Bristol, Tennessee Vacation Travel Cheap Things to Do and See

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When people think of Bristol, Tennessee they automatically think of NASCAR’s Bristol Motor Speedway. While that is a great place to visit, Bristol, Tennessee can be a great vacation destination in its own right.

A few weeks ago we had the pleasure of visiting. We found enough things to see and do to keep our family occupied over a long weekend.

Bristol, Tennessee is a short drive from two other cities in East Tennessee, Kingsport and Johnson City. The city also spills over into Bristol, Virginia. Essentially, the state line runs through the middle of town. This makes it essentially one city in two states.

There are lots of interesting things to do and see in Bristol, Tennessee. The pace is slower than what you’ll find in most cities. Life beckons you to slow down and enjoy being in a well of southern hospitality.

We did just that and we enjoyed our visit to Bristol, TN. I hope you will too.

The Steele Creek Park and Nature Center
80 Lakeshore Drive
Bristol, TN 37620
423-989-7879
http://www.bristoltn.org/steelecreekpark.cfm
Quiet and reserved, this is a little off of the beaten path. This 2,200 acre park is owned by the city. You’ll find a golf course, lodge, shelters, picnic tables, paddle boats and a 54 acre lake. It can be the perfect place to unwind or enjoy the afternoon.

The State Street Farmer’s Market
State Street, Downtown
Bristol, TN
423.764.1879
http://www.statestreetfarmersmarket.com/about.php
Ever since I was a kid I have enjoyed going to a Farmer’s Market. Bristol is no exception. Look for summer and fall events and lots of great products. Spend a little or a lot. When you shop here you are buying from farmers. Some people have farming roots that go back for generations. They’ll happily answer questions and help you select the finest produce around.

South Holston Dam
Off Highway 421
Bristol, TN 37620
423-878-6931
http://www.tva.gov/sites/sholston.htm
The Tennessee Valley Authority built this dam as a way to generate electricity and to control flooding of the South Holston River. According to the TVA Website, the dam was constructed between the years of 1942 and 1950.

Today the South Holston Dam and reservoir also acts as a tourist spot. Here you’ll find a picnic area, fishing pier, trails and visitor center. It is a great place to spend a lazy summer afternoon.

Bristol Caverns
1157 Bristol Caverns Highway
Bristol, TN 37620
423-878-2011
This is not the most inexpensive place to visit. The cavern tour features underground rock formations and lots of steps. Not for those who are physically challenged. Read the review I wrote on Bristol Caverns here.

Historic Downtown Bristol
Downtown
Bristol, TN
http://www.believeinbristol.org/
Downtown is a hub of special fun activities in the summer. You’ll find events for kids and adults. Music and entertainment features prominently on the activities calendar. Parking is usually available near the event. Check out the website for public parking lots and the event calendar.

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Why You Should Travel to Libya

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Libya is fast becoming a new, fun and exotic place to visit for many people. There is a little something for everyone to be found in this North African country. For history buffs, there are ancient cities that date back to the Phoenician Empire and World War II battle fields made famous by the Desert Fox. For those who enjoy history in the making look no further, Libya is an oil rich country that has only recently decided to join the rest of the international community. And for the brave among us who enjoy sleeping under the stars, and taking roads less traveled, I ask what could be more interesting than visiting the Sahara. Libya is certainly a country with enough variety to satisfy many palettes.

The doors to this Mediterranean jewel have only recently been opened so there would be much in the way of elbow rubbing with other tourists. And anyone who tells you that you’ll find terrorists lurking there, waiting for innocent westerners needs to recheck their facts. Libya is a country that desperately wants to be readmitted into the global community. After years of a foreign embargo, the oil rich country is seeking prosperity, and tourists welcome with open arms because they are a sign that this country has a new beginning. In fact this is a country that is doing everything it can to bring unity to the African Continent.

The first to things to consider when planning a trip to Libya are securing a visa and a guide. The process of obtaining a visa is not as daunting as it sounds. The most important, and in some cases only, step is choosing a tour company. This is because all tourists in Libya are required to have an escort. An incident occurred in 2000 in which some ancient sites were vandalized, and subsequently all tourists must be accompanied with a guide. In most if not all cases this is a good thing, especially for those who plan to visit the Sahara, because a tour guide is guaranteed to be part of your package. Also once the tour company has been paid, everything is paid for except money for shopping. Some words of advice; do as much shopping around for a tour company as possible, and to be specific about your itinerary.

