Best Sonoma County Wineries
Posted by travelanswerman | September 2, 2010
Sonoma County, California is home to 13 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), each with its own distinctive characteristics. Its amazing range of terroir and microclimates distinguishes Sonoma County as one of the most diverse and special winegrowing regions in the world. The Pacific coastline, redwood forests, fertile valleys and mountains produce an array of exceptional wines.
As you read, your mouth will start watering and you’ll get an uncontrollable urge to visit each winery for yourself. The solution is to visit www.sonomacounty.com and book your trip today.
Not finding your favorite in this list? Tweet them at: www.twitter.com/insidesonoma, or post comments on www.inside-sonoma.com to put in a plug for your favorite.
These are listed in no particular order.
1. Quivira Vineyards
This small biodynamic winery has a garden and chicken condo around the entrance to showcase how biodynamic farming can be done on an everyday level and not just in grape growing. Quivira is also known for making great California Grenache and a Grenache Rose. They also make an acacia-barrel-aged Sauvignon Blanc.
4900 West Dry Creek Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 431-8333
www.quivirawine.com
2. Russian River Vineyards
Long before Russian River Valley was declared an AVA, this historic winery bore the name. And, from a light and fruity Sauvignon Blanc to a rich Syrah, it set the standard for the kinds of wine you’ll find in this diverse appellation. Corks at Russian River Vineyards is the only winery-based restaurant in the Russian River Valley, offering an unparalleled Wine Country dining experience in an historic 1890s farmhouse.
5700 Gravenstein Highway North
Forestville, CA
(707) 887-3344
www.russianrivervineyards.com
3. Robert Rue Vineyard
Award-winning old-vine Zinfandels are the reason to visit this appointment-only winery. Tucked among a century-old vineyard, this amazing property invites you to explore. And taste. The Rue family cranks out some top-notch Zins that have walked away with several accolades in wine competitions.
1406 Wood Road
Fulton, CA
(707) 578-1601
www.robertruevineyard.com
4. Twomey Cellars
Great wine, in fact it was voted “Top 10 most popular Merlots” by Wine & Spirits’ 19th annual restaurant poll. Their handcrafted method, called “soutirage traditional,” is a labor-intensive technique that clarifies the red wines, heightening the flavors.
3000 Westside Road
Healdsburg, CA
(800) 505-4850
www.twomeycellars.com
5. Stryker Sonoma Winery and Vineyards
The floor-to-ceiling windows in this amazing tasting room gives you a sweeping view of the vineyards and hills. The integrated production facility and visitors center offers a behind-the-scenes look into a working, albeit small, winery. Their Monte Rosso Vineyard wines are awesome – Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvingon. Only a few winemakers have access to this remarkable vineyard.
5110 Highway 128, Geyserville
(707) 433-1944
www.strykersonoma.com
6. Annapolis Winery
Located about three miles from the Pacific Ocean, and 1,000 feet up a mountain, this family-owned winery sits on a sunny hillside surrounded by a redwood forest. As Sonoma County’s northernmost coastal winery, you have to really want it. The destination – wine and the winery itself – is definitely worth the ride. Don’t worry about the drive home. Lodging in nearby Gualala will lull you to sleep as you hear the ocean waves crash upon the shore.
26055 Soda Springs Road
Annapolis, CA 95412
(707) 886-5460
www.annapoliswinery.com
7. Balletto Vineyards/Dutton Goldfield
These two wineries share a tasting room. You’ll be hard-pressed to choose a favorite. Balletto’s wine reflect the microcosm of the Russian River Valley – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Pinot Gris. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are the mainstays of the Dutton-Goldfield production. Using fruit from carefully chosen vineyards, the wine reflects the natural tendencies of the area: crisp and well-structured that display complexity, balance and intensity.
5700 Occidental Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
(707) 568-2455
www.ballettovineyards.com
www.duttongoldfield.com
8. Gundlach Bundschu Winery
One of the oldest wineries in Sonoma County. The tasting room staff is very friendly. There are great caves, solar panels in the vineyards and you take the vineyard tour on a cool bus. Their amazing Gewurztraminer also became the tag line in one of the winery’s posters: “Sonoma Valley Sobriety Test #1: If you can’t say Gundlach-Bundschu Gewurztraminer, you shouldn’t be driving!”
