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4 Sights You Need to See in New York City

September 12, 2017 By itravelnet.com

New York City is most likely one of the world’s top iconic tourist cities in the entire world. There are not many people on the face of the planet who haven’t heard of the New York or the seen images of its monuments, such as the Statue of Liberty. And though many people know the name and dream of visiting there one day, it is hard to choose which place to visit once they’re there.

New York sees over 60 million foreign tourist visit it every year. That is quite an astounding number. They travel thousands of miles from all over the world to visit monuments, to go shopping at the top malls, to taste the great food, and to simply enjoy the big city life for a time. Here is a list of some of the most important places you can visit while on your visit to New York.

1. The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic man-made structures in the world. For a period of time, it was also the tallest buildings on the planet. It has been the scene of many movies, including one that most people around the world know – King King. Other famous films and even cartoons used the Empire State Building as its set. Some of them include but are not limited to the 1939 film Love Affair, the Looney Toons cartoon Much Ado About Nutting, and The 5th Wave.

An estimated 3.5 million people visit the Empire State Building each year. And since you must purchase a ticket before visiting, vacationers can find the wait for tickets exceptionally long. This is why it is always a good idea to buy the ticket in advance one a site like TopViewNYC.

2. Brighton Beach – Brooklyn New York

Brighton Beach is a mostly Russian neighborhood, but is a favorite place to go in the summer by local New Yorkers. An oceanside neighbourhood in the southern portion of the New York City borough of Brooklyn, Brighton Beach sits along the Coney Island peninsula. Brighton Beach is surrounded by Coney Island proper at Ocean Parkway to the west, Manhattan Beach at Corbin Place to the east, Sheepshead Bay at the Belt Parkway to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south along the boardwalk and beach.

3. Central Park

Central Park was America’s first landscaped public park. It has been well documented in songs, films and literature. Central Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux who wanted a harmonious balance of scenic elements. You have the open lawn of the Sheep Meadow, the linear, tree lined Mall and the densely wooded paths of the Ramble.

Around 25 million people visit Central Park every year. The iconic American park is open from the hours of 6:00 am to 1:00 am, seven days a week. The Park stretches from Central Park South (59th St.) to 110th St. at the northern end and from 5th Ave. on the East Side to Central Park West (8th Ave.) on the West Side. If you get a permit, you can do photo shoots at the Conservatory Garden, 105th Street at Fifth Avenue.

4. Black Flamingo – Night Club

For the adult readers, visiting New York just isn’t complete until you visit the nightclub scene. No matter what, if you visit New York, you have have to visit the Black Flamingo. It isn’t like any other nightclub in New York because of exactly that. And that is the appeal.

All the annoying things that turn the usual person off about clubs are missing when it comes to the Black Flamingo. The door cover is not too expensive, there isn’t any annoying doorman leering at you.

Once you are inside, you’ll see a Miami inspired bar with palm trees and pink flamingo drink stirrers. The DJs, Eli Goldstein of Soul Clap, Gadi Mizrahi (Wolf and Lamb, and Philip Jung like to keep the mood relaxed, so you’ll find people gathered behind the DJ booth watching them play there magic.

An introduction to things to see and do in Kansas City

September 9, 2017 By itravelnet.com

From history museums to interesting districts, Kansas City, Missouri, offers visitors a wide range of things to do. Whether you’re looking for unique museums, shopping, sports, gardens, restaurants, or an exceptional nightlife, there’s something for people of all ages. A wide range of hotels are available as well, making KC an ideal city for a break. Here’s an introduction of things to do and places to visit for the ultimate Kansas City experience.

Visit The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

This is the place to admire a diverse collection of architectural designs, paintings, and art from all over the world. The museum is known for its unique and award-winning neoclassical architecture. Designed in 1933 by prominent Kansas architects, the museum has a collection of Native American and Asian art, European paintings, Kansas City sculpture, photography, and works by great American artists. Apart from the museum store, visitors can enjoy different foods from Rozelle Court (the on-site restaurant). As a top point of interest in Kansas City, the museum hosts a number of workshops, educational programs, and art classes throughout the year.

Relax at the Kauffman Memorial Garden

At the heart of Kansas City is the beautiful, tranquil Kauffman Memorial Garden. In honor of Ewing and Muriel Kauffman, the garden offers a relaxation point for city residents and welcomes visitors from around the world throughout the year.

