Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and every traveler wants to takebeautiful photographswhile on vacation so they document and share their visual story. The biggest mistake vacationers (and people) make is thinking a fancy new camera is the answer, when actually technique is more important than equipment. If you learn its capabilities, practice and learn how to avoid a few pitfalls, you can take beautiful photographs with almost any camera. Preferred Guest Resortshas culminated a top 10 list of tips and techniques from several of the world’s best travel photographers so you can take better photographs while on your Best Vacations Ever journey to picturesque family destinations:
Read the camera’s manual, and learn all its controls and features so you’re prepared. TIP: More advanced information in expanded versions is often downloadable on retailer websites.
Learn what “resolution” is and set your camera for the highest resolution possible. It makes digital altering/editing later much easier, especially if you want to make a vacation storybook. Get multiple large-file holding memory cards because high-rez photos create larger files and take up more room. TIP: Travelers take many more photographs than they expect, so you could be in a destination where it is too hard to buy one or have to pay higher tourist costs.
Practice good focus methods—it’s the number one thing to ruin a photo. Learn how to use your automatic focus, which usually requires a half shutter press. Use the “macro” mode for very close-up shots. Auto focus often works better than manual. Pros often ignore auto focus and use metering to take better photos. TIP: If your auto photos turn out of focus, definitely try manual. You can capture some great close-up on manual at the theme parks and beaches.
Learn how your camera works in varying light; Inside, outside and different times of the day when you get to your Preferred Guest Resorts’ vacation destination. Photos turn out very different in the varying forms of light. Also learn when to use your flash. TIP: Use your flash carefully; don’t use it when you don’t have to.
Avoid red-eye by having people avoid looking directly into the camera or using a “bounce light.” Aiming your flash above the subjects’ heads, especially with surrounding light walls, will help avoid red-eye, too. TIP: Look around for color; red will draw into a person’s eye. There is a lot of color at theme parks for great images.
Avoiding directly looking into the camera helps prevent red-eye and also creates more dramatic candid photos.
Learn how to set your white balance—the most underused feature—that compensates for different kinds of lighting and how to set it for conditions like cloudy days, shade or bright sun in your vacation destination.
Learn what ISO speed is, and set it to the lowest setting for posed or slow-moving photographs. TIP: This setting is perfect for group or tripod shots while on vacation.
Before shooting, stand very still, frame and focus the photo creatively in your mind; then in your viewfinder. TIP: Avoid distractions and cluttered backgrounds in the photo when needed, although clutter can add texture and detailing to a photo, especially if you’re at a colorful attraction, theme park or exotic beaches while traveling on your Preferred Guest Resorts’ Best Vacation Ever.
Try interesting angles that show minimum shadow and maximum color. Take a risk, and use the Photographers Rule of Thirds, where primary points sit along third lines. Horizon or other lines should not cut the picture in half. TIP: Divide your frame into thirds, and don’t put your subject in the middle of the frame, a helpful tip for any travel photo you take.
Use lines, shapes, color and light to give depth and interest to an image, and add a dramatic, artistic effectto photographs, especially while in picturesquePreferred Guest Resorts’ vacation destinations.
If a picture tells a thousand words, fill your memory cards and share your expansive journey with more beautiful travel photographs than ever before. Remember, the more practice and the more images you take, the greater your eye becomes behind the lens. Preferred Guest Resorts’ promotional vacation packages can send you to amazingly affordable destinations and your Best Vacations Ever, so call 800-656-2780 today to book a vacation you’ll never forget, especially with brilliant photographs.
What are some of your tips and tricks for taking better photographs while traveling?
Planning a vacation at the magical theme parks of Walt Disney World® Theme Parks? Given how many parks actually make up Walt Disney World® Resort—the Magic Kingdom® Theme Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Epcot®—not to mention its water parks and all the other activities you have planned on your vacation itinerary, you’ll be hard-pressed to find time to check out every attraction, ride and show at every park.
That’s why Preferred Guest Resorts has done some heavy legwork for you and found out the favorite rides/shows of travelers at Walt Disney World Theme Parks. On your Best Vacation Ever, make sure your family’s ticket packages include the Park Hopper® option, so you can bounce park to park as you please, and if you plan on a return visit in the future, opt for the No Expiration option. Also take advantage of any Magical Hours that are designed to let a handful of people in early, and be sure to grab FAST PASSES for rides you absolutely must try before you leave—at least the ones that offer FAST PASSES, which give you a window of time to come back and walk right on the ride… no waiting in line. Just return during the window of time they give you on the FAST PASS and you basically walk right on.