2000 Denmark Street
Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 938-5277
www.gunbun.com
9. Hawkes Winery
Right next to the famed Jimtown Store, this Alexander Valley stop is quaint, cute and cozy. The natural garden out front complements the vineyards out back, and inside – tea pots. An amazing array of teapots from all over the world is displayed inside museum-quality cases. Taste estate-grown Merlot, Cabernet And Chardonnay while admiring the collection. And say hi to Jeremy, one of the nicest tasting room guys around.
6738 Hwy 128
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 433-4295
www.hawkeswine.com
10. Matanzas Creek Winery
This out-of-the-way winery, tucked into the middle of Bennett Valley, boasts gorgeous grounds where lavender fields compete with vineyards for your attention. The winery is planning to offer vineyard tours beginning in January. Enjoy the scenery while you taste the wonderful Merlot. And, stop by the gift shop for lavender soaps, lotions and more.
6097 Bennett Valley Road
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
(707) 528-6464
www.matanzascreek.com
11. Mutt Lynch Winery
Dog lovers have found a home in Sonoma County. Mutt Lynch celebrates all things pooch. The tasting room is open by appointment only. They’ll arrange a private tasting for you and your friends. Also, celebrate the special times in your dog’s life: birthdays, “bark” mitzvahs and more. With wines named Merlot Over and Play Dead or Unleashed Chardonnay, you know the owners have a sense of humor. The wine is very good, too.
1960 Dry Creek Road
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 942-6180
www.muttlynchwinery.com
12. Robledo Family Winery
Originally from Mexico, Reynaldo Robledo learned how to prune a vine more than 40 years ago. From there, he built a successful vineyard management business. He and his family have turned that experience into some very tasty wines. The tasting room is warm and inviting, decorated with photos and memorabilia from Mexico. It’s a must-see stop on any wine tour. Though open by appointment only, you can call while only minutes down the road and you’ll most likely be accommodated.
21901 Bonness Road
Sonoma, CA 95476
(707) 939-6903
www.robledofamilywinery.com
13. Acorn Winery
Bill and Betsy Nachbaur have been tending to these premium winegrapes just south of Healdsburg since 1994. The tasting room doubles as the barreling room, crush pad and office, and tours include writing your name on recycled wine labels that double as name tags. While the winery is small, the view from the tasting room is of the old vineyards and the hills of the Russian River Valley beyond. This is a good stop when going to the quaint towns of Windsor or Healdsburg, as it is right between the two. Call before you come, as it is an appointment-only winery. (Though you can call from your car or the winery up the road.)
12040 Old Redwood Highway
Healdsburg, CA 95448
(707) 433-6440
www.acornwinery.com
Sonoma County, located 30 miles from San Francisco, is America’s premier wine, spa and coastal destination, featuring more than 250 wineries and 50-plus miles of stunning Pacific coast.
For a free visitors guide or information on hotels, wineries, events, spas, attractions, and dining in Sonoma County, visit www.sonomacounty.com or call 800-576-6662.
See all the wineries in Sonoma County at www.sonomacounty.com/wineries
Topics: Adventure, Airlines, Art, Bed & Breakfasts, Blogs, Cuisine, Cycling, Ecotourism, Families, General, Green Travel, Hiking, Hotels, Luxury, Restaurants, Shopping, Singles, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips, United States, Wine Vacations, wine | Add Comment »
Cruising: All Questions Answered!
Posted by travelanswerman | September 1, 2010
The author of this informative book is the world’s foremost authority on cruising and his name is Douglas Ward. He has spent more than 5400 days at sea participating in more than 970 cruises! He has also devised an internationally accepted system for rating ships that everyone uses today! This current edition provides ratings for more than 350 ships allowing the traveler to make an intelligent decision before they invest.
If you want to stay up with the cruise line industry like a professional, you must purchase a copy of this book today! I highly recommend it to all my cruising friends and clients! Know before you go and don’t leave home without it!