Enjoy a Concert at the Sprint Center

You can catch a day or night concert by your favorite artist or performer at the Sprint Center. With a capacity of 19,000, the Spirit Center offers a lively ambiance and unparalleled view in the arena. Famed for hosting the College Basketball Experience, a visit to the Spring Center is worth every buck. There are several dining options and bars located on site.

Attend the Taste of Kansas City Food Tours

Exploring the culinary side of the area, Kansas City Food Tours gives visitors a chance to enjoy fantastic food and culture tours. These include a visit to famous local restaurants, unique eateries, and specialty food stores in the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. This is also a chance to explore the rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful architecture of the area.

Watch the Sea Life at Kansas City Aquarium

Kansas City Aquarium is home to over 5,000 sea creatures. The aquarium has several habitats, such as the interactive TouchPool Experience that gives you a spectacular view of life underwater. From fun and informative talks to educational presentations and workshops, the aquarium offers great knowledge on sea creatures.

Visit The City Market

The City Market also hosts various events, such as Yoga in the Park, the City Market Crawfish Festival, City Market Busker Festival, and Farm-to-Table Kitchen Classes.

Other tourist attractions and great places to visit in Kansas City include the Starlight Theater, Harley-Davidson Factory, The Kansas City Zoo, The Money Museum, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, Arabia Steamboat Museum, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, KC Fountains, and The Loose Park.

Weekend Getaway in the Ozarks

August 23, 2017 By itravelnet.com

The Ozark region is a versatile getaway for just about any vacation getaway that you can think of for a family, couples, or even for a group looking for a variety of guided historic tours and shopping expeditions. You can relax in a mountain landscape dotted with lakes and streams and go biking, parasailing, fishing, golfing, and on historic guided tours and come back to quaint Victorian accommodations or to a luxury resort hotel.

Accommodations

Westgate Branson Woods

The accommodations at the Westgate Branson Woods are aesthetically sleek and designed with kitchenettes including microwaves and mini-fridges for additional convenience. Each room has a flat-screen television and surround-sound audio system with complimentary DVD and CD players and the entire resort offers free Wi-Fi service. Spa 54 is a state-of-the-art spa experience that you can enjoy before or after you have checked out one of the dozens of shops right in the resort. You can also take part in golf every day of your stay or simply rent a boat and go out on the lake to do some parasailing. In the evening, if you want to get away without the kids, use the Granny Nannies service!

Osage Village Inn

This hotel has a B & B feel with a Victorian flair at the quality level of a fine hotel without paying more. Each room’s design reflects the Victorian theme of the Inn and is done in warm burgundy hues and hunter green and equipped with a king-sized bed and a refrigerator. Each morning when you venture downstairs, you will be greeted and shown where you can partake in a homey buffet consisting of a variety of pastries, cinnamon rolls, coffee and juices, cereals, as well as made-to-order eggs and toast. If you want to relax in a Jacuzzi each evening, suites that have their own private Jacuzzi are available. There is also a community pool and over 100 shops within walking distance at the Osage Beach shopping outlet.

The Lodge at Old Kinderhook

This rustic getaway is located right on the Lake of the Ozarks and has 84 rooms that overlook the on-site golf course. The rooms offer a king-sized bed as well as sleeper sofa or two queen-sized beds. If you are visiting during the winter months, you can ice skate at their lodge rink or enjoy their indoor pool and their newly renovated spa. In the summer months, you can use the outdoor pool amenity as well as the fire pits. If you plan on coming up to the lodge from the lake on your own boat, then there are boat slips that are available to use during your stay that you can reserve in advance.

Lone Oak Point Resort

The condominium accommodations that are offered at Lone Oak Point are perfect for a family to enjoy or for a couple’s getaway. They are on the lake and located on 8 sprawling acres in multi-story condominium buildings that give you a bird’s-eye view of the entire resort. You not only have the option of renting these condos but if you really like this resort, you can actually buy one and live there full time!

Things to Do in the Ozarks

Biking

If you are interested in a mountain trail, then you want to take the Ozark Mountain Bicycle Trail that is 40 miles long and runs through the Buffalo National River region. An even more challenging mountain trail is the Backwoods Ozark Tour which is 58 miles long and rated as “difficult.”