Based on fellow Best Vacations Ever travelers’ feedback, Preferred Guest Resorts identified a few of the must-do rides and must-see shows for each of the four main theme parks that offer the most fun for the young and the nostalgic young at heart. For a whole new set of thrills and chills, you can also check out Walt Disney World® Resort’s two water parks, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Check out the wet and wild fun on the Walt Disney World® Resort website. As far as the main theme parks go, here’s our top picks for the best rides and shows at Walt Disney World® Resort:
BEST RIDES AND SHOWS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD® THEME PARKS:
MAGIC KINGDOM® THEME PARK:
Enjoy spins, twirls, whirls, twists and drops on the super-fast railroad ride of Big Thunder Mountain.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad® – A super fun and fast roller coaster with fun dips, twists and roundabouts that are not especially scary, so the more adventurous kids and adults will really like it. With cliffs and canyons, Big Thunder Mountain is fast and fun!
Pirates of the Caribbean® – One of the most classic and enjoyable Magic Kingdom rides of all time—always managing to stay fresh and entertaining. Board your boat and drop 14 feet over a waterfall into treasure-filled caves! Then float through a town where pirates pillage and Captain Jack Sparrow hides from pursuers. It’s a “yo ho, yo ho” lot of fun, but a slow ride through cannonball shots during a ship-to-shore battle that may be loud for sensitive young ears. Prepare them ahead of time because it can be load and somewhat scary. Prepare to spend a small fortune on incredible souvenirs the kids will be begging for, too!
Splash Mountain® – Wind through bayous, caves and watery byways in a log boat, then hold onto your cap hold for the 52-1/2-foot drop finale. Kids get a kick out of it, but make sure they check out the final drop, which can be spotted just outside the ride before getting on.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin®– Based on the Disney Pixar Movie Toy Story, it’s just like being smack dab in the middle of a Buzz Lightyear video game, with colorful characters, flashing lights and laser shooters. Climb into your own space cruiser and compete with family members as you shoot laser guns at targets, with your final score provided at the end. Some heated competitions have taken place—rounds and rounds.
Haunted Mansion® – Though it’s quite tame and more fun than scary, with humorous fake ghosts at the end that stow away in your ride-along buggy, the beginning may scare some younger kids. Prepare them ahead of time that its not at all as scary as they think, and it will be more fun and entertaining than frightening!
Peter Pan’s Flight – A classic ride that has a true Disney magical feel as you soar through the sky in a ship, and watch the classic fairytale unfold with Peter and all his friends. It’s a great, cool ride for escaping the summer heat, too.
Mickey’s PhilharMagic – Ideal for families, this 3D show is a lot of fun and filled with lots of traditional Disney characters.
Astro Orbiter® – A fun spin for two people high above Tomorrowland with spectacular view from orbit as you dip and rise.
Space Mountain® – Mimicking a rocket blastoff, this super fast, twisting, dropping roller coaster in the dark is a signature yet recently renovated classic Disney ride and may be a bit scarier for younger kids than the open-air, open-eye Thunder Mountain.
Jungle Cruise – A family-fun 1930’s-style safari boat through the world’s most exotic, untamed rivers. Brave wild animals and silly goings-on in Asia, Africa and South America on this riverboat Disney classic.
Wishes™ Nighttime Spectacular – The biggest, brightest fireworks extravaganza in Magic Kingdom theme-park history over Cinderella’s castle and if you look closely, Tinkerbelle actually takes flight from the castle top to kick it off! This also is a great time to catch last-minute rides with short lines since most of the crowd is watching the closing show.
Cinderellabration – Great fun for kids, especially daughters into all the Disney princesses. Boys may get a little restless, but it’s a great family spectacle.
DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM® THEME PARK:
Festival of the Lion King – The No. 1 must-see show even for locals. It always receives high praise. Based on the Disney movie The Lion King, it’s a spectacular Broadway-style musical show that’s fun for the whole family and a great, 30-minute escape in a cool theater during hot summer months.
Expedition Everest® – A high-altitude, high-speed roller coaster through big drops, hairpin turns and a close encounters with Yeti, the inhospitable inhabitant of the Forbidden Mountain. A super fun ride, but it may be a bit much for younger kids and senior adults.
Kids will have longtime smiles and families will have lifelong memories from Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks on your Best Vacation Ever through Preferred Guest Resorts.
Kilimanjaro Safaris® Expedition – A rugged Jeep ride through an African savanna filled with real wild animals, poachers and some minor special effects that add to the fun and experience. Great for the whole family. No two safaris are the same, so go a couple times, if you can.
Finding Nemo–The Musical – A fun, 30-minute musical-theater adaptation of Disney Pixar’s movie Finding Nemo that will amaze audiences of all ages.
Liberty Square Riverboat – A fun family cruise on the Rivers of America in an authentic 3-tiered paddlewheel steamship. The scenic, half-mile tour cruises Frontierland, Liberty Square and Tom Sawyer Island.
