Las Vegas: Offers The Unexpected

Most people know that Las Vegas offers some of the most exciting casinos in the world, not to mention world-class restaurants, a wide range of truly incredible shopping opportunities, lavish day spas, and extremely unique and entertaining shows. However, it also offers a variety of truly one-of-a-kind experiences you'll remember for a lifetime.

This week, I am in Las Vegas experiencing just some of what's new here. This is my first visit to the world famous Strip in almost five years, and I am amazed at how much things have changed...for the better!


In recent years, the Wynn expanded to include the all-new Encore, and in the middle of the Strip, City Center (featuring the Aria mega-resort) has opened. The Planet Hollywood hotel has expanded, and just this month, The Cosmopolitan (another incredible mega-resort) opened in the heart of the Strip.

Visiting any one of these properties provides for a unique vacation experience onto itself, as each offers its own theme, not to mention, it's own unique approach to guest room accommodations, hospitality, entertainment options, restaurants, shops, casinos and other amenities. All also offer incredible spas, as well as other activities and attractions - from dancing water fountain shows to exquisite art galleries.

While the Strip offers so much that's new, much of what's been here continues to provide top-notch and memorable vacation experiences. Even if you choose to visit Las Vegas and not gamble, you can find an endless assortment of activities and entertainment experiences to keep youself busy every minute of the day and night.

For example, over the years, I have seen the majority of shows presented in Las Vegas, and I can't recommend the various Cirque du Soleil shows highly enough, although my particular favorite continues to be KA. 

Over at the Wynn, Le Reve is truly one of the most breathtaking and amazing theatrical experiences ever to be presented in Las Vegas. Words can't do this show justice...It is that incredible.

However, if you're more in the mood to experience an amazing concert, Cher, Garth Brooks, Barry Manilow, and Donny & Marie are just some of the major headliners performing regularly on the Strip. Later this year, Celine Dion will also be returning with an all-new show.

Here in Las Vegas, yet another entertainment option is to catch one of the Broadway show productions, such as The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera or Jersey Boys.

Still another option is to experience one of the more classic-style Las Vegas shows, featuring music, dancing, elaborate costumes, comedy, magic and other speciality or variety-type acts. When it comes to entertainment, your choices are plentiful, and no matter what you choose, you probably won't be disappointed.

Las Vegas Motor Speedway: Home of Exotics Racing

Race A Ferrari: The Thrill Of A Lifetime!

During the day, if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind, adrenaline rush experience that you will probably remember for the rest of your life, take a 20 minute drive from the Strip, and head to the Las Vegas Speedway to experience Exotics Racing (703-405-7223, www.exoticsracing.com). 

Here, you will have the opportunity to not only test drive a current model Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porche, Aston Martin or Audi, for example, but you'll be able to take these and other cars onto the actual Las Vegas Speedway race track, and drive around the course at the highest speeds these cars can go (or that you, as the driver, can handle).

The Exotics Racing experience includes driver "training," as well as a one-on-one instructor who accompanies you in the vehicle(s) of your choice, but you are the driver, and have 100 percent control over the vehicle at all times as you take your laps.

This experience isn't cheap (prices start at $199.00), but it's well worth it, especially if you're a car buff.

Exotics Racing is the only company offering this type of driving experience in America, where you can literally race high-end cars around a professional track. The company focuses on safety, but goes out of it's way to provide an exhilarating experience for all who participate. The instructors are professional (and highly-skilled) drivers who are also extremely friendly.

My Las Vegas experience continues until Monday...Then, on Tuesday, I am headed to Orlando to experience the inaugural voyage of the brand new Disney Dream cruise ship (www.DisneyCruiseLines.com). Having heard so many wonderful things about what this new ship offers, it's a trip I am really looking forward to. 

So, please stay tuned for details about the Disney Dream and what's new at The Walt Disney World Resort and in Orlando.

