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	<title>ShoeString Get Aways</title>
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	<description>Fun vacation get aways on a shoe string budget!</description>
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		<title>Affordable Family vacations (For us little people)</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-family-vacations-for-us-little-people</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-family-vacations-for-us-little-people#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 02:57:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable Honeymoon Vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=199</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[While considering your family vacation this year, try not to read through those lusty magazines about the jet-set lifestyle of those Hollywood types. And certainly don&#8217;t juxtapose post-baby bodies with the likes Angelina Jolie-Pitt, it&#8217;s an embarrassing undertaking. Back here in the world of reality, where the once-upon-a-time world traveling twosome multiplies into a family [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>While considering your family vacation this year, try not to read through those lusty magazines about the jet-set lifestyle of those Hollywood types. And certainly don&#8217;t juxtapose post-baby bodies with the likes Angelina Jolie-Pitt, it&#8217;s an embarrassing undertaking. </p>
<p>Back here in the world of reality, where the once-upon-a-time world traveling twosome multiplies into a family of three or perhaps more, those exotic vacations are no longer about basking on Caribbean beaches drinking fruity cocktails. Its more about a growing bag of extra diapers, portable crib, and car seat. And then there are also the increased costs to wrestle with.</p>
<p>So, does a retired globe-trotting couple have any options? Well, you could stay at home with a large glass of wine in hand and travel to make believe destinations while vicariously surfing sites like this one. </p>
<p>But that&#8217;s just wrong. </p>
<p>You and even your little ones need to get out there and see what the world is all about. And keep this in mind: If your savings is shrinking, so is the world. Those once &#8220;too pricey&#8221; destination getaways and high falutin&#8217; resorts that were at one time beyond your means last year may have dropped prices just low enough to become affordable in 2012. </p>
<p>Plan judiciously, and this year you and your crew could be exploring the souks in Marrakesh, tubing through caves in Central America, riding the Gondola at Banff or even going on that once-in-a-lifetime trip to New Zealand.</p>
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		<title>Southern California or Hawaii &#8211; That is the question</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/southern-california-vacations</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/southern-california-vacations#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:42:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=194</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Been mulling over the places you could go (or not go) with a lot of vacation attractions, but will be sensitive to your tight budget? Here’s something to consider: How about a vacation to the Gold Coast? California has it all &#8211; the beaches, theme parks, roller coasters, and of course, Hollywood. And that&#8217;s the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Been mulling over the places you could go (or not go) with a lot of vacation attractions, but will be sensitive to your tight budget? Here’s something to consider: How about a vacation to the Gold Coast? California has it all &#8211; the beaches, theme parks, roller coasters, and of course, Hollywood. And that&#8217;s the short list. There is tons more to do</p>
<p>The exotic and beautiful state of Hawaii can be prohibitive because of travel costs, but should also be on the list if you find a great deal on airfare. You can almost smell that fresh ocean sea breeze, the warm ocean water on your skin. But keep in mind that there are offsetting advantages to the Left Coast. </p>
<p>The Southern California Vacation Guru has written extensively about the differences between vacations in Southern California and Hawaii. For example, if you are a snorkeler keep in mind that there are far less underwater rocks and reefs to worry about in the California surf, while the humidity levels and sun intensity are a little less exhausting for sun lovers in the California summer sun. You’ll discover that the ocean water is warmer in the Hawaiian Islands, making the cooler California water a little more inviting on a hot summer day.</p>
<p>Its undeniable that a Hawaiian vacation offers amazing subtropical vegetation and the Polynesian cultural experiences are educational. Nevertheless, the California coastline, mountains still has a pristine wonder and the high desert possess incomparable images that will be written indelibly on the back of your eyelids. Hawaii cannot boast of the of the diverse cultural experiences that California can.</p>
<p>Southern California brings a lot more to the offering than great beaches. You could easily piddle away a week or more just checking out the seven renowned theme parks that are situated between San Diego and LA County. If your traveling companion is someone who gets a kick out of thrill rides, then Six Flags Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm are an absolute must. Six Flags and Knott’s roller coasters are particularly noteworthy. You’ll discover many intimidating coasters and thrill rides at Knott’s and Six Flags. You won’t find as many true thrill rides at Disneyland as at the other parks, although Space Mountain and the Matterhorn Bobsleds certainly qualify.</p>
<p>You wont find many roller coasters in Hawaii, but of course wintertime surfing might present a formidable comparison. California is going to be more budget-friendly in some categories as a summer travel option, but there are distinctions that just cannot be overlooked in a Hawaiian Holiday.</p>
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		<title>Affordable Family Vacations</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-family-vacations</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-family-vacations#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2010 23:22:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable Vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=21</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Affordable Family Vacation Ideas Affordable Family vacations have become particularly challenging in today&#8217;s economic climate. Suddenly those fun family trips are not as possible as they once were. Instead you are struggling to make ends meet to pay for groceries let alone for a trip. Do you really have to let go of the option [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Affordable Family Vacation Ideas</strong></p>