Topics: Asia, Australia, Blogs, Canada, Caribbean, Central America, China, Cruising, Cuisine, Europe, Families, France, General, Hawaii, Italy, Luxury, Mexico, Restaurants, Shopping, Singles, South America, South Pacific, Spain, Thailand, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips, United Kingdom, United States | Add Comment »
The Lost Girls
Posted by travelanswerman | August 31, 2010
Three spontaneous women leave the known world behind and take off on the travel adventure of a lifetime! Could you up and leave your current employment, friends and everything you are comfortable with and zip off on an adventure around the world? Their journey took them from Brazil and Peru to Kenya then on to India and Laos with stops along the way in Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, New Zealand and Australia.
In theory it sounds amazing! In reality it seems impossible! Read their story and discovery reality for yourself! Who knows, you might soon be writing about your own personal journey next year!
Topics: Adventure, Africa, Airlines, Asia, Australia, Blogs, Cuisine, General, Hotels, India, Restaurants, Shopping, Singles, South America, South Pacific, Thailand, Trains, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips, Uncategorized | Add Comment »
National Geographic Traveler Vietnam
Posted by travelanswerman | August 31, 2010
Anything you need to know about traveling in Vietnam is in this exceptional book! What would you expect from National Geographic Traveler?
It begins with the history and culture of a country that has been through a challenging past and transitions to a beautiful nation that is blessed with much potential for the future! From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, every majoy detail has been included to enhance your next visit!
Topics: Adventure, Airlines, Blogs, Cuisine, Ecotourism, Families, General, Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping, Singles, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips | Add Comment »
Cruise Maven
Posted by travelanswerman | August 28, 2010
I recently added the Cruise Maven to our Blogroll! She is definitely an exceptional addition to our list of world class travelers and a good friend! Take a moment to read her Bio and check her blog out soon! www.cruisemaven.com
Sherry Laskin, aka Cruise Maven, has been in love with cruising for over four decades. As a very small child, she crossed the Pacific with her parents from Los Angeles to Honolulu aboard the 18,000 ton SS Matsonia. These days, at least two months every year are spent at sea, reviewing and experiencing many cruise lines and their ships.
Sherry is a freelance travel writer and photographer. Her articles have appeared in many travel industry publications such as Travel Trade, Travel Weekly and Travel and Leisure News. Online media include Travel Market Report, Examiner.com, Global-Writes and others. Considered a cruise and travel expert, Sherry has been quoted in frommers.com msnbc.today.com, NY Times, Miami Herald and the Sun-Sentinel. She recently contributed to Frommers Guide to the Greek Islands 2010 and has been a featured guest on CruiseRadio.net.
With an interest in regional food and wine, Sherry frequently stops to sample the cuisine and try the local wine or beer. When there is a culinary class en route, you will probably find her there, cooking, tasting and shooting photos.
An avid “surface traveler” since 1994, Sherry has traversed much of the world without setting foot on an airplane! Her “if there’s a port I can get there” committment has taken her to Manaus-Brazil (1,000 miles on the Amazon River), St. Petersburg-Russia, Carthage-Tunisia and most recently nearly 3,000 miles on the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers from Bulgaria to Amsterdam. Getting to Europe simply means the inevitable transatlantic crossing. And exploring the heartland of Europe means traveling the rivers and rails.
Sherry is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the International Food, Wine and Travel Association.
Topics: Adventure, Asia, Australia, Blogs, Caribbean, Cruising, Cuisine, Europe, France, General, Hotels, Italy, Luxury, Restaurants, Shopping, South Pacific, Spain, Thailand, Trains, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips, Uncategorized, United States, wine | Add Comment »
Australia’s Great Train Journeys
Posted by travelanswerman | August 20, 2010
If you’re looking for a different train experience, it’s time to visit Australia! The country with sooooo much to offer and a great accent!
Australia is a rail traveler’s dream! Scenic railways abound. The Indian Pacific and The Ghan, both transcontinental, are famous. The Overland runs between Melbourne and Adelaide. But it’s the Sunlander that many people have found the most satisfying in recent years.
