As aired on May 18, 2008 in Baton Rouge, LA on The Around Town Show.

Summer in the US is the time where most families head to the beach. These are my picks for the 2008 beach season. This list is based on personal experience, family friendly offerings, sand quality, and overall good times. Feel free to comment on the destinations included or add your own picks for Gulf Coast beach destinations.

5. Galveston Island, TX

Galveston is on the list because it is home to Moody Gardens and a new Schlitterbahn Waterpark. The boardwalk along the beach is a great place for families who like walking along the beach without getting all the sand in your shoes. Also, there is a lot of pirate history, with Galveston Island being home to Campeche, a settlement once inhabited by Jean Laffite and his crew.

4. Gulf Shores, AL and Orange Beach

These two are really separate, but when many people around where I live say they are going to Gulf Shores, they could be going to Orange Beach instead. The two are side by side and offer shopping for Mamas at nearby Foley, an abundance of golf courses for the dads, and so many family friendly activities. The beaches are really nice and clean with many restaurants overlooking the Gulf. I spend time there one summer with my family when the kids were very small. We were able to find an affordable 2 bedroom condo on the beach through Brett Robinson Rentals. Be careful though, as the Gulf Shores area has become a bit pricey.

3. Panama City Beach, FL

I know what you are thinking, isn’t this a Spring Break destination? Yes, it used to be and I almost fondly remember a high school trip there where we stayed at The Chateau. You remember that old place don’t you? We used to call it the S—hole. Anyways, I returned one summer with family in tow. It has definitely changed to a family friendly destination. Beware of the evening traffic along The Strip. It is perfect if you are a family with teenagers, as many activities include parasailing and those bungie drop things. If you have younger children, there are plenty of go-cart tracks and waterslides.

2. Destin, FL

Destin and the northwest coast of Florida offer some of the most gorgeous beaches I’ve ever seen. This place has the shopping, the golf, the activities, and even the spas. One thing that sets it above other beaches is the relaxation factor. Be sure though that when you book your lodging, make sure it is ON the beach, not near the beach. Many condos here are located across the highway from the beach. This isn’t the best when you have little ones. Destin does offer some fantastic seafood. I remember many childhood summers at the buffet! The sand here is so fine, it actually barks when you walk.

1. The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is one of those places in the US that makes you feel as if you are on a tropical island somewhere. The Keys offers a variety of atmospheres, from Key West, which is a beach version of The French Quarter, to Islamorada, which is laid back and slow. If you don’t have the money to actually stay at the legendary Little Palm Island, you can still visit this hideaway for lunch. The same goes for Sunset Key. There are so many Keys to choose from with a variety of activities for families of all backgrounds.

Families can swim with the dolphins, visit a butterfly museum, learn about pirates at an interactive attraction, and see how turtles are taken care of at The Turtle Hospital. Families can’t go wrong when visiting The Keys.

So these are my picks for this year. Remember that a vacation is a time for travel, relationship renewal, and most importantly, fun. Be spontaneous and make the most of your time together this summer.

This happens every summer: I get a new pair of cute sandals that fit nicely in the store, and then the first day out - bam! Sore feet and blisters. This may sound familiar to fellow fans of soft adventure travel. Non-stressful hiking, plus walking tours, pretty much make up the kind of summer vacation (non-aquatic) exercise I get. That’s why, for me, the who-knows-what-technology-based stuff that goes into Gore-Tex fabric, makes their shoes a real plus. The Gore-Tex fabric is waterproof and wicks away heat, and feels kind of squishy in the sole (but it’s not a gel-based insert, so the TSA won’t make you surrender you shoes on the airport security line). My Ecco and Clark’s shoes have the Gore-Tex insignia, and Merrell, New Balance, and Timberland brands also use the special patented fabric. The company joined with the Adventure Travel Trade Association to suggest a Top 10 list of Summer Adventure Travel Vacation Destinations.

Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations, via Gore-Tex and the Adventure Travel Trade Association

• Australia - From the walkabouts to the rain forests of Queensland to the Great Barrier Reef, there’s adventure travel of almost all sorts here. If shopping is more your summer vacation speed, spend that cash in Sydney and Melbourne.
• Brazil - The jungles here are disappearing at a rapid clip; tourist dollars may show the government a viable alternate use of this great resource. And the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana are fantastic!
• British Columbia - start at my favorite airport hotel, and have fun in Vancouver, Victoria, and Granville Island for your summer vacation. Migratory marine mammals like whales spend their summers here too; they have the right idea!
• California - Even Los Angeles, with its sad reputation as a faceless city of strip malls, has some challenging hiking trails. I’d also suggest a drive north to Santa Barbara, my favorite spot along the Central Coast. There are also Napa Valley and other less famous “wine countries.”
• France - Can’t beat Paris as a cultural, historic walking city, but you might wear out your shoes trying to see it all. Then there’s Provence, Versailles, biking in the Pyrenees (bordering Spain), and the forests of Fontainebleau. Adventure travel and luxury vacations both fit together perfectly in France!
• Madagascar - The Malagasy, native to Madagasacar, could really use some tourism dollars. The forests of this unique island are disappearing at a pretty rapid clip, and ecotourism may help stem the loss. The lemurs, chameleons, and other interesting critters are endemic to Madagascar, and need their habitat to continue starring in all those nature specials.
• Nepal - Kathmandu is the star here, of course, though getting to Nepal is an adventure in itself. Nepal would be the right fit for someone seeking a special, unique cultural trip; if that’s you, visit Boudhanath Stupa, home to Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
• New York - New York City is hot, humid, and gross in the summer - I lived through too many summers there to be in denial. But the Hudson Valley, Niagara Falls, and Adirondacks region are all lovely.
• Norway - This one was included on the Top 10 Summer Travel Destinations list, presumably because it’s too dark and cold to vacation there in the winter. The gorgeous waterfalls and fjords can be toured via walking tours, or hiked and splashed in by more intrepid vacationers.
• Switzerland - An outdoor adventure vacation would feature a hike up the Alps, and possibly hang-gliding back down. Leisure travelers can explore Basel, Geneva, and Zurich.