<div style="float: left; padding: 12px;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-60" title="Family1" src="http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Family1.jpg" alt="Family1" width="107" height="115" /></div>
<p>Affordable Family vacations have become particularly challenging in today&#8217;s economic climate. Suddenly those fun family trips are not as possible as they once were.  Instead you are struggling to make ends meet to pay for groceries let alone for a trip.  Do you really have to let go of the option of taking a trip with your family?  Fortunately the answer is no!  There are wonderful affordable family vacations for you to go on, and with a little bit of effort you can find them. </p>
<p>Traveling is expensive, but there are budget family vacations to be found.  What you need to do is to really think about what type of vacation your family would enjoy.  Family vacations are are what many memories are built on.  For years you and your kids will remember the small interactions and stories that you have created together.  Knowing what your family is looking for is key to planning a great trip, and great memories.  One thing to keep in mind in your search for affordable family vacations is that just because something is on sale or a good deal does not necessarily make it right for you.  If you hate the outdoors and nature then no matter how affordable a camping vacation is it will not be the right trip for you to book.  When looking for affordable family vacations it is incredibly important for you to cater to your families needs.  Vacations are for their entertainment and enjoyment, and by remembering that you can be sure that everyone will walk away with great memories from their trip.</p>
<p><strong>Orlando, Florida</strong></p>
<p>The sunny state of Florida is a great place to visit year round, and Orlando is perhaps one of the most popular destinations in the whole of Florida.  Orlando is one of the great affordable family vacations for those who have children.  The great thing is there is something for kids of all ages.  There are tons of different theme parks in Orlando like Walt Disney World&#8217;s The Magic Kingdom, MGM Studios, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Wet n Wild, Sea World, and even more.  There is a theme park for almost any taste, and it would take you weeks to get through them all.  Additionally, Orlando has a variety of lodging options for its visitors.  In terms of budget family vacations Orlando is definitely a great choice because you can save money without sacrificing a great time!</p>
<p><strong>The Grand Canyon</strong></p>
<p>For affordable family vacations national parks are always a great choice, and the Grand Canyon is definitely one that you should see.  Your children may have seen plenty of pictures of the Grand Canyon, but pictures do not do it justice.  The actual canyon is incredibly breathtaking.  There are many ways to get to the Grand Canyon, but one of the most fun ways to see it is to take the Grand Canyon railroad into the park.  This train will carefully chug you to the grand canyon so that you can enjoy the scenic sites of the area before taking in the majesty of the Grand Canyon itself.  Additionally, there is lodging within the park itself, but if you are really looking for budget family vacations you may want to think about camping at a local campground.  This will help you to keep those lodging costs down throughout your trip.</p>
<p><strong>Cedar Point in Ohio</strong></p>
<p>Does your family love to ride rides?  Is a trip to Florida out of your budget?  Well do not worry because there are affordable family vacations for you to enjoy.  In fact, one of the best amusement parks is actually located in Sandusky, Ohio.  Cedar Point is truly a jewel in terms of theme parks.  Here you will ride some to of the best rides in existence, and there is even a water park there for you to enjoy on hot days.  Given that it is located in the Midwest the surrounding hotels are generally reasonably priced which can help to keep your costs down.</p>
<p><strong>Niagara Falls</strong></p>
<p>Niagara Falls draws thousands of visitors each year, and it is no surprise that it is one of the top locations for budget family vacations.  Niagara Falls is similar to the Grand Canyon in that its true beauty cannot be captured by a simple pictures.  Instead, it is something that must be seen in person.  There are two sides to Niagara Falls the New York side and the Canadian side.  For many the Canadian side is more beautiful, but the choice is really up to you.  However, not matter which you choose you can be sure that it is not a site that you will soon forget!</p>
<p><strong>Las Vegas, Nevada</strong></p>
<p>Las Vegas may be known as &#8220;Sin City,&#8221;, but many people don&#8217;t realize that it is also a great spot for budget family vacations.  You may wonder how this could be true, but part of what makes Las Vegas so wonderful is the variety that it offers its visitors.  Las Vegas has an incredible variety in its lodging options and there are some great ones for families like the Circus Circus resort.  Additionally, Las Vegas offers a variety of activities that are all family friendly like a tour of Hoover Dam, Cirque du Soleil shows, the M&amp;M Factory, or a ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower at the Paris resort.  Las Vegas hotels also have some of the best pools around, and kids love nothing more than hanging out at the pool.  So though Las Vegas may be known as &#8220;Sin City&#8221; it may actually be an answer to your prayers for the perfect affordable family vacation.</p>
<p>Affordable family vacations to exist, and these are only a few ideas.  Spend some time doing your research, and you will be rewarded with memories that you will not soon forget.</p>
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		<title>All inclusive vacation packages</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/all-inclusive-vacation-packages</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/all-inclusive-vacation-packages#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2010 21:55:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable Vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=81</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Putting together every little detail of a vacation can be such an arduous exercise that you almost need a vacation afterward because of the stress of planning it. However, Things have changed substantially with all inclusive vacation packages. Now, if you are the kind of person that likes to pick a spot, and then &#8220;fly [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Putting together every little detail of a vacation can be such an arduous exercise that you almost need a vacation afterward because of the stress of planning it. However, Things have changed substantially with all inclusive vacation packages.</p>