If you prefer a flatter trail, then consider taking the Mountain View to Mountain Home Bike Tour. This is a stop-and-start journey of approximately 60 miles through the Ozark Mountain Home area and the Bull Shoals State Park.

Bird Watching

For a bit more solitude with your loved one, get up early in the morning and explore the Ozark Mountain range for rare birds. You will come across common feathered creatures like the woodpecker, hawk, and an occasional eagle and owl. If you take an evening stroll, you will hear the whip-poor-wills that are in abundance in these parts. As you venture out to specific migration locations, you will spot rarer species of birds:

Ozark National Forest: Look for warblers, vireos, and tanagers
Baker Prairie: this location is a natural conservancy of 65 acres with grasshopper sparrows, the painted bunting, and bobolinks during the spring months.

Horseback Riding

Rent a horse or two and go up to the Ozark Mountain Region high country and experience the landscape in the mountain trails in the higher elevations of the area. You can either explore on your own if you feel confident enough or you can use a guide.

Museums and Other History

The Ozark region is rich with history and culture, so you will be able to find many historical sites such as recreations of mountain villages circa the 1800s, cultural museums that highlight the richness of the state’s history, and even take a guided tour called the Arkansas Heritage Tour to learn more specific details about the places that you are visiting.

Rock Climbing

If optimal physical challenges are your thing, then go to the local rock climbing school at the Arkansas Ozarks and climb the 70 and 80 ft. sandstone edifices near the Buffalo National River no matter what your skill level is in the sport. Classes are available at all skill levels. These rock climbing guided excursions are open all year.

Waterfall Tours

For a more zen experience, take a guided tour to the local waterfalls that the Ozark region is known for. The Twin Falls is the premiere falls within the state, and the hike is a challenging one to get there, but it is well worth it. The other falls, Falling Water Falls, is much easier to climb and reach by foot.

Top Island Destinations to Visit

August 22, 2017 By itravelnet.com

When it comes to picking a travel destination, nothing says you’re on vacation quite like being on an island. There are so many to choose from, so we’ve picked out some of the best.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii, is one of the most beautiful islands you’ll ever see, thanks to its towering mountains, sandy beaches, and world-class resorts. Many travelers consider Maui the best island to visit due to its unique culture, high-quality hotels, and local attractions.

For those who like travelling by car, the Road to Hana offers some of the best scenic views you can find anywhere in the world. This winding highway provides out-of-this-world views of the ocean, and you can make stops along the way at parks and attractions like Haleakala Crater. If you’re looking to relax, snorkel, or surf in the ocean, Maui has some of the best beaches for every vacationer’s needs.

Santorini, Greece

If you’re looking for an island with European flavor, then you should visit Santorini in Greece. This island is famous for its white-washed buildings that seemingly tower over the Mediterranean Sea. Santorini is also known for its beautiful sunsets, and people flock to Oia every evening to experience spectacular sunset views. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll enjoy dining at the many restaurants here.

You can also visit the ghost town of Mesa Gonia and watch the wild cats that live in this deserted area. For water sports, head out to Kamari or Perissa beach and enjoy water skiing, banana boating, and wind kiting. These beaches are also the ideal places to relax and soak up the sun.

Jamaica

Jamaica is one of the most fascinating islands to visit in the Caribbean. Home to reggae legend Bob Marley, Jamaica has plenty of amazing reggae music everywhere you visit. On Friday nights, you’ll hear his music blasting out of bars across the island. Jamaica is also known for its vibrant culture and great food, so don’t miss the jerk chicken.

The Glistening Waters in Jamaica is a must for everyone visiting the island. The water glows at night, creating a surreal experience. If you’re looking for adventure, you can try the zip-line and enjoy the natural surroundings while flying through the air. Don’t forget the beaches, either.

Bali, Indonesia

The island of Bali is a dream destination for so many people. This incredible island has fabulous beaches and scenic volcanic mountains, and it’s home to a unique Hindu culture. Balinese rituals and traditions permeate the island, and it’s really like no other place you’ve ever seen.

If you’re looking for ancient attractions to visit, Bali has a collection of ancient temples spread across the island. Bali is a very popular destination, so there’s a wide range of accommodation types to choose from for travellers a range of budgets.