The Sunlander runs 1,045 miles and has been voted Australia’s number one rail journey and one of the top 25 rail journey’s in the world. It magically weaves its way along Queensland’s incredible coastline between Brisbane and tropical Cairns, where the Great Barrier Reef meets the timeless Daintree wilderness.
There’s no more relaxing way to enjoy the trip between Melbourne and Adelaide than on The Overland. The Overland provides a comfortable, relaxing way to travel between the cities or to ease into a great holiday in either Melbourne, Adelaide or their surrounding regions.
The Indian Pacific runs Sydney-Adelaide-Perth for 2,704 miles, including almost 300 miles along the world’s longest straight track. It gives you two oceans on one of the world’s longest and greatest train journeys. But most of your cruising will be across the vast continent of Australia. From the spectacular Blue Mountains to the treeless plains of The Nullarbor desert, where the train travels the world’s longest straight stretch of railway track (478 kilometres), see unique landscapes unfold and spot a fascinating array of wildlife from the comfort of the lounge or your cabin.
Get up close and see the sights of some of our most famous outback towns when you enjoy an optional off-train sightseeing tour. The great train offers these tours during scheduled stops at Broken Hill, Adelaide and gold rich Kalgoorlie. A remote outpost on the Nullarbor Plain called Cook presents a further opportunity to stretch your legs.
All along the Indian Pacific route, keep an eye out for a sighting of the magnificent Australian wedge tailed eagle, the symbol of this great train. It’s massive wingspan of up to two metres will make it easy to spot in a clear desert sky.
The Ghan travels 1,851 miles between Adelaide and Darwin through Australia’s Red Center. Experience one of the most fascinating great train journeys of the world. Connections are available on the Indian Pacific and The Overland for guests travelling to or from Sydney and Melbourne. Enjoy 2 nights aboard this great train in either direction. Marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes from fertile countryside surrounding Adelaide to the rusty hues of the Red Centre, onto the tropical splendour of the Top End. The Ghan is the ultimate journey through the heart of the continent.
Service…cuisine…and a smile as big as the country. You can expect it all and more when you visit the land downunder. Bring your friend and plan to stay at least three weeks or more. You’ll find it difficult to leave.
http://www.seat61.com/Australia.htm
Topics: Adventure, Australia, Blogs, Cuisine, Families, General, Luxury, Shopping, Singles, Trains, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips, college students | 2 Comments »
Big Book of BBQ Review
Posted by travelanswerman | August 20, 2010
Invite the entire family (include all the town folks too) over soon so you can showoff your new culinary skills as a Pit master. The Big Book of BBQ will make you a hit on the grill in no time!
This amazing culinary work has more than 200 mouth-watering recipes from famous pit masters and their test kitchen pros for barbecue beef, pork ribs, roasts, poultry, fish along with kakobs, fajitas, steaks, burgers and chops!
“All Southerners agree on what can be classified as bona fide barbecue, but most disagree on what real barbecue should be.”
The food is so darn addictive, there should be a law against it!
Topics: Blogs, Cuisine, Families, General, Singles, Travel, Travel Tips, Trips, United States | Add Comment »
Argentina National Geographic Traveler Review
Posted by travelanswerman | August 16, 2010
I travel the world for a living and it’s critically important I always have an expert guidebook at my side. That’s what you have with this wonderful source of information.
It provides excursions off the beaten path including Tierra del Fuego and the wildlife-rich Esteros del Ibera.
Driving and walking tours with maps color-coded to site descriptions, including a stroll in Buenos Aires’s colonial core and a drive through Salta Province’s gorgeous canyon country.
Insider tips from National Geographic photographers, writers and explorers, as well as local experts on favorite hot spots.
Experiences unique and hands-on, including seeing the real tango, staying at estancias and studying Argentine Spanish.
Plus color photographs, illustrations and maps that make it easy to get the most from every site.
Superb in every aspect!