<p>Now, if you are the kind of person that likes to pick a spot, and then &#8220;fly by the seat of your pants&#8221; once you arrive at a get away destination, all inclusive vacation packages won&#8217;t be for you. But, if you&#8217;re like most of us, you&#8217;ll want to plan ahead to get maximum benefit for the small amount of time you have to get away and relax and enjoy yourself.<br />
<span id="more-81"></span><br />
The usual reasoning that motivates people to plan the details of their own vacation are varied. Many times people feel that they will save more, or that no-one else could plan a vacation as well. Most of the time people just don&#8217;t realize that there are travel professionals that are trained in planning a vacation for maximum enjoyment and relaxation from beginning to end.</p>
<p><strong>Familiarity with the area</strong></p>
<p>When planning a vacation, you may have an idea about where you want to go, but have no clue as to the amenities and recreation that is available in the area. You&#8217;d be surprised at just how much you&#8217;ll miss if you try to investigate these things on your own, to say nothing of the endless hours it can take to find the most basic entertainment. This is where All Inclusive vacation packages administered by travel professionals come in. Such people have &#8220;insider information&#8221; on things you might never consider when planning a trip on your own. These folks will have knowledge of things such as proximity to the better restaurants and cuisine, quality of service of nearby establishments, and other amenities. And they will also be able to provide you with tips on  little known local hot spots or rare tourist attractions that you might not otherwise uncover. </p>
<p><strong>Booking of hotels, cars, flights, cruises</strong></p>
<p>One of the most obvious benefits to an &#8220;All Inclusive Vacation Package&#8221; is the travel planning. Most packages plan everything for you from selecting the airlines, to transportation to and from the airport to the hotel, or car rentals. Some even go so far as to pick you and your baggage up right at your doorstep. But it can extend even further than that. </p>
<p>Some vacation packages will set up your local tour rides once you have arrived at your vacation destination. In a circumstance like this, all you have in your hand is a schedule for all the activities that you&#8217;ll be enjoying for your entire vacation. Everything else has been planned, from beginning to end. This, of course, is the ultimate in pampered get aways.<br />
<strong><br />
Don&#8217;t know where to go or what to do?</strong></p>
<p>Admittedly, most of us may not fit into this category &#8211; unless you have vacationed quite a bit over the years to a variety of places, and now you have run out of vacation ideas. Or maybe you have no clue as to what to do on a first vacation get away. Not to worry, an all inclusive vacation package is the solution to your problem! Let those who make their living providing solutions to dilemmas such as this be your guide. There are literally thousands of all inclusive vacation get away packages that have probably never crossed your mind. But they are there. The key is in finding a quality professional that has built their reputation on solving problems like this.</p>
<p><strong>The Savings can be substantial</strong></p>
<p>We&#8217;d be remiss if we didn&#8217;t tell you just how shocked you&#8217;d be if you itemized every detail of a vacation you planned on your own, and then compared it with one that is pre-packaged by a professional vacation planner. Most of the time, all inclusive vacation packages are simply going to be much cheaper. The purchasing power that travel professionals buy into is simply too hard to beat. Large blocks of airline seats, hotels, cruise line cabins and car rentals are often purchased at deep discounts. These savings are then passed on to you.</p>
<p>People from every economic strata take advantage of all inclusive vacation packages. Whether you are planning a vacation for the first time, or just want to relax and let someone else take care of the footwork, you&#8217;re sure to find a good fit. The foregoing are just some of the benefits you&#8217;ll enjoy when considering an all inclusive vacation package. </p>
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		<title>Outer Banks, Currituck County.</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/outer-banks-currituck-county</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/outer-banks-currituck-county#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 30 Jan 2010 21:59:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Domestic Destination Vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=95</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Where else but the Outer Banks can provide kids of all ages the opportunity to learn and have fun at the same time? Each year, thousand of visitor descend upon this thin strip of shoreline bordering the north-easternmost end of North Carolina, mainly to enjoy the beach and other related activities. However, the Currituck Outer [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Where else but the Outer Banks can provide kids of all ages the opportunity to learn and have fun at the same time? Each year, thousand of visitor descend upon this thin strip of shoreline bordering the north-easternmost end of North Carolina, mainly to enjoy the beach and other related activities. However, the Currituck Outer Banks offer more than miles of sand and sunny day, but the opportunity for all to meet the creatures who live there all year round. A great place to learn more about the wild side of the Outer Banks is at the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. <span id="more-95"></span></p>
<p>Fishing&#8230;</p>
<p>Truth is, though, there are a variety of fish to be had in the Currituck Outer Banks. On a good day, one can catch bluefish, speckled trout, spot and puppy drum, as well as some croaker, black drum, flounder, and even small sharks. When the tides are right, pier fishermen may be able to catch some red drum, while striped bass is reported found near Oregon Inlet.</p>
<p>Because many of the bike-friendly road paths in the Currituck Outer Banks are also part of the state highway system, you will often find cyclists and drivers on the road together enjoying their vacations. State traffic laws observe bicycles and motorized bikes as vehicles, therefore visitors must adhere to the traffic laws as do other motorists. Especially in the summer, when people from all over the country come to enjoy a fun and relaxing vacation, it is important to remember safety and courtesy when sharing the road.</p>
