Category Archives: Travel
5 Family-Friendly Summer Activities
The summer months bring an inherent spirit of adventure. Days are longer, the weather is warmer, and school is a distant memory. Though the demands placed on parents don’t change much from the rest of the year, carving out a few hours here and there for summer fun is good for the whole family.
If you only do five family activities this summer, make sure you include these:
- Watch fireworks. What is more memorable than sitting under a warm, starry sky and watching it erupt into a spectacular fireworks show? The Fourth of July is a popular fireworks holiday but many communities also schedule these outdoor celebrations throughout the summer. Bring popcorn and sodas and make it a complete family event.
- Join a summer reading program. It is true that kids need some down time in the summer, but it is also important to avoid the summer slide–a phenomenon that actually hurts children academically when classes start again in the fall. Stop by your local library and pick up a summer reading program brochure. To promote these reading initiatives, many libraries will also host free family events that correlate with the reading program theme.
- Go camping. Hook your car up to the back of the family RV with a car tow dolly, pack your cooler with s’mores supplies, and gear up for family fun outdoors. If your family is new to camping, you may want to start by renting a cabin and then going with more rugged accommodations down the road. Find a campsite that caters to your family preferences (hiking trails, bike trails, beach access) and enjoy the great outdoors!
- See a movie. Maybe this isn’t exactly an opportunity to bond with nature, but it is certainly a lot of fun. Every summer is packed with family-friendly movies, giving you the chance to do something special for your kids. Save this for a rainy day, or make it the headline event of your weekend.
- Visit the beach. You don’t necessarily have to drive to the ocean to enjoy the fun of the beach. Use dinghy towing to load up your motor home and your car with beach gear, like chairs, rafts, and a beach umbrella, and take a day trip to the closest lake or pond that allows swimming. Remember to pack a lunch and plenty of sunscreen to fully enjoy your day on the shore.
Summer family activities do not have to cost a lot of money. You will notice that I did not mention amusement or water parks on my list. Focus instead on creative ways to get away–whether you visit a campsite on a less-expensive weeknight or buy a used car dolly to haul your beach gear–and your memories will be much sweeter and stress-free.
5 Reasons Your Family Needs a Road Trip
This summer millions of families will hit the road in the U.S. Road trips remain the most popular form of travel in America, with 76 percent of people saying they prefer auto travel to air, trains, or boat travel. For families, road trips provide more than an end destination. Take a look at these other reasons your family needs to hit the road this summer:
- Forced conversation. It is so easy to escape from each other in daily routines, but a road trip makes that impossible. Even if you opt for a larger vehicle through a RV sales retailer, space is limited–making a road trip the perfect opportunity for reconnection.
- Scenery. There is something to be said of the view from an airplane, but seeing the U.S. from the road is an experience unmatched by other forms of travel. The climate and landscapes change so dramatically from one state to the next, and even within states, keeping road travel interesting and full of new opportunities.
- Memory making. When you travel by auto or RV, there are multiple chances for making memories every day. Whether you stop to snap a picture at the Grand Canyon, or a sign with family significance, your options for new experiences are limitless.
- Multiple destinations. Instead of just one final location, a road trip affords many mini-vacations along the way. Stop at hotels along the way or rent Fleetwood Motorhomes and stay at developed campgrounds along your route. Plan activities for each stop, or look for spontaneous opportunities instead. When their classmates ask your kids where they went on summer vacation, they will have more than one answer.
- Real-life history lessons. How can you really explain the Rocky Mountains with a text book? Or the rolling hills of Virginia? Or the sparkling aqua water of the Florida Keys? When you drive across America, there is a sense of pride and patriotism at every turn. Consider a themed road trip that focuses on a particular part of American history, like the Civil War or pioneer days, and then plan your itinerary accordingly.
Plan a summer trip that your family will always cherish by choosing to hit the road. Brave the confines of your family car or visit a Phoenix, Indianapolis, or Orlando RV dealer to upgrade your road trip plans. Taking a family road trip is a way to have an adventure together–and see the best attractions, scenery, and history the country has to offer in the process.
Affordable Retirement Travel Tips
Retirement ushers in an whole new exciting chapter of life. The years that you spent in the rat race become a distant memory as you enjoy a more leisurely approach to life. For many retired people, that includes travel. It is estimated that 80 percent of all leisure travel in the U.S. is funded by baby boomers. With a higher life expectancy, however, many retirees are hesitant to spend too much of their nest egg on luxuries like 
travel.