These are just some of our favourite islands. It wasn’t easy to narrow down the options, but we picked islands with different styles from around the world, so there’s something for everyone here.

Highlights Of A Trip To Michigan

August 17, 2017 By itravelnet.com

Tourism in the United States doesn’t often include the Midwest. That’s not to say nobody goes there, but when we think of travel destinations around the country, the focus tends to be on the big cities on either coast. But if you really want to look into different vacation experiences that go beyond typical big city sightseeing, you may find that Michigan is actually one of the more unique and inviting states in the country.

Here are just a few of the things you might enjoy seeing and doing there if you put it on your travel list.

Climb On The Sleeping Bear Dunes

If you’re not familiar with the Sleeping Bear Dunes, you’ll probably be surprised to learn that they exist at all. But sure enough, on the northeast coast of the southern peninsula of Michigan, there are towering dunes right on the shore of the lake. They’re pretty breathtaking to see, and you can also enjoy park activities that range from camping and hiking to trying some local restaurants nearby. This is ultimately one of the coolest and most unique places to see in Michigan, and you may even find yourself wanting to go back.

Relax At A Nice Resort

Michigan also has more luxury travel options than a lot of people might realize. It’s famous for its lakeside beaches and quaint, small towns. But even if you’re further inland or you’re not near a noteworthy town, you can find a luxury resort retreat with all the bells and whistles. Really, this is a great state to tour in different stages, moving from one place to another rather than staying in any particular city or area. So, if you can fit in a mini-retreat to a nice hotel with a spa, fine dining, and comfortable rooms, it’s not a bad option. There are several of them dotted around the state.

Swim In One Of The Great Lakes

It’s a simpler suggestion, but still one of the best ones. The actual lake you get to swim in will depend on where you are in Michigan, but the point is that during the warmer seasons, the lakes are lovely. You can’t just jump in at any old spot, necessarily, but there are lots of good beaches all over the state, and you can usually find a good place for a full day outside. For that matter, you can combine this idea with a trip to the Sleeping Bear Dunes as well.

Tour A Car Plant

It’s almost easy to forget these days how much Detroit and Michigan as a whole have to do with the auto industry in the U.S. We’re accustomed to dealerships in our hometowns, and for that matter we can also search for cars online. The whole industry seems more or less universal. But Michigan is still responsible for a lot of the innovation and production in this industry, and if cars interest you, you might enjoy touring a plant. There are a few options in the state, and they can be surprisingly fascinating.

Visit Belle Isle

This is a charming little attraction on the Detroit River. It’s only a few miles long, so it’s not a very big island, but there’s a lot packed into it. Most visitors enjoy hiking and visiting the aquarium on the island, or touring the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. But you can also get up to some other outdoor activities, such as hanging out on the island’s own little beach or hitting a few golf balls. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon, particularly if you happen to be traveling with family.

Catch Some College Football

Ann Arbor is worth a visit regardless of the football schedule, because it’s one of the more charming college towns in the country. But it just so happens that Michigan Stadium is consistently ranked as one of the best venues for college football, or really any sports in the U.S. The school is incredibly passionate about its football team, and over 100,000 people can attend a game at this gigantic stadium. It’s a sight to see, particularly if there’s a competitive game going on!

This list could go on for many pages listing all the fun things to see and do in this state. But this should give you an idea of the variety of options, and hopefully spark your interest in checking out the Great Lake State.

Top Tips for Seeing San Francisco on a Budget

August 17, 2017 By itravelnet.com

San Francisco is a fantastic place to visit. There is so much to see and do, from the Island of Alcatraz to the picturesque scenery and gorgeous food. San Francisco also has a thieving art scene and is the perfect place to explore your own creativity and freedom. It’s eclectic culture and society means everyone feels at home when they visit.

While traveling anywhere can be very expensive, it is possible to visit San Francisco on a budget. If you are attempting to be frugal, but still want to explore this exciting destination, here are some tips to help you.

Travel Out of Season

The most expensive time to visit San Francisco is June-August. By delaying your trip to October, which is still warm and there is little chance of rain, you could save a fortune. Other ways to save money are either booking as far in advance as you can or snapping up a last-minute offer.

Budget Accommodation and Flights

Budget flights are now available all over the world. While the facilities might be more basic, they offer everything you need from a flight with huge savings.