Kali River Rapids® – Great family fun but expect to get wet as you rage the Chakranadi River rapids in a big raft through an Asian rainforest, then drop into gushing geysers and drift under waterfalls. During the hot summer months, the splashes are quite refreshing, but do be careful and stow your electronics as the instruct in the raft because some people cone off head-to-toe soaked.
Primeval Whirl® – A very different but fun carnival type of coaster (height requirement). Most kids love it but some get a bit scared. But adults have delighted in its spins, whirls, twirls and hair-pin turns. Height requirement required, but it is right in the middle of a large kids’ area with carnival-style games including prizes and fun activities the whole family can enjoy.
Dinosaur – A dark ride in a Time Rover through the Cretaceous era. It’s a good time, but it’s very loud and very bumpy as you ride through the dark with roaring dinosaurs. It may be a bit too load and rocky at some points for younger kids—even a bit scary for some—and it may be a bit harsh on those adults with bad backs or neck problems as you’re tossed around a lot.
The Boneyard® – When you need to sit a spell, let the kids become paleontologists on a sandy, dinosaur playground where they can excavate fossils, climb through tunnels, and wind their ways through a giant, multilevel maze with slides and much more.
Maharajah Jungle Trek® – Experience the wilds of the mystical Anandapur Royal Forest of Southeast Asia, encountering majestic tigers, a Komodo dragon, wild bats, deer and more than 50 species of exotic birds amid ancient ruins and murals.
Wildlife Express Train – A fun, rustic African train that runs 1.2 miles between the Harambe, Africa and Rafiki’s Planet Watch areas. See animal housing and care areas for rhinos, elephants and other species.
It’s Tough to be a Bug!® – Super fun 3D theatrical, multimedia show in the Tree of Life hosted by the ant Flik from Disney Pixar’s A Bug’s Life. Fun surprises make adults giggle as much as the kids.
DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS®:
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ – Another signature Disney thrill ride that drops passengers several floors without warning in an old building’s elevator. Very scary but very fun for adrenaline junkies. But this wild ride is really not for the faint at heart.
Rock n’ Roll Roller Coaster® –Fast, scary, exhilarating coaster, but not one for the little kids. This high-speed coaster is enhanced by a soundtrack recorded by the rock legends Aerosmith. Quite possibly the best coaster out of all the parks. Prepare for a long wait, or try the single rider line (faster) if you don’t mind sitting without your partner.
Fantasmic! – A nightly spectacular, 25-minute nighttime fireworks and water show starring Mickey Mouse and a bevy of Disney Characters, classic Disney music and songs, laser lights and amazing hydrotechnic effects. It’s crowded and you need to get there early, but it’s worth it as on of the best shows at Disney World.
Beauty and the Beast–Live on Stage – A lavish, 25-minute, Broadway-style musical that’s great for all ages, but it’s especially favored by young and old females alike.
Toy Story Mania!® – Play through an interactive, 4D attraction featuring the cast of characters from the Disney Pixar Toy Story films.
Star Tours® – New adventures, now in 3D, complete with new Star Wars destinations and the classic characters like C-3PO, R2-D2 and Darth Vader.
Indiana Jones™ Epic Stunt Spectacular! – Another classic Disney stunt show spectacular that re-enacts some of the most exciting adventures of the first Indiana Jones film. This wild stunt show with all the modern special effects is super fun for the whole family.
The Great Movie Ride – A ride through the middle of some of the greatest movie scenes in history, from 1930’s gangster flicks to contemporary sci-fi classics. Fun for all ages with some special effects that may be tad scary for the wee ones, but they’re brief. To prepare for those moments, sit them next to you but on the inside of the tram.
Lights, Motors, Action!® Extreme Stunt Show® —Great family fun and q favorite for young boys and fans of Lightening McQueen animated movie Cars. The 33-minute live attraction is great for the whole family and reveals the film-making secrets behind complex vehicle stunts and electrifying pyrotechnics, which is really fun for all, but especially young boys and boys at heart.
Voyage of the Little Mermaid – A unique, 15-minute live show that recreates the magic of Ariel’s underwater world; based on the popular Disney movie The Little Mermaid.
Studio Backlot Tour – A thrilling 35-minute, behind-the-scenes guided walk and tram ride that’s great for all ages and a nice chance to get off your feet for a while as you see how some of the most spectacular special effects in movies are made. Some controlled explosions (with fire) and special effects might be a little scary for young ears, but you’ll have an idea when they might be coming up and can sit the kids inside the middle of your tram row.
EPCOT®:
Soarin’™ – A serene, simulated hang-gliding experience perfect for all ages. Experience the feeling of free flight from 40 feet in the air with scenic panoramas that include the Golden Gate Bridge, Malibu and LA. Take a deep breath as you pass over the field of orange groves and you’ll capture the scent of orange blossoms.
