Once you determine this, you should select three locations that would fit the bill. And finally, keep your dates flexible. Do your homework, find the best deals and then request the time off from work or pick your flights. Doing this will enable you to find the most suitable accommodations in the right destination at prices of up to 50% off high season rates. Below are a few of CheapOair.com’s favorite shoulder season destinations.

• Miami Beach: October – December or April and May
• Cape Cod: September and October
• Caribbean: May
• California Wine Country: November or March and April
• Disney World and Orlando: Early January or Mid December
• Europe: September and October

Traveling Decisions Being Influenced By Hobbies and Interests

As our work weeks become longer and longer, vacations are evolving for families, couples and singles. It is becoming increasingly important for travelers to seek out destinations and hotels based upon specific areas of interest. This trend is growing, possibly because we have less free time for our hobbies or perhaps because we wish to explore something new. Either way, at CheapOair.com, we want to make your vacation search as easy as possible. Each week we scour our exclusive vacation deals to bring you the best offers around the globe. Based upon user feedback, we have narrowed down our focus to Beach Destinations, Romantic Travel, Golf Resorts, Casinos and Seasonal Escapes. Our best deals can be found right on our homepage and are updated at the beginning of each week. But we’re not stopping there. Our vacation specialists are aggressively seeking partner deals so that we can bring you exciting adventure travel, a wide array of all-inclusive offerings, cruises for every budget and of course seasonal escapes that include Cool Summer Travel Deals, Fall Foliage Hotel Packages, Ski Vacations, and Spring Break Hotels. So keep an eye out for these and more deals, not just on the homepage but in our weekly newsletter specials as well.

We are Making it Easier for You to Plan Your Trip with New Booking Features

Long known for our deep discounts on airfare, CheapOair is now able to provide the same offers on hotels, cars and local destination activities. We’ve even taken the guesswork out of the planning. Book an airfare
at CheapOair.com and we’ll make hotel, car and destination suggestions right at the time of your booking. Shopping for travel deals has never been easier. We compile a trip builder itinerary where all of your travel details can be found in one location. And of course, our experienced call center is always on hand
to answer any questions you may have about your selections. Whether booking online or through one of our travel specialists, the perfect trip is right at your fingertips.