Cirque du Soleil OVO: A Hit In Boston That's Headed To DC and Atlanta Next

The brilliant and creative minds behind Cirque du Soleil have done it again with it's latest touring production, called OVO. This incredible spectacle of sight and sound features amazing circus-style performances that have been re-envisioned into a totally new and original show.

Like other Cirque du Soleil shows, OVO features incredible music, colorful and imaginative costumes, unusual sets, and absolutely incredible talent. In fact, this is one of the best touring Cirque du Soleil shows ever! It's well worth the price of admission.

Every act blends together seamlessly to tell a story, and while each features extremely dangerous and incredibly difficult performances, the performers themselves make everything look absolutely effortless - like watching a perfectly choreographed ballet, for example.

Being a touring show, OVO is presented within a massive, custom-designed Grand Chapiteau (circus big top), which features a state-of-the-art sound and light system, and a circular stage that constantly transforms right before the audience's eyes.

The theme of OVO is insects, and when you attend a performance, you'll be transported into a three-dimensional, colorful and almost magical world that comes to life around you. But don't be fooled. This isn't a show designed for kids (although kids and teens will love it.)

Cirque du Soleil has multiple touring shows being presented concurrently throughout the world, plus a handful of resident shows in Las Vegas, as well as Orlando (plus in a few other cities abroad). Each show is totally different and extremely unique, as is OVO. So, even if you've seen other Cirque du Soleil shows, you can still plan on being utterly amazed and thoroughly entertained when you experience OVO.

In just a few words, OVO can best be described as imaginative, original and absolutely brilliant. OVO showcases incredible acrobats, gymnasts, contortionists, dancers, and other talented artists who have created original performances (circus acts), the likes of which you won't see anywhere else. This is anything but your run-of-the-mill circus, and it's a show that people of all ages will truly appreciate.

Over the past decade or so, I have had the privilege of seeing over a dozen Cirque du Soleil shows, including those which reside permanently in Las Vegas and Orlando, plus several of the touring shows. Every show I've seen, without exception, to has left me entertained and in awe of the incredible talent, the originality, and wonderful creativity behind each of them. Again, OVO is no exception. This show is truly breathtaking, and offers non-stop thrills and entertainment that's visually stunning.

According to the show's producers, "The cast of OVO comprises 54 performing artists from 16 different countries. OVO features many acrobatic acts, including a stunning flying trapeze act: six flyers sour 40 feet in the air, making this act the biggest of its kind ever presented under a big top by Cirque du Soleil. It combines many circus disciplines...The final act features 20 artists running, jumping and leaping up a 24-foot vertical wall."

OVO made its U.S. debut in San Francisco back in November 2009, and has been touring across America ever since, presenting shows to typically sold-out audiences.

Whether it's in Boston, Washington, DC or Atlanta, for example, a typical performance schedule throughout the week includes shows Tuesdays through Thursdays at 8:00pm; Saturdays at 4:00pm and 8:00pm; and Sundays as 1:00pm and 5:00pm. There are no performances on Mondays. On certain dates, however, performance times vary, so check the Cirque du Soleil website for details.

On Sunday, August 29th, OVO has its last performance in Boston, but continues its tour in Washington, DC on Thursday, September 9th, where it will remain until Sunday, October 24th, before heading to Atlanta.

Next year, OVO will be presented in several additional cities, including Dallas, Houston, Cincinnati and Seattle. So, if you happen to be in any of these cities during show dates, make a point to reserve tickets in advance and catch a performance!

Within the bright yellow and blue Grand Chapiteau, all of the seats offer an incredible view of everything. However, the Premium seats ($130.00 adults, $91.00 children, $117.00 seniors/students/military) put you front and center. Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 seats are also available at lower prices, starting at $55.00 (adults), $38.50 (children), $49.50 (seniors/students/military). These prices are for Washington, DC performances and may vary in other cities.

For ticket information, as well as show times and dates, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/ovo or call (800) 450-1480.

