Every community has a sentiment about it. A feel - a way of being that subtly motivates all of its inhabitants. Like a river making its way to the ocean, or a stream to a river, there is an unspoken flow of events that affects all in its path.

In Jerome, a historic mining town of no more than 400 people, character is as rich as the veins of copper that once lay beneath it. I discovered quickly upon my residency here that requirement number one is that you must be something - that is something beyond ordinary. To be something in Jerome is different than lets say being something in New York. We arent talking about titles and salaries. The mish-mash of residency here extends from the near homeless to rock stars, all living side-by-side, or as it is with this hillside town, nearly on top of one another.

The requirement of being something special that I speak of is more about having uniqueness, personality, and a hint of eccentricity. I liken Jerome to the town in the old television show Northern Exposure. As unconventional and bohemian-like as the characters seemed on that show they are in reality here in Jerome. Take away the snow, throw in a few cacti and there you have it.

Not all small towns are this fascinating. Add a cast with enough idiosyncrasies and suddenly the town grows definition. Certainly every community has its own bragging rights; Sedona was named the most beautiful town in the United States and Tombstone - well has tombstones. Some of these rights are even promoted on t-shirts and mugs. In Jerome, we advertise our strangeness on bumper stickers. Last week I saw two statements that summed it all up - “Jerome, Arizona. Were all here because were not all there” and “Jerome, Arizona. Population - Weird.”

We are all here because somehow there is nowhere else wed rather be. A few were actually born and raised in Jerome, but most of the old-timers left when the mines closed down in the 50s. Those who are here now are mostly transplants from the 60s and 70s, folks who have seen Jerome transform from hippy hangout turned artist colony turned tourist Mecca.

Then there are those who discover Jerome while passing through. These people come and go. It is unknown why; maybe they lacked the character to survive here. On the other hand, maybe they couldnt tolerate the surplus of character that surrounded them.

I am in neither of these categories; I have always lived here, well in the Verde Valley, a town only seven measurable miles beneath Jerome, yet in reality hundreds away.

I had always heard about Jerome or “that place”. I couldnt wait to grow up and move there, and finally, here I am. I can brag about being odd enough to live here yet I do feel for those who dont quite fit in. I mean, who can compete with people like Katie L., a musician and activist who in her eighties rides her bike to town every day (straight uphill) and even rode that bike home once in the nude - just to make a statement. Or how about the guy who lives in the makeshift shed on the outside of town who has taken it upon himself to keep all of Jeromes natural landscaping watered and pruned. The list goes on and because the town is so small, my mentioning even first names can be incriminating.

But this is what makes Jerome what it is and always has been. Nobody knows why, yet it exists. Some think it is the influence of towns pasts ghosts, others dont even question it. It could possibly be summed up in one little ditty that was written by a gentleman who lived in Jerome in 1898. He wrote:

“Rivers without water, clouds without rain, men are without honor and women without shame.”

Hey, what can we say?
Written by Pamela Ravenwood

Pamela Ravenwood is a freelance writer and owns ThatsMyOldHouse.com as well as JeromeAZ.com.

Jefferson City was chosen as Missouris state capital in 1821 and was named after Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States of America. Jefferson City is nestled in the Ozarks on the banks of the Missouri River and is near the geographical center of the state. The city is located along Hwy 54, Hwy 50 and Hwy 63, is 30 miles south of Columbia, Missouri and almost centered between Missouris major cities of St. Louis and Kansas City. The City of Jefferson had a total of 39,636 residents, as of 2000 and the median age was 36 years.

Jefferson City has a deep historical background and illustrates a romantic atmosphere with many buildings dating back to the 1800s. The Lohman building was built in the late 1830s and is believed to be the oldest structure in the city. This three-story limestone treasure now exhibits transportation of the nineteenth century. Other historical attractions include the Missouri State Governors Mansion, the Carnahan Memorial Garden which was renamed in 2001 after the death of Governor Mel Carnahan, the Cole County Historical Museum and the Missouri Supreme Court Building. The city also embraces a long list of historical homes such as the Schmidt Apartments, Ivy Terrace, Towles-Buckner House, Oscar Birch House, Villa Panorama, Cole County Historical Society, Wendielin Buehrle House, Dix House, Upshulte House, Hugh Stevens House, Orchard Acres, Jefferson Female Seminary, Schroeder House, Oberman House, Parsons House and Sinclair-Hagner House that each add to the richness and ambiance found there.

