Posts Tagged ‘beach vacation rentals’

My Toes In The Sand In Mexico

Tuesday, October 5th, 2010

“The fish are biting” is not actually a colloquial saying within Spanish (locals are likely to catch you very plainly if you say it and tell you to stay out of the water), although the truth remains that the ancient homeland of the Mayan society on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is one of the leading deep-sea fishing areas in North America.

There are in reality a lot of kinds of saltwater fishing that is accessible from one of the many beach vacations or other vacation rental facilities on the eastern shore of the Yucatan, and offshore deep-sea fishing is simply one of them. Nearby are lots of outfits that sail into the Caribbean from the coast’s 3 main communities (Playa del Carmen, Cancun and the nearby island town of Cozumel). These azure waters are loaded for marlin, tuna, dolphin (the fish, not the mammal) and wahu. Thanks to the warm temperatures, many of these fish swim within a few miles of the shore, meaning you will not have to consume nearly all of the daytime just to arrive at the top fishing.

You will not have to go to sea to have a remarkable angling experience, however. The Mayan Riviera is well-known for its exceptional inshore flats and fly fishing as well. Indigenous fishing guides will be ecstatic to show you to any of the native reefs in pursuit of a distinct fish; the Yucatan in truth is home to the second-largest organism of reefs in the world (after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef). These reefs are crucial hunting grounds for snapper, barracuda, grouper and mackerel. And don’t discount fly fishing; there are many underground rivers flowing out of Yucatan’s flourishing jungles into mangrove swamps and salt marshes that are home to snapper and – for the extremely adventurous - small shark. A vacation rental near Ascension Bay guarantees some of the most excellent saltwater fly fishing in the world; try going to the website Pesca Maya  for more information concerning nearby accommodations and what kind of fish are abundant at different times of the year.

When you and the relatives crave to take a break from fishing you have additional possibilities. Followers of Indiana Jones might take pleasure in touring the near ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, home to a complex, literate Native American community ca. 600-1100 AD. Found in the northern part of Yucatan, Chichen Itza includes several of the best-preserved illustrations of Mayan architecture in the region, counting the mysterious Temple of Kukulkan, the Mayan serpent deity.

Of course, there are other recreational adventures that you would think to stumble on at a Caribbean beach resort; the flat, sandy seashores are magnificent for children and there is some first-rate snorkeling in neighboring Cozumel. Afterwards, check out indigenous fare and music at one of the area’s many excellent restaurants. As far as shopping goes, jewelry as well as arts and crafts stores are abundant, featuring works by native artisans. These natives are not fearful to bargain over price, so be primed to do a bit of strong bargaining with these merchants in order to get the best prices on gifts for the family.

Another Day In Yucatan Paradise

Wednesday, September 15th, 2010

While the eastern shore of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its several different types of saltwater fishing possessing an amazing variety of edible species to go after, it is actually just a minor part of what the Mayan Riviera has to present. In fact, the main attraction of Mexico’s Caribbean coast is the miles and miles of unspoiled, sandy beaches, with world class swimming and snorkeling effortlessly available. There is a reason why this is one of the most enjoyed parts of Mexico.  Beach vacation rentals in the area offer perfect bases of operations when discovering this fascinating part of the country.

Chances are you will land at the Cancun International Airport, which is where the Mayan Riviera starts. Rent an car and go south on Highway 307, which the Mexican government has newly repaved and maintains in excellent condition for locals and guests. This drive alone is worth the trip, since the highway rarely strays more than half a mile or so from the shore. Along the way, you will notice an abundance of beach rental accommodations ranging from lavish to rustic. 

One of the best destinations along la Riviera Maya is Playa del Carmen which translates as “Carmen’s Beach” after the patron saint of Cancun, about an hour south of the airport. Capital of the Mexican State of Quintana Roo, this community is home to excellent, reasonably priced beach vacation rentals and several of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It is also the western terminal for the Cozumel Ferry.  Cozumel is just a few miles off the coast and is where exceptional snorkeling is to be had. This is also home to several retailers providing a wide selection of goods and souvenirs. If you are visiting from one of the cruise ships that sail the waters of the western Caribbean, you will not have to pay duty on these items.

Back in the town of Playa del Carmen itself, the youngsters will be interested to discover an actual petting zoo where they can actually touch a lion and a boa constrictor. And when it is hora de comer (time to eat), there are plentiful restaurants and cafes at which you and the family can sample the local cuisine while listening to traditional live mariachi music.