These disparate vacation destinations were chosen by the quality of both adventure and leisure travel options. Factors considered include uniqueness and authenticity, adventure activity resources (bicycling, hiking, etc), need for sustainable tourism, and undiscovered or little known natural and cultural assets. I think this list represents a nice blend of very popular summer travel spots, and some that are less so.

And me? Well, I have 2 weeks of vacation travel in New York planned for this summer, one of which is in the humid stickiness of NYC. In August! Wish me luck.

Oh, sure, CajunMama’s husband won’t acknowledge the term, but “mancations” are really picking up some traction in the travel industry. Now, most men that I know would rather not vacation at all, than spend their vacation days in a luxury spa, getting their nails buffed. But a lot of men are figuring out that time with their friends is time well spent, indeed. This is why mancations have become increasingly popular.

Mancations, or getaways for men only, can range from low rent (10 college buddies crammed in a Vegas hotel room) to ultra high end (father-son trip to Gleneagles Hotel Golf Resort in Scotland) - with a lot of room in between. Personally, I like the idea of mancations. Dudes hanging our together, doing their dude thing (I don’t want to know too much here), getting smelly, scratching…No women allowed? That’s okay! No, really.

Top Recommended Mancation Vacation Travel Gifts, for Father’s Day and Beyond

There are some great mancation gift ideas out there. If you want to treat the guy in your life with a mancation travel gift, it helps if you can arrange time off work for his closest friends as well. Cabo San Lucas has some fishing vacation packages, and the Waterfall Resort in Ketchican, Alaska provides everything guys need for an authentic Alaska fishing vacation. From what I’ve heard, these mancations sound like really fun outdoorsman trips.

Another special gift that a lot of men would really appreciate is a real NASCAR Richard Petty riding experience. NASCAR fans can travel to one of 25 major American cities including, of course, Daytona. There, guys on mancations can opt to ride shotgun in a stock car - or even drive the NASCAR top series top car themselves! Imagine that: Up to 140 miles per hour, no cops ticketing the dude, and a memory to last a lifetime.

For golfers, mancation-type travel packages abound. One top new contender I like is offered by the Half Moon Resort in Jamaica. Just in time for Father’s Day (but good through the rest of the year), the Guys on the Green golf vacation package is a seriously luxurious mancation, for a seriously lucky guy. The travel package includes 5-star dining, drinks, two rounds of golf at Half Moon’s award winning golf course, and an “Up to Par” massage. Oh, and guests are greeted with an ice-cold beer upon arrival. Golf, manly massage, beer…Talk about a mancation.

These are the Traveling Mamas’ current top recommended mancations for Father’s Day (or any time). But lists are meant to be expanded: Any other favorites out there?

Mr. CajunMama recently expressed a desire for a daddy weekend, since I like to take my own soul-oh trips and girlfriend getaways. I enlightened him that the proper word in today’s terminology is mancation. He laughed so hard and said he hoped it isn’t anything like metrosexual. So, in our household a mancation is still referred to as a daddy weekend.

Here are some of our top picks for a Southern mancation where daddies can travel with the guys for a long weekend:

10. Beale Street in Memphis, TN – The Amtrak station manager in Hammond, LA, mentioned to me that many guys get together and take the train up to Memphis on a Friday night and come back on the early Sunday train. The barbecue and blues clubs entice groups of guys to travel for a fun weekend.

9. Mississippi Gulf Coast – The beach and casinos are back in business after Hurricane Katrina. Guys can travel and lose money for a good cause.

8. Outer Banks, SC – Hang-gliding at Kitty Hawk and a kayak trip add some adventure to any mancation.

7. Grand Isle, LA – Locals call this the Cajun Bahamas. Many a mancation has been spent deep sea fishing from this destination.

6. Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail – Golf mancations are a hit. Guys travel from course to course and play the links.

5. Kentucky Bourbon Trail – DesertMama had a great time, but this stretch of two-lane highway is also a great place for guys to lay back and enjoy the bourbon.

4. New Orleans, LA – Bourbon Street. Need I say more?

3. Daytona Beach – Daytona Beach isn’t just for families, couples, or girlfriend getaways. This destination is the home to NASCAR, which makes it a must for our list.

2. Florida Keys – Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Buffet knew a good place when they came across the Florida Keys. Pick a key, any key.