Perhaps the most sought after attraction in Missouri is the Missouri State Capitol Building. The Capitols dome rises 238 feet about ground level and is perched on the bluffs of the Missouri River. The building creates a picturesque view of the city for travelers arriving from the north. Completed in 1918, the Capitol offers exhibits and tours that give a superb historical education of the State of Missouri as well as the building itself. Other museums and attractions in the city include the Missouri Veterans Memorial, Cole County Historical Museum, Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial, Missouri Veterinary Museum, Museum of Missouri Military History and Missouri River Regional Library.

Jefferson City sits on some of Missouris most beautiful terrain and offers an outdoor retreat with various parks and golf courses. Eagle Knoll golf course is ranked as the third best value in the nation and challenges all levels of play. Oak Hills Golf Center, Railwood Golf Course, Turkey Creek Golf Center and Redfield Golf Course are favorite places for visitors and residents alike. The City of Jefferson has numerous parks including Binder Park, Joseph C. Miller Park, Ellis Porter/ Riverside Park, McClung Park, McKay Park, Memorial Park and Family Aquatic Center, Miller Street Park, Washington Park and Cole County Park. Most notable is the citys portion of the famous Katy Trail.

Classic entertainment for the whole family can be found at the Marvic Skate Center, The Washington Park Skate Park, Washington Park Ice Arena, West Gate Lanes, Capital 4 Theatres and Capital 8 Theatres. The city also has a shooting range at the United Sportsman Club. City night life can be enjoyed at several night clubs such as Mikes Corner Pocket, Bones, Pitchers, College Club, Spectators and the Budweiser Inn Bar & Lounge.

The City of Jefferson appreciates fine art and is home to the Miller Performing Arts Center, Jefferson City Community Concert Association, Jefferson City Symphony, Little Theatre, Capital City Players and Stained Glass Theatre.

The Jefferson City Public School District operates Jefferson City High School. There is also a private school, Helias. Lincoln University is also a landmark institution and in 2004 was ranked fifth in diversity for graduates and seventh for having the most international students.

The shopping experience in Jefferson City ranges from quaint “Mom and Pop” specialty shops to chain stores as well as the Capital Mall. Downtown Jefferson City, on High Street, has been a focal point of the city for over 150 years and yet the city is continuously expanding to offer more to its residents and visitors.

Wildwood Crossing offers familiar stores such as Pier 1 Imports, Old Navy, MC Sports, Goodys, Petco, TJ Maxx, Shoe Carnival, Barnes and Noble, Cingular Wireless and more. Chain stores such as Best Buy , Lowes and Wal-Mart are also along Missouri Boulevard. The Capital Mall holds major department stores such as JCPenney, Sears and Dillards as well as stores like Victorias Secret, Bath & Body Works, Buckle, Tuesday Morning, Payless Shoe Source, American Eagle Outfitters, Christopher & Banks, Claires Boutique, Deb, Dollar Tree, EB Games, Foot Locker, Hot Topic, JoAnn Fabrics, Kay Jewelers, KB Toys, Maurices, Radio Shack, Rex TV & Appliance Center, Shoe Department, Things Remembered, Trade Secret, Zales and more.

Dining in Jefferson City ranges from fast food to fine dining and caters to every occasion. With restaurants like Madisons Caf鬠Arris Pizza Palace, Michaels Unforgetable BBQ, McDonalds, Roly Poly, Paddy Malones Pub, Capital City Steak House, Pizza Hut, Sonic, Subway, ODonoghues, Coltons Steakhouse, Applebees, Ruby Tuesdays, Dairy Queen, Fazolis, Taco Bell, El Jimador, China Garden, High Street Pub, Zesto Drive-In, Kate & Allys, Old Brick House Deli, Lees Famous Recipe Chicken, Alexandros and more, choosing just one place at a time will be the hardest part.

The City of Jefferson is a gracious host to travelers looking for the charm of a small town with the amenities of a city. It honors a rich past and embraces a prosperous future.
Written by Kamyar Shah

Learn about Jefferson City Missouri http://www.royaltyuniverse.com/Home_Page.html

Visit the Kansas City Missouri Hotels and Lodging Directory …the leading hotel and motel directory and reservation system in the state of Missouri featuring honest and concise hotel reviews with the lowest prices on the Internet - guaranteed.

