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.

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.

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.

My first introduction to Stonehenge was in history books and television. Then came National Lampoon’s European Vacation. I had hopes and dreams of my dad driving my brother and I right up to monument, but not knocking it over like Clark Griswold. Alas, I had to wait until I was in my 30s to see this massive pile of rocks.

My freelance writing took me to London, on assignment, but I chose to hang around the UK a few days longer and take one of those soul-oh trips. I boarded a train to Salisbury (pronounced Sals-bury) to meet my friend and personal tour guide, Keith Kellett, a local travel writer. Keith resides in Amesbury, which is the nearest town to Stonehenge.

Our first stop was Old Sarum, the original settlement of the area. It was a perfect introduction to the history of town. The next stop was Woodhenge, which is believed to be the model for the actual layout of Stonehenge.

I spent time before leaving the US to research lodging choices in the area. Since the exchange rate from dollar to pound is HORRENDOUS, I was on a very tight budget. I found a quaint place to stay called The Antrobus Arms. Keith let me know that locals call the place “Old Auntie” right before he dropped me off for the night.

The place was actually a very cool place to stay. The gardens are right out of a Miss Marple episode, for all you BBC lovers out there. I was led upstairs to Room 20, which is where The Beatles stayed while filming HELP. I was tired from the journey, so I hopped into the shower. When I stepped out, I was startled to see Paul McCartney staring at me from the wall. No, I was not on any hallucinogenic. The walls were papered with The Beatles news clippings, handwritten lyrics, and pictures. My mother used to dream of marrying Macca. Of course, I had to call her and tell her where I was staying.

The next morning was Stonehenge. If anything, I was a bit disappointed. I think I had psyched myself up for a mother ship landing or some solar phenomenon to happen while I was standing there. What I wasn’t expecting was having to park across the street with all the tour busses, walk underground to get to Stonehenge Theme Park, and then stand in line with a bunch of Japanese picture-taking tourists waiting to walk through the turn stall. WHAT? A freaking turn stall?

Keith and I were given museum-style listening devices where visitors are able to pick their language to hear all about Stonehenge, if you pressed the proper numbers at the corresponding points. So, I walked slowly around the rocks, following all the other tourists in typical cattle style.

Even though I didn’t get to drive my car up to Stonehenge and back into the monument, I’m still glad that I was able to see the place in person. Well, that’s another thing to mark off my bucket list. I’m off to my next stop in life.

Last Monday I began a glorious adventure along the Bourbon Trail near Lexington, Kentucky. My timing was perfect, the rains had just departed, leaving behind sunny skies and fields of wildflowers. Before I tell you about my journey, take note that a window seat is a must when flying into the Lexington Blue Grass Airport. The views of lush rolling hills, green pastures, horses, church steeples and brightly colored barns are priceless.

My first evening in Lexington, the perfect base for touring the Bourbon Trail, my group and I ate at Dudley’s Restaurant. The building’s history dates back to 1852 when it opened as a school house. After a delicious meal (I had the recommended antelope), we headed to the lovely Griffin Gate Marriott Resort and Spa for a good night’s sleep. Between the plush beds and the chocolates left on my pillow each evening, I was not disappointed. While I didn’t make it to the spa, I did hear it’s fabulous.

Just walking the grounds of Griffin Gate is a treat. The property sits on a former horse farm which explains the historic two-story antebellum mansion next to the hotel. Appropriately, it is called “The Mansion” and is the resort’s four-star restaurant. It has an extraordinary menu as well as a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Don’t be surprised if you feel someone tapping your shoulder and find no one behind you when you turn around, it’s just one The Mansion’s ghosts teasing you.

My first morning in town we began our trek along the Bourbon Trail. The plan was to visit four of the seven bourbon distilleries over two days and to observe the bourbon making in its every stage, just as it has been done for generations. Each distillery tour is free, except Woodford Reserve charges $5 which includes a tasting.  