This part of Mexico is an outstanding place to learn more about the remarkable Mayan civilization, which gave this section of the Yucatan its name. The ruins of many cities are within a few hours drive or bus ride, that include Chichen Itza, one of the better preserved of the ancient Mayan cities, and Palenque, which has been essentially restored and features examples of the 3000 year old Mayan ball game of ulama, which is still played by many of the regional indigenous peoples.

While you are there, do not miss a round of golf at nearby Playacar as well as the Xaman-Ha Aviary and Cavernas Sache, a dynamic underground cave with interesting formations.

 

 

Bring Your Mama And Papa To California

Wednesday, September 8th, 2010

It is said that there are almost as many aspects to California as there are citizens who live there. While this may be a bit of an embellishment, the fact is that California is a fantastically unique location with something for each person including lovely wine tours of some of the world’s premier viticulture regions. The Napa Valley is as close to old Tuscany and Provence as you are likely to come across in the United States.  North of this locale is the spectacular northern coast of California, where many say the Pacific Northwest actually starts. This is home to the recognized Redwood forests, where the largest trees on the globe still thrive.

Of course, this is merely a sample of the many areas that California romantic bed and breakfasts are available, which vary from warm, sandy beach vacation rentals on the state’s southern shore to unspoiled desert cabin rentals, snowy mountain cabin rental facilities in the High Sierra, and more.

One of the most romantic vacation destinations in California is Big Sur, near Monterey. With a varied terrain that ranges from sea level to over a mile up (Cone Peak, the highest mountain on the Pacific Coast of North America outside Alaska and British Columbia), Big Sur contains some of the most amazing vistas in the world. One of the most well-known beach vacation rental facilities in Big Sur is the Post Ranch Inn which has in fact won quite a lot of awards over the past two years.

One of the best-kept secrets in what is known as California’s “Steinbeck Country” (so-named for the reason that it was the set of novels such as Cannery Row and Of Mice and Men) is a charming little town known as Occidental. Formed in 1876 when the Southern Pacific Railroad arrived, it is no “occident” that it evolved into a popular destination for romantic getaways early on. Two Italian bistros built in the 1880s are still doing a thriving business, and the two-block long business district is lined with a variety of unique stores. The town has a weekly Farmer’s Market on Fridays from June until October as well as a unique Japanese-style health resort in neighboring Freestone.

Located in Sonoma County, Occidental is not far off from California’s most romantic city, San Francisco. Rich in history and culture, there is not room here to depict everything that the City by the Bay has to offer (books have been written on the subject), but a good place to start is the city’s own approved tourist guide.

Across the sizzling, dry Central Valley that is nonetheless one of America’s major foodbaskets, there is a much diverse side to California to be discovered in the High Sierra. This is where the thrill of the Gold Rush was played out in the 1850s, and contains a number of the most dramatic alpine landscape in North America. From condo rentals, one can discover renowned Yosemite National Park, one of the country’s most valuable natural treasures and home to excellent backpacking trails with consistent conveniences along well-market routes.

When it comes to romantic California getaways, there is a endless supply of attractions awaiting you.

Let The Good Times Roll In Orlando

Tuesday, September 7th, 2010

To a lot of people, Orlando Florida means Disney World. It certainly made a splash when the Disney corporation chose to open its second theme park in this significant Florida community, but today, Disney World is just one of numerous theme parks, entertainment and recreation opportunities you and your family will encounter on your Orlando vacation.

While you are there, you will find no shortage of vacation destinations to stay.  There are an abundance of terrific Florida beach vacations spots available. Rentals on these facilities start out at as low as $29 per night, less than a lot of the commercial accommodations and all are within a few minutes of Universal Studios, Sea World and the cities fun filled water parks.

Orlando was originally home to the Creek Indian Nation as well as a few more tribes. The first European colony was established in 1836, but apart from the remnants of Fort Gatlin, there is not a large amount of that early history left.  The biggest inland city in the state, Orlando started to grow in popularity as a resort town during the initial part of the 20th Century, leading to a boom that ceased with the Great Depression of the 1930s. The area bounced back as a result of World War II when the U.S. Army Air Corps established bases in the area.  Afterwards, many former servicemen and their families settled in the area.