1. SEC Road Trip – This was the number one pick from an LSU freak (Mr. CajunMama).

Sometimes, travel writers take press trips. Also called familiarity trips, these involve a few professional travel journalists being ushered around a particular vacation destination by PR folks in the local community’s travel and tourism business. I, MudslideMama, have been in the midst of a southern California beach town press trip, and just learned a valuable lesson regarding keeping one’s guard up. I carelessly left my PDA in a hotel lobby, and someone walked off with it. Travel tip: Don’t leave your personal digital assistant laying around in hotels. Yes, I know, this is a lesson that should have been learned many years ago, but hey – I’ve been burned, so lesson learned!

Top 10 Vacation Loss and Theft Prevention Tips

1. Keep an eye on your stuff. It sounds simple, but the sights and stresses of travel can distract even the most inveterate travelers. For example, I had taken some things out of my purse when I was looking for my sunblock, which it turns out I had left in my room. Apparently, I left my Blackberry on the table in the lobby. When I got back downstairs, it was gone. Someone STOLE my new Blackberry – and all my contact info, photos, and favorite ringtones that were on it.

2. If someone does steal your PDA, or if it’s just plain lost, cancel your service with your service provider. While you may be able to get the police to trace any outgoing calls on it, you’ll be held responsible for any charges anyway. Even if you have unlimited calls, the thief could be downloading songs and videos and whatnot, incurring huge fees.

3. Leave your most valuable jewelry and prized possessions at home. If you must take objects of considerable worth or sentimental value, pack them in your carry-on bag instead of the luggage to be stowed. Luggage gets lost or rifled through more often than you’d think.

4. Put a TSA-approved lock on your checked luggage. These ensure that the TSA won’t have to cut open your lock if someone decides your suitcase needs a closer look. In fact, carry-on is safest, and you don’t have to wait at the baggage carousel after arriving at your vacation destination. When feasible, try to stick with carry-on bags.

5. Prescription medications should be clearly labeled, and in their original containers. The security guy at the airport is still going to need to inspect it, of course, but this makes his or her job easier, which makes your time spent on the security line also easier.

6. Most hotels these days have a safe in the closet. This is where to store your passport, credit cards, cash, and any jewelry you decided to bring on your vacation. It’s the most secure place in the room.

7. Don’t travel to part of any country that is considered dangerous. While “considered dangerous” is open for interpretation, the US State Department issues travel alerts for particularly unsafe parts of the world. It’s a big world with plenty of terrific vacation spots; why ruin a romantic getaway or family vacation in a dangerous travel destination if you don’t have to?

8. Try to scatter your passport, credit cards, cash and I.D. throughout different pockets while out and about, rather than putting them all in your wallet or purse. Use inside pockets if you have them.

9. Be aware of who’s around you. Pickpockets and thieves often have plans, such as working in teams to nudge or distract you. Most people are essentially good, I think, but it only takes a couple of people – sometimes little kids – to lift your wallet, steal your purse, or otherwise ruin a vacation experience.

10. Your personal property or home insurance may cover theft or loss. Check your policy before you go, but it goes without saying that, even if your covered, still keep an eye on your stuff. And me? I wasn’t covered for the loss of my Blackberry. This was my stupid mistake – remember, don’t leave personal items unattended outside your room, even in 4- and 5-star hotels.

Vacations, be they family trips, weekend getaways, or that luxury UK experience you’ve been saving up for, are meant to be enjoyed. Don’t lose your stuff! Please, employ these Top 10 safe travel tips, but don’t get so tense about potential crime that you can’t a great time. You can be smart and still relax for a fun, safe vacation.

This is why I do not plan outdoor parties for my daughter’s early May birthday. Here’s the view from my front porch this morning:

Spring weather in the Colorado Rockies is absolutely unpredictable — and nearly unforecastable. (Is that a word?) The Weather Channel is calling for 2 to 4 inches of snow today; FoxNews says some parts of Colorado might get 8 to 16!

My poor daffodils — after being munched on by the local deer population, the overnight snow has just done them in:

Moral to the story? If you’re planning a spring vacation practically anywhere in the U.S. Mountain West, pack clothing for all sorts of conditions! If you’re driving, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to stock your car with appropriate emergency gear, such as a spare tire and jack, warm blankets, snacks and water, gloves, pocket knife, cell-phone charger, and a flashlight.

So I came across this MSN.com slide show depicting the “World’s Worst Tourist Traps.” Maybe I had tacky on the brain, but I was thinking I’d see shots of cheesey roadside stands selling kitschy souvenirs — not the beloved Leaning Tower of Pisa!

Basically, MSN contends that some of the locales listed below are overpriced, not worth the trip or not worth the crowds. Indeed, I’m all about going off the beaten path and I seek out “authentic” experiences” when I travel, but I do take issue at the inclusion of some of these world-renowned and historic sites:

1. Leaning Tower of Pisa: Yes, everyone takes those goofy pictures pretending to “hold up” the tippy bell tower, but come on! It’s legendary!

2. Times Square: Yes, there are crowds, yes there are corporate advertisements. But it’s also an awesome place to feel the pulse of the fast-paced city. And famous Broadway theaters are steps away.

3. South of the Border/Pedroland: This Mexican-themed attraction/amusement park — in South Carolina of all places — is a tacky tourist trap. I’m not arguing this one.

4. Madame Tussaud’s: I’ve never been to one of these museums, now found in London, Las Vegas, Hong Kong and Amsterdam. But I think I’d spend the dollars to get that requisite shot of me next to Brad Pitt.