The drive to the distilleries is mesmerizing with the miles of charcoal black plank fences lining the roads and terrific views of the limestone cliffs of the Kentucky River. Our first stop was the rustic Wild Turkey Distillery where we went on a tour with the knowledgeable Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, a man who has been in the business a long time. Later that day we were greeted by the charming Master Distiller Chris Morris at the Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark. We toured the distillery and enjoyed an enticing lunch prepared by Chef David Larson who also guided us during our dabble in bourbon pairings (who would think Parmesan and bourbon paired well together?). The most fun was the opportunity to make this year’s Kentucky Derby Woodford Reserve $1,000 Mint Julep. Yummy!

That evening we relaxed with a spectacular dinner at the classy Jonathan at Gratz Park Inn and had the honor of meeting Chef Jonathan Lundy. The next day it was back to the Bourbon Trail. We spent the morning with Master Distiller Jim Rutledge of Four Roses Distillery (the photo of the blooming tree was taken on the grounds). Jim is a wealth of information and, like each distiller I met, has a deep passion for his craft. After an informative morning, we stopped in for a lovely lunch at Serafini’s Restaurant in Frankfort. The restaurant sits right across from the Old State Capitol. Sou Chef Asa Johnson took a few minutes to sit and chat with us for a bit. Nat is a man who is in love with creating the perfect dish and the sweetest part is his father was his inspiration.

After lunch we headed to the beautiful grounds of Buffalo Trace where my group, along with Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley (the youngest of the master distillers), helped the Lexington Convention and Visitor’s Bureau pick out their own bourbon barrel. That was great fun.

We ended our day with with a beautiful Kentucky sunset and bourbon cocktails on the patio of at the charming Holly Hill Inn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Chef Ouita Michel is a delight and an extremely talented chef. She uses the freshest ingredients possible and favors local produce, making Holly Hill one of the area’s beloved restaurants.

Isn’t it nice when we can justify your egregious spending habits by noting that a portion of our money goes to some kind of good cause? I know that tip helps me, anyway: I rationalize my frequent pit stops at Starbucks with thoughts like, “Hey, Starbucks supports nonprofits,” or “Look, that Ethos water helps some kids get clean drinking water.” It would be more honest for me to think, “I can kiss this 4 bucks goodbye” as I sate my morning jones for caffeine, but that’s just not how we addicts roll.

So imagine my joy when I read about how easy it is to find a Starbucks on the road? Oh, I was happy, plenty happy. And to round out my coffee-themed day, this afternoon I picked up this tidbit: Sign up for a registered Starbucks card (it works like a debit card, and as long as you don’t lose it, it will automatically maintain a minimum balance), and get free refills, free syrup added in, and a free tall - that means small, newbies - cup of joe when you buy a bag of coffee beans for home. Awesome! Starbucks is a good dealer; they know just how to keep us coming back for more.

Now, I don’t know if this is a limited-time offer or not - I just picked up the pamphlet today - but I do know that 1) free is good and 2) I’m not the only one who seeks out Starbucks even when I’m away from home. Forget the maps and sunblock; this registered Starbucks card is a pretty good item to take on vacation. And unless your vacation is in the middle of a jungle (Starbucks stores are everywhere else, it seems), that’s a pretty good tip.

So, she’s not exactly a traveling “mama” (though she is mom to Emily, her Jack Russell Terrier), but Jen Miller is a cool traveling chick. She’s the author of the just-published, chock-full-of-info, 320-page guidebook The Jersey Shore: Atlantic City to Cape May.

While my plans don’t call for travel to the Jersey Shore anytime soon, I thought some East Coast readers may be heading to the popular vacation locale this summer. I asked Jen about some of her recommended top spots for families, couples and girlfriend getaways.

1. For those of us who don’t know much about the Jersey Shore, can you give us a primer?

The Jersey Shore was the vacation spot for New Yorkers and Philadelphians before middle-class families could afford air travel, air-conditioning and home pools. Since the Shore is a few degrees cooler, and you can swim in the ocean, it was the perfect place to escape the heat of the city — and it was only a train ride away.

