City Slickers

Though there are so many travel destinations, many people do not think to squeeze a visit to an urban location into their vacation plans. But what they don't consider, are the many activities that a city atmosphere provides.

The Greek Islands

Probably the top place of my list of travel destinations is Greece. I have always been particularly drawn to this country. Seeing pictures and movies that have taken place here has made me positive that I must visit the country at some point. Though I am anxious to see all of the country, the aspect that I am most intrigued by is the Greek Islands.

I find that the landscaping and architecture of the Greek Islands is incredibly beautiful. A common theme is spread throughout of the islands of white building and bright blue rooftops. Not only are the islands a gem to look at, they are also full of activities to do, and sights to see.

Santorini, for example, is famous for the Volcano that is located on the island. Visitors to Santorini can actually stay in resorts and hotels that have been built on the volcano, providing gorgeous views. Santorini also has other things to do, like dozens of museums and wineries.

Martha's Vineyard

My family has been traveling to the island of Martha's Vineyard off of Cape Cod, for my entire life. Every summer, for as long as I can remember, we have spent at least a week on the island. It is without a question, my favorite destination, and I am lucky to have so many cherished memories there. For me, there have always been so many things to look forward to when spending time there each summer, and I have compiled a list of some of the "must do" activities when traveling there.

1. Jump off the Jaws Bridge:
One of Martha's Vineyard's claims to fame is that the popular movie "Jaws" was filmed there in the 70s. One of the scenes from the movie is filmed at a bridge at State Beach. A popular thing to do now is to jump off the bridge there. It is a lot of fun, highly recommended! You can also see the house that the movie was filmed at in Vineyard Haven.

2. See the Sunset at Menemsha:
Menemsha is a little bit of a hike from where most people stay, but the ride is definitely worth it! Menemsha Beach has the best view of the sunset on the entire island. You will be able to get the most beautiful pictures there. If the sunset happens to be especially beautiful, the people on the beach usually applaud once the sun goes all the way down.

3. Eat at the best restaurants:
For seafood, the best place to go is The Bite, in Menemsha. It is a tiny shack that is so small, it can be easily missed. The best hole-in-the-wall restaurant on the island!
For pizza, Giordano's is a must. It is in Oak Bluffs, right near where the ferry pulls in. The pizza is absolutely delicious and will keep you coming back for more!
For breakfast food or pastries try Back Door Donuts. This is also in Oak Bluffs, and is open really late for the night owls. It has freshly made donuts, which are also delicious.

4. Ride the Carousel:
In Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard is the old carousel. It is an antique carousel, and one of the oldest that is still in use in the country. Especially for younger kids, the "Flying Horses" is a ton of fun! As you ride around you collect rings from either side of the carousel. Catch a brass ring and win yourself a free ride!

Like Privacy?

For those who are not working on a tight budget, and who long for secluded vacation getaways, Seabird Key, located in the Florida Keys may be just the spot. As a part of what is often referred to as the "American Caribbean", Seabird Island is a beautifully peaceful location.

For a weekly price of $6,995 during peak season, and $5,595 during the off season, vacationers can expect to have the entire island to themselves.
The island bodes just one three bedroom house which sleeps eight. The rental house runs strictly on solar power and is equipped with all modern amenities. The rental price also includes a runabout boat, a sailboat and kayaks available for use to go fishing or snorkeling in the surrounding waters. And of course, there is the private beach located right outside the front door.

But if you are interested in this setting, be prepared to be totally isolated during your stay. Other than the people you bring with you, there are no other inhabitants on the island! However, a short boat ride can take renters to fine dining, night life, and shopping. The island's manager is also located within a fifteen minute boat ride.

How to Cut Costs and Travel Outside the Box

Yes, we are in a recession. Yes, vacations and traveling are becoming more of a luxury than a routine. And yes, traveling can still be an option for anyone who is willing to look outside of the typical vacation box. So before you rule out your travel plans altogether, you should think about a different kind of trip.