Speaking of which, there is so much to do here that it really is in your best interests to plan ahead of time. Those interested in history without the adventure of the Sahara should definitely visit the capitol city of Tripoli. This is a city full of rich history; the Arch of Marcus Aurelius bears witness to this. Yet this is also a town undergoing new-found economic prosperity. It is indeed a great meeting place for past and present. World War Two buffs will definitely enjoy a trip to the city of Tobruk, the site of major battles and now memorials and cemeteries and even a bomber that crashed in the Sahara. Whatever you do don’t miss the ancient Greek city of Cyrene or the ancient Roman city of Leptis Magna and take your time at both.

If you feel like taking a worth-while trip, make sure that you see the region known as the Jebel Nafusa and the city of Ghadames. Here you can see ancient Berber architecture and an ancient African trade nexus in Ghadames.

When planning a trip into the desert be sure that you have prepared: two four wheel drive vehicles, plenty of water and food, a satellite phone and most importantly an experienced guide.

Wherever your destination, make sure that you follow some simple rules of etiquette in Libya. Even though the political climate has improved dramatically and continues to improve, most people will shy away from political conversations. Remember that Libya is a Muslim country, so be sure to dress modestly and be modest in respect to the opposite gender. Bring a gift when invited to someone’s home, and don’t turn away an offer of food or drink. Most if not all reports of Libya include good hospitality and kindness, but remember to always use caution in a foreign environment.

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Summer Travel to Italy on a Budget

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If the wind blows you to Europe this summer, you may be worried about surviving a vacation without going over-budget and spending more than you can realistically afford. When my family of four headed to Italy last summer for two weeks, staying within our budget was our first priority. Thankfully, Italy is filled with culture, varied accommodations, and delicious food that doesn’t have to break the bank. If a summer vacation to Italy is on the agenda, you’ll be pleased to hear that you can make the holiday work within a realistic budget.

Consider self-catering accommodations, sometimes outside of the city limits.

While hostels are typically the cheapest way to travel through Europe, they aren’t always known for their cleanliness, hospitality, and can’t meet the needs of families or those traveling with children or the elderly. Instead of a hostel, consider self-catering accommodations for your summer vacation to Italy.

We chose to rent a car and stay in the Tuscan countryside, in a small villa within a secluded hamlet. Sound idyllic and a little too good to be true, especially for the budget conscious? In fact, the three bedroom, 1 ½ bathroom apartment with a living room and kitchen cost only 700 Euro a week. Because we were able to shop and cook for ourselves sometimes, we not only saved money on the lodging, but on our meals as well. Even with the rental car, it was cheaper to book through To Tuscany than it would have been to stay at a hotel large enough for a family of four in a major city like Florence.

Take advantage of the free sights and traditional Italian culture at your fingertips.

Rather than spend all of your money seeing museums and pricier exhibits, consider taking advantage of the exterior architecture of a city like Florence, instead. Walk the streets with nothing but a guidebook, rather than an expensive guided tour. See the inside of Il Duomo in Florence, but skip the inside of pricier exhibits. One of the best ways to get a real feel for Italy and to take in the city you’re in is to find a good coffee shop, and sit outside with a cup of coffee or a gelato. It won’t cost you tons of money and you can spend hours immersed and soaking up the atmosphere.

Avoid the high season.

An early summer vacation to Italy can save you more money than a holiday in the late summer. July vacations are often more expensive than June’s, and you’ll avoid the dreadful summer heat by just a little bit. Accommodations are less expensive in May and June than they are in July and August, and the cities will be less crowded, too.

Take a drive or a train ride, rather than spending your days caught up in a congested and expensive city.

Some of our favorite memories from our summer vacation in Italy aren’t of the expensive meals or the artwork that we saw, but rather of the drives through Chianti and the Italian countryside. Find small villages to explore, spend a day at a pool in the Tuscan hills (our hamlet had one of it’s own for guests), or visit a vineyard and sample some of the wines fresh from the source. Day trips by train, bus, or car are highlights of an Italian holiday, and don’t cost as much as spending the day inside the city.

Italy is filled with culture, varied accommodations, and delicious food that doesn’t have to break the bank. If a summer vacation to Italy is on the agenda, you’ll be pleased to hear that you can make the holiday work within a realistic budget.

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Tips for Traveling in Asia

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So you’ve booked your ticket, mapped your route, and packed your bags. You’re almost ready for an adventure in Asia! But before you head out, here are a couple tips.