You can also save a lot of money on your accommodation. San Francisco has always attracted younger tourists, which means they are plenty of great value hostels available. Staying outside of popular tourist areas will also save you money.

Visit Free Attractions

With so many things to do in San Francisco, you may be worried that you’ll blow your budget on days out. However, a lot of it is free. Some of the best free attractions in San Francisco include:

Walking tours
Alcatraz (admission is free, but you will need to buy a ferry ticket to get there)
Chinatown
Fisherman’s Wharf
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Bridge

Book Online

Booking attraction tickets online before you visit is often cheaper than paying on the day. You could also make a large saving by purchasing a multi-attraction pass which will allow you to visit different places for one price.

Walk Around

San Francisco is a wonderful place to walk. Despite having lots to do and see, at only 49 square miles it’s an exceptionally small city. Walking not only saves money it also lets you enjoy the scenery and see a lot more of this beautiful city. For longer journeys, take a cable car or rent a car for the day.

Food

It can be very expensive to eat in San Francisco. But, there are many ways that you can save money on your meals. Some of the best are:

Lunches in restaurants are often cheaper than evening meals. So, have your main meal earlier in the day.
Avoid big chains and tourist favorites. Instead look for small, family run eateries.
Shop in markets and cook for yourself.
Look for deals, special offers and discount codes.
Head to Chinatown. Chinese food is relatively cheap in San Francisco while still being great quality.

San Francisco, like any other city, can be very expensive. But with so many ways to save money, this shouldn’t put you off what could be a wonderful vacation. Just make sure that you are careful and plan ahead.

Things to See and Do in Boston

August 11, 2017 By itravelnet.com

There are very few cities in America that hold as much history as Boston. The city has numerous historical sites that can keep you occupied and entertained throughout your visit. Boston is also a joy to navigate on foot since most of the sights are located relatively close to each other. Below are some of the city’s most popular attractions.

Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is definitely one of Boston’s top attractions. The 3-mile trail takes you from Boston Common to Bunker Hill and through 16 of the city’s most important monuments. Despite the relatively long distance of the trail, you can’t get lost if you follow the red line on the sidewalks and the footprints at the street crossings. Tourists can also get travel brochures at the Boston Common visitor center to guide them along the trail.

Highlights of the trail include the Old Granary Burying Ground, where founding fathers such as Paul Revere are buried; the Old South Meeting House; the Old State House, which is the oldest public building in Boston; and the site of the Boston massacre. You’ll also get to see Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church, where strategically placed lanterns warned that the British were coming.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Popularly known as the Cradle of Liberty, Faneuil Hall is located in downtown Boston. Built in 1742 by Peter Faneuil, the hall was given to the city of Boston on condition that it would always remain open to the public. To this date, the ground floor still houses stalls, while the upper floors house the council chamber where revolutionaries once met. The fourth floor is home to the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Museum. You can get a bite to eat or shop for souvenirs in the numerous restaurants and shops.

Cambridge

Located across the Charles River, Cambridge is home to two of the top universities in the world: MIT and Harvard. Here you can see amazing architecture and an unbelievable range of restaurants and shops. You can stroll by Harvard Yard, which was featured in “Good Will Hunting,” and you can take in all the history on offer, like Tory Row, where a famed King George loyalist once lived. You can also visit Longfellow House, the former headquarters of George Washington during the Siege of Boston. Cambridge also makes a good place to stay with easy access to Boston.

Fenway Park

Fondly known as America’s best baseball park, Fenway Park is one of America’s most iconic sports arenas and home to the beloved Boston Red Sox. Opened in 1912, the stadium has remained remarkably similar over more than a century, making it an interesting place to visit, even for non-fans. One of the stadium’s biggest attractions is the Green Monster, the large, green left field wall. Join one of the 50-minute stadium tours held every day, and then have a bite to eat or a drink at The Bleacher Bar, right under the bleachers.

Copley Square

Copley Square is the largest square in the Back Bay Area and is surrounded by a mix of historical and modern buildings. One of the better known iconic spots is Trinity Church, which features unbelievable murals, frescoes, and stained glass. Across the square is the Boston Public Library, which is America’s first public library. You can also find the finish line of the Boston Marathon down the block on Boylston Street.