If you are looking to give back to the community or volunteer your time, a volunteer trip is always a fulfilling alternative. Another bonus to taking part in these kinds of trips, is that they are often less expensive than a typical vacation. I had the opportunity to participate in an Alternative Spring Break program in the impoverished Birmingham, AL area through my school last year, and found it to be more gratifying than traveling I had done. The program was through Habitat for Humanity which has branches is hundreds of places across the United States and other countries. Though it may not be as relaxing as a typical vacation, taking part in a volunteer trip can be just as worthwhile.

Hotels are great, but can be expensive and sometimes a deal breaker for the hopeful tourist. However, there are other housing options when traveling, that many people seem to overlook.
If anyone has seen the movie "The Holiday", you know what a house swap is. Basically, it is a very affordable way to experience another part of the world, while maintaining the comforts that a house provides. You can exchange your house with someone from another place who is willing to visit your area. This can even be done between countries, as it was in the movie.

In addition to vacation home exchanges, hostels are always an idea. Though they are often thought of as useful only to those backpacking through Europe, this is simply not the case. When researching hostels for my own trip to Europe next year, I realized that there is a wide variety of hostels worldwide. I was unaware that hostels existed here in the United States as well as abroad. This makes for a great option for those looking to travel within the country on a budget.

Eco-Friendly Travel

I like to think of myself as being conscious of the environment. With that in mind, traveling can sometimes conflict with what we consider eco-friendly. Driving long distances or taking fuel-guzzling flights is not an ideal way to improve the environment. However, I have come across several options that allow for a more environmentally-conscious style of vacationing and traveling.
"Green Hotels"
There are hundreds of hotels worldwide that have made an effort to reduce their carbon footprints. By taking simple measures, such as changing to energy-saving light bulbs, they are able to save money and have a positive impact on the environment. Personally, I have noticed that at many hotels now, new towels are only distributed by request, in an attempt to reduce the unnecessary washing of towels. Simple measures like these can make a big difference.

Other hotels claim to be completely "green". For example, the Orchard Garden Hotel in San Francisco, claims to be one of the first hotels to be totally environmentally friendly. Not only does this hotel have energy-saving lighting, but it also boasts nontoxic paints, glues, and varnishes, and all organic food. Orchard Garden even goes as far as to offer its visitors transportation to and from airports, in what else? A hybrid Toyota Prius.

Eco-Friendly Travel Must-Haves
When I started to research environmentally friendly travel, I found a lot of interesting "green" items that someone who tries to be eco-conscious might find useful when journeying.

I know that when I travel, having an alarm clock is an absolute necessity. Wake up calls seem to be a thing of the past, and cell phone alarm clocks, in my experience, are simply unreliable. Having said that, the eco-friendly alarm clock that I noticed seemed very practical. The clock is portable and compact, a requirement when traveling. What makes it green, is that is requires no energy or electricity to function. Its manufacturers have created a way for the small clock to tell time by using salt water.

Another product that is undeniably useful is the 'ultimate rechargeable battery'. This battery can take place of the widely used toxic, alkaline batteries of the past. It can be charged by way of a USB, and is good for up to 500 uses!

Art-Inspired Travel

Some may not consider traveling cross-country to be necessarily "local" travel. However, for others who yearn to travel around the globe and back, staying within their own country seems less than thrilling. Although I am someone who plans on experiencing different cultures abroad, I also intend to travel within the borders of the United States. I think many people do not spend enough time exploring their own country. If I haven't convinced you to travel within the United States yet, I hope that my next few words inspire you to do so.










I first came across the beauty of Yosemite National Park in California when I was in high school. In my photography class, we focused heavily on the work of photographer, Ansel Adams. Much of Adams artwork is centered around this park, and in the 1900s he was one of the first people to bring attention to the area through his prints.

Adams spent an excessive amount of time in Yosemite, submerging himself in the beauty of the park. He had such a love for Yosemite, that he ended up living a large part of his life there. His work serves as a sort of advertisement for the inquiring traveler.

Though Ansel Adams gracefully photographed Yosemite in black and white images, the true colors and beauty of the park can only be experienced by those who witness it first hand. For travelers who are desirous of unprocessed and striking natural beauty, Yosemite Natural Park is a must.