Every shore town is different — Atlantic City is obviously not the romantic Victorian getaway that is Cape May. But that’s some of the appeal. Within driving distance, you can go from the blackjack table to a sleepy shore town to a whale watching trip. There’s so much to do!

2. Before researching your guidebook, how much time did you spend at the Shore?

I have spent every summer since I was born at the shore — literally. I was born in July and on the beach in August. My family had a trailer — yes, a trailer — in Avalon Campground, which is about 15 minutes away from the beach. It was much more affordable than paying for a shore house, and the campground gave us things to do (e.g. get out of my mom’s hair), like go to the pool, ride bikes in the woods or go to campground sponsored events like dances and bingo.

3. It’s common for twenty-something NYC residents to have “shares” at the Shore–with, say, a dozen people renting one house and taking turns using it on the weekends. Is there an area where this is particularly popular?

This is exactly what I did last summer. I knew I wouldn’t want to keep driving an hour back and forth from my house to the shore, so I joined in with about a dozen people in a shore house in Avalon. This is popular at a lot of spots along the shore — Belmar, Long Beach Island, Avalon, Sea Isle and the Wildwoods. It’s almost a rite of passage, and can be exhausting. I was trying to write my book and enjoy late nights on weekends. I was quite sleep deprived!

4. Say I want to bring my young children for a week-long stay — what’s the best area for families?

The Wildwoods has by far the most rides — more even than Disneyland. Plus it’s a short drive away from Cape May, which has a lot of nature stuff if your kids like that. You can visit a working alpaca farm at Bay Springs in Cape May; go to a kids-customized program at the Cape May Nature Center and go whale watching. Ocean City is another family-friendly town — it’s no alcohol allowed, period. You can’t even BYOB, but that’s why a lot of people like it. Its boardwalk was also rated as one of the best in the country by the Travel Channel and has two piers filled with rides. You can still try to grab the golden ring on the carousel at Wonderland Pier.

5. Best accommodations for a girlfriend getaway?

AC, baby! The Showboat has a House of Blues Suite that’s unbelievable. If you stay, you also have access to the members-only Foundation Room (I had dinner there last weekend and it was one of the best meals I’ve ever had at the shore). Atlantic City is also great for a girlfriend getaway because you won’t really have to drive anywhere, and it’s just a short cab ride to the pool at Harrah’s (which is a nightclub with a pool in the middle) or the knock-out clubs at the Borgata. Atlantic City is also full of top-notch spas, liked Blue Mercury at the Quarter at the Tropicana. Even if clubbing isn’t your thing, there’s always shows in Atlantic City. Fun times for the girls!

6. How about a top romantic restaurant?

The Ebbitt Room at the Virginia in Cape May. Cape May is very family friendly, but it’s also the most year-round shore town I found after Atlantic City. Why? Because it caters to couples. It’s chock full of cozy B&Bs and romantic restaurants, like the Ebbitt Room. Cape May’s also the third most popular destination wedding spot in the country — I can see why! Heck, my dad’s even getting married there in May!

7. Say I’m on a budget. Any Shore money-saving tips?

If you can finagle it, go in June or September. The weather is still good, but you won’t deal with the mad rush — or price increases — of July in August. If you can only go in those two months, ask about discounts wherever you’re staying. You might get freebies thrown in. And always stop by the town’s chamber of commerce or visitor’s center. Most towns create coupon books where you get everything from meal discounts to free rides on a Ferris wheel.

8. What if I had a ton of money to blow, and want to do the Shore right. How would I spend my dough on a luxury Shore vacation?

Two options — Atlantic City or Cape May. I said a little about how much you can spend in AC already, but I didn’t mention anything about the shopping. Oh, the shopping! Atlantic City is home to the Pier at Caesars, which is luxury shopping at its finest — Tiffany’s, Louis Vuitton, Burberry. You want it, they got it.