Hialeah, Fl, the “City of Progress” is located upon a larger prairie between Biscayne Bay and the Everglades. The name Hialeah is translated as “pretty prairie” or “Upland Parries”. The Seminole interpretation of its name, “High Prairie” the area is home to the Seminole Indian tribe. The area was discovered by Missouri cattleman James Bright and Glenn Curtiss who was a pioneer aviator.

The culture of todays Seminole Tribe of Florida can be traced back at least 12,000 years. In the early day of its existence, the US government carried out a policy of displacement and extermination against the American Indians in the east US systematically removing them from the path of “white “settlement. Two legendary leaders Osceola and Abaca. Osceola masterminded successful battles against five baffled general. Murdered the US Indian agent, took punitive action against any who cooperated with the white man and stood as a national manifestation of the Seminoles strong reputation for non surrender… though his exploits were not so well published Seminole medicine man Abiaka may have been more important to the internal Seminole war machine. He was a powerful spiritual leader who used his medicine to stir warriors into frenzy. For all of the resistance the Seminoles began the 20th centaury where they had been left at the conclusion of the Seminole Wars, in abject poverty and hiding out in remote camps in the wet wilderness areas of South Florida. The tribe has matured both politically and financially and the challenge of maintaining the unique Seminole culture while operating in the mainstream economy is the priority for them today. Until 1821 Florida was under the control of the government of Spain.

Entertainment was plentiful in Hialeah during the decade known as the “Roaring 20s” The Spanish sport of jai-alai and greyhound racing drew visitors from far and near. Even the 1926 hurricane that nearly destroyed the city those who believed in the future of Hialeah could not be deterred.

Hialeah Park racetrack opened in 1925 and is one of the oldest existing recreational facilities in southern Florida. Racing drew spectators and competing stables from all around. When the facility was severely damaged by a hurricane in 1926. Philadelphia horseman Joseph Widener and Kentucky horseman Col Edward Bradley hired architect Lester Deisler to design a complete new grandstand and a clubhouse in the Renaissance Revival style. Beautiful landscaped gardens with native plants and a lake in the infield stocked with flamingos. When is opened again in 1932 it was considered one of the most beautiful in the world and became so famous for the flamingos that is has been officially designate d a sanctuary for them by the Audubon society. The track is gone but the flamingoes remain in this park which was once considered one of the worlds most beautiful racetracks.

The flamingo Stakes race was an important stepping stone to the Kentucky Derby for 3 year old horses. The well known cult classic horse racing movie “Let it Ride” with Richard Dreyfuss, Terri Garr, JenniferTilly had most of its principal outdoor scenes at Hialeah Park.

The Hialeah Park Racetrack was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and was determined to be eligible as a National Historic Landmark. The park closed to the public in 2001 but the facilities remain intact except for the stables. Since the closing citizens to Save Hialeah Park Race Track have worked to preserve it. They offer this quote ” the Park was once the most beautiful rack track in the world, it marks the beginnings of the city of Hialeah and its founders, features a unique central park area, and is a symbolic resting place for the horses that raced there and the millions of people who once cheered from the clubhouse and grandstand. Hialeah Park is the citys most evident and only historical link with the rest of the nation. It deserves nothing less than to be completely restored and preserved” What the fans will miss the most is the ritual after the seventh race, the flight of the flamingos. The quality of racing in general in the area was adversely affected when Hialeah did not open up the backside to accommodate 1,000 to 1,300 horses from all around the country who were normally stabled there. This reduced the number of horses coming into the area to race.

From a population of 1500 in 1925 Hialeah has grown at a rate faster than most of the ten largest cities in Florida. Predominantly Hispanic, Hialeah resident s has assimilated their cultural heritage and traditions into a hard working diverse community. Citizens are proud of their ethnic background and strive to keep neighborhoods family oriented.

Nearly 92% of the populations are Spanish speakers The city was once proposed to be a playground for the rich but in 1959 Cuban exiles flooded in a finished building this working class community. Several waves of Cuban exiles streamed in after Castors takeover in Cuba in 1959. There were even more in the Freedom Flights, the boat lifts and the desperate boat people who in the late 1990s set out in any possible conveyance to try to reach our shores. They have created a very successful economy and industry that has seen continued growth.