If you have always dreamed about travel in your retirement, but want to be conservative in your spending, consider these simple ways to do both:
Buy an RV. If you plan to be on the road a lot, save yourself the hotel and airfare costs over time by purchasing your own recreational vehicle. If the price tag on a new one is too high for you, consider buying a used RV instead. There could be people in your own area that are selling a Heartland motor home, or a used Winnebago. Look for reduced prices before you pay full price for one.
Join travel clubs. You may be able to score discounts through organizations like the AARP or AAA. If you are retired military, you may have access to even more cost-saving options. If there is a particular hotel chain you prefer, check for loyalty programs that help you earn free nights over time. Even small savings add up in the long run, especially if you plan to travel often.
Be flexible. With retirement comes more wiggle room in your schedule. Check travel sites frequently to scope out deals on places you want to travel. If you are interested in international trips, do some research into “off” season times when airfare and travel costs will be lower.
Ask around. Reach out to family and friends who live in areas you would like to visit and see if they are willing to host you for a few nights, or at least give you local recommendations. For example, friends living in Orlando may know local spots to purchase discount theme-park tickets or nice condo rental options that are cheaper than hotels.
By thinking creatively, you can stretch your retirement dollars to fund more travel excursions. Visit RV buyers and online travel sites to track down the best deals based on where you want to travel, and when. There is really no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy the fruits of your many years of labor and have financial peace of mind at the same time.
5 Great RV Destinations
Family road trips are a staple of the summer months. AAA reports that a record number of travelers, 34.9 million, hit the road alone on Memorial Day weekend. If that is any indication of what this summer will bring, Americans will be taking advantage of the warm months to escape routine for awhile.
Whether taking a weekend trip or heading out for several months on the road, RV dealers are a good place to start your planning. Here are five road trip destinations that are best enjoyed in an recreational vehicle:
The Grand Canyon. Is there really any other way to experience
this wonder of nature than by camping out for a few days? Make a reservation at a developed campground maintained by the National Park Service for access to the best natural attractions. While you are there, take a scenic hike or go whitewater rafting.
South Padre Island, Texas: Many people only know South Padre because of its party-all-night reputation, but beyond the nightlight scene, the area offers a National Seashore with fantastic fishing options. The location is a short RV drive to Corpus Christi–home of the Texas State Aquarium and other cultural attractions.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts: It seems that every town on the Cape has its own laid-back charm to offer tourists. Take advantage of delicious lobster as you wheel through scenic seascapes and visit the beaches of the Cape Cod National Seashore.
The Florida Keys: There really is no better way to enjoy the breathtaking blues and greens of the ocean in America’s Southernmost region than in a Winnebago RV. There was a reason why Ernest Hemingway called the sleepy area home for many years. Spend a few days snorkeling the corral reefs of Big Pine Key before enjoying the nightlife of Key West.
Olympic National Park, Washington: The Pacific Northwest offers scenic views unheard of in other areas of the country that include expansive coastlines, redwood forests, and mountain peaks. Olympic National Park offers RV visitors the change to hike through forests and reel in a few at salmon fisheries. This is an especially good place to begin a coastal road trip that extends into Northern California.
When it comes time to plan your summer getaway, consider renting or buying a traveling comfort vehicle from a Phoenix RV dealer. There really is no better way to see the country than by road–and an RV provides you the luxury and space to really enjoy the time away from home.
5 Technology Must-Haves for Studying Abroad
The number of students that study abroad is at a record high, with over 3.7 million enrolling in secondary education courses outside their country of citizenship. Studying abroad as a college student will prove to be one of the most enriching, memorable experiences of your life. Exercising your independence as a young adult and learning a thing or two about the rest of the world will influence your decisions and career for decades to come. 
The best part about contemporary study abroad programs is that technology makes it easy to stay in touch while you are away. Take a look at these must-have items for strong communication while you study outside your home country:
- Tablet. You will likely take your laptop with you to study, or at least have access to a computer lab while you are away. Consider investing in a tablet too if you don’t already have one. These lightweight devices are easy to transport in your carry-on bag and can be used for e-reading, emailing, and entertainment on the journey and at your destination.