Today, Orlando has more theme parks and recreation facilities of any city in the world.  Each of the three main resorts, Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, are in fact several parks in one.  Nevertheless, these parks are not all that is obtainable.  Recreation venues in Orlando are diverse, and there is a bit for practically everyone. One unusual venue presents a taste of what it may have been like in a Prohibition-Era speakeasy.  Al Capone’s offers a nightly musical review featuring gin, jazz and flappers as well as an appearance by the arch-criminal himself combined with your preference of Italian or American cuisine.

If you are interested in earlier history, go medieval at the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in nearby Kissimmee. The devout vacationer may enjoy the Holy Land Experience, where re-enactors recreate ancient Palenstine including a rock climbing wilderness section for the little ones. It is highly reccommended that you visit during the week since weekends are exceptionally busy and the facility offers weekday discounts but advance reservations are required.

Some educational venues worth  visiting include the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in nearby Sanford which started out as a casual gathering by local fire fighters.  Gatorland is an additional fascinating attraction where you can get up-close and personal with the reptiles, the closest living relatives of the great dinosuars of 65-250 million years ago.
Afterwards, swim with dolphins at Discover Cove, part of the SeaWorld Resort and experience these gentle creatures in a recreation of their true habitat. 

Orlando has a host of family entertainment opportunities that contains a little for everyone.  You can be as vigorous or as casual as you would like to be, but no matter what your choice, a wonderful time will be had by all. 

Let The Good Times Roll In Orlando

Monday, August 23rd, 2010

To a lot of people, Orlando Florida means Disney World. It certainly made a splash when the Disney corporation chose to open its second theme park in this significant Florida community, but today, Disney World is just one of numerous theme parks, entertainment and recreation opportunities you and your family will encounter on your Orlando vacation.

While you are there, you will find no shortage of vacation destinations to stay.  There are an abundance of terrific Florida beach vacations spots available. Rentals on these facilities start out at as low as $29 per night, less than a lot of the commercial accommodations and all are within a few minutes of Universal Studios, Sea World and the cities fun filled water parks.

Orlando was originally home to the Creek Indian Nation as well as a few more tribes. The first European colony was established in 1836, but apart from the remnants of Fort Gatlin, there is not a large amount of that early history left.  The biggest inland city in the state, Orlando started to grow in popularity as a resort town during the initial part of the 20th Century, leading to a boom that ceased with the Great Depression of the 1930s. The area bounced back as a result of World War II when the U.S. Army Air Corps established bases in the area.  Afterwards, many former servicemen and their families settled in the area.

Today, Orlando has more theme parks and recreation facilities of any city in the world.  Each of the three main resorts, Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld, are in fact several parks in one.  Nevertheless, these parks are not all that is obtainable.  Recreation venues in Orlando are diverse, and there is a bit for practically everyone. One unusual venue presents a taste of what it may have been like in a Prohibition-Era speakeasy.  Al Capone’s offers a nightly musical review featuring gin, jazz and flappers as well as an appearance by the arch-criminal himself combined with your preference of Italian or American cuisine.

If you are interested in earlier history, go medieval at the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament in nearby Kissimmee. The devout vacationer may enjoy the Holy Land Experience, where re-enactors recreate ancient Palenstine including a rock climbing wilderness section for the little ones. It is highly reccommended that you visit during the week since weekends are exceptionally busy and the facility offers weekday discounts but advance reservations are required.

Some educational venues worth  visiting include the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in nearby Sanford which started out as a casual gathering by local fire fighters.  Gatorland is an additional fascinating attraction where you can get up-close and personal with the reptiles, the closest living relatives of the great dinosuars of 65-250 million years ago.
Afterwards, swim with dolphins at Discover Cove, part of the SeaWorld Resort and experience these gentle creatures in a recreation of their true habitat. 

Orlando has a host of family entertainment opportunities that contains a little for everyone.  You can be as vigorous or as casual as you would like to be, but no matter what your choice, a wonderful time will be had by all. 

Under The Boardwalk In Cape May

Wednesday, July 7th, 2010

It is unfortunate that the Garden State often gets a bad rap and is often the butt of jokes such as Woody Allen’s quip: “I saw the light at the end of the tunnel and it was New Jersey,” or the inevitable “You are from New Jersey? What exit?” or the supposed state motto: “You have the right to remain silent…”

In fact, there is a entirely different area of New Jersey that is possibly one of the East Coast’s best kept secret: Cape May. Located on the southern point of Cape May Peninsula, the town of Cape May is a delightful seaport featuring great Victorian architecture and quaint inns, and various points of interest. Cape May is drenched in historical sites and museums and home of one of the country’s top ten beaches, with many beach vacation rentals from which to choose.