For the ultimately luxe experience in Cape May, book a room at Congress Hall. Congress Hall is a beautiful gorgeous old building that was recently refurbished to high style while keeping its vintage appeal. Sit by the pool and sip drinks and order food — heck, you can even sit on the beach and they’ll serve you (but not alcohol because that’s illegal in New Jersey). Then head off for dinner at the Ebbitt Room or the Washington Inn, followed up by drinks at Martini Beach overlooking the water. It’s not as go go go as Atlantic City, but that’s what some people want, especially down the shore.

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.

I’m so proud to be from, and live in Louisiana. One of the things I love about my state is the preservation of history and the gentility of the South. One place that is preserving the history of my state is Houmas House. It is a River Road Plantation that was purchased about five years ago by Kevin Kelly, a true southern gentleman. He took this old grande damme and gave her a facelift and love and turned her back into the great beauty she once was.

Houmas House is the site of numerous films including Hush, Hush Sweet Charlotte, Fletch Lives, and television shows like All My Children and K’Ville. It is also reportedly haunted by a few ghosts of days gone by.

I like to start each visit to Houmas House with a stop at the Turtle Bar for either a mimosa or a mint julep. The Turtle Bar is located in a garconniere, which in Antebellum days housed the single males of the household. It was a place for cards and raucousness, so it is fitting that this historical building is now a cozy place to sip libations.

The resident chef, Jeremy Langlois, creates Nouveaux Creole dishes that are “to die for”. On my last visit, Chef Jeremy prepared a multi-course meal consisting of Bisque of Curried Pumpkin, Crawfish, and Corn, a Cosmopolitan Sorbet, a Community Coffee marinated rack of lamb served on top of potatoes, and dessert of Apple Gallette topped with Vanilla Ice Cream. Mmmm!

An after lunch stroll through the gardens and walkways is a nice prelude to the tour of the house itself. I could imagine myself living in grandeur once upon a time. It’s a good thing I keep my bookshelves stocked with romance novels. I can see Houmas House as the setting for a few of them.

This week’s giveaway is a gift pack from Houmas House. The pack consists of a nice crystal paperweight, coffee mug, and silver-plated sugar pack holder in the shape of a garconniere. These come in a handy reusable logo bag.

So how do you win this fantabulous gift pack? Post a comment telling us where you live and why you like to live there. Contest is open to US residents only and immediate family members of Traveling Mamas are ineligible. Contest will close at midnight EST April 1, 2008. Yes, this is April fool’s day, but we’ll announce the winning comment on April 2, so there’ll be no fooling around.

Good Luck!

The Specialty Travel Agents Association (STAA) has its 2008 Best Destinations travel trend destinations selections up. This “Top 10″ type list obviously has to leave out a lot of great vacation spots, and includes none in the United States’ Lower 48. However, there is much to commend about this list of interesting international destinations. Take a look: I’ll give my opinion on the travel spots, and you tell me what you think, too.

In no particular order, the STAA Best Destinations for Travel in 2008:

Quebec City, in Canada: July 3rd marks Quebec City’s 400th anniversary, and the celebration will not only be festive, but also will recognize all the outdoor activities, festivals, culture and history that makes Quebec City a top vacation destination. This will be an eight month long celebration (you read that right - what a party!) with genuine French Canadian flavor.
Australia: Europeans are increasingly taking their holidays in Australia (the favorable exchange rate may have something to do with this), and resort hotels are correspondingly becoming more luxurious. But it’s not all luxury travel of course - there’s plenty of budget lodgings and eco travel opportunities in the Land Down Under. It ranks as one of my top places I’d like to see, as well.
Hawaii: Hawaii, and Maui in particular, is consistently voted the most popular tropical vacation island by those in the know (Conde Naste, Travel & Leisure, etc). It’s also the top honeymoon vacation state in the U.S., with each island offering its own unique take on what it means to be in Hawaii. Another plus: I’ve never had bad weather for more than an hour or two there. The weather is perfect.
China: The Specialty Travel Agents Association has chosen China as a best destination largely because of the upcoming Beijing Sumer Olympics games. However, more recently there have been some seriously disturbing issues - those that even make the news - regarding exactly how China is preparing for the games (prettifying a large, polluted urban area seems to mean dislocating a lot of long-time residents), and the country’s sanctioning of murdering monks in Tibet has led at least one country (France) to consider boycotting the Olympics. No country’s politics are perfect, of course, but with all the other great places to visit in the world, I know I have no travel plans for China in the immediate future.
The US Virgin Islands: Okay, I’m biased - my honeymoon was in St John, and in as such it remains one of my most favorite tropical vacation isles. St. John is 2/3 National Park land, and is the least developed of the three US Virgin Islands. St. Thomas has the most hotels and resorts, as well as the best shopping, whereas St Croix has tourism opportunities and what is considered the Easternmost part of the United States. The local saying goes, “Vacation on St. John, Shop on St. Thomas, and Live on St. Croix,” and that pretty much holds true.
India: It’s a large, geographically diverse country, so it would probably take more than one trip to truly get to know India. STAA recommends India for ecotravel - Bengal tigers are an endangered species, and there’s not much time left to see them in their natural state. And the Taj Mahal, needless to say, is also a huge draw.
Argentina: STAA recommends Argentina for those of us travel lovers who have been struggling with the dropping value of the American dollar. Rather than not travel at all, its suggested that Argentina’s bang for the buck combines well with many tourist friendly activities, top-notch restaurants, and boutique hotels.
Vietnam: STAA suggests that Vietnam is the Next Best Thing in terms of luxury golf vacations, calling it the “next premier golf destination.” Really? Well, I’m not sure that golf travel packages in Vietnam will ever be on the same level as Scotland or Hawaii, but it has many other tourist friendly attractions. It’s a very affordable country to visit, for one, and two, the Vietnamese people are among the world’s nicest, most optimistic - Buddhism teaches kindness and forgiveness, and most people in Vietnam are Buddhist.
France: Ah, France! A Top 10 Travel list just wouldn’t seem legit without La Belle France. It’s the most popular country in the world for travel, and has everything any vacation lover could want. Luxury travel is practically defined by the French Riviera, and those of us who appreciate the fine arts go gaga over the Louvre and Orsay in Paris. 2008 is the 150th anniversary of the appearance of the Virgin Mary to a French peasant girl in Lourdes, and seeing that six million people make a religious pilgrimage there already, Lourdes is sure to be a top travel destination this year.
Alaska: Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations (with a pit stop in Vancouver, BC). Just as India’s Bengal tiger population is shrinking, so are those glaciers. Environmentally aware tourists are wanting to see the melting ice before it’s too late. The cruise ship vacations to Alaska are, of course, most popular in the spring and summer; it’s too cold for most travelers to come out of their cabins in the winter! The gorgeous scenery, combined with the summer home of many migratory species, makes cruising here an enormous draw.

While I don’t agree with all the destinations on this list being the top 10, shortlists are hard. Winnowing down all the terrific places to see in the world to 10 is never going to please everyone, after all! I give STAA credit for their obviously well thought-out list, but I’d switch out China for a less controversial country, and perhaps replace Argentina with Belize, Costa Rica, or another Latin American country with a stronger emphasis on eco travel and environmentally responsible tourism. But that’s just me - what’s on your Top 10 travel destinations list? I’d really like to know; there’s a comments section below.

In my previous Arts in New Orleans I and II posts I wrote about the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the New Orleans Museum of Art. Today’s post is about the Contemporary Arts Center located at 900 Camp Street, across the street from the Ogden. Many years ago the building was a K&B Drugstore warehouse. Today, it’s a spacious, 10,000 square-foot multi-disciplinary arts center. The entire building shouts “creative”. Even the transition between the first and second floor is a cool circular ramp.