- Hotspot. Do not assume that your destination will provide Wi-Fi access. Bring along your own prepaid wireless hotspot so that you always have a way to get online wherever you go. These devices are often smaller than a cell phone and fit easily in backpacks, purses, and even pockets.
- Webcam. While it is nice to talk on the phone, seeing your loved ones is a much better way to communicate when you study abroad. If you have a smartphone, you may already have a video chat option. If not, purchase a simple webcam to attach to your computer and be sure the people you want to talk with have one on their end too.
- International wireless provider. You may have excellent wireless coverage at home, but does your carrier have service where you are traveling? It is smarter to look into international phone service options for the time you are away than to roll the dice with your current provider. Consider just paying for the airtime that you use with international data plans.
- Digital camera. It’s true that most smartphones provide excellent photography options but make sure you have a separate camera too. If your phone is ever lost or stolen, those pictures will be gone too. Buy a medium-priced digital camera to accompany you in your travels and plenty of memory cards too.
Explore the world while keeping close contact with home. With all of the technology available to today’s students, combining the best of both worlds is possible and affordable. Just remember to put your electronics down once in awhile and just enjoy the view too.
5 Must-Have Items for Student Pilots
Student pilots have a lot to think about and much to learn. The FAA reports that nearly 60,000 new student pilots will fly single-engine planes this year.
Between hitting the books and in-flight hours, a pilot-in-training h
as a lot to keep organized in order to succeed early in his or her career. People who have been in flight school for a while have learned a few tricks of the trade through practice and some trial and error. Here are some must-haves for every student pilot to make in-flight training more streamlined:
Flight gloves: This keeps sweaty hands from sliding on aviation equipment. Many are also designed to protect hands from fire, which is especially helpful for military flyers.
Quality headphones/headsets: In order to best communicate with the ground, pilots need a convenient, hands-free way to listen and respond. Consider a David Clark headset, or Sennheiser headphones that you bring along on all your training flights. Rather than relying on whatever headsets are provided on a plane-to-plane basis, bring the ones you are comfortable in and accustomed to using.
Marker board: Many student pilots say that, instead of a notebook and pen, they bring along a dry erase board. Different colored markers can help distinguish and categorize different items more easily. Text can be swapped out mid flight too to reflect the next leg of the trip.
Laminated checklists: Part of pilot training is learning the long checklist of flight procedures. Student pilots who are really serious about acing this list should type it up and then laminate it for protection. These documents can be easily rolled and placed in a flight bag.
Headlamp: At some point, every student pilot has to fly at night. There is limited lighting inside aircraft cockpits, so a headlamp is super helpful. These can be purchased at a pilot shop or even a hiking or outdoor recreation retailer. This provides a student pilot with extra light to read checklists and locate controls.
Sunglasses/Prescription glasses: The light is different and much brighter up in the air. Many first-time pilots are surprised at how sensitive their eyes become in the new light circumstances. Invest in a powerful pair of sunglasses that you can keep in your flight bag and reserve for in-air time only. If you normally wear contact lenses, buy an extra pair of glasses for your flight bag in case you lose a contact lens during flight or your eyes become irritated.
Aviation-specific items are not the only things that will improve your experience in flight training. These practical items ensure that you are always prepared for the elements during flights so you can concentrate on piloting the aircraft.
Fly in Style: International Travel Must-Haves
Preparing for a trip overseas takes some serious planning. You must consider everything from bottled water to electrical outlet adapters to ensure the best trip possible. The U.S. Travel Association reports that nearly 42 percent of Americans report flying for pleasure and 48 percent for business annually. Whether traveling for fun or for work, take a look at these 10 must-have items to make the most of your international journey.
- Headphones: Look for noise-cancelling headphones to tune out noise on airplanes and in hotel rooms. You may be sleeping at odd times, so it is important to have a means of blocking out the daytime (or nighttime) noise of your destination.
- Smartphone battery extender: Invest in a better battery, or at least an extender, for your smartphone. You will use your phone for navigation or business reviews, which will drain your power quickly with fewer opportunities to charge.
- Slip-on shoes: When you are flying, wear comfortable slip-on shoes to make getting through security a breeze.
- Sleep mask: Give yourself a better shot at sleeping any time of day with a sleep mask that blocks out the daylight.
- Comfortable pullover: It is much easier to add clothing when the temperature drops than to remove your base outfit. Buy a fleece pullover specifically for travel, or throw your favorite sweatshirt in your carry-on bag.