Boston Harbor

Boston Harbor is made up of a mix of residential and commercial buildings connected by the waterfront Harbor Walk. The harbor features many parks and cafés, and you can explore it by water taxi or boat. Since the port is quite big, you should start your visit at the north end of the harbor near the Institute of Contemporary Art. You can also visit a replica of the Boston Tea Party ship, where you may be able to catch a re-enactment of the historic event.

New England Aquarium

The New England Aquarium beautifully overlooks Boston’s waterfront. It’s home to over 20,000 fish and an artificial coral reef that houses tropical fish and sharks. The aquarium also has a tank where guests can touch small sea creatures, such as crabs and starfish. Another major attraction at the aquarium is a live performance by harbor seals.

Boston has many things to do beyond its Revolutionary War sights. Visit Boston to experience the city for yourself.

An introduction to Florida

July 28, 2017 By itravelnet.com

When it comes to vacation destinations in the United States it’s hard to go past Florida. With its temperate climate, fabulous beaches, and activities for all age groups, you are sure to find it in Florida. Winter, spring, summer or fall, a wondrous vacation awaits you in the sunshine state.

Here are just a few of the fun things to do in Florida.

Golfing in Florida

Florida is home to some of the most beautiful golf courses in the the US. There are more than one thousand golf courses, with golf resorts and spas that rival the most luxurious anywhere in the world.

With miles upon miles of beautiful green fields, it’s no wonder many golfers choose to retire here to spend their days practicing their game. If you have never played before, or you are looking to improve your game, there are plenty of golf schools where you can get the basics right or improve your style before getting out on the courses.

Orlando Theme Parks

One of the biggest attractions in Florida is Orlando, which is home to many theme parks. Roller coaster lovers will get their heart pumping in the Islands of Adventure. Examples of the thrill rides include the Hulk, Spider Man, Dr. Doom and Dueling Dragons. One of best known theme parks is Universal Studios Florida which is home to rides like Shrek, Men in Black, Jaws, Twister and The Mummy. City walk is located in the center of the park and offers shopping, restaurants, live music and nightclubs. There are three luxurious on property hotels – Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Portofino Bay Resort.

Disney World

If your family has never experienced Disney World, then you are missing out. Disney Worlds sits on 25,000 acres in central Florida, and it offers four theme parks, 24 hotels, two water parks, health spas and five golf courses. Downtown Disney is a great destination to get your shopping on. Once you arrive on Disney property you never really have a need to leave. You can spend a week keeping busy with all of the things to do. You will not get enough of fun things to do. If you are seeking thrills, there are several roller coaster rides and fun rides in the water parks. If your purpose of a holiday is relaxing, you can do that very easily. Just sit poolside at one of the resorts with your favorite book and beverage.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

This state park surrounds Ichetucknee River, which flows six miles through shaded wetlands. A favorite summertime activity here is tubing down the river in an inner tube or raft, pulled by the current. The water is a fresh 72 degrees and crystal clear, providing a spectacular view of the wildlife along the river.

Everglades National Park

In the southern part of Florida, you will find a 1.5 million acre park which happens to be the biggest subtropical wilderness in the United States. The Everglades are home to roughly 350 species of bird, 40 species of mammals and 50 species of reptiles. To get a true Everglades experience you should ride through the waterways on one of the famous airboats.

An Introduction to El Paso, Texas

July 28, 2017 By itravelnet.com

El Paso is defined by year-round sunshine, vibrant and diverse culture, and striking desert landscapes. The beautiful city stands alongside the Rio Grande in the furthest western corner of Texas. If you’re passing through, make time to see some interesting landmarks and museums and take part in fun family activities and other exciting points of interest for visitors of all ages. There are lots of good value hotels in El Paso, making it an ideal city break.

The Mission Trail and Ysleta Mission

As you set out on a mission trail, remember to visit the oldest of all, Ysleta Mission, which was built by the Tigua Indians in the 15th century. This historic landmark is definitely worth a visit. You’ll learn a lot about the history and the mixing of cultures as well as the reason why El Paso is considered representative of Texan history. As you drive your family through the area, be sure to enjoy the stunning desert scenery. The best part about the area is it has many picnic spots. Why not stop and enjoy yourself?