Of course, with a lengthy maritime history that contains a prosperous fishing industry as well as quarters to both the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, it goes without saying that boating and sailing is outstanding.  Competitive sailors often use local waters as a practice ground for the famous Nantucket Race.

Cape May was named for the area’s earliest European visitor, Captain Cornelius Jacobsen Mej of Hoorn, Netherlands, in 1620. The city’s significance as a top seaside destination resort predates the founding of the United States.  It was popular with wealthy Philadelphians from about 1750 onward, and was a top holiday spot by the mid 1800s. All of that early colonial architecture burned in the great fire of 1876, which effectively leveled the town. This is why the Victorian style of architecture is prevalent today.  In fact, Cape May has the biggest assembly of Victorian architecture of any city in the nation other than San Francisco with Port Townsend Washington being a close third.  A large amount of this interesting Victorian architecture can be seen in the various comfortable bed and breakfasts located through out Cape May. 

While it may be great to stay right on the beach, you will find that a rental can be much less expensive if you are willing to walk even a few blocks. That said, the owners of these vacation rentals are exceptionally conscientious about preservation and maintenance, so even if you have to reserve it long distance over the internet, you can be assured of first-rate lodgings for your Cape May holiday.

If you plan on doing any fishing, your initial stop may be the South Jersey Marina in order to pick up the gear you need to reel in the big ones. If going to sea on a boat is not your thing, you may be surprised to know that the Hidden Valley Ranch is right nearby. This is where you can go horseback riding and birdwatching and it is one of the best birding locations in the country and see the scenic, rural segment of New Jersey that is faraway from any freeway exit.

Theater lovers have quite a few alternatives while staying in Cape May; Elaine’s Dinner Theater, the East Lynne Theater Company and Cape May Stage, all impart fine theatrical productions through the year. And, to get a genuine sense of Cape May history, do not miss the Cape May Gingerbread Tour by Trolley.

Spend Always Quality Time for Vacations

Saturday, November 15th, 2008

Spring break is approaching and you are unsure of what to do? Well, you can always consider spending some quality time with your family on the beach. Although, many of us love to spend time on the beach, our busy schedules make it hard for us to pay regular visits to the ocean side. This break or vacation, why not consider beach break vacation rentals and live it up by the ocean.

There are various companies that can help you obtain a rental home which outfit your specific requirements. There is a broad collection of accommodations for you to decide from, you can select to go for something secluded if you’re appearing to acquire away from the bustle and hustle of daily life. You may even pick ocean front and beach front cottages; also there are many bed and breakfast inns as well.

There are various benefits of staying next to the sea; the beach is where you can realize the beautiful sunrise and sunset over the water and white and beaches. The entire atmosphere on the beach, the rustling of palm leaves, the sound of the tides assists bring a sense of peace and serenity. Believe me, the relaxation and the peace of mind one attains on a Nc beach vacation rentals can never be duplicated or imitated.

Beach break rental houses are unique way to forget stressed out and monotonous city life and offer its guests incredible getaways. Spending your vacation in a stunning and gorgeous beach can give your holiday a whole new different touch which you can never ever forget. The beaches and mountain ranges offer all the dining and wining opportunities that you may look for. Also, there are numerous shopping possibilities; you can take back souvenirs to remind you of the vacation.

The biggest advantage to rental homes is that they offer more space than regular hotel rooms and come for cheaper. This way the entire family can enjoy a vacation without needing to compromise on personal space. Also, generally rental houses come equipped with a kitchen, you require not go out for every food.

To find that perfect beach rental, you need to do your homework. There are several attractive beaches across the world and each beach is unique in a way. First, you have to decide on one particular beach where you want to spend your vacation. After you make your decision, all you need to do is search for rentals in that area.

Go online to check out various rentals available, and take note of the prices. It is always wise to set a budget when you are looking for that perfect house, compare the prices of various rentals before you pick one for yourself. Also, you can try bargain with the agent and owner to try and acquire a better compact. Beach rentals are a great place to hold celebrations and are also suitable for family gatherings.

Once you find a good deal, you can sign the papers to ensure a pleasurable vacation. So, bundle your bags with all the seashore supplies and make your way to the vacation of your dreams. Leave your difficulty behind and enjoy nature at its best. Don’t forget to pack the sunscreen, happy sunbathe!