The citys first slogan was “All Ways Lead to Hialeah”. From the beginning Glenn Curtiss and James Bright knew of the potential of the area but could not have imagined how important Hialeahs location would be for transportation. Hialeah has access to every major means of transportation. The I-75 and the Palmetto Pwky direct economical access to the Opa Locka and Miami International Airports. There is Amtrak, Tri Rail and Metro Road station conveniently located with the city.

The Miami-Dade Public School System serves the city with 3 high schools, 4 middle schools, and 17 elementary schools. The Dade Christian School (Baptist) is the largest private school in the area and is a ministry of new Testament Baptist church.

Monsignor Edward Pace Hitch School, St John the Apostle School and Immaculate Conception School serve the primacy and secondary private school students.

Miami Dade College Hialeah Campus opened in 1980. In addition to academics there are many cultural and community events sponsored by the college.

The larges Santero Community outside of Cuba is in Hialeah, the Santeria World Headquarters. In a lawsuit between the Church of lukumi Babalu Aye v. city of Hialeah, the Santeria practice of animal sacrifice was ruled unconstitutional.

Telemoundo is the second largest Spanish language network. It is headquartered in Hialeah. There are several studios working taping programming, talk shows, news programs and telenovelas.

Hialeah is the densest city in the United State without a skyscraper. The citys tallest building is 14 floors and is only considered a mid rise.

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy Major League Baseball. The Florida marlins and Minor League Baseball, the Jupiter hammerheads and the Palm Beach Cardinals play and hour and a half north in Jupiter, Florida. The hammerheads are a Class A Advanced affiliate of the Florida Marlins, and the cardinals are a Class A Advanced affiliate of the St Louis Cardinals.

The National basketball League Miamian Heat, The National football League Miami Dolphins and the national Hockey League Florida Panthers are all within a small driving distance of Hialeah. The United soccer League is represented by the First Division Miami FC and fans of college football will enjoy the fact that nearby Miami is the home of the Orange Bowl

Hialeah restaurants and bars are a mix of traditional Cuban and international fusion food. Asturias features a unique menu that combines traditional Spanish menu items like tapas which are small plates of different appetizers that are eaten as a meal, with an American influence. Cantina Okeechobee is known for their delicious margaritas and fajitas. At Café Raul on Palm Avenue the Cuban coffee, sandwiches and pastries are extremely popular amount the locals.

Shopping centers and malls abound in and around Hialeah. Westland Mall, just off the Palmetto Expressway, is a popular shopping destination. Anchored by Macys JCPenny and Sears, Westland Mall features nearly 100 stores. There are also cafes and restaurants like Crepes Land and Havana Madrid Restaurant, Just up the street from Westland Mall is the Miracle Mille Shopping Center, whose stores include Ross, TJ Maxx and Lane Bryant. Across the street there is Burlington coat Factory and Marshalls. Other nearby shopping malls includes mall of the Americas, Dolphin mall and Miami International Mall.

On the southeastern section of Hialeah is the historic district called Deer park. This tiny section of Hialeah is unique because its street names were probably borrowed from the natives who lived in the area. Per-na-na and To-to-loche are but a few of the interesting names.
Written by Kamyar Shah

Hialeah Florida http://directory.selfstorageowner.com

Hilo Hatties is the big souvenir store. Unlike, the name suggests there are not located strictly in Hilo. Its a big chain store that has several locations on just about all of the islands. Hilo Hatties is famous for all different types of souvenirs, but their crowning glory is, of course, the Hawaiian shirt. Every tourist needs a Hawaiian shirt. You will also find the other stapes, such as homemade chocolate covered macadamia nuts. These are sure to please every grandma. They also have a wide assortment of hula dancing dolls, perfect for your brother-in-law.

Ukuleles are popular Hawaiian souvenirs. These are miniature guitars that have been prevalent in Hawaii since ancient times. Again, just like the hula lamp, you can spend anywhere from about thirty bucks and up (really up). Some of these Ukuleles actually cost thousands of dollars. The work ukulele actually means “jumping flea” in Hawaiian. This refers to the way the player would strum around the strings.

The popular Hawaii-Pearl harbor

When visiting Hawaii most people think of lush tropical trees and white sandy beaches. After all, Hawaii is the perfect spot for relaxing and sipping fruity drinks. However, there is one somber tourist spot that should not be missed. It is the memorial at Pearl Harbor.