5. Wall Drug: What else is there to do along Highway 90 in South Dakota? if I’m road-tripping through, of course I’m gonna stop and gawk at the silly souvenirs.

6. Blue Grotto, Capri, Italy: I’ve never been. Anyone? Bueller? MSN questions why anyone would pay the exorbitant fee to take a seasick-inducing rowboat ride to a section of the Mediterranean that is just as beautifully blue as many other areas around Capri.

7. Seattle’s Experience Music Project & Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame: If my son (now 6) grows up to be a guitar-playing, Star Trek-loving teenager, and we head on a family trip to the Pacific Northwest, heck, yeah, we’ll go to this museum. A Jimi Hendrix exhibit runs through April 2010.

8. Fisherman’s Wharf: It’s San Francisco’s most popular destination. Can it really be that bad? I remember getting a kick out of the sea lions on a visit there about 10 years ago…

9. Gateway Arch in St. Louis: If you’re not afraid of heights, why not spend the $10 to go to the top of the nation’s tallest monument at 630 feet?

10. Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market in Boston: I love downtown Boston and this historic site. I have great childhood memories of taking special shopping trips down here from my NH home. Just last year my mom, my children, and I had a relaxing al fresco lunch on the cobblestone pedestrian area, and had a ball people-watching! Street performers entertained the kids.

11. Bourbon Street: Oooooh. I bet CajunMama and DesertMama, both of whom visited New Orleans recently, might have something to say about this one!

How about you?

The Traveling Mamas really enjoy vacations in Mexico; I know that for me, the Yucatan Peninsula is just heaven. I loved seeing the Mayan ruins like Tulum and Chichen Itza near Cancun. Cancun has many child-friendly all-inclusive resorts with resort day camps for kids - in case the little ones aren’t up for a day trip to see those pyramids. MountainMama loved her travels in the Riviera Maya, too. But Mexico’s a big, diverse country, and not all of it is so trip-worthy.

The US State Department has just put out an extended travel alert for Mexico. Specifically, border areas in the country are considered too dangerous to visit, what with scary increases in gang violence and drug trafficking. These Mexican border states include Chihuahua City, Juarez, and Tijuana. According to the State Department, dozens of US citizens were actually kidnapped or murdered in Tijuana last year. Yikes.

And wait, there’s more: The New York Times reports (April 29, 2008 ) that besides the enormous threat of kidnappings that are practically a business model in Mexico City, FAKE kidnapping rates are skyrocketing too. These so-called “virtual kidnappings” sound horrifying; one US citizen living in Mexico received a call from a young women purporting to be her daughter, and other parents get calls with the sounds of little children crying out for them (these are not their kids, in fact, but just imagine the panic). There’s no sign that US tourists are being targeted in and of themselves, but with very few arrests so far, the problem will only continue.

Fancy luxury resort hotels in and around popular tourist destinations have heightened security, of course, and there’s almost no chance of gang members barging into the Ritz-Carton in Cancun. On the flip side, staying in an all-inclusive and not venturing outside of the hotel property doesn’t give travelers any real sense of the culture and history of the host country – you could be anywhere balmy if you don’t leave the resort grounds.

This is a tough issue. The travel and tourism industry definitely helps boost local and state economies of otherwise poor countries, and the experience of a family vacation somewhere outside of our own neighborhood (and mental safety zone) is mind-expanding. However, as with practically any family, us mamas’ and papas’ priorities are the health and safety of our children. Without travel package deals, the cost of many inclusive resorts is out of reach for a lot of us, too. Is the answer to simply take our family vacations in the safest parts of the world? Or is the answer to travel to faraway lands, but refuse to venture out of the safety of hotel grounds? What do you think?

In addition to skydiving and jetboat riding during my research trip to Daytona Beach, Florida, last week, I also got to ride along in a race car at 160 mph around the Daytona International Speedway. How cool is that?!

I’m not a race fan at all. (Unlike my travel-writing buddy Karon, pictured with me at right, who knows all sorts of encylopedic facts about racing and the sport’s major players!) Plus, I drive like a grandma (sorry Mom!). But I did get thrill from strapping in to a NASCAR-style stock car for three laps around the track, which features turns that bank at 31 degrees. (Though, honestly, after my absolutely incredible tandem-sky-diving experience, it was a little bit anti-climactic.)

I felt totally safe throughout the entire three-minute ride. Just a bit claustrophobic when I got buckled in, with this huge helmet on my head, plus a supportive head/neck brace attached to me and the back of my seat. I could barely move my head side to side (which I guess was a good thing). My heart only sped up a couple beats when the woman who helped get me situated told me to “pull the red straps in case of an emergency.”

I think if I were a true race fan, and I enjoyed driving fast, I’d pay the $399 to the Richard Petty Driving Experience to actually learn how to drive one of the cars a few times around the track. It’s a program that lasts 3 hours and includes training and eight laps around the track. For the ultimate racing experience, you can dish out $2,999 for personal instruction and a 40-lap driving program.

Or, if you’re more like me, you can always visit the simulated track at the Daytona 500 Experience’s Acceleration Alley. For $5, strap into a mock race car and compete against others on a video screen in front of you. If you wreck, you’ll feel it!