During my visit to CAC one of the exhibits was called “Something from Nothing”. 15 international artists were invited to New Orleans to create something from nothing. Jay Weigel, CAV Executive/Artistic Director, explained the artists started their projects without any supplies and were to beg, borrow, barter, or find the items used in their works. My interest was piqued. And that explained the hard-to-miss “cloud” suspended over the entrance. Moms, can you find the “Boppy” among the mesh of mattresses and pillows in the photo above?

Another display of interest consisted of stacks of filing cabinets filled with live plants and a water-fountain. Genius! Who would think unattractive office filing cabinets could be turned into something serene? Interestingly, the CAC’s eye-catching front desk (made of colorful glass plates and shaped in a semicircle) was designed by Gene Koss whose work is displayed in the Harrah’s hotel lobby where I stayed during this trip to New Orleans. Admission is $5 and students and seniors are $3. Be sure to stop in, you never know what may be on exhibit.

Remember being a teenager, and laying out on the beach covered in suntan oil? I sure do; not to date myself too much here, but there were a few weekends on the Jersey shore, Bon Jovi or Springsteen blasting from my boombox, that ended up with me literally having second-degree burns across my cheekbones.

Times have changed, and not just for this former Jersey girl. Most conscientious parents don’t take their kids our for a day at the beach or on a desert trip without packing a tube of sunblock. A minimum SPF of 30 is recommended, and beyond that, until recently I hadn’t put much thought into particular brands and types of sunblock for skin care. Lately, though, I’ve gotten fed up with that always-shiny look that slathered-on sunblock provides. Is it just me and my tempermental skin? In any case, I decided to go upscale and buy what can only be called three “luxury brands” of sunblock, and rate them.

The first high end sunblock I tried was Neutrogena’s UltraSheer Dry-Touch Sunblock, SPF 30. It also comes with an SPF of up to 70 - useful, I suppose, if you tend to forget to reapply your sunblock. Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry-touch promised to be fast absorbing, with a clean, weightless feel. On the back of the tube, Neutrogena claims that this sunblock provides a non-shiny finish. Perfect! Yes, it was significantly less oily feeling than other sunblocks I’ve used, and well, SPF 30 is about what I need for daily life out and about in Los Angeles. It’s also waterproof, but I don’t think I saw any brands of sunblock that didn’t claim to be waterproof.

The second one I got was Biotherm Antirides Solaire Visage, or sunscreen for the face, SPF 15. The sunscreen also claims to be a waterproof, non-greasy formula, and has antioxidants for skin care. Okay, first of all, I could only find this sunscreen with SPFs of 8 and 15, which are both less than what dermatologists recommend for direct sunlight exposure. Second, what’s with the French? I’m just browsing in my local drug store here, I’m not in Paris. It seems a little pretentious, even for, well, me. Biotherm didn’t protect me from those harmful rays to the same degree as Neutrogena, and my face got as shiny from this as it does with so-called lesser brands of sunblock.

The last luxury brand of sunblock that I tried is made by Azur. Marketed as tearless solar protection (fancy way of saying sunblock), Azur comes in SPFs of 30 and 40. It’s also scentless and safe to apply right around the eyes. This is the most water-resistant sunblock I tried. In fact, at night, it took some extra soap on the washcloth to get the slick residue completely off. This is great for active adults and children; in fact, there is a formula just for kids with an SPF of 40. I liked that Azur came in travel friendly sizes of 1.7 ounce tubes - no need to see luxury products get confiscated by overeager TSA employees. I didn’t like that the 1.7 ounce tubes cost $24 (for SPF 30) and $27 (for SPF 40). At that price point, I’d expect my sunblock to also be able to give me an oceanside massage, or at least babysit my kids while I relax in the sand with a paperback.

The winner? Out of these three luxury brands of sunblock, I most liked the Neutrogena UltraSheer Dry-Touch. It had the right amount of protection from the ultraviolet rays, it was around 12 or 13 dollars ( a decent price for a high-end brand), and my face didn’t get as shiny as it did with the others. The Neutrogena brand is the top-rated sunblock of the three tested by this TravelingMama!