Since the 2335 US soldiers died in the Pearl Harbor, the mood at the memorial is somber even today over sixty years after the attack. The park does a nice job of filtering the average number of 4500 guests through the memorial daily. Upon arrival to the memorial you are given a ticket and told when your entry to the movie theater will be. The time of year of your visit determines your wait time. During the summer months when crowds are at their highest you may have to wait a couple of hours. But, there is plenty to occupy your time. There is a museum that contains memorabilia such as letters from soldiers to loved ones and uniforms. The museum also has photos of Japanese planes as well as map showing the destruction of the harbor.

Hawaii volcanoes national park

Kilauea Caldera is the youngest and most active volcano on earth. The landscaping is amazing complete with hardened lava and dozens of craters. The park has 140 miles of hiking trails and is open to the public for camping. The park is over 333,000 acres of land so plan to stay a while if you truly want to explore the park. If you dont have a lot of time, you should plan to at least drive through the park. It is worth the hour or so that it will take you to see everything. The volcano erupts regularly, so in most cases you will get to see some sort of lava flow. However, dont expect to see eruptions spewing into the sky like in the movies. The flow is fluid and constant, not nearly as dramatic as Hollywood depicts.

If and when the lava reaches the ocean, sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid permeate the air. These gases are toxic. Every one should be careful, especially pregnant women, young children and people with upper respiratory problems. The smell of sulfur is strong in the air.
Written by Sammy Maseko

Lets access more information from this online travel guide by visiting this website:Travel Information Guide.

You gotta watch this hidden camera investigation on how room service actually cleans your rooms drinking glasses.

In this guide to Maui travel I will share with you how to book yourvacation, finding good deals on airline tickets, simple ways to savemoney on motels, honeymoons and weddings, and the many fun and excitingways to enjoy the island of Maui.

Booking your first trip to Maui can seem overwhelming. There are twooptions that are worth investigating. Option one is booking your tripthrough a travel agent in your area. Travel agents can suggest popularvacation packages. A bonus of booking through a travel agent is thatmany of the agents have been to your destination. The second option isto perform a web search. Many great deals can be found when doing a websearch on Maui travel packages. A third option would be to shop yourlocal travel agencies, find the package that you like and then searchthe web for better prices. After your search go back to your travelagent to see if they can match the price.

Finding good deals on airline tickets is often a challenge. Airlinesthat specialize in Hawaii travel packages are a great place to locatelower priced plane tickets. Another option is traveling to Maui duringthe off season.¦amp;nbsp; Prices are typically higher during the wintermonths. With a little persistence and looking low air fares can be found.

Prices of motels and hotels in Maui will vary depending on threefactors, time of year, location and discounts. To save money book yourtrip during the slower times of the year from April toNovember.¦amp;nbsp; Motel location also plays a big part in the priceof a room. Choose motels that are in the less populated parts of Mauisuch as Kihei. One of the best ways to save money is discounts that areavailable when you book your room such as: AAA or other travelorganization discounts, AARP membership, complimentary visits withtimeshare visits, Americans with Disabilities Act.

Honeymoons and weddings are two very popular reasons for going to Maui.Many honeymooners prefer to stay in resorts that offer romance, perfectweather and many options for entertainment. Resorts offer a widevariety of options from simple cottages to luxurious beach side rooms.

Maui offers many choices of entertainment and outdoor activities. Thebest night life can be found in Lahaina. The best surfing for beginnersis in Launiupoko Park, advanced surfers like Honolua Bay. The mostpopular place to scuba dive is in Molokini. The two top wind surfingand Kite surfing areas are Hookipa Beach Park for the advanced andKanaha Beach for beginngers. If you enjoy snorkeling Black Rock inKaanapali is the spot. If you enjoy shopping then go to Lahaina. Thewhole island of Maui is known for whale watching with many toursavailable. If you’re looking for an exotic beach go to theRed Sand Beach in Hana.

Its no wonder Maui is such a popular vacation and honeymoondestination with all of its natural beauty and many exciting things todo.¦amp;nbsp; You will find Maui is the best vacation you have everbeen on and you will want to return again.

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Written by Richard Shryack

for more information go to: http://www.guide-to-maui-travel.com

Is a Colorado hiking trip in the Rocky Mountains on your horizon? If so, then try these tips to increase your enjoyment.