Having the travel bug, yet living in a tourist destination, can be a weird phenomenon. For example, a few weeks ago my family and I took a road trip north of Los Angeles, and stayed at the San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito (well, its mailing address is Santa Barbara, but it’s really just south of that town, in Montecito - nothing to be ashamed of). I love hiking in the region, and on one of several hikes there, I noticed my spouse was cracking up. What? What’d I do this time?

He explained that I was amusing him because all the flowers and plants (and lizards) I was carefully photographing - as if they were rare specimens, rarely seen - were exactly the same types of flowers and plants that live back home in our neighborhood. It was only the act of being on vacation that made them seem special. And you know? He was right.

I just came back from a morning hike with two other moms, good friends of mine, and this hike is practically in our own backyard. It’s a solid trail called the Temescal Canyon loop trail, in Los Angeles, and it is a pretty scenic route through part of the Santa Monica Mountain Range. I drive right by the entranceway almost daily, seeing tourists and travelers with their maps and cameras, but my friends and I have hardly ever availed of it personally…I guess that this is because it’s just part of the background scenery of our lives. It’s an easy, child-friendly hike with only moderate climbs and a well-defined path with trail markers. I recommend it for any able-bodied person ages 6 and up.

The trail head is in Temescal Canyon: Take the Pacific Coast Highway to Temescal Canyon Road, or Sunset Blvd. to where Sunset intersects with Temescal. Parking is free on Temescal Canyon Road, or five dollars in the state park. The Temescal Canyon ranger station of Topanga State Park provides trail maps. While the Temescal Canyon loop hike is not a special challenge, there are some other trails for experienced hikers who want a workout. After a slow climb, the views start to get pretty fantastic; mountain range on one side, Pacific Ocean on the other. Not to mention all the flowers, plants, and lizards that seemed so fascinating up in Montecito! We cut out early on this loop hike because a smaller, scrubby and underused trail (Rivas Canon) leads almost directly to our homes, but hikers who continue on the main path will loop around and end up back in Temescal Canyon. An well-defined alternate on your map will be to continue on to the Will Rogers State Park; this is a 2.8 mile hike, start to finish.

When people think of Los Angeles geography, they usually get images of smog, miles of ugly strip miles, and untrammeled urban sprawl. Well, those things are here. But wide open spaces, state parks and mountain ranges are right here too; it’s nice to be reminded of that once in a while. A well-rounded family vacation in LA, California would be enhanced by a morning of easy hiking in this part of the Topanga State Park.

Poor San Mateo County. Once a year, it’s home to the Maverick’s Surf Contest in Half Moon Bay, but other than that, it’s just not a hugely popular California tourist destination. Maybe the folk there prefer it that way – a sizable chunk of the county is still pretty agrarian – but the hotels and inns are relatively inexpensive, the food is often fresh and locally grown (agrarian, remember?), and kids can have a great time on an unscheduled, mellow vacation.

San Mateo County is actually a frequent travel spot, but most often for people traveling through it, not to it. The San Francisco Airport is here, so plenty of venture capitalists looking to invest in the latest web tech land here, rent a Mercedes, and drive right to Silicon Valley/Palo Alto. Honeymooners and couples celebrating other special occasions rent their cars, and make the trip to Napa Valley. This Traveling Mama got to San Mateo County, and stayed a while. Of course wine tours are great, you’ll get no argument from me there; sometimes, though, a quiet vacation in a small town makes for a perfect respite.

Children have a great time with hours of unstructured play on the beaches. The many independent, family owned restaurants in San Mateo County are a nice break from the standardized fare of fast food chains. There’s not much in terms of excitement around here, save the annual Maverick’s Surf Contest, but the small town, friendly attitude of its residents feels like a throwback to a more innocent age.

Once you get your kids off the beach, there are some year-round activities that – while not exactly thrilling or momentous – can entertain both children and adults.

Here’s my list of the top 5 child friendly activities and museums for families in San Mateo County:

• The San Mateo County History Museum - This museum, and its docents, proudly showcase exhibits spanning the major historical eras of the San Francisco Peninsula. From the gold rush and whaling ships, to modern technology and internet businesses (like Electronic Arts) in Palo Alto, the exhibits are interesting and well done.
• The Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia - It’s exactly what it sounds like; a whole museum dedicated to the joys of Pez. It’s funny to see this, and with over 500 Pez dispensers on top of Pez toys and books, kids end up surprisingly fascinated. Not all children enjoy museums, of course, but they sure seem to get a kick out of this one!
• The Hiller Aviation Museum - This museum is great of fans of the history of air travel, with many models of early planes hanging from the ceiling like mobiles. The interactive displays are especially popular, but my favorite part of this large warehouse-style museum is the displays of man’s earliest attempts at flight.
• The Filoli Estate - Filoli stands for “fight, love, live,” and this grand mansion and gardens estate was built with lofty ideals in mind. It’s a Georgian Revival house, sitting on over 650 acres of well-loved and manicured gardens.
• Pigeon Point Lighthouse - This is one of the tallest lighthouses in North America. At 115 feet, it makes for a great “photo opportunity” as well. Right now, the interior is closed to the public (it’s considered hazardous), but the grounds are just gorgeous, with sea lions lazing around on offshore rocks, the waves crashing, and views of the surrounding area’s mountains, beaches, and ocean.