Topics: Adventure, Airlines, Art, Blogs, Cuisine, Ecotourism, Families, General, Hiking, Hotels, Luxury, Restaurants, Shopping, Singles, South America, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips, Uncategorized, Wine Vacations, college students | 1 Comment »
91 Best Tips For Free Travel
Posted by travelanswerman | August 12, 2010
Be patient, be personal, be informed and you can bargain successfully for anything. The real world everyone lives in is like a giant negotiating table in the corporate world, and like it or not, you are a participant. Negotiating is an area of knowledge that focuses on gaining the favor of people from whom we desire things. It really isn’t “rocket science”. What you learn today will pay great dividends in the world tomorrow.
Whether you’re traveling around the world or just across the county line, travel expenses can add up quickly, especially with rising airline and fluctuating gasoline prices. But you don’t need to destroy your savings account to have a wonderful time. There are many ways to get even the priciest of travel requirements at a significant reduction or even for free. Check out these 100 “Best Tips for Free Travel” and help get your next holiday started on the right foot. Your bank account will be glad you did in the long run.
General Tips
These general tips can help you make your trip much easier on your budget.
- Surf the net for promo deals. The internet is chock full of travel deals if you know where to look. Sign up for emails and updates from comparison sites like Kayak and have the best promos sent directly to your inbox.
- Print out online coupons. There are many coupons online for hotels, dining, and attractions. Simply print them out and bring them with you when you go.
- Sign up for free travel contests. While there is no guarantee of winning, there’s no harm in trying. Who knows, you might get lucky!
- Go to timeshare presentations. While this isn’t for the weak-willed, time share presentations can be a way to get some pretty great stuff for free. The inexperienced can use this guide to keep from falling prey to the sales pitch.
- Contact local tourism bureaus. A simple letter or email to the local tourism bureau of the place you’re planning to visit can garner you some free coupons and maps of the area.
- Take advantage of discounts through work. Many businesses have corporate discount programs that can save you a lot of money on admission to a wide variety of attractions as well as hotels and transportation. Check to see if your employer has such a program; it can save you a bundle.
- Never be afraid to ask. If you want a discount on a price, just ask, otherwise you might miss out on a potential bargain.
- Be frugal, not cheap. While it’s good to be frugal with your vacation money, don’t skimp on important things. It may end up costing you more in the long run.
- Try to speak the language. Do your best to speak the language, otherwise you’ll peg yourself as a tourist and possibly get charged higher prices.
- Get cash at an ATM. Don’t exchange money before you leave home or at the airport. You will get a much better exchange rate by using your credit card at an ATM.
- Check out the rotary club. Rotary Club International offers free travel and accommodations for businesspeople on group study exchanges. You don’t even have to be a member.
- Make friends. Just like at home, having the right connections can go a long way towards getting hooked up with free stuff. So be nice, a smile may score you some free goodies.
- Be flexible. You’re more likely to get discounts and freebies if you’re willing to be flexible in your plans.
- Don’t be ashamed to drop names. Know someone who lives and works in the area you’re visiting? Mention their name; they might have friends in unexpected places that can offer you a deal.
- Volunteer. If you’re not opposed to working on your vacation, you can get free lodging in many scenic locations all over the world in exchange for varying degrees of volunteer work.
Flights
Flying can be expensive, but luckily there are many ways to help reduce the cost. Check out these tips to help you save on airfare.
- Extend a business trip. If your work has already paid for you to fly somewhere, why not spend a few days after your business is taken care of checking out the sights?
- Get bumped. Airlines reward passengers who are willing to be bumped with passes for free travel. While it might be a small inconvenience, it can save you lots of money on travel expenses.
- Cash in your credit card rewards. If you’ve got a rewards credit card, cash in the miles for free or discounted flights.
- Be a courier. If you’re willing to pack light, you can score free travel all over the world by working as a package courier.
- Ask friends and family who work with an airline. Often, employees of airlines can get family members and friends tickets for next to nothing.
- Use your miles to upgrade to first class. If you don’t quite have enough miles with your frequent flyer card to get free flights, you can use the miles to upgrade instead, and enjoy your flight from the comfort of first class.