Plan A Route

A Colorado hiking trip begins with plans for where you will be going. When choosing a trail it is important to take into consideration the altitude change and how many miles will be hiked. When looking at the altitude change it is important to realize that the same distance with even a moderate change in altitude will feel much more difficult and take more time than the same distance without much of an altitude change. When determining how many miles to hike, always allow for the slowest person in the party, and err on the side of fewer miles, rather than too many.

Document Your Route

Once you have planned a route for your Colorado hiking trip, make sure you write it down. Include dates and times of estimated departure for the trailhead and estimated times of return. Once you have this information written out you can leave it with a friend or family member so that if there is a problem and you do not return on time they can send help out.

Dress For The Weather

Colorado hiking is known for its wonderful scenery. It is also known for its dramatic changes in weather, especially at higher altitudes. This means that layered clothing is the best option; where if the day starts out warm shorts and a tee shirt can be worn, but if the day cools off quickly a pair of long pants, a jacket, and a fleece hat can be added. Another good idea is to carry along a rain jacket.

Bring Snacks And Drinks

Bringing food is important even if going on a very short hike, and essential if going on a long one. This can be calorie-rich snack foods such as nuts or a candy bar. Even more vital to a safe and enjoyable trip is hydration. This can take the form of water, juice, or sports drinks. Whichever option is chosen make sure that enough is taken so that when thirst kicks in it can be promptly quenched.

Dont Forget To Slow Down And Enjoy

Colorado hiking has much to recommend it, including a great variety of plant and animal life. The best way to enjoy these are to take frequent breaks, look around, and see why the Colorado Rocky Mountains are a favorite escape. Bringing a camera and binoculars are fun ways to enjoy the plentiful nature and scenery that is offered.

Colorado hiking trips are great ways to enjoy the best the state has to offer when it comes to nature and wildlife. Following the above tips can help to make wonderful memories and ultimate enjoyment more likely.

Written by Sarah J Holt

Sarah Holt writes for The Ultralight Backpacking Site. To get the e-book “Ultralight Backpacking Secrets (And Wilderness Survival Tips)” for FREE, as well as photos, gear recommendations, and a new wilderness survival section, visit: http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com

Have you ever though about cheap holidays to Las Vegas? You may think Las Vegas is no place to spend a family holiday, but what you might not know is it has many things for families to do and see. There are museums, roller coasters and theme parks as well as the famous laser sky show in the old city of Las Vegas. You will find activities for the kids, free attractions and rides for all ages. The best thing about cheap holidays in Las Vegas is the Las Vegas power pass that allows you access to twenty popular attractions in Vegas that includes a tour of Hoover Dam.

At the Flamingo, you can visit the wildlife habitat. If there are little cubs at the time, you can even have your picture taken with the little ones climbing on you. This is something so exciting for everyone. The Imperial Palace has a huge collection of cars from all years, makes and models. You might also enjoy the motion rides at the Excalibur. These rides are spectacular and you feel like everything is so real. If you think that sound fun, the aquarium and fountain shows at Caesars Palace and Silverton are something for everyone to see.

The conservatory and fountain show at the Bellagio are extraordinary while the Stratosphere has that well-known roller coaster. If you visit the MGM Grand, you will see the lions and their cubs if they are around. These are all on the strip, if you venture off the strip, you can see seven different museums, Botanical Park, ice arena, chocolate factory and the rock-climbing center. You will also want to see the Richard Petty driving experience. That is a thrilling ride. If you need more adventures to keep you busy, venture outside of Las Vegas.

Not only is there Hoover Dam, but you might find yourself headed towards Death valley National Park or Bonnie Springs by Old Nevada. Grapevine Canyon is extraordinary to see by Laughlin and if the time is right, you might take the family to Las Vegas Ski resort for some snowboarding and skiing. On particular place that is a site to see is Lake Mead. Many people forget about all the things outside Las Vegas that are close by. Not all of your cheap holidays have to center around Las Vegas when you know where the other hot spots are located.

One might think that cheap holidays, Las Vegas and family vacations do not come in the same package, but they do. You can find packages that have hotel accommodations, airfare and some passes to the attractions in the area. If you plan your trip accordingly, you might even see some holiday spectaculars. Whether you are on the strip or off the strip, you are going to have fun. Explore a city that has more to offer than just the casinos and gambling. You will have a great time with the family and no one will believe you did not spend the entire time in the casinos, so take plenty of pictures to show what you found in Las Vegas.
Written by Mrbond74 Peterson

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Going on vacation is a special treat for most families that you have had to save for and wait for. Worrying about your home should not be something that you have to do when you are vacationing. If you plan ahead, you can have a great vacation with no worries about your home!