1. Chopsticks. This might seem a little obvious, but learn how to use chopsticks before your trip. Some restaurants might bring you a fork on request (or if they see you struggling), but others won’t have a fork to bring. In order to avoid embarrassment and an unintended chopstick diet, practice before you leave. You might not be an expert after only a couple of weeks, but at least you’ll be able to eat. As far as chopstick etiquette goes, lay them neatly along the edge of your bowl when you’re not eating. If you’re sharing a lot of dishes with others, use a separate serving pair of chopsticks (if provided) to put the food on your plate and then a different pair to eat with.
2. Bartering. Bartering is an essential skill if you want to leave the malls behind in favor of markets. If there’s a price tag on an item, you probably won’t be able to bargain. If not, it’s game on! You usually start by offering fifty percent less than what they offer you and work your way up. If you like the shopkeeper and it’s still quite cheap for you, barter less. If you feel that the price is unreasonable even after bartering, don’t be afraid to walk away. Even if you don’t like the price, don’t insult the product you’re trying to buy. Most importantly, smile! Bartering is more successful when you’re having fun.
3. Toilets. Asia has a huge variety of toilets ranging from Western-style ones to squatty potties. If you find yourself in a place with only squatty potties, don’t be intimidated. Just try it and take your time, and remember that squatty potties are quite hygienic. Remember that many bathrooms have no toilet paper. It’s helpful to keep a small package of tissues for those situations (as well as for use for napkins or blowing your nose). Finally, some toilets have something that looks like a sink sprayer installed next to the toilet that is used in lieu of toilet paper. You can just ignore it and use your tissues, but I’d encourage you to try it at least once. It’ll be an experience!
4. Culture. Don’t expect people to do things the way you do them. Get to know the places you’re going to visit to avoid social faux pas. For example, in all Asian countries, take off your shoes before entering a house. Some schools and shops also prefer patrons to go shoe-less, so check for a pile of shoes outside the door if you’re unsure. Don’t get offended too easily. Maybe something that you consider rude (like cutting in line) might not be considered rude in that country. Keep an open mind.

Asia is an exciting place to see with lots of great food and friendly people. Follow these tips, be careful, and have loads of fun!

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Travel Tips for Barcelona

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When you travel around the world, every now and then you’ll visit places that leave you completely breathless, with no desire whatsoever to ever leave again. Strangely enough, to me this happened to a city just a one hour flight away from home: Barcelona.

Barcelona will always be linked to Gaudi, one of the great masters of architecture. While mostly known for his colorful draco at the entrance of Parc Guell and for his obvious masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, few people realize his immense impact on the whole city. From the tiles on Passeig de Gracia to the lanterns on Placa Real, the Finca Guell and Palau Guell, Casa Mila (better known as la Pedrera) and Casa Batllo, one says you can see some of his work from every single spot in Barcelona.

But there is more, so much more. Whether it is the nightlife you’re after, the shopping, the beach, the architecture, museums or a simple stroll, Catalunia’s capital has got it all. To top it all off, there is the sangria and an immense variety of tapas in the small cafes and bistros all over town.

It is impossible to list all the things there are to see and do in Barcelona, and that’s not what this site is for. Instead, I’ll give my personal highlights of the city, and hopefully that’ll be helpful for anybody who plans on going there.

Gaudi.

As mentioned earlier, it is virtually impossible to overlook Gaudi’s influence on the city. A trip to Barcelona would not be complete without visiting at least the Parc Guell with the draco and the famous curbed mosaic benches, and his undisputed (yet still unfinished) masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. His tragic death (the people of Barcelona left him on the streets after he was hit by a tram, not knowing it was Gaudi. He later refused to be transferred to a better hospital as he felt his place was amongst the poor) quite possibly made him even more legendary.

Tibida.

The highest point of Barcelona with amazing views over the cities. You can hike up the hill or take the pleasant little train-ride. On top, you’ll find the unique church and a rather outdated amusement park.

Montjuic.

This hill on the other side of Barcelona is famous for its telecommunications tower, built especially for the Olympics in 1992. It also houses the majestic Olympic stadium, where now Espanyol Barcelona plays its home games.

Camp Nou.

Stadium of FC Barcelona, still one of the world’s most renowned football teams (that would be soccer for the American readers).

Las Ramblas.

Collection of 5 separate streets (6 if you count the Rambla del Mar) that are more commonly known as Las Ramblas. They stretch from the Plaza Catalunya all the way to the statue of Columbus. On the broad pedestrian part in the middle, you’ll find flower stalls, bars, and some of the most talented street artists in the world.

This list is by no means complete, but should give you some idea of what this amazing city has to offer.

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Tips for Senior Travelers in Las Vegas

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There are many things seniors should consider when traveling to Las Vegas in order to maximize affordability, and enjoyment. Las Vegas attracts visitors from all over each year due to the many casinos, attractions, and entertainment. There is plenty to do in this city especially for seniors. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before you go on your trip.