- Bring your own snacks. Many airlines have cut out their free snack and beverage services and now charge a fee for those little bags of peanuts. Bring your own snacks and you can avoid having to buy them once you’re in the air.
- Complain if you receive poor service. While it isn’t common, occasionally you’ll have a really poor experience with an airline. If you feel you’ve been mistreated, send a letter to the customer service department. While you probably won’t get a totally free flight, you may get free upgrades or miles you can use.
- Check out rewards programs that give free companion tickets. Many credit card reward programs not only give you miles when you buy a ticket, but will also give you a free ticket for a friend to come along when you purchase a full-priced fare.
Accommodation
Hotels can be one of the biggest expenses on a vacation. Use these tips to sleep soundly without putting so much strain on your wallet.
- Stay with family and friends. If you have family or friends that live near where you’re traveling, see if you can stay with them for a few days. It could save you a lot of money on hotels and you’ll get to spend time with people you care about.
- Get motel coupons. For the frequent road-tripper, motel coupons can be an invaluable resource and the Motel Coupons website has discounts for places all over the US. You’re sure to find some for motels near your destination.
- Swap houses. If you’re looking for totally free accommodations and have a good amount of trust in your fellow man, swapping houses can be a great option for cheap travel. There are many services that can set you up with other people who want to do a swap and may be more reliable than those you find elsewhere.
- Become a hotel critic. For the price of a written review, you can earn a few nights in hotels all over.
- Stay in hostels when possible. While most are not entirely free, they are usually extremely cheap, especially if you’re traveling in a group. Many will even provide free breakfast.
- Be a house sitter. In exchange for helping someone keep their home and pets safe and sound while they’re away, you’ll get to stay cheaply in places all over the world. Check with some of the larger and more reliable organizations that can set you up with a home that needs watching.
- Find free hotels. Sound too good to be true? It’s not. Many travel sites guarantee that they have the lowest price. If you find your hotel cheaper somewhere else, it’s on them.
- Hotel rewards cards. Many hotels have partnered with credit card companies to create rewards cards. These cards can get to free stays at the hotel, so use them for everyday purchases and cash in the rewards when you travel.
- Share hotel rooms. If you’re traveling with a friend, cut costs in half by sharing a hotel room.
- Arrange group travel. If you’re good at planning, you can score free travel by arranging group tours for others. As a reward for bringing in a paying group, companies like GlobeTours give the organizer the same trip for free.
- Take part in a sister city exchange. Sister Cities International is a nonprofit network that partners hundreds of U.S. cities with similar international sister cities. Many groups travel overseas to these cities and the cost is usually covered by fund raisers and the host family. Of course, be advised that you will have to host other travelers in exchange.
- Crash on a couch. Odd as it may sound, there are international networks designed just for the traveling freeloader. You’ll find listings for couches you can sleep on all over the world. You’ll get free lodging and hopefully make some great new friends.
- Camp out. There are few ways to sleep cheaper than camping out under the stars. In some places you may be able to camp for free, but in national parks and campgrounds, fees are usually very reasonable.
Dining
Dining out when you’re at home may just be a special treat, but when you’re traveling it may become a necessity. Try out some of these ideas to help reduce the cost of your meals.
- Look for restaurants where kids eat for free. If you’re traveling with kids, you can often cut costs by eating at places that let kids eat for free. You’ll save money that you can put towards other vacation expenses.
- Get free breakfast at your hotel. If your hotel offers free breakfast, take advantage of it. It’s one less meal you have to pay for out of pocket.
- Bring your own coffee mug or water bottle. Buying coffee and bottled water every day can get expensive quickly. Save money by brewing coffee in your hotel room or refilling your own water bottles.
- Purchase restaurant gift cards. Gift cards to restaurants can often be purchased on eBay or sites like Restaurant.com for less than their face value, allowing you to eat at your favorite place and still save money.
- Get meals comped. Staying in Vegas? Use your high-roller status to get some free meals.
- Make lunch your main meal. Dinner menus might be more extensive, but lunch prices are almost always cheaper. Fill up at lunch so you can spend less when dinnertime rolls around.