A House That Is Watched Discourages Thieves
If you are lucky enough to have a friend or relative to housesit, you are fortunate. They can help provide the security of someone coming in and out of the house and can help take care of your pets. If you cannot find a housesitter, then at the very least you need to find someone to come and pick up your mail, put your trash out on garbage day, and water your plants. An untended garden or plants and an overflowing mailbox are big signs for a thief that your house is ripe for the picking.

Security experts recommend that you NOT stop your mail, because there are some unscrupulous people that may pick up on the fact that your mail carrier does not stop at your house. Don’t forget to ask your friend or family member to pick up your newspaper too. A car in your driveway is a helpful deterrent also.

If you don’t have a housesitter, you need to make your house look lived-in. Inexpensive timers on your lights will help your home look like someone is home. A good place for the timers are in the living room and bathroom (by the window). Have the person who is checking your house to adjust the blinds also.

Cover lawncare too. A lawn with high grass is a sign that thieves look for too.

Protection While You’re Out
Whether you are just going down the street, out to dinner, or on vacation for a few weeks, these tips should be followed.

Always lock your door and give the person caring for your home a key to check on your home in your absence.

Timers on lights and a radio on will help give the impression that someone is home.

A spare key should not be left in a flowerpot, under a doormat, inside the mailbox, or in other obvious key hiding places. The fake rock key holders are helpful, but only if you already have rocks in your flower garden. The best thing is to leave a key with a neighbor.

Tell your neighbor if you are going out of town. Neighbors will be able to notice things out of place much more quickly than someone who just pops in one or two times a day. Neighbors are a great tool to watch each other’s homes.

If the Worst Happens
If something happens while you are gone, here are some things for you to look for:

If you see a broken door or window, then do not go into your home. Call the police from a neighbor’s home or from your cell phone. Even if there is nothing stolen, it is better to have a police escort just in case.

If you believe a crime has occured, do not touch anything. Keep the scene as preserved as possible until the police can conduct their investigation.

If you put these tips into effect, chances are pretty good that your house will be safe and secure when you return. Now you can relax and enjoy your vacation.

Do you contemplate life on a South Pacific island? How about a vacation to American Samoa?

Samoa is located about 2600 miles southwest of Hawaii. Some portions of the territory is undeveloped, including American Samoa National Park. Samoa is actually four separate islands that are named Ta’u, Ofu, Olessego, and Tutuila. The weather is warm year around, but rain showers are quite frequent, so don’t forget your umbrella.

One of the great benefits of Samoa is the beautiful, crystal clear water. You can explore one of the many large reefs that are the home of more than 800 native fish and 200 different coral species. If you love nature, you may want to check out the flying foxes in Amalau Valley. There is no shortage of beautiful scenery in Samoa.

When visiting Tutuila, you will want to drive down the scenic roads and stop at different places to check out the panoramic views. If you take your time, you can even stop and enjoy the hospitality of an overnight stay at Afono or Vatia.

If you enjoy snorkling, then you will want to visit Ofu. You will need to bring your scuba gear from Tutuila and be sure to see what regulations there are for diving. You will also want to take a walk on the beach at Ofu. The super-fine coral sand is perfect for a long walk at sunset.

The National Park area is in Tau, which is the entire southeastern half of the island. You can go hiking on the beaches, but if you want to go into more remote areas, you need to have a guide. You can find a guide through the National Park office. If you want to visit the volcanic areas, then you need to be sure that you have the right shoes to protect your feet.

You can rent a car and take a drive to Saua. Saua is a sacred area that is considered to be the birthplace of the Polynesian people.

Keep in mind that Samoan customs are much different than our customs in the United States. They usually cover most of their body, so be sure that you dress modestly so that you do not offend them. Even when swimming, keep in mind their customs and keep the bikini at home.

The Samoan people are very welcoming and hospitable to visitors. If you want, it is even possible to find a Samoan family to host you while you stay on the island. This is a great way for you to learn more about their life and customs. Just be sure you follow their customs to show respect to your hosts.

Some of their customs are:

If you are looking for a friendly and welcoming place to visit, then this beautiful Polynesian paradise is right for you. You will return home relaxed, refreshed, and full of knowledge about the wonderful people of Samoa.