There are some other places to take your kids in San Mateo County; Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch comes to mind, but this farm of gigantic pumpkins mainly shines in late Fall. Main Street at Half Moon Bay, with its mix of small independently owned stores, bed and breakfasts, and art galleries, is beyond charming. The people that work here are happy to talk with visitors and describe their wares. Main Street isn’t very big; you can almost miss it if you’re not careful. Got a babysitter? If so, I’d recommend checking out La Nebbia Winery. This winery in Half Moon Bay has several yearly “bottle and cork your own wine” events. If you’re lucky to vacation in Half Moon Bay (in my opinion, the loveliest part of San Mateo County) during one of these events, don’t miss it! It’s fun to bottle your own wine, and designing the label is quite an experience as well. No matter the time of year, California’s San Mateo County makes for a quiet, slow paced family vacation.

Nearly every year since 1997 I’ve vacationed on a houseboat on Lake Powell, the massive man-made lake that stretches for 186 miles across southern Utah and dips into Arizona.

In my single days, my then-boyfriend and I would rent a houseboat with a bunch of friends, and packing consisted of throwing some beer and Bloody Mary mix into our duffel bags. In recent years, my now-husband and I have packed diapers and sippie cups, traveling with three generations of his family (on one trip, ages ranged from 3 months to 63 years).

Now the kids are even older and can do more, so we bring along all sorts of blow-up rafts, water skis, windsurfing boards (that’s my daughter and her older cousins being towed behind a speedboat), fishing poles, giant water pistols, horseshoes and other fun toys.

Both kinds of trips – with carefree singles or a motley group of family and friends, kids and grownups – are a blast on Lake Powell. After all, the other-worldly playground is stunningly gorgeous. And you can’t help but unplug there – cell phone service is limited; we forbid laptops on our houseboats!

If you’re considering your first vacation in the giant desert-and-water playground that is Lake Powell, check out these tips from this avid houseboating enthusiast.

Reserve your boat early. Three marinas rent houseboats at Lake Powell: Bullfrog and Hall’s Crossing in Utah (south of Hanksville) and Wahweap, just across the border into Arizona. You’ll likely book your houseboat depending on what location is closer to your point of origin. You don’t need to book a year in advance, but if you want a certain sized houseboat and a specific dates, you just might want to be the early bird.

Upgrade your rental if you can afford it. Houseboats come in all sizes and prices. The very, very basic 44-foot Explorer sleeps up to 10 with minimal amenities, such as a kitchenette, outdoor grill, bunk beds and water slide. The top-notch 75-foot Excursion sleeps 12 and features a hot tub, fireplace and many more upscale appointments. With all sorts of options in between, if you are wavering between two choices, go with the more expensive rental—you’ll appreciate the small touches (which might include a GPS system, two refrigerators, bed linens) after a few days on the water.

Don’t worry about being a novice houseboat driver. The friendly marina staff will give you a thorough lesson in piloting your houseboat, as well as an important safety briefing.

Don’t overpack. Life is very laid back at Lake Powell. (Should we relax on the deck with margaritas or Coronas today? Is it a good day for hiking or water skiing?) Resist the urge to pack extra toiletries, clothes or anything less rugged than old hiking boots and flip flops. You’ll be hauling duffel bags (and coolers and water toys) from your parked car to the boat, so only pack the necessities.

Pack enough food and drink. I’d skimp on T-shirts before I’d skimp on what’s really important at Lake Powell: lots of bottled water (and beer!), salty snacks, sweet treats and shared meals (divvy up meals among each family or couple you’re traveling with, so you only have to prepare a few easy lunches or dinners; oven-ready lasagna, deli sandwiches and burgers are easy to fix on board). Groceries at the marina store are very expensive.

Explore. Find the time in between fishing, water skiing, tubing, swimming and hiking, to take your houseboat (or rented jet skis or powerboat) to investigate vast Lake Powell and its 2,000 miles of shoreline.

Here’s the official Lake Powell website for more information.

Family travel and Baton Rouge are words that one might not associate together, but don’t underestimate the capital city of Louisiana. The Red Stick (baton and rouge are French for stick and red) is full of budget-friendly activities for families visiting for the day or a weekend. Here’s a list of a few places that won’t break the bank.

1. Louisiana Arts and Science Center – LASM offers free admission to the Museum Galleries on the first Sunday of each month. Regular admission is $10 per adult for all attractions and $9 per child 12 and under.

2. USS Kidd Veterans’ Memorial and Museum– This former naval vessel sits on the Mississippi River near LASM. Adult admission is $7 and children 4-12 get in for $4. This is the price for the ship and museum. The ship Is handicap accessible on the first level only.

3. Baton Rouge Zoo – My family has a yearly membership of $35, which includes admission for two adults and up to five children. Regular admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children 2-12. The Cypress Bayou Railroad rides around the zoo and departs every half hour from the front entrance of the zoo. Train rides are $1.50 per person. Visit on Wednesday from 3 to 5pm and get in for $1 per person.

4. Bluebonnet Swamp – This 101-acre facility offers trails to help families learn about the ecosystems of Louisiana. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 per child under 18.