Wyler Aerial Tramway

A wonderful way to view El Paso is from higher ground. The fun will kick off as you drive up the paved road through stunning scenery. When you reach the tramway station, purchase your ticket for the Swiss-made gondola, which travels on a 2,600-foot steel cable and takes you to the top of Ranger Peak. The fascinating four-minute ride involves an interesting narration by a cabin attendant, who explains the various cacti, birds, and wildlife. The peak, which stands at 5,632 feet above sea level, offers the most magnificent view of three states and two nations.

El Paso Museum of Art

The El Paso Museum of Art is a home to an impressive collection of over 5,000 pieces of art that range from American to Mexican. For the kids, the beautiful and unique art offers some very interesting stories. Built in 1959, the museum is actually the only accredited art museum in the vicinity and draws close to 100,000 visitors a year. You don’t need to pay for admission, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Savor the Multitude of El Paso’s Flavors

Beyond the historic museums and sites, Sun City manifests itself in one other way. The best way to get to know a place is to sample the local cuisine. The food in El Paso will make you salivate because it’s legendary. Experience the flavors of jalapeño, poblano, habanero, serrano, and chipotle peppers as they dance off your tongue. Other Mexican specialties include steaming tortillas, handcrafted enchiladas smothered in homemade sauces, and tamales.

Mexican food may be the most popular in El Paso, but you have many more options, too. You can also enjoy, Asian, American, Italian, and barbecue eateries in El Paso.

These are just some of the incredible things to do and see in El Paso. To get a clear picture of Sun City, start organizing your next visit now and get ready to have fun.

How to Stay Active and Entertained in Jacksonville, Florida

July 27, 2017 By itravelnet.com

Jacksonville is one of the most interesting cities in northeastern Florida. Located just where the St. John’s River meets the Atlantic Ocean, the city is a regional business center with numerous museums and cultural offerings. Its beaches are also a very popular attraction for visitors and locals who like to go for a swim or surf. The city is also home to championship golf courses such as the Ponte Vedra Beach’s TPC Sawgrass, which is also the headquarters of the PGA tour. Can’t decide what to do in Jacksonville? Start with the following activities.

Visit the Museum of Science and History

The Jacksonville Museum of Science and History is a must visit for families, especially those who have young children who eager to learn. The main exhibit changes quarterly, but there are also permanent displays on three of its floors. The famous Brian Gooding Planetarium is always a favorite. The exhibits of the museum educate visitors on the human body, water distribution, and the history of Jacksonville. There is even an intriguing display centered around the Great Fire of 1901, which was known to be one of the worst disasters in the history of Florida. It led to the destruction of more than 2,000 buildings in eight hours.

Catch a Football Game

The EverBank Field Stadium is located in downtown Jacksonville and is the home stadium of the Jacksonville Jaguars of the NFL. The stadium has undergone significant changes and upgrades since it first opened on August 18, 1995. Even with many new buildings and designs emerging around the NFL, EverBank Field still boasts one of the most fan-friendly and technologically advanced stadiums in the league. There are also several hotels near EverBank Field stadium that you can stay in before or after football matches.

Take a Look at Wildcats in the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is an amazing venue in Jacksonville that focuses on the rehabilitation of wild cats. More importantly, once an animal is taken into the sanctuary, it is going to live in a loving home for the rest of its life as the Sanctuary does not breed or sell any animals that they care for. Children will particularly enjoy seeing many of the wild cats, which include tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, and bobcats. If possible, try to visit the park during the night hours so as to get a glimpse of a night feeding, which begins with a guided tour.

Enjoy a Relaxing View at the Friendship Fountain

Once you have visited the Museum of Science and History, spare some additional time and take a walk to the Friendship Fountain. The fountain itself was constructed in the 1960s and consists of over 60 nozzles that can shoot water up to 120 ft. It is an amazing sight, especially during the night as the fountain begins to light up with a colorful display that creates a gorgeous view.

Visit the Florida Theatre

The Florida Theatre first opened in 1927 and is one of only four remaining high-quality movie outlets that were built in the Art Deco era of the 1920s. The Theatre is now on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places; you’ll marvel at its old-time beauty. The Italian, French, and Spanish decor features furnishings and motifs that will take you to another era. The wrought iron railings, marbles, amber glass light fixtures, decorative columns, tile floors, chandeliers, and coffered ceilings are simply amazing.

Jacksonville is an exciting city to explore. Head there to enjoy great beaches, fantastic museums, and more!