Okay girls, it’s another girlfriend getaway offer. This one is in Georgia at the National Historic Landmark Jekyll Island Club Hotel on Jekyll Island, Georgia.

The Girlfriend’s Package includes traditional accommodations for two nights, daily breakfast, chilled Jekyll Island Club Hotel signature wine delivered to your room each day, Jekyll Island Club Hotel logo beach towels (one per person), bike rentals one day with a picnic lunch, Victorian tea one day, one hour massage per person (don’t forget to tip). The offer will be running between 3/14/2008-9/1/08: $845.00 (based on double occupancy) but if you want to add another girlfriend or two the extra cost is $322.00 per person.

When I left my home in Colorado on Wednesday it was 10 degrees Fahrenheit, with light snow falling. Right now in Tulum, Mexico, it’s about 80 degrees, sunny and humid. My skin is drinking in the moisture!

Thanks to new friends at the Rivera Maya Tourism Board, I’m on a research trip to learn more about this region of the country, which stretches along the coast south of Cancun to Tulum. I’m staying at the all-inclusive, ultra-lovely Dreams Tulum, which is extremely popular for destination weddings. There are 300 wedding ceremonies held on the beach or in the 40-seat chapel every year, mainly for American and Canadian couples. Three events are scheduled for this weekend, and I’m hoping to catch a glimpse of the ceremony. (The romantic in me loves weddings — anybody’s weddings!)

My “Dreams Junior Suite” at the resort is elegantly comfortable, with a contemporary Mexican decor. The buttercream walls, dark wood accents, and soft gold, pumpkin, and taupe bedding and draperies lend a sophisticated feel to the tropical setting. I haven’t had time yet to soak in the huge Jacuzzi tub in the marble bathroom, but it’s on the agenda. Above is the view from my third-floor balcony; I look down to a courtyard with life-size chess and checkers, and that’s the ocean in the distance.

Yesterday our group of journalists (and about 800 other tourists) visited the ruins of Tulum. These are well preserved walls, temples, foundations and other structures the Mayans built out of rock from about 1200 to 1500 A.D. The ruins are set on a cliff right next to the beach, and you can cool off into the beautiful turquoise Caribbean Sea after touring the ruins in the hot sun.

We also had fun snorkeling at Xel-Ha, a vast “ecological water theme park” where you can also swim with the dolphins, ride innertubes down a freshwater river, sample snuba, ride bikes, paddle kayaks or simply kick back in one of the many hammocks strung between palm trees (see below). Admission is pricey, $75 for adults (with some activities like the dolphin swim costing extra). But guests staying in Cancun or anywhere on the Riviera Maya can buy a package from any number of outfitters that combines a guided tour of Tulum with a half day at Xel-Ha, including transportation from your hotel, drinks, snacks and lunch. Or, if you do choose to spend the entire day at the eco-park, get there early and just plan to get your money’s worth!

A few days ago I wrote The Arts in New Orleans - Part I, and as you can tell by the title I’m not done yet. My second day in New Orleans was spent wandering the elegant New Orleans Museum of Art. Visitors can easily spend hours appreciating all NOMA has to offer, including the five-acre outdoor Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden with 57 sculptures sitting among beautiful Louisiana landscape. While indoors Fabergé is one of the most popular exhibits (who doesn’t love Fabergé Easter Eggs?) one of my favorite exhibits just opened this January by a local New Orleans photographer. Living Color: Photographs by Judy Cooper holds around fifty photographs which were taken over twenty years. The photos are divided into four sections: Women in Red, Local Color, Twins, and New Orleans Sunday. The vividness and character of these photographs are etched in my mind. They are truly extraordinary.