- Snacks: If you are traveling with kids, snacks are essential. Pack some nonperishable food in your carry-on and luggage. Items that travel well include granola bars, cereal, and pretzels.
- Outlet adapter: Find a universal adapter that works no matter what country you visit. You may actually want to buy several of these.
- WiFi hotspot: Rent a prepaid WiFi hotspot when you travel overseas. You never know what the global Internet access charges will be at your destination. Play it safe and pack your own mobile Internet connection.
- Business cards: Who knows what connections you might make during your travels? Even if you are not traveling for business, pack a few cards with your contact information in case an opportunity arises.
- First aid kit: Prepare a small kit with some basic items, like bandages, burn cream, and pain relievers. This will save you from paying higher prices for these items in tourist areas.
You may also want to consider buying a travel router, wireless printer, or portable scanner if you often take international business trips. What items are on your must-have packing list when you travel internationally?
Gear Up for Summer Road Trips
As the weather warms up across the country, residents previously bound by cold winter conditions are beginning to plan summer getaways. In 2012, 140 million Americans planned summer travel. With the economy in even better shape this year, that number is sure to rise. 
One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the country is by taking a road trip. With planned stops at points of interest, the right road trip can feel like quite the adventurous vacation. If you plan to hit the road for several months, consider motorhomes for sale to increase your level of comfort in traveling.
Here are some other items you will want to have on-hand to make all of your summer road trips successful:
- GPS: There is really no reason to use an outdated map or atlas when the technology exists to streamline your directions. You do not even have to invest in a sophisticated system for your vehicle. Most smartphones have applications that will give you turn-by-turn directions and alert you to traffic problems.
- Food storage: If you buy a motor home from a Palm Beach RV dealer, or any dealer around the country, you will have built-in options for storing and preparing food. If you are planning a shorter trip in a smaller vehicle, invest in a new cooler and special plastic storage bins for your food. Having an organized system for meals and snacks will mean you spend less money buying unhealthy fast food on the road.
- Easy listening: Make sure you have plenty to listen to on the drive. This may mean creating CDs for the trip or downloading new tunes on your portable music device. If there are books that you have been wanting to read, download audiobooks to listen to on the road.
- Memory makers: Pack your digital camera and buy a special journal just for the trip. When you are home again, align the photos with each journal entry to ensure that you never forget the details of the trip.
The most important thing that you can take with you on a road trip is a spirit of adventure. Don’t be afraid to veer off course once in awhile to enjoy the journey. Whether you are in a large Heartland RV or a small two-door sedan, take in all that this great nation has to offer in scenic appeal. With the right planning, this summer may be your most memorable one yet.
Questions to Ask before Becoming a Pilot
Most consider a career as a pilot as one of the most exciting careers that exist. Travel to new places, the thrill of being up in the sky, and above-average pay are all reasons that people decide to make a career of flying. Some people simply find pilots’ jackets and other aviation supplies glamorous.
If you are considering this field, there are some important things to think about first. Here are six questions to answer before starting down a career as a pilot:
What type of aircraft do you want to fly? You should determine upfront if you want to fly people commercially, transport cargo, or work in a military capacity. Training programs vary based on the kind of aircraft you plan to fly. Compare the duties of each category of pilots to determine which one best fits your personality.
How much travel are you okay with? At first, the idea of worldwide travel at your employer’s expense may sound glamorous, but for many pilots, the novelty quickly wears off. Some flights do not even allow enough time for the pilot to enjoy the city where he or she flew before having to pack up flight bags and hop on another aircraft back home. If you want to fly during your working hours no matter how much of the world you actually get to see, then the job is probably right for you.
Can you work odd hours? Before you pack up your pilot accessories for a career into the great unknown, remember that a pilot does work the same shifts as the rest of the world. Sure, some pilots earn six-figure incomes, but they must work long hours, at night, and on holidays. Commercial, cargo, and military flights run around the clock–pilots must have the flexibility to accommodate any shift.
How can this career benefit me? This is an important question to ask of all jobs. The obvious answer with many is the financial gain. But since you are choosing a career to last your entire working lifetime, you should consider non-material factors too. Not every day of any career will be sunshine and rainbows, but overall, will you be happy as a pilot? It may be helpful to find a pilot mentor that can give you honest advice on the career, its benefits, and its challenges. Ask pointed questions and ask that the veteran pilot give you the truth.