Spaceship Earth – Perfect for all ages, this slow, smooth, air-conditioned slow-moving ride through the signature Epcot globe. The 16-minute ride transports you through 40,000 years, from the dawn of recorded time to modern day.
Mission: SPACE® – Super fun for adults, but it can be scary and cause some upset tummies in sensitive kids afterward since there’s quite a bit of spinning, though a less-intensive option is now available. It’s definitely not for claustrophobics either. You turn into an astronaut on this realistic space flight to Mars, traveling 8,000 miles in 5-1/2 minutes on a journey dodging meteors as you attend to aeronautical duties. A strong stomach and a heavy dose of bravery are much needed for the original version.
Test Track – A very fun, very different ride for the classic park, but a top favorite and must-do ride for park visitors. It can be a little scary, but most adults and many kids really like it. If you have any health problems, though, sit this one out! Also prepare for long lines. You can get through much faster by using the single rider line, unless you must sit with your partner.
Epcot’s® World Showcase – OK, so it’s not really a ride, but global exploration is so exciting and adventurous, we had to put it on the list. Explore the cultures of 11 international countries and their pavilions filled with their own unique culture, authentic merchandise, restaurants, one-of-a-kind shopping and attractions. Countries include Mexico, Norway, Germany, France, Italy, Canada, Japan, China, Morocco and more. There’ a great restaurant and boat ride with Daffy Duck in Mexico that’s a nice retreat from the summer heat. There’s also an excellent bakery in France, as well as a winery that sometimes hands out champagne samples, and of course, a frosty pint and great fish, chips and big ole pretzels in Germany.
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth – A spectacular nightly show filled with pyrotechnics, lasers, fire and fountains on World Showcase Lagoon.
TRAVELER’S TIP: Beyond the exceptional variety of cuisine, otherworldly sideshows, performances and global souvenirs, from trinkets to high-end global luxuries, Epcot surprises many families, especially children, who have found it to be quite stimulating and a really great place to explore other world cultures, hang out, have dinner together and watch the fireworks over the lake.
Make no mistake, there’s absolutely something for everyone at every Walt Disney World® Resort Theme Parks, and Preferred Guest Resorts is thrilled to offer you such an incredible money-saving vacation opportunity to see such exciting and endless Central Florida attractions that will put longtime smiles on the kids faces and make memories that last a lifetime.
With so much to do in Orlando, call your Best Vacations Ever representative to book your travel and make sure you get premium accommodations in a hotel, resort, or luxury timeshare rental as close to all the parks and attractions on your vacation itinerary. Fall under the magical spell of Orlando, Florida, by calling Preferred Guest Resorts and starting your Best Vacation Ever today!
While on your BVE promotional vacation, there are plenty of healthy and affordable dining options at the big-name theme parks in Orlando to please everyone, and every taste bud, in the family. Health-conscious visitors will be surprised by all the healthy choices available!
A vacation used to be a license to splurge—to eat and drink whatever you wanted—but travelers today are much more conscious about healthier eating options and spreading out their family vacation splurging a little bit. A nice dinner out with all the trimmings is always great fun, especially if you’re on vacation in Orlando. But for many parents, healthy eating options are a big concern, especially on the wallets when out enjoying all the city’s theme parks and attractions during their affordable vacation in Orlando, Florida.
You can always bring your own healthy snacks and sippie cups to refill juice or water in your backpack (check park websites for policies on bringing in food and water ahead of time.). Butthere are more healthy eating options today, especially when health and fitness options are top of mind at all kinds of eating establishments—theme parks included! Just ask your vacationrepresentative at 800-656-2780 who can also help with advance ticket purchases while booking your promotional vacation package.
More and more theme-park travelers started expressing strong interests in having healthy eating options, especially after seeing the quick in-and-out joints with burgers, hotdogs, fries, and chicken nuggets,vendor stands with popcorn, decorative ice-cream treats and candy shops, and kids hyped up on too much sugar.
Moderation, obviously, is the key, but you and everyone in your family can eat healthy and still enjoy your promotional vacation in the theme-park capital of the world, so you don’t go back home 5 pounds heavier, with kids that are completely thrown off their healthy eating routines.
Healthy entrees are easier to find at the bigger restaurants at the theme parks, but the smaller, quick-serve joints do serve healthy options, too. If you take time to read the menu you’ll find plenty of alternatives to fries like Jello, applesauce, fruits slices or carrot sticks. Having two members share a meal also is a great way to monitor portion control and save money while on vacation.
Your promotional vacation package to Orlando can be as fun, healthy and affordable as you want it to be.Remember that your Preferred Guest Resorts representative can help you with any advance ticket purchases and reservations too, if you call 800-656-2780. There are plenty more options available if you just look around while you’re at the parks or if you check out the dining options at each website ahead of time. But, to give you a head start, here are a few suggestions for healthy eating options at some of Orlando’s big-name theme parks.