During the past 26 years, Cirque du Soleil (which is based in Montreal, Canada) has entertained more than 90 million spectators in over 200 cities on five continents. It all started as a 20 person French circus troupe, and has since evolved into a worldwide phenomenon.

All photos in this article are (c)2010 by Cirque du Soleil.

Daytona Beach Florida - It's NOT for Spring Breakers Anymore!

Those of you who follow me on Twitter know that I am spending the week in Daytona Beach, FL gathering information and taking photos for a soon-to-be published travel guide, called Thomas Cook Traveller Florida Hotspots. The book will be distributed throughout Europe early next year.

While here in Daytona Beach, I'm staying at the incredibly lovely The Shores Resort & Spa (386-767-7350 / www.shoresresort.com), which is actually located in Daytona Beach Shores. It's the only AAA-rated four-diamond resort in the area, and well worth visiting.

The guest rooms are spacious, clean and luxurious - and most overlook the ocean and beach, which is just a few yards from the resort. As you'd expect from a top-rated resort, The Shores Resort & Spa has a day spa, restaurants and a bunch of other services and amenities right on-property, so it's easy for a couple (on a romantic getaway), honeymooners, business travelers, or an entire family to relax and enjoy their time here. (The resort is also pet-friendly, which appeals to Rusty, my Yorkshire Terrier, who is enjoying his days lounging on the couch in the room and watching the ocean.)

For anyone looking for a fun-filled beach vacation, Daytona Beach is well worth the visit. While this area has a reputation for being a popular Spring Break getaway for college students (thanks in part to MTV), in reality, this is no longer true. In fact, Daytona Beach has re-invented itself over the past few years to become a premier resort and beach destination for couples and families. The college kids are enjoying there Spring Break elsewhere these days, so when you get here, you can expect more of an adult and family-oriented crowd - not a wild party atmosphere.

What may people also don't realize is that Daytona Beach is less than one hour by car from Orlando, so it's very easy and convenient to combine a Disney trip with a few days along the beach in Daytona Beach (or vice versa). You can fly into Orlando International Airport and rent a car to get here, or fly into Daytona Beach's own airport, which is much smaller, but more convenient.

Once you get here, there are all kinds of activities available for kids, teens and adults alike. If you're a NASCAR fan, you already know that Daytona is home to one of NASCAR's most famous tracks (and several NASCAR related experiences for tourists). However, for people who love the beach, this area offers 47 miles of lovely sandy beaches (along the Atlantic ocean), plus so much more - all at affordable prices!

Between NASCAR and the beaches, Daytona Beach welcomes more than eight million visitors per year. In terms of beach and water activities, you'll find whatever you're looking for - from swimming and surfing, to parasailing, fishing and kayaking.

Recommended Daytona Beach Area Activities & Attractions

The area has plenty of restaurants at all price points, plus a variety of other activities that are family-friendly. Adults in particular will enjoy the Museum of Arts & Sciences, which includes a variety of indoor exhibits, plus several miles of paths through a beautiful wetland area, called the Tuscawilla Preserve. There's a small admission fee for the museum, but you can spend between 15 minutes and several hours exploring the outdoor preserve for free.

Another interesting (and fun) activity that's family-friendly is the Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station. The 175-foot tall lighthouse is open from 10:00am daily. Guests can climb to the top of the lighthouse and see an amazing, 360-degree view of the surrounding area (but be prepared to climb 203 steps). It's also possible to explore the adjacent buildings that have historic significance, as well as a light house themed gift shop.

On your way to or from the lighthouse, you'll pass the Marine Science Center, which is a wild animal rescue facility that's open to the public. This attraction is primarily for kids and offers a handful of interactive exhibits. Guests can also see the wild turtles and other sea creatures that are being rehabilitated at the center. Plan on spending between 30 and 60 minutes here.

Below are photos from my visit to Daytona Beach...

During my trip, I also had the pleasure of experiencing a private surfing lesson at Daytona Beach Surfing School (386-677-7880 / www.daytonabeachsurfingschool.com).

