If you are thinking about traveling this summer, your criteria needs to be figured out first – before making any plans. Is money a factor? Maybe you’ll have to include the kids or grandkids into the plans. Do you want to travel to the continental USA or would you rather travel worldwide? What time of the year do you want to travel and are your schedules open to a week, two weeks, or longer?
After you decide what your factors are, then consider the top three destinations for 2013 and how they may affect your criteria.
Let’s say you are a couple that is financially set, have some money stashed in your golden egg basket, and feel like traveling worldwide. Be sure and check the value of the US dollar before deciding on your destination. While this piece of advice may seem obvious, it was something that my husband and I forgot to do when checking out the various hotels in Victoria BC, during our last visit there. When you are ready, this next section might be one of your first considerations when traveling worldwide.
San Cristobal in the Dominican Republic
The US dollar (and Canadian for that matter) continues to be a very good value in many countries. For this reason, one of the top destinations is San Cristobal in the Dominican Republic. The wildlife on the island is something to marvel at; dolphins, iguanas, tropical birds of every variety, sea lions, and Galapagos’ turtles – are all here for your viewing pleasure. If you are looking for a peaceful and quiet retreat, to enjoy nature and all it has to offer, consider this very trendy destination. Some kids or grandkids would probably get bored with this vacation destination though.
Alaska
Alaska has always been and continues to be one of the most popular places to travel. Travelers might enjoy a cruise starting out in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia and traveling up the inside passage to Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka. Each stop has something different to experience. In Juneau, be sure and take the tram up the side of Mt. Roberts to the top. There you will experience a one-man Indian show that will remain in your memory long after your trip ends. Ever wonder what happens to Eagles when they get injured or hurt?
If you are interested in looking at large birds be brought back to full health, this is the place to be. It is well worth your time for both young and old travelers. Don’t forget to hike the rain forest in Ketchikan where you will see authentic totem poles and other Indian artifacts. And for the young of heart, go zip-lining through this beautiful, historic forest. This vacation spot should be considered if you are going with older children who can appreciate the beauty of the scenery.
Minneapolis / St. Paul, Minnesota
The United States continues to boast of many top destinations for travelers but one of the newer, less thought of tourist locations is Minneapolis / St. Paul, Minnesota. If you are a “biking together” type of family, the bike trails in this area are the best in the US. They have new trails running along the Mississippi River and hotel / motel accommodations in the area are reasonable for families and singles.
For the female traveler, the Mall of America remains a must-stop spot when visiting the area. If your vacation plans are in the winter, this is not the spot you want to pick. Families, retired couples and singles will all enjoy this area, especially in the fall of the year. For you singles out there, they have some of the best night clubs in the areas located around downtown Minneapolis