- Make the most of freebies. If your hotel is giving out free snacks or breakfast, take a little something and save it for later.
- Bring your own food. While it isn’t always an option, bringing your own food along on a trip can save you tons of money, especially if you’re vacationing in a place with high food prices.
- Flirt shamelessly. There is no guarantee of a free or discounted meal if you flirt, but there is no harm in trying if you’re really hungry and low on cash.
- Join a diners club. Members of diners clubs often get special discounts on restaurants which can add up if you will be eating out frequently.
- Sign up for emails from your favorite places. Restaurants often send out special coupons and deals in emails, and sometimes you’ll even get gift certificates for free food when your birthday rolls around.
Transportation
Getting around in a foreign city can be hard enough without having to worry about how much it’s costing you. Try out these methods for saving money seeing the sights.
- Find a ride. Websites like RideSeek and Ridester make it easy to find and share a ride to your destination, helping cut down on your travel costs.
- Check out AAA discounts. If you’re a member of AAA, it’s likely that you can get a number of discounts on rentals and services by using your card.
- Take public transportation. Most big cities have pretty good public transportation systems and often there are substantial discounts if you buy several passes at once.
- Use your own two feet. While it isn’t always possible to walk everywhere you want to go, when you can, do it. It can save you money, give you some exercise, and allow you to spend time exploring a new place.
- Bring your bike. One way to avoid having to pay for transportation is to bring your own. Biking is a great way to see the sights, not to mention good exercise.
- Avoid toll roads. Tolls can add up quickly, especially near cities. Use an online mapping program to provide you with an alternate route. It might take a few minutes longer, but you’ll save money and get to take in the scenery.
- Don’t rent a car unless you need one. If you only really need a car to get from the airport to your hotel, don’t bother renting a car. You’ll save not only on the rental fee, but gas and parking as well.
- Research free public transport. Many big cities, in an effort to cater to tourists, have some kind of free public transport between big tourist attractions. Check out your destination city to see if you can save a walk or cab fare with a free ride.
- Become a preferred renter. Most rental car companies have preferred renter programs that can save you big bucks when you go to rent a car. While most programs have fees, they will usually waive it if you send them a request.
- Use good driving habits. Save yourself valuable gas by using good driving habits like accelerating slowly and always keeping your tires properly inflated. If you’re driving a long distance the savings can really add up.
- Work from your RV. Rising gas prices have driven up the cost of an RV vacation, but you can get some of it back by becoming a workamper. There are a variety of jobs to choose from that allow you to bring in income while still enjoying the comforts of an RV vacation.
- Take part in a driveaway. If you’re going on a road trip, there may be a way to do it for free. You can participate in these programs, and get free travel between many different locations.
- Charge your rental car. Many credit cards that specialize in travel have free insurance included when you use them to pay for travel expenses. So even if you don’t purchase the additional insurance, you’ll still be protected.
- Hitchhike. While it isn’t the safest option, it is free. Use extreme caution if you plan on doing it.
Entertainment and Shopping
You wouldn’t be on vacation unless you were seeking fun and relaxation, so take advantage of these ideas on how you can save money while still enjoying yourself.
- See if second day free passes are available. Many amusement and water parks offer free or half price passes for a second day of admission which can save a lot, especially if you’re traveling with your family.
- Ask about tickets through your hotel. Many hotels offer free or greatly discounted tickets for nearby attractions as a bonus for staying with them. Ask at the front desk to see if you can save some money.
- Visit free attractions. You can often have a great time at places that are totally free like state and national parks and the beach.
- Look for free entertainment. Most big cities offer free concerts, parades, and special events especially during the summer months. Before you go, check to see if any pique your interest.
- Check out a TV show taping. Get free tickets to the taping of your favorite show with TV Tickets.com. You’ll get entertainment and a chance to get close to your favorite TV stars.
- Find out about museum free days. Most big museums have at least one day of the week when admission is free, so take advantage of the savings by planning your visit around those times.