<p>A recent addition to the attractions roster of Currituck County, North Carolina, the Maple Skate Park opened in May of 2006 in response the growing interest in skateboarding and extreme sports in the Outer Banks. Though the area is not populous year round, the spring and summer bring thousands of visitors to the area annually, mainly families looking forward to a beach vacation offering flexible activities to suit all interests. The park, located near Currituck Regional Airport in Maple, North Carolina, is free to the public and open from sun-up to sundown, allowing maximum enjoyment for all skating enthusiasts.</p>
<p>One advantage to booking a trip in the Outer Banks is the flexibility with accommodations. Families have the option not only of reserving a room at a beachfront hotel, but towns like Kitty Hawk, Corolla, and Nags Head have many vacation rentals available throughout the year. These large homes situated along the dunes can house as many as twenty people for a minimum week&#8217;s stay, so if you are able to convince friends and relatives to enjoy the ocean with you, you could pay as little as fifty dollars a day to stay! If you prefer a more intimate setting for your vacation, however, be sure to contact hotels early so you aren&#8217;t lost in the summer crush.</p>
<p>Think of the Outer Banks and recreation, and the more obvious water sports come to mind. Anybody planning a vacation to the shores of North Carolina, be it Dare or Currituck County, is likely looking forward to days of relaxing in the sun, surfing, fishing, and coasting the waves on a jet ski. Newer visitors to the Currituck Outer Banks may be surprised to know, however, that an alternative recreational activity awaits them at Maple Skate Park.</p>
<p>The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education is one-third of the state&#8217;s wildlife resources commission, located conveniently in Currituck County near two other popular attractions &#8211; The Whalehead Club and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Open year round with varying hours in the off-season, the Center welcomes families, visitors, and school groups to learn more about the environment that sustains the array of marine life and other creatures who call the Currituck Sound home.</p>
<p>What comes to mind when you think of the Outer Banks? Obvious answers may include the stunning, white shorelines of the North Carolina coast, the tranquil breezes and lush tall grass filled with wildlife. You may think, too, of the wild mustangs that trot along the shore, answering to no master. You may think of history: the flight experiments at Kitty Hawk or the famous Lost Colony outdoor drama, the longest running play of its kind, in Manteo.</p>
<p>For leisure riders and serious cyclists, the Currituck Outer Banks provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the county, and beyond, on two wheels. Starting at the north end of the beach in Corolla on NC Highway 12 takes you past the flora and fauna to Currituck Heritage Park and a multitude of multi-use trails and quiet avenues. From there one may wind through serene Outer Banks neighborhoods on narrow paths toward Sanderling and Duck.</p>
<p>The Corolla Wild Horse Museum and Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education provide great opportunities for people of all ages to learn about the environment of the Outer Banks and Currituck Sound. Come inside and learn about the native species of waterfowl, flora and fauna that populate this area.</p>
<p>There are lots of tourist activities available in the Outer Banks. Visitors can enjoy popular water sports such as wind surfing or sailing. They can also watch dolphins, fly kites and watch the wild horses that live on the islands. They also have lots of shop as well as golf courses and many great restaurants.</p>
<p>Where else but the Outer Banks can provide kids of all ages the opportunity to learn and have fun at the same time? Each year, thousand of visitor descend upon this thin strip of shoreline bordering the north-easternmost end of North Carolina, mainly to enjoy the beach and other related activities. However, the Currituck Outer Banks offer more than miles of sand and sunny day, but the opportunity for all to meet the creatures who live there all year round. A great place to learn more about the wild side of the Outer Banks is at the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education.</p>
<p>Go fly a kite! Seriously! In the Outer Banks, the saying isn&#8217;t a dismissal, but rather an invitation to a day of family fun. While the area on the coast of North Carolina is known primarily for its beautiful beaches, wild mustangs, and various water sports and fishing, kite flying is an especially popular pastime for residents and visitors. Several events staged in Dare and Currituck County throughout the season provide hours of entertainment for the novice and expert flyer. Next time you&#8217;re vacationing in the Outer Banks and feel you have &#8220;beached&#8221; out, take a break and grab the lead on a beautiful flying wonder.</p>
<p>For a soaring great time, be sure to pencil in an afternoon of breezy kite flying on your next trip to the Outer Banks. When the sky is clear and sunny, you won&#8217;t find a more beautiful site than a series of strings slanting upward, supporting a flock of colorful kites.</p>
<p>The Outer Banks is a great place to spend a vacation and the best way to enjoy it is in the privacy of a condo. Thanks to the internet finding the right rental condo is now incredibly easy. Finding the perfect rental condo for your needs should not be a problem at all.</p>
<p>Visitors to Currituck County are always welcome to enjoy a relaxing family vacation, as the area offers something for everybody all year round. The Currituck Outer Banks were settled by the early Colonists in 1688, one of the earliest settlements in the New World, and to this day the beaches are clean and beautiful, and offer spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.</p>
<p>Of course, no trip to the Outer Banks would be complete without a visit to two of Currituck&#8217;s most popular landmarks &#8211; The Currituck Lighthouse and The Whalehead Club. For over a century, the lighthouse has guided ships safely across the Chesapeake Bay, while the Whalehead Club (the former private residence of Edward Collings) serves to remind us of the glamour and stately pride of the resort area.</p>
<p>If you don&#8217;t haul all the toys and flotation devices with you from home, you can head over to any number of beach shops to rent kayaks, surfboards, or jet skis. Join a chartered cruise for dolphin watching, take a hang gliding lesson, or embark on a Jeep tour of the beach and look for the Outer Banks&#8217; legendary wild mustangs that roam the beach freely. Cap off the day with a hearty seafood dinner.</p>