5. LSU Mounds – Families flock to these steep hills for an afternoon of rolling in the grass.

6. LSU Tiger Cage – See Mike the Tiger, LSU’s mascot.

7. Louisiana State Capitol – Kids have a blast learning the US states, which are engraved on the front steps of this historical building.

8. Frostop – This downtown burger dive offers frosty root beer and messy burgers for a fun family meal.

For more information, visit Baton Rouge’s official site.

For those of us who are addicted to coffee and its many variations, finding a decent cup of java while on the road can present a challenge. I’m a big Starbucks fan, but I occasionally frequent independent coffee shops, just for a little variety.

Yesterday, I thought I would try McDonald’s new iced coffee drink that is being advertised. I’ve tried Burger King’s iced mocha in the past, and it would do in a pinch. I’ve also sampled Sonic’s frozen coffee blend, which while the taste was decent, I could feel the fat contained in this concoction sliding down my throat and straight to my behind. Well, all I can say about McDonald’s new iced coffee is, “Run away!”

McDonald’s iced coffee was the most disgusting thing that has ever passed through my lips.

I usually try to find something redeemable to say in my experiences and to make my opinion a bit more palatable, but there is no other way to word this opinion.

So, how do you find good coffee while on the road?

Text: Send a text message to Google (466453) with the subject coffee

Web browser: Find the nearest Starbucks at mobile.starbucks.com

Phone: If all else fails, call 800-235-2883 and the Starbucks operator will assist you in locating the nearest Starbucks.

Anybody who lives in a popular travel destination can tell you that there are always two sides to the place. People raise children in Los Angeles, people live out their lives in New Orleans and Santa Barbara. Hawaii is no different. And Maui, which has consistently been named the top vacation island in the world (Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure) has its share of wonderful upscale restaurants for luxury vacations. A lot of people who live on Maui can’t often go to Nick’s Fishmarket or Ferraro’s - at the Fairmont Kea Lani and Four Seasons, respectively - but that doesn’t mean they have to settle for McDonalds. And a family vacation on this best island in the world can’t all be four-star restaurants, either. My favorite Hawaii-specific chain restaurant for lunch, hands down, is Maui Tacos.

Now, Maui Taco is no sit down and get served restaurant. It’s the real fast food deal - pick up your food, fill up your own cup with soda, and try to find a seat. But you won’t find at Ferraro’s what you’ll find at Maui Taco: Real Hawaii culture, circa the 21st century. I’ve been to two Maui Tacos, one in Kihei and one in Lahaina, and both were located right off the beach, packed with a lunchtime crowd. There are soups, salads, burritos, enchiladas and more, all with a Hawaiian twist. The fish tacos are what to get here, in my opinion, and all the plastic cutlery is made of recycled and recyclable materials. It’s a quick meal for most, perching on stools with Hawaiians in t-shirt and shorts (sometimes shoes) before returning to the beach or work.

Now, many Hawaiian vacations are spent in resorts like the aforementioned Four Seasons and Kea Lani. You can see a staged luau there, with the Polynesian dancing and the torches and all, but at Maui Taco you can hang out with some really friendly folk and soak up a different side to Hawaii life. The closest I’ve seen movies come to capturing this is in 50 First Dates, an otherwise forgettable move (if you’ve seen it, you’ll get the pun) starring Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler. For me, a passionate lover of the island chain, the real star of the movie is Hawaii. The scenes set in a restaurant with the friendly needling of customers, and the relaxed camaraderie among friends, are spot-on.

Maui Tacos is successful because it is an inexpensive, relatively healthy (trans-fat free) fast food Besides in Kihei and Lahaina, other locations in Maui are Napili and Kahului. There is one in Hilo on the Big Island, and two in Oahu (Mililani and Kailua). There are a few Maui Tacos restaurants scattered through the mainland United States, but they just can’t be nearly as good, and surely lack the atmosphere and authenticity. They say Maui Tacos has “Mexican Food with Mauitude,” and I wholeheartedly agree. Be it a budget or luxury vacation in Hawaii, anyone would have fun making time for lunch at Maui Tacos.

When I was a kid, long before my first trip to Las Vegas, I heard about the cheap buffets and 99-cent shrimp cocktail Vegas offered. But years later my first trip there was a sore disappointment. Not only did I lose a few bucks, but the buffets were pricey and I didn’t see any 99-cent shrimp cocktail. (Hey when you’re in your early twenties a dollar is a dollar.) It ends up, I was just in the wrong areas. 

Today, I can’t even guess how many times I’ve been to Las Vegas. Between road trips, vacations, weddings, girlfriend getaways, visits to see family (my husband’s), and of course overnights with the airline I worked for, it’s well over 50.

After a little research on the ‘net recently I did find that the “cheap eats” are still in Vegas, you just have to know where to look.

The Super 8 Motel Ellis Island casino (located on Koval near East Flamingo) has a 10 oz steak, baked potato, vegetable, bread and get this - a microbrew (or an EO rootbeer) of you choice all for $7. It’s served 24 hours a day, but it’s not on the menu, so just ask. Think I’m kidding? I’m not.

Terrible Herbst Hotel and Casino (located on Paradise and Flamingo) has a cheap buffet, last I heard it was $5 for the breakfast buffet and $9 for the dinner buffet and on Sunday evenings the main course is prime rib and shrimp ($15). I stayed here many nights while serving peanuts and Cokes as a flight attendant. The multi-flavored fries (jalapeno, garlic, and cajun) in the bar on the main casino floor are pretty good for a late night fried-treat with a pint and the breakfast crepes were quite tasty.