SeaWorld®Orlando
SeaWorld has one of the best healthy dining programs out of all the Orlando attractions, making it easy to stick to healthy eating habits. Don’t worry, there’s something to please everyone and every taste bud in the family. Along with a mesmerizing tableside view of sharks, you can get freshly prepared, upscale entrees of all varieties, from assorted salads to freshly grilled seafood and chicken at Sharks Underwater Grill. It’s may be a bit more expensive, but it’s truly memorable experience. One the kids will totally enjoy, no matter what they are eating. Makahiki Luau serves up incredible Pacific Isle cuisine that’s full of fresh fruits, salads, prime entrees, along with plenty of traditional luau entertainment. (Call your vacation representative ahead of time at 800-656-2780 too see if they can assist with the required advanced registrations.) SeaWorld also caters to vegetarians with a delicious super- low-calorie vegetable plate or a yummy garden burger at the Spice Mill. There’s also the cold veggie wrap in the Antarctic Market that’s a nice, refreshing bit to nosh on during a hot summer’s day. The delicious smells and succulent flavors from the Voyagers Smokehouse might tempt your taste buds to go off the wagon, but its just-as-flavorful yet healthy turkey sandwich is an equally delicious alternative that’s flattering on your figure, too.
Universal Orlando® Resort
Universal Orlando Resort combines adventure and healthy meals. No matter where you stop almost all of Universal’s dining options offer healthy alternatives to French fries or other high-calorie sides. Choose from veggies, side salads or fruit to help balance any meal. The Beverly Hills Boulangerie, Louie’s Italian Restaurant and Richter’s Burger Co. all offer a selection of soups, salads and sandwiches that won’t leave you feeling guilty or wondering if you’ll fit in that new swimsuit you bought for the hotel pool. When you’re in Islands of Adventure, try the Garden Burgerat Burger Digsor the ChickenCaesar Saladat Pizza Predittoria for a quick, wholesome meal that won’t leave you too full for the rides. For an award-winning meal, look for the towering rock formations, cascading waterfalls and ancient figures carved into the side of Mythos Restaurant® and get ready for a top-rated meal with a scenic view and plenty of healthy options, such as the succulent Cedar Plank Salmon. Passing in between the two parks, the healthy options abound at Universal CityWalk®, which has a host of renowned restaurants you can sit a spell for a great wholesome meal for the whole family. Head to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville® for the Caribbean Chicken Salad, or a plethora of options at restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe®, Emerils® Restaurant Orlando, NBA City, Bubba Gump Shrimp™ and many more.
Walt Disney World® Resort
Healthy snacking is the key to keeping both parents and kids happy while visiting the most magical place on earth.A colorful assortment of fresh fruit, veggies and juice can be found cold-packed with vendors at any of the parks, like in Animal Kingdom’s decorative Harambe Fruit Market, which entices children with its cold-packed variety of colorful fruits, water and juices. You can also find delicious, low-fat smoothiesat Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies in Magic Kingdom that are great for beating the heat while being healthy. For lunch? Head into Tomorrowland where you’ll find tofu and noodle bowls at the Terrance Noodle StationandTurkey Bacon Wrapsat Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café. Hollywood Studios also offers veggie sandwiches and a Southwest Salad with chicken at Starring Rolls or Backlot Express. There’s no skimping on flavor to eat healthy at Animal Kingdom’s Yak & Yeti, with its Mandarin Chicken Salad, or the hibachi-style grilling Teppan Edo or the many eateries in the countries atEpcot®. There are also a bounty of options for healthy eating at the many eateries withinthe countries of the World Showcase. French fries are popular and pretty much a staple item, so you’ll always find those on menus. But at least there are alternatives, like salads or fruits, that are offered at most establishments and at least one low-fat and one vegetarian entrée are now offered at all table-service restaurants.You can even satisfy your sweet tooth with a Dole Whip or a naturally super sweet mango smoothie that fills you up, too, instead of those hard-to-resist fudge bar or Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Bar. A couple during the vacation week is almost a tradition, but keep it a minimum… a special treat!
It’s much easier to eat healthy at the parks than people think, especially with so many options and a shared consciousness to serve and keep park visitors happy and healthy. Sometimes, it’s having the will power to follow through that’s the hard part. Remember, you can always stash away a few healthy treats and some water bottles in your backpack to help save money, time and stave off the kids’ boredom standing in long lines, depending on park policies you should check ahead of time online. Whatever you decide, know that there are plenty of options to suit all your needs as you and your family enjoy your promotional vacation in Orlando. Be sure to call your vacationrepresentative at 800-656-2780 for any information or assistance in booking your vacation, getting theme-park tickets or hard-to-get dinner reservations in advance, as well as notice of any dietary restrictions the hotel can be advised of. Then go ahead and have your Best Vacation Ever!