<p>The wildlife center is quite large (over twenty-two thousand square feet) and houses a visitor&#8217;s center, exhibition hall, auditorium and an extensive gallery of waterfowl decoys. Visitors to the wildlife center may find exhibits that showcase wildlife of the barrier islands, from the many different species of fish to the ducks and geese that migrate south for the winter. Area histories of related industries like boating, fishing, and hunting are also featured from the early days to the present.</p>
<p>Have you ever tried crabbing? All you need for this activity is some chicken, string and a net, then head over to Currituck Heritage Park. Tie some string around a piece of chicken and toss it into the Currituck Sound. Then, all you have to do is wait for the crabs to start biting. When a crab grabs the piece of chicken, slowly pull the string toward the shore. When it is close enough, gather the crab in your net. Crabbing is that easy!</p>
<p>The Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education is one-third of the state&#8217;s wildlife resources commission, located conveniently in Currituck County near two other popular attractions &#8211; The Whalehead Club and the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Open year round with varying hours in the off-season, the Center welcomes families, visitors, and school groups to learn more about the environment that sustains the array of marine life and other creatures who call the Currituck Sound home.</p>
<p>During the off-season, temperatures at the Currituck Outer Banks can cool down but there is still plenty to do. Hunting, fishing, golfing, and cycling are just a few popular activities enjoyed during sunny autumn and winter days. Charter a boat off the Currituck Sound and try your luck catching bluefish or flounder, or reserve a round of golf at Kilmarlic Golf Club or any of the five other championship courses situated between Moyock and Nags Head. You may find between September and March that hotel rooms are easier to come by, yet it is still recommended to call ahead.</p>
<p>Currituck County is a hot surfing destination in North Carolina. So, the next time you are intending to a surfing vacation, you might want to take into account going to North Carolina. Here, you will be in a position to enjoy surfing big waves as well as do tons of pursuits aside from surfing. Following on from the fall season, you can always go to Hawaii where the surfing season will begin.</p>
<p>Think of the Outer Banks and recreation, and the more obvious water sports come to mind. Anybody planning a vacation to the shores of North Carolina, be it Dare or Currituck County, is likely looking forward to days of relaxing in the sun, surfing, fishing, and coasting the waves on a jet ski. Newer visitors to the Currituck Outer Banks may be surprised to know, however, that an alternative recreational activity awaits them at Maple Skate Park.</p>
<p>For leisure riders and serious cyclists, the Currituck Outer Banks provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the county, and beyond, on two wheels. Starting at the north end of the beach in Corolla on NC Highway 12 takes you past the flora and fauna to Currituck Heritage Park and a multitude of multi-use trails and quiet avenues. From there one may wind through serene Outer Banks neighborhoods on narrow paths toward Sanderling and Duck.</p>
<p>The northern coast of the Outer Banks and Knotts Island offer many places for serene, comfortable fishing. Residents and visitors alike often congregate at the Coinjock Marina, where one can fish off the pier or charter a boat trip for some deep sea action. The Midway Marina &#038; Motel, on the Intracoastal Waterway, offers a number of amenities for traveling fishermen, including Internet access and clean, comfortable rooms for extended stay. On Knotts Island, there Pearl&#8217;s Bay Villa Marina &#038; Resturant across the Currituck Sound from Carova Beach. There the fish are plentiful and the views especially breathtaking.</p>
<p>You may be thinking &#8220;why would anybody travel to the beach in February&#8221;? While temperatures in the ocean along the Currituck shore are too cold for swimming or other nautical activities, the Outer Banks as a whole need not be written off as a late winter travel option. The Currituck area, which encompasses the sandy and sunny town of Corolla, breathtaking Knotts Island, and more inland areas like Moyock, actually maintains fair weather year round. You may not be able to frolic in a swimsuit, but the weather around Valentine&#8217;s Day is perfect for light jackets and cuddling tight during a moonlit walk along the waves.</p>
<p>Perched on a bicycle seat, there is much to see on a spring or summer day wheeling through Corolla or Coinjock by the shore. Cyclists taking NC 12 from the north end will eventually meet the Whalehead Club and Currituck Lighthouse at the park, the perfect spot for a break. A deeper sojourn along the shore may provide the opportunity to spot Currituck&#8217;s famous wild mustangs frolicking along the beach. If you are riding, however, be aware not to get too close and frighten the animals, as they are in their natural habitat.</p>
<p>A recent addition to the attractions roster of Currituck County, North Carolina, the Maple Skate Park opened in May of 2006 in response the growing interest in skateboarding and extreme sports in the Outer Banks. Though the area is not populous year round, the spring and summer bring thousands of visitors to the area annually, mainly families looking forward to a beach vacation offering flexible activities to suit all interests. The park, located near Currituck Regional Airport in Maple, North Carolina, is free to the public and open from sun-up to sundown, allowing maximum enjoyment for all skating enthusiasts.</p>
<p>Where else but the Outer Banks can provide kids of all ages the opportunity to learn and have fun at the same time? Each year, thousand of visitor descend upon this thin strip of shoreline bordering the north-easternmost end of North Carolina, mainly to enjoy the beach and other related activities. However, the Currituck Outer Banks offer more than miles of sand and sunny day, but the opportunity for all to meet the creatures who live there all year round. A great place to learn more about the wild side of the Outer Banks is at the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education.</p>
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		<title>Affordable Caribbean Vacations &#8211; Possible?</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-caribbean-vacations-possible</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-caribbean-vacations-possible#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 20 Dec 2009 16:52:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable Vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Caribbean Vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=52</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Search for Affordable Caribbean Vacations You have made the decision that you are going to take that relaxing vacation that you have been dreaming of. The Caribbean is your ideal location. As you think about it you can almost see yourself lounging on the golden sands against the cool blue waters of the surrounding [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Search for Affordable Caribbean Vacations </strong></p>