Another exciting exhibit featuring local artist George Rodrigue’s Louisiana: Cajuns, Blue Dogs, and Beyond Katrina just opened at NOMA on March 1st for a three month stint. You might know George Rodrigue from his Blue Dog series. If fact, the very first of the Blue Dog paintings, Watchdog, will be featured during the exhibit. Rodrigue has four studios, one located on Royal Street in the New Orleans French Quarter and you will se his work on the walls of Harrah’s Besh Steakhouse. The other three studios are in Lafayette, Aspen, and Carmel. The NOMA Rodrigue exhibition admission for non-residents is $10.00, Louisiana adults are $5.00, with $1 off for all seniors and 18 and under are admitted free courtesy of The Helis Foundation - so bring the whole family!

I recently had the honor of staying at the stunning Harrah’s New Orleans. The first thing I did upon entering my 20th floor room was run to the window and when I looked outside was I ever thrilled. Talk about a room with a view!

Over my several-day stay I watched tugboats, barges, and ferries make their way along the crescent of the Mississippi River. Observing the maneuvers of these floating apparatuses was like watching an artist at work.

Speaking of artists, New Orleans is brimming with talent and it has the museums and galleries to show for it. Even Harrah’s has a proud collection of artwork and photography displayed throughout the hotel. The lobby has a fabulous display by glass artist Gene Koss while my room was graced with breathtaking photographs taken by Lee Tucker and Richard Sexton.

The evening of my New Orleans arrival I was whisked away for an evening of New Orleans art and culture I will never forget. If you happen to be in town on a Thursday evening you must, must, must stop in the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The museum comes to life through the weekly concerts performed in the museum’s atrium. (Over 400 musicians have performed here since Katrina.) From the moment you enter through the front door you will easily be convinced you’ve walked onto the set of a live Broadway musical. Toes are tapping, hands are clapping, and don’t be surprised when your neighbor stands up and starts dancing or maybe grabs you for a partner. Throughout the evening guests can roam the multi-level museum and its exhibits and stop at one of the many bars set up throughout the museum. The concert can be observed from the various floors. The evening is family friendly, complete with a crafts table for the children.

Do you have a funny travel story to tell? If so, Quick & Simple Magazine wants to hear it in 300 words or less. The winner will score a trip for herself and a guest to Florida’s Gulf Coast. The trip includes a four-day, three-night stay at the TradeWinds Island Resorts on the island of St. Pete Beach. Prize includes several complimentary meals, dinner for two at Palm Court Bistro and a sunset sail (ARV $2,844).

Have a romantic story to tell? Enter Quick & Simple’s other contest and win a trip to Wakiki! This prize includes round-trip transportation, a five-day, four-night stay for two at the Aqua Palms & Spa, a AAA Three Diamond hotel (ARV $3,500).

Go get ‘em!

Summertime is only months away, and lets just say – it’s time. I’m so looking forward to my flip-flops, a good tan, and most of all tropical beverages. I have to say nothing screams “FUN!” like a tropical drink, that’s why I went crazy when I heard about Author Jeff “Beachbum” Berry’s latest book Sippin’ Safari: In Search of the Great “Lost” Tropical Drink Recipes. The cool part, it’s not just recipes. The book is loaded with history of the people “behind the drinks”.

In fact, if you’re looking for a weekend getaway head on down to CajunMama land. Friday night Mr. Beachbum will be hosting the Tales of the Tiki Cocktail dinner and tasting at The Pelican Club. Chef Richard Hughes will be doing what he does best, as will Mr. Beachbum and it sounds like the pair has a quite an evening planned. The dinner is an extension of the annual “Tales of the Cocktail” to be held in New Orleans July 16-20th.

The next day, be sure to stop by the Borders at 3131 Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie, LA to have your personal copy of Sippin’ Safari signed by the fabulous Bum himself. The fun isn’t over yet, if you attend the dinner and/or book signing you get a free pass to another Beachbum event Monday the 25th at the Old New Orleans Rum Distillery (5pm-7pm). Can’t make the weekend events? Don’t sweat it. The distillery event is only $10 and check out all your Hamilton covers: unlimited cocktails, rum tasting, Creole food, and a master distiller tour. You can keep up with Mr. Bum on his Grog Blog. Happy Travels and Tropical Drinks!