Sadly, it looks like Chapter 11 for Terrible Herbst. Yikes! So get give ‘em some support and throw a few nickels and quarters in the slots while you’re there.

I know you’re wondering - What about the shrimp? The famous 99-cent shrimp cocktail is still in existence at the Golden Gate Casino downtown on Fremont Street or you can go big with the “Big Shrimp” for $2.99.

And yes, free drinks are normally offered to gambling patrons. To keep the cocktail waitress coming your way always tip at least $1-3 a drink if you tip more you are guaranteed to never go empty.

Now, go throw the money you just saved into the slot machines, just don’t let the money you brought to Vegas stay in Vegas.

How’s this for piling on the luxury? The Fairmont Miramar, in Santa Monica California, has a new package that includes use of a Mercedes Benz, Lexus, or a BMW. Now, I drive by the Fairmont Miramar approximately three or four times a week - albeit not in a high-end luxury vehicle - and while I’ve never stayed in the 5-star hotel, it sure looks heavenly from the outside. The Fairmont chain in general is a more affordable luxury hotel brand, with accommodations and amenities that are right up there with upscale brands of more renown. The Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel, for example, is the nicest hotel airport I’ve ever stayed in (and I’ve been in a lot), and the Fairmont Kea Lani is one of the four best luxury hotels in all of Maui.

But back to the Fairmont Miramar: This “Two Keys Bungalow” travel package includes, obviously, two keys. One key is to a luxury bungalow, the other is for the car rental - and daily valet parking also comes with the package. The specifics on the luxury vehicles? Well, lucky guests get to elect from a Mercedes C-Class, Lexus ES350, or BMW 3-Series. Bump it up a notch to the two level bungalow, and you can choose from the more powerful and elegant Mercedes Benz SLK350 or BMW Z4 (these are sporty roadsters, with more horsepower). The Fairmont Miramar is literally right across the street from the Pacific Ocean, and the shopping paradise that is 3rd Street Promenade is a mere walk away as well. However, Los Angeles is famously not a pedestrian-friendly city. A luxury vacation in LA is going to require a car, and if you reserve this travel package, why not toot around town in style?

Meanwhile, I have a new game during my bi-weekly trips to Santa Monica: Driving by the Fairmont Miramar in my dusty, detritus-filled family station wagon, peering in through the well-tended hedges for a glance at one of these luxury rentals. Hey - we get our kicks where we can.

We had a wonderful response to the Houmas House gift pack giveaway and we learned where many of you are from and why you like living there.

A few of you live close enough to Houmas House for a day trip. Others live as far away as Oregon and Vermont. Most of you who reside in Florida love it for its beaches. The New Yorkers either live out in rural areas where you are enjoying nature, or NYC where you enjoy the fast paced city life.

Theresa N says “I love living in Aiken County South Carolina. We have beautiful weather all year round, the Palmetto tree a palm is our state tree. Aiken County is a wonderful place for people and horses. We’re a very large horse community with lots of golf courses and I live just a couple blocks from the Savannah River.” I’ve been to Aiken to visit my in-laws and I have to agree with Theresa on how lovely the area is.

Janice J from Sterling, AK loves living there because “…..it’s quiet, and the mountains and lakes and rivers are beautiful.” Marissa from Helena, MT enjoys being near Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone is beautiful and I hope to get to Helena for a visit one day. Graham from rural Idaho admits that he doesn’t like where he lives. Its okay, Graham, I’m sure a few of us have felt that way at some point in our lives.

The winning entry comes from upstate NY. Danielle left a dangerous area to move into a 100-year-old home that is near Howe and Secret Caverns. She says the caverns run under her small town. It sounds like a charming place to live. Congratulations, Danielle!

If you would like FREE information about the state where I live and how to visit Houmas House, go to LouisianaTravel.com and download or order your FREE travel guide.

Keep checking back for our next contest and to read informative posts about travel. And remember to submit your entry for our Anthology or even send us your questions. Thanks for all the entries!

Cafe Brulot is a New Orleans favorite. It is an after dinner coffee drink with a little flair. Here is a video of this potent libation being prepared tableside at Galatoire’s Restaurant in New Orleans. It was taken with my Kodak Easyshare, so please excuse the quality.

Click Here to See Video

I’ve written about the amazing, award-winning golf courses on Kauai before; now, the Kauai Golf Challenge and Kauai Ultimate Golf Challenge cooperative allow golfers to play on several of the island’s top greens in one day. Those award winners are Princeville’s Prince and Makai courses, Poipu Bay’s golf course, Kauai Lagoon’s Kiele and Mokihana courses, and the Puakea golf course.

A new destination golf course has just been added to the Ultimate Island Green cooperative. The Kiahuna Golf Club, designed by golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., is is a perfect fit with the others. In fact, Robert Trent Jones Jr designed both Princeville and Poipu Bay’s courses, creatively matching the need for challenging games with the desire for scenic vistas. Kiahuna is no exception: The par 70 championship course takes golfers around still-standing relics of ancient Hawaii, adding a sense of history and spirituality to the fairway. Sounds like the Kauai golf cooperative just got even better!