- Don’t pay tax. If you’re traveling in Europe, you may not have to pay tax on the items you purchase if the store you shop at participates in the Global Refund program. Simply get a refund cheque from the store when you purchase your items, have it validated when you go through customs, and collect your cash back at their office or through the mail.
- Check out student discounts. Many attractions popular with tourists have special prices for students as long as you have a student ID.
- Be a trail guide. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you can enjoy a free vacation by becoming a trail guide. Show other hikers through trails at the Continental Divide or along the Pacific Northwest Trail.
Online Applications
The internet is one of the greatest resources for travelers looking for a bargain. Give these free sites a look before you take your next trip.
- Travlang For those traveling abroad, Travlang can be a great resource for translating and helping you learn the language.
- gas buddy.com If you’re driving to your vacation destination, check out gasbuddy to help you find the cheapest prices for gas anywhere you go.
- points.com Chances are good that if you’re a member of several frequent flyer and rewards programs, you have trouble keeping track of all those miles. Points.com makes it easy by tracking your points from multiple programs.
- WebFlyer WebFlyer is a great resource for frequent flyers. Keep track of your rewards miles, get special promotions and more at their website.
- FreeTrip FreeTrip allows you to create a customized road itinerary and map.
- Flightview FlightView can help keep you up to date with your flight, let you know if it will be delayed, and get you information for almost any airport in the United States.
- Traffic.com Don’t let traffic jams ruin your trip. With Traffic.com you can keep track of where the problem areas are and figure out alternate routes.
- ParkatMyHouse Finding a place to park when you’re away from home can be difficult but ParkatMyHouse does the work for you and finds you reasonably priced parking.
- TripAdvisor TripAdvisor can give you advice and reviews for thousands of hotels, airlines and attractions all over the world.
- VirtualTourist Get photos, tips, and reviews for travel destinations all over the world with VirtualTourist.
- 3DTracking Keeping track of your family at a crowded attraction can be difficult. 3DTracking is free app that lets you know where everyone’s at.
- TravelPod Make an online journal of your travel adventures with a free blog at TravelPod.
Travel Necessities
There are some things that even the most frugal traveler can’t do without. Give these suggestions a whirl to help you shave off a few dollars from your basic travel expenses.
- Bring along free sunscreen. Whether you’re hitting the beach or the slopes, you’re going to need to bring sunscreen along. Get a free bottle from Quality Health when you fill out a survey.
- Take advantage of online travel guides. Even big names in travel guides like Frommers have gone online. Why pay for the book when you can get the same info online for free?
- Buy luggage at a discount or thrift store. There is no doubt that suitcases are some of the most expensive necessities for travelers. Save money by getting one at a discount online or at your local thrift store.
- Make the most of free wi-fi. Some hotels will charge you to connect to the Internet. Of course, there’s no reason to pay for it when you can go around the corner to the local coffeshop and get it for free. Make the most of free wi-fi in the area and save some money on expensive hotel connections.
- Get free vacation photo prints. If you take a lot of digital photos, you can get free and cheap prints of them by using an online printing service like Adorama or Snapfish. Some offer 50 free prints just for signing up!
- Buy travel guides and maps on eBay. If you are in need of travel guides, don’t pay full price. Get them for cheap using eBay and when you get back, sell them!
- Send e-cards. It’s fun to get mail from all over the world, but you can save money on stamps by sending e-cards instead of postcards. Simply scan in or upload one of your photos and send them in special emails to your family and friends.
- Pack light. Save yourself baggage overage fees and hassle by packing light and simply doing laundry at your destination once you run out of clothes.
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Berlitz Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships 2010
Posted by travelanswerman | August 9, 2010
In my opinion, this is the most comprehensive, detailed and authoritative guide you can buy for cruising! The author, Douglas Ward, is clearly the most respected cruise expert in the world with more than 40 years of experience.
I use this guide daily to navigate through all of the industry hype and discover the truth! You should do likewise!
Topics: Adventure, Blogs, Caribbean, Cruising, Cuisine, General, Luxury, Restaurants, Shopping, Travel, Travel Guide Books & Maps, Travel Insurance, Travel Tips, Trips, Uncategorized | Add Comment »
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