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It’s never too soon to start looking for affordable airfare. In fact, it could save you hundreds of dollars. In addition to the slashed prices you can find during two slow periods of the year, major markdowns are expected from carriers this fall.
Budgeting was already a priority when you purchased your Preferred Guest Resorts’ promotional vacation package, which was designed to offer enhanced, high-quality vacations at budget-friendly prices, for families and adults. And when it comes to traveling, you want to spend as little money as possible on airfare, right? Regardless of when you plan to travel, it’s incredibly wise to start scoping flight prices months in advance to find the the most affordable travel options. The later you wait, the greater the risk you’ll end up forking out premium or peak prices when there are plenty of chances to grab lower rates for your upcoming vacation.
Economists say you can find some of the cheapest airfare bargains about eight weeks out—a basic rule of thumb to use when planning and booking a trip, especially affordable family-fun vacations to some of the best U.S vacation spots. But according to the New York Times, major markdowns could be coming this fall when the annual “fall-off” in fares is expected to be substantial, as airline carriers are expecting more trouble than usual this year selling post-summer travel. That essentially means even bigger savings for those booking their Preferred Guest Resorts’ vacations, even during the peak seasons.
The Wall Street Journal also discovered that you can find the best bargains on airfare during two windows: At the end of AUGUST through the BEGINNING OF SEPTEMBER and the END OF DECEMBER through the BEGINNING OF JANUARY when consumers are burned out on travel and bookings come to a screeching halt. Savvy travelers know these slow time periods are the best times to grab serious money-saving opportunities on everything from airfare to theme-park tickets and car rentals so they have more fun money to spend on vacation, especially those with kids.
If you’re heading to a family-fun destination with major parks and attractions you plan on visiting, keep an eye on those vendor websites, as well. Even the big-name parks, like Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Studios® Orlando, are known to push out advance-purchase ticket package specials to entice future travelers.
During the off seasons, you also have the opportunity to save money on a variety of attractions, rentals cars and other travel-related vendors, which also feel the sting of these slow periods and push out some their best advance-purchase specials for future travel during slow periods, as well. A family of four or more can save a lot of money on airfare, tickets, cars and much more that could otherwise be a barrier for traveling if they play their cards right – or in this case, their timing right.
Even if you just got back from a trip or you’re just procrastinating, it’s always best to start looking for airfares in advance, especially with fall just around the corner and prices expected to drop considerably. Start looking for airfares online right now, and make sure to set up alerts with your favorite carriers so you get instant emails and texts sent right to your mobile devices. Airlines and travel-related vendors are now using more mobile and web-based marketing tools and apps to reach consumers faster.
It’s true that the early bird gets the worm, so why procrastinate and agonize over airfares, when the result could be major markdowns this fall? You can maximize your time and budget more effectively for your Best and Most Affordable Vacation Ever through Preferred Guest Resorts, if you start doing your homework.
Trust us and your wallet will thank us later.
So nail down those travel dates and get ready to begin your journey to magnificent destinations through the enhanced travel experiences and premium partnerships provided by Preferred Guest Resorts. Call your Preferred Guest Resorts’travel agent at 1-800-656-2780 with any questions or any assistance in booking your travel and have your Best Vacation Ever!
When you hear “top family vacations,” does your mind jump to visions of prohibitively expensive weekends in Tahoe or Vermont? Top family vacations aren’t necessarily top-dollar family vacations. With a little planning, you can have a truly memorable experience with a surprisingly reasonable price tag. At Best Vacations Ever by Preferred Guest Resorts, our job is to organize packages and do the planning for you so that you can enjoy time with your family.
Winter Mountain Vacations
If you like to ski or snowboard, or even just thrill at the thought of a warm fire and a hot drink while the world sparkles outside, you’ll love the holiday feel of a winter mountain vacation. From the Carolina Blue Ridge to the Smoky Mountains to California’s National Parks, the winter offers adventures and experiences that your family will remember for years to come.
The Carolina Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains that cross the western end of North Carolina are part of the Appalachian chain, some of the oldest mountains in the world. Several major ski slopes are located here, from Beech Mountain’s new ski resort opening its doors this December to Sugar Mountain, which features a number of early-season Winter Value Packages.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Asheville, N.C., is a cultural hub in the heart of Appalachia, home to countless small shops and restaurants, to Biltmore Estate’s lavish Christmas displays—this area offers a bountiful range of family-friendly museums and tours.
The Smoky Mountains
Over the state line in Tennessee, just far away enough away from Asheville to make the trip seem somewhat long sits the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Smokys are a beautiful getaway at any time of year, with trails and mountain views to take the breath away.
Equally attractive, especially in winter, are the vast array of indoor, family-friendly winter options available in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. From the Ripley’s Believe-It-Or-Not Museum to stage shows to art galleries and a broad range of dining experiences, you’ll find something to please every member of your family in Gatlinburg.