<div style="float:right; padding: 12px"><img src="http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Caribbean-Vacation-2.jpg" alt="Caribbean-Vacation-2" title="Caribbean-Vacation-2" width="137" height="111" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-68" /></div>
<p>You have made the decision that you are going to take that relaxing vacation that you have been dreaming of.  The Caribbean is your ideal location.  As you think about it you can almost see yourself lounging on the golden sands against the cool blue waters of the surrounding ocean.  As you lay there under the suns rays you causally sip a delicious cocktail savoring every flavor.  It seems too good to be true, doesn&#8217;t it?  But it isn&#8217;t.  Affordable Caribbean vacations can be yours!  There are a few things that you want to be sure that you keep in mind while you are planning to ensure that you are staying within your vacation budget.  <span id="more-52"></span></p>
<p>Planning can be exhausting, but it is the key to finding affordable Caribbean vacations.  You need to give yourself the time to shop so that you can compare your options.  The internet can really be your best friend in this search.  Use it to check various sites to see the different deals available to you.  Vacation packages are a great way to save yourself some money.  Generally you can find vacation packages that include a variety of things like dining credits, spa treatments, and even shopping excursions.  You may also want to take a careful look at an all-inclusive package.  Sometimes these packages seem a bit expensive on first glance, but take the time to factor in how much you would be spending for drinks and food with a traditional hotel stay.  </p>
<div style="float:left; padding: 12px"><img src="http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Caribbean-vacation-1.jpg" alt="Caribbean-vacation-1" title="Caribbean-vacation-1" width="130" height="87" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-67" /></div>
<p>The time of year that you are traveling to the Caribbean can directly affect how much your vacation is going to cost.  The most expensive time to visit the Caribbean is during the peak months of mid-December to mid-April.  However, that does not mean that the Caribbean is not a beautiful place to visit during the rest of the year.  Though the other months put visitors at risk for visiting during a hurricane with our current weather technology it is really not as big of an issue as it had been in the past.  Due to all of that technology it is quite easy to track those storms ahead of time.  The truth is that during these off-peak times you can find some of the best vacation deals possible.  If you choose to visit the Caribbean during these months you can find hotel stays for up to half off!  That will definitely make for affordable Caribbean vacations!</p>
<p>Obviously you need to fly to get to the Caribbean, and to find the best ticket price you are going to want to start looking for your flight early.  If you can be flexible with your arrival and departure dates this will help you to get the best bargain. Additionally, it is always best to book a round trip ticket rather than two one way tickets.  Be sure that you check on Wednesdays because that is generally when many of the airline deals are published.  </p>
<div style="float:right; padding: 12px"><img src="http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Caribbean-sailing-2.jpg" alt="Caribbean-sailing-2" title="Caribbean-sailing-2" width="124" height="83" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-66" /></div>
<p>Don&#8217;t be afraid to look off the beaten path for your hotel.  The Caribbean is full of smaller hotel chains and independently run establishments.  While these may not have quite as much to offer as the beachfront resorts that you might normally choose their prices will be significantly more affordable.  Additionally by staying at one of these smaller establishments you may be getting a more authentic Caribbean vacation experience that you could not experience at a large chain.  If you like to truly get the flavor of where you are visiting then staying at a small local establishment is the perfect place to stay while you are in the Caribbean.  </p>
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		<title>Affordable Honeymoon destinations</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-honeymoon-vacations</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-honeymoon-vacations#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:46:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable Honeymoon Vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Affordable Vacations]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Affordable Honeymoon destinations Do Exist! So you have met your soulmate and you have decided to get married. It should be a wonderfully romantic time in your lives. However, there is a lot of expense that comes along with getting married and that can leave any couples bank account feeling a bit overextended. Sometimes the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Affordable Honeymoon destinations Do Exist!</strong></p>
<div style="float: left; padding: 12px;"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-55" title="images" src="http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/images.jpg" alt="images" width="135" height="90" /></div>
<p>So you have met your soulmate and you have decided to get married. It should be a wonderfully romantic time in your lives. However, there is a lot of expense that comes along with getting married and that can leave any couples bank account feeling a bit overextended. Sometimes the thought of adding the expense of a honeymoon on top of everything else can seem like an impossibility. However, there are many different affordable honeymoon packages out there that can fit into your budget. All that you really need to do is pick which one is right for you! <span id="more-48"></span></p>
<p><strong>Las Vegas, NV</strong></p>
<p>Well Las Vegas may be known as &#8220;sin city,&#8221; but it is actually a wonderful location for honeymooners. Las Vegas has so many hotel options that you are sure to find one for you. Part of the fantastic thing about the variety of hotels available to visitors is that there is an option for every budget. You can find hotel rooms for as little as $35 a night if you look hard enough. Additionally, Las Vegas is filled with all sorts of activities to keep you busy. There are opulent shows, fantastic shopping, delicious cuisine, relaxing spas, exotic pools, and of course the tempting casinos. There is so much to do in Las Vegas that you can be sure you will not have a dull moment while on your honeymoon, and there are many honeymoon vacation packages available that include it all &#8211; air fare, accommodations, rental car &#8211; the works.</p>