1). Many hotels in Las Vegas cater to senior citizens by offering huge discounts for staying with them. Choice hotels such as the (Quality Inn, Comfort Inns, Clarion Hotels, Sleep Inns, Econo Lodges, and Rodeway Inns), all offer huge savings of 20% to 30% off their standard rates to people over the age of 60. In order to obtain these discounted rates you will need to make your reservations through their toll free number at (877-424-6423). When you make your reservation be sure to let the representative know that you need the senior discounted rate.

2). If you are a member of AARP you can also benefit by getting other discounts on airfare, hotels, and even car rentals.

3). It can also be very beneficial for you to carry travelers insurance. This will allow you to obtain coverage for any medical expenses incurred while traveling. Travel Insurance also covers the costs in case of cancelled flights, lost luggage, or if you lost your wallet or purse. You can buy travel insurance at: www.affordablemedicaldental.com

4). Be safe. It’s never a good idea to travel alone, or late at night. Be sure to always travel with your spouse, friend or family member.

5). Be prepared ahead of time. Make sure you have maps, brochures, identification and all other essential items with you.

6). It is also helpful to keep your medications with you in your purse or bag just in case your luggage goes missing.

7). Seniors need to be especially careful to avoid deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when flying. Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis. You can avoid this by stretching your legs and feet, getting up to move around on the plane rather than sitting the entire time, and drinking plenty of purified water.

8). Don’t carry large amounts of cash. Instead travel with travelers checks, or use a debit card with your money secured in a bank that protects you from theft. Bank of America offers guaranteed theft protection to keep your money safe.

9). Always carry your purse tightly under your arm rather than just dangling it by your side to avoid becoming a victim of robbery.

10). Take your time. It’s never a good idea to over book your flight and make too many connections. The best option is a straight shot flight or flights that only require one connection at the most. Allow plenty of time to check your bags at the air port and find your terminal. Enjoy your trip!

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Travelling to Belitung

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Belitung is part of Bangka Belitung, one of Indonesian’s provinces. It is a small island located north-west from Java Island, near Sumatra Island. This place isn’t a big city. It is still a bit of a traditional city. But this place has so many interesting and beautiful places to be visited. Even so, not many people know much about this place yet. Most people who heard about Indonesia will likely only know about Jakarta, Java and Bali.

In Belitung, you still can find many green mountains, refreshing forests and many beautiful beaches. The best part of it is that you’ll have fresh air to breathe, not like in the big city where you can only find polluted air to breathe. There are still not many cars in there. But the motorcycle is many. If you are worried about the vehicle to travel with, don’t be. You can rent cars in many places. Some people will also take you to anywhere you like with their car with a low fee. So you don’t have to be worried about it. Here are some beautiful and interesting places you should visit if you decided to go there.

1. Tanjung Tinggi

   This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Belitung. The great thing here is that the beach is still clean. And if you visit this place, you’ll find many food corners which sell seafood a few meters from the beach. Sometimes the waves are also great to be played with.

2. Tanjung Kelayang

   This one is also another beautiful beach in Belitung. This beach isn’t very far away from Tanjung Tinggi. There was a big event here last year, Sail Indonesia, where the sailors depart from Australia and stop here for a while then continue their Journey to the finish line.

3. Bukit Berahu

   This is another beach in Belitung; this one has a cliff with it. Not many people go to the beach here. Most people come here to enjoy the beautiful scenery and some go to swimming in the swimming pool. The swimming pool here is just an ordinary swimming pool. The only good thing here is that you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and if you like to see the sunset, this is a good place.

4. Air Seruk

   This one isn’t very popular. This place has a swimming pool in it. But this swimming pool isn’t just an ordinary swimming pool. The swimming area is created using rocks, sands, not cement. The water is also cool and refreshing since it comes from nature, not processed water.

5. Gunung Tajam

   Gunung Tajam is the highest mountain in Belitung. This place is still filled with tress; it is still refreshing and cool. There is one special place in this mountain people usually visit. It is the resting place of the first Muslim in Belitung.

Those are some beautiful and interesting places to be visited in Belitung. However, that’s not all. That’s only a few of them. They’re great aren’t they? The only bad thing about visiting Belitung is that it doesn’t have a five-star hotel for people who like luxuries. But it’s not a big problem isn’t it. Then why don’t you try to visit this place? Belitung doesn’t have a five star hotel for people who like luxuries. But it’s not a big problem isn’t it. Then why don’t try to visit this place?

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