California’s Mountains
Yosemite National Park is a glorious winter destination that offers all the beauty and excitement of a mountainous environment with downhill skiing at Badger Pass, as well as ice skating, cross-country skiing, and ranger-led tours. Need a break from the mountain air? Go down the hill into the valley for a hike. In that sliver of time when winter begins to turn to spring, it’s worth a trip to the valley just to see the waterfalls swelled with spring melt.
Mammoth Lakes, squirreled away in California’s Sierra Nevada, is a resort town designed with the family in mind. Built around the epic skiing available on Mammoth Peak, Mammoth Lakes looks like a little Alpine Village tucked away at the mountain’s base. Dog sledding, sleigh rides, and snowmobiling are other magical-memory activities that Mammoth Lakes offers only during the coldest times of the year.
If you’ve caught on to the appeal of a mountain getaway in winter, let us show you just how beautiful it can be. Share your top family vacations spots! No matter what your vacation preference, you can find help planning your trip from Best Vacations Ever by Preferred Guest Resorts. Check us out online, or follow us on Facebook or Twitter to learn more.
While summer is the most popular time to take a trip with the family, there are some top family vacations that are more enjoyable once the cool weather arrives. Some ideas for family vacations are not even possible until the fall season. To bring a little excitement into your family’s life before the holidays hit, consider these two ideas for fun family vacations in the southeastern United States.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This national park receives more visitors every year than any other national park in the country. The natural beauty is stunning, and the diverse colors of fall are simply breathtaking. In addition to the spectacular color show that awaits you with a fall visit to the Great Smoky Mountains, you can also enjoy fishing, camping, hiking and the chance to shop in America’s greatest arts and crafts community without scorching summer temperatures. All things considered, fall is the best time for the whole family to visit the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
College Football Road Trips
The NCAA football season is in full swing, and now is the time to see your favorite teams battle it out on the gridiron. Even if they’re not playing in your neighborhood, you can go on one of the top family vacations you’ve ever had visiting stadiums in the region that feature your favorite Southeastern Conference teams. Make it a weekend family road trip to see the big game of your choice.
What is your favorite kind of family trip to take? Do you have plans for traveling with your family this fall? Connect with us on Twitter to join the conversation about family vacations! Get ideas from others, find out about promotional vacation packages and learn how to book your vacation with Best Vacations Ever!
When it is time for family fun vacations, it can be hard to decide where to go. If you want to narrow it down, consider that two of the top family vacations people choose are the mountains or theme parks. For those of us in the Southeast, that often means a choice between an Orlando vacation and the Great Smoky Mountains, both of which have some pretty terrific features.
Orlando
Calypso Cay Resort
Orlando is right in the middle of Florida, within easy driving distance of both coasts. This makes it a wonderful spot to vacation, because it gives visitors the option of leaving Orlando to experience some of the other interesting places in Florida. Places near Orlando include St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, Tampa, home to Busch Gardens, Cape Canaveral and the Canaveral National Seashore, and much more.
On the other hand, once you are in Orlando, you may never want to leave! Whether you want to spend time in the thriving downtown area, perhaps riding the swan boats on Lake Eola, take a boat tour through Winter Park’s chain of lakes, or just stick to the Kissimmee area and all the theme parks, you will surely never be bored. Theme parks in Orlando include:
Walt Disney World, including The Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Animal Kingdom
SeaWorld
Wet and Wild
Gatorland
Universal Orlando Resort including Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
Of all the National Parks in America, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited. This is because its natural beauty is breathtaking, its flora and fauna are diverse, and the Appalachian culture it helps to preserve is fascinating. Very near to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, it offers visitors such activities as:
Camping
Fishing
Hiking trails
Auto trails
The opportunity for shop for treasures, in the nation’s largest arts and crafts community
No matter what your vacation preference, you can find help planning your trip from Best Vacations Ever. With expert advice and know-how on the best ways to spend your travel time, they can help you to plan the vacation of your dreams. Check them out online, or follow them on Facebook or Twitter, to learn more.
A theme park vacation is a dream for many families, but for those trying to plan family vacations on a budget, it can be difficult to make that dream a reality. There are some tricks, however, that veteran theme park visitors know, for keeping cost down and value high. Among these techniques are several that pertain to dining at a theme park on the cheap.
Eat before you go. Having a big breakfast can push lunchtime back for your family. Load up on carbs, but make sure to have some protein to give the breakfast some staying power.
Pack a lunch. Most theme parks, Walt Disney World included, allow visitors to bring food into the park, as long as it doesn’t require heating. Bringing snacks and sandwiches can really cut down on the money you spend in the park!
Dine outside the park. Get your hand stamped, so that you can leave and come back. Then head off to eat like a local, and you will save at least 25 percent on your meal.