<p><strong>Mexico</strong></p>
<p>If you are dreaming of heading to a sandy beach, but not sure that your budget can accommodate that desire take a look at Mexico. Mexico has several different travel locations for visitors and all of these feature gorgeous and romantic views and atmosphere. The resorts in Mexico are incredibly affordable, and offer some great water activities to its guests. The food in Mexico is also great, and very affordable. Perhaps the most appealing thing about Mexico are the all inclusive resorts. When you decide to stay at one of these resorts you can rest assured that every expense will be taken care of.</p>
<p><strong>Sedona, AZ</strong></p>
<p>If you are a couple of nature lovers then you might want to head to the Southwest. Sedona, AZ is one of the most beautiful places in the whole of the continental US. Here you can see rich red rocks sitting against the crystal blue skies of Arizona. There are many different lodging options in Sedona ranging from five star hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts. Perhaps the most economical choice is to actually look into renting a private cabin during your stay. Often you can find one with a full kitchen so that you can do your own cooking while on your honeymoon which will not only help you save some money, but is also a great way to set the stage for romance. During the day you can spend your time hiking some of the many trails that wind through the red rocks, searching out a vortex, or even taking an off-roading excursion to truly take in the gorgeous sights of the area. These various enticements make Sedona an excellent and affordable honeymoon destination.</p>
<p>There are so many different honeymoon options out there, and these are only a few of them. The key is to decide what is important to you for your trip. What type of landscape are you looking for? What temperature do you want? Once you have the answers to those questions you can start your treasure hunt for the perfect affordable honeymoon vacation!</p>
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		<title>Affordable Caribbean Cruises</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-caribbean-cruises</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 10:28:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Caribbean Vacations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cruises]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=37</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Secret to Affordable Caribbean Cruises It sounds so wonderful. You have been dreaming of cruising through the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean. The vision is so vivid that you can almost feel the warm Caribbean breezes blowing through your hair. Well, this vision does not have to stay a dream. Instead you can [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Secret to Affordable Caribbean Cruises</p>
<p>It sounds so wonderful.  You have been dreaming of cruising through the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean.  The vision is so vivid that you can almost feel the warm Caribbean breezes blowing through your hair.  Well, this vision does not have to stay a dream.  Instead you can make it a reality by booking your own Caribbean cruise.  <span id="more-37"></span></p>
<p>Many people are worried that they simply cannot afford the price of Caribbean cruises.  However, that is a very common misconception.  There are many different affordable Caribbean Cruises.  The key is to know how to find them.  </p>
<p>Length</p>
<p>The best way to keep the cost of your cruise under control is by adjusting the length of your cruise.  It makes sense that typically the longer your cruise the more expensive the overall price is.  Now this is not always the case, but often if you are on a limited budget you may want to stick to a 2-3 night cruise.  However, sometimes some of the longer cruises are actually lower priced per night than the shorter cruises.  It would behoove you to take a look at what each cruise costs per day to ensure that you are getting the best deal.  </p>
<p>Season</p>
<p>The Caribbean is an amazing place because it is really quite beautiful throughout the entire year.  However, the Caribbean does have a peak season and an off peak time.  The most popular time to visit the Caribbean is mid December through mid April.  During these months the islands are quite busy and generally the travel prices are significantly higher.  To really get a great bargain you may want to think about taking a cruise to the Caribbean during the off-peak season of mid April to mid December.  Though the area is still beautiful during these months there is a slight chance of bad weather.  Due to this unlikely chance there are many affordable Caribbean cruises during these months. </p>
<p>Plan Ahead</p>
<p>When you are looking to find affordable Caribbean cruises it is in your best interest to spend a bit of time planning out your trip.  Often some of the best prices can be found significantly ahead of time.  If you have several months or even a year ahead of your desired departure date you may be able to find a really wonderful cruise for a very affordable price.</p>
<p>Last Minute Bargains</p>
<p>While planning ahead can be a great way to try to save some money if you do not have that planning time you may not be completely out of luck.  Cruise lines want to fill all of their cabins on every sailing, and if you are looking for an affordable Caribbean cruise you may be able to find a last minute deal.  These deals are usually available about two to three weeks before the departure date, but if you have some flexibility or the sailing works into your schedule you may be able get a Caribbean cruise for as little as $150 per person!  </p>
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		<title>Vacationing on a Shoestring Budget!</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/vacationing-on-a-shoestring-budget</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/vacationing-on-a-shoestring-budget#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:23:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable Vacations]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=25</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You Can Take a Vacation on a Shoestring Budget! With times being as tough as they are right now you may think that taking a vacation is an impossibility. That can leave anyone feeling depressed. It seems like today we are all working harder for less money, and that endless cycle can really start to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>You Can Take a Vacation on a Shoestring Budget!</strong></p>