Utilize the dining plan. On the other hand, if packing it in or leaving to find food is not your style, find out if the park offers a dining plan. Walt Disney World, for example, offers vacation packages that include discounted dining for guests staying at one of the Disney resort properties. In addition, some park restaurants offer free meals to children, with the purchase of an adult meal. Do a little research ahead of time, and you will save your family some money.
Save money on drinks. It may seem pricey, but if the souvenir mug offered by the park comes with free drink refills, it is probably worth the money. Another strategy is to bring drink flavoring packets, and fill water bottles from the water fountains. Mix in your flavor packet, and you have a tasty beverage!
When you do spend, make it count. Steer clear of fast-food type items that you can pick up anywhere. Choose something special, since you are going to spend money that you would not normally spend.
When you are ready to plan a trip, Preferred Guest Resorts can help. Visit them on the web at BestVacationsEver.com to learn more about planning family vacations on a budget. Whether you are interested in a beach vacation, theme park, or another destination, they can offer expert advice and assistance in making arrangements.
Family fun vacations are as varied as the families who enjoy them. Your family may be a beachy bunch, or they may prefer the natural splendor of the mountains, or the rugged beauty of the desert. One thing that every vacation has in common, though, is that packing the right items is very important. Here are some must-pack items, no matter where you are headed:
A good camera. Do not miss a moment of the fun! Make sure you have a record that will be enjoyed for years to come.
Effective sunscreen. Not all sunscreens are created equal, but protecting your family from UV rays is crucial. Do your research ahead of time, and bring the correct sunblock.
Sunglasses and hats. Another important way to block harmful sun exposure is by using glasses and hats. Whether you are in the car, on the trail, at the pool, on the beach, or at a baseball game, remember to protect your skin and eyes.
Extra swimsuits. Chances are, no matter where you are headed, you will be spending some time in the water. Few things are more uncomfortable than squishing back into a cold, wet swimsuit, so make sure to bring an extra suit for each member of the family.
Good reads. Whether old or young, everyone in your group should have some quality books to devour during downtime.
Maps and travel guides. You cannot arrive if you do not know where you are going! Be sure to research your location ahead of time, and bring along some helpful guides.
Hand sanitizer. This is the parents’ best friend. Whether you prefer wipes or gel, make sure you have some tucked in a few places, so that you never end up with a germ situation that you cannot handle.
An extra bag. Most people find that the contents of the suitcase seem to expand during vacation. Make sure you have an extra bag, so that you can get it all home.
Needed medicines. In addition to any prescriptions, make sure you have pain and allergy medication. Vacations can be unpredictable, and you never know when someone is going to fall, get stung, or have some other minor crisis.
Comfortable clothes. It is imperative to have clothes in which to go out to dinner, or meet someone important. However, the clothes for traveling should be as soft and cozy as pajamas. In fact, for small children, pjs are the perfect travel wear!
Entertainment. For some families, this may mean a portable DVD player. For others, travel-sized board games. Whatever it means to your family, smart parents know that even top family vacations can sometimes be sullied by children whining about boredom. Plan ahead, and you will have a ready answer.
Vacation is the perfect time to bond with your family and take a break from your everyday surroundings. No matter where you choose to travel, it is important for people to have time to relax and recharge their batteries. Be sure to plan your packing lists carefully, so that you have less to worry about while you are away.
Some of the top family vacations these days are enjoyed at all-inclusive resorts. When it comes to family fun vacations, this option is often overlooked. For those who have not considered it, here are some reasons a family resort vacation may be right for you:
Everything in one place. Often, planning the daily itinerary for a family vacation can be very taxing. Where should you rent kayaks or bicycles? Where is the best beach? Where can you ride horseback? Resorts have a wide variety of activities, right at the resort. No need to run around town hunting down fun things to do—those fun things are right on the resort grounds.
Typically more cost-effective. Another benefit of resorts is that you know what you will pay for the vacation, ahead of time. Compared to what it costs to book activities and pay for meals on a typical vacation, all-inclusive resorts are a definite bargain.
Something for everyone. No matter the ages of your party, resorts offer fun for all. Because they are meant as a place to stay, not just to visit, you can find fun activities for kids, spa services for mom, maybe golfing for dad, and food to suit every diet. Because resorts plan fun activities and excursions for the little ones, parents can have their own kind of fun, knowing their kids are safe and busying playing.
A safe place. Particularly when traveling outside of the country, travelers may have concerns about their families’ safety. Even in the United States, a tourist may not be familiar enough with the city to know which areas are safe. Resorts offer security, and an opportunity to relax, knowing you and your family are safe.
Family resort vacations are a great way to reconnect with your loved ones. Taking your family to a resort allows you to enjoy the benefit of quality family time, without the hassle of planning your own activities. Why not give a resort a try? You can relax and enjoy your vacation, knowing you and your family are in good hands.