<p>With times being as tough as they are right now you may think that taking a vacation is an impossibility.  That can leave anyone feeling depressed.  It seems like today we are all working harder for less money, and that endless cycle can really start to wear you down.  Well, you do not have to let that depression take you over.  Instead, you should go about planning that vacation that you wish you could take.  How?  Well, it may take a little creativity, but there are affordable vacations out there that you can take advantage of.  You may not know where to go, but not to worry there are plenty of fantastic options for you.  Here are just a few ideas. <span id="more-25"></span></p>
<p><strong>Head Out to the Woods</strong></p>
<p>Camping is the ultimate budget friendly vacation.  There is something so wonderful about heading out to nature.  It is peaceful and rejuvenating.  Additionally, hanging around the campfire can be a wonderful way to reconnect with your loved ones.  Without the distractions of the television and the internet you can really get some quality time in.  Your food costs are fairly minimal for this type of vacation since you are going to be brining and cooking your own food rather than eating out at restaurants every night.  </p>
<p><strong>Road Trip!   </strong></p>
<p>There is something so fantastic about going on a road trip.  Perhaps it is the scenery whizzing by, or maybe it is the fun conversation that you have in the car.  Whatever the reason road trips are an amazing way to get out of time.  You have a lot of flexibility when it comes to a road trip.  You can choose to schedule everything out, or if you are really looking for some fun why not just start driving without a destination in mind?  Your biggest expense in terms of a road trip is really probably gas which in the grand scheme of things is pretty minimal.  Be sure that you bring plenty of snacks and some great tunes to ensure that you will have a great time.  </p>
<p><strong>Go Cruising</strong></p>
<p>There is something so soothing and peaceful about the ocean.  If you are looking for a great relaxing vacation then you might want to think about heading out to the big blue ocean.  Cruises are a great way to vacation because they are actually very affordable.  All of your food is included in the cost of a cruise fare as well as many of your on ship activities.  Many cruise lines deeply discount their fairs either for last minute departures or off season sailings.  </p>
<p><strong>Leave the Money At Home</strong></p>
<p>All-inclusive resorts are a penny pinchers dream.  If constantly worrying about how much money you have left sends you into fits then an all-inclusive resort might be the perfect vacation destination for you.  Everything  that you need is included in your resort stay cost.  Your food, drinks, cocktails, and many on site activities are all part of the package price.  Of course there are always some exclusions to this policy so be sure to check the fine print before you book a reservation, but once you have done your research you can be sure that you will have a great time on your vacation while not having to think about money.</p>
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		<title>Affordable cruises are possible</title>
		<link>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-cruises-are-possible</link>
		<comments>http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/affordable-cruises-are-possible#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:51:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cruises]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.shoestringgetaways.com/?p=44</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have you ever been on a Caribbean cruise? If not, then it is definitely something you might want to look into. These vacations are known for their high class and elegance, yet these cheap Caribbean cruises are very affordable. There are actually three main cruise lines that you should look up if you are interested. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Have you ever been on a Caribbean cruise? If not, then it is definitely something you might want to look into. These vacations are known for their high class and elegance, yet these cheap Caribbean cruises are very affordable. There are actually three main cruise lines that you should look up if you are interested.<span id="more-44"></span></p>
<p>Shopping for the best cruise deals online is the secret to finding an amazing cruise for a discounted price. There are a many websites that allow you to search across all the cruise lines and many of the larger discount travel sites to pull together the best package deals for cruise vacations. The tips below will help you find the best prices for discount tours to exotic cruise destinations all over the world.</p>
<p>In a troubled economy such as the one we are witnessing, there are small drops in the cruise lines revenues. This leads to ridiculous deals on cruise ships year around. On Norwegian Cruise lines the 3rd and 4th passengers are from $99 bux. Other cruise lines have special deals for the children to ride free. For taking a cruise with family keep to a strict budget. The money you save on the base cruise price can easily be spent on extras one your on the cruise.</p>
<p>The most noticeable savings you can receive from taking a discount cruise is by paying for all of your vacations expenses in one lump some at the beginning of your trip. When you pay for a discount cruise, you are essentially paying for lodging, transportation, and meals, as well as access to many shipboard activities and excursions that make your vacation memorable and fun. When taking a discount cruise you also save money by not having to book separate hotel accommodations at each port, as you would if you were just going to visit islands on your own. You save an astonishing amount of money by also being able to eat all day long on the cruise without having to pay an extra dime out of pocket.</p>
<p>Use a service to find cheap cruises. In today&#8217;s traveling society. There are plenty of resources that will find you the most affordable cruise for whatever it is you want to do. Whether it is cruising the Caribbean or traveling through Europe , services are available to help you find the most affordable cruises and often guarantee them at the lowest price.</p>
<p>Discount Cruises are like a sale cruise in which the line is making a temporary price reduction or special in order to attract business. Again this often works extremely well for the individual wanting to make sure they get on at an extremely affordable price. Like with the last minute cruises, you must strike while the iron is hot. These specials usually don&#8217;t last that long and it is very important to jump at the chance when you see fit.</p>
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