You'll find a handful of "surfing schools" along the beach. This one, is located at the Grand Seas Resort (2424 N. Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach), but is open to anyone. What's special about this school is that its instructors are highly skilled surfers, experienced instructors, extremely friendly, patient with beginners, trained in CPR, and they're fully insured. Private or small group lessons are available to teens and adults. For a kids, a daily or week-long surfing camp is offered between June and August.

Even if you're an absolute beginner, the instructors at Daytona Beach Surfing School will have you surfing during your first one-hour lesson. While no previous experience is necessary, this is a physically challenging sport, so expect a workout.

After my surfing lesson, I drove over to the Daytona International Speedway to experience the Richard Petty Driving Experience (800-BE-PETTY). This attraction allows guests to experience the thrill of racing around the Daytona International Speedway track, in a genuine NASCAR racing car, at speeds up to 165 mph.

You'll sit in the passenger's seat as a highly-skilled driver shows you exactly what it's like to be a part of a NASCAR race. You'll not just see the experience, you'll hear, smell and feel it. While the ride-along experience is a bit pricey, it's a truly exhilarating and memorable, and something you won't soon forget - especially if you're a NASCAR fan.

The Richard Petty Driving Experience is available at other NASCAR tracks around the U.S., including in Orlando, but this one allows you to experience the world-famous Daytona International Speedway track firsthand.

For those who are truly adventurous, several more elaborate racing programs are available that allow you to actually drive a NASCAR vehicle around the track (after proper training). Expect to pay at least $400.00 per person for this unique experience.

More suitable to people of all ages is the Daytona 500 Experience (386-681-6530 / www.daytona500experience.com). This is an interactive attraction that features hands-on exhibits, an IMAX movie, actual NASCAR vehicles, and a handful of other displays. There are also several racing arcade and simulator games, multiple dining options, and a handful of other activities here - all designed especially for NASCAR fans. Plan on spending several hours here to see and experience everything this primarily indoor attraction offers.

For an additional fee, there's the VIP Hot Pass Tour, which includes a more personalized and up-close visit to Daytona Internationl Speedway - including a track tour and a look inside the driver's meeting room.

Over at the Pier area of Daytona Beach, you'll find a bunch of restaurants, carnival rides and games, arcades, shops, a movie theatre, and other activities which are open late into the night. Also here is the Daytona Lagoon water park, which is small, but will offer several hours of water-based slides, pools, rides and fun, primarily for kids and teens.

If you enjoy sailing, or you've never had the opportunity to sail a 36-foot sail boat before, but you want to try it, one of the best deals in terms of experiences that you'll find in Florida is a two-hour (or longer) sailing lesson/charter excursion with Captain Eric from Eagle Yachts (386-295-2578 / www.marinesource.com/eagleyacht).

For $70.00 per hour (with a two hour minimum), up to six people can enjoy a personalized, hands-on sailing lesson and experience with Captain Eric, aboard the 36-foot sailing vessel S.V. Eagle. No previous sailing experience is required. However, you will be expected to participate in the sailing experience - not just lounge around on the deck as a passenger. The affordable $70.00 per hour rate is for the entire group (between one and six people), not the per-person rate.

Captain Eric is an excellent teacher and guide, and the experience is nothing short of exciting and memorable. This is a great family activity, or a romantic activity for couples, for example.

When you have some free time in Daytona, consider exploring South Beach Street. Here, you'll find a variety of unique shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs. Kids and teens will enjoy stopping at Daytona Magic, which sells thousands of different magic tricks to amateur and professional magicians alike. Throughout the day, free demonstrations by highly-skilled magicians are offered.

Also along Beach Street is the Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory (800-969-2634). Here, you can purchase a wide range of homemade treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth. On weekdays, a free tour of the factory is offered. This tour lasts about 20 minutes and includes free samples. This store/factory has been in business since 1925.

As you can see, Daytona is a beach community that offers plenty of fun-filled activities for people of all ages. You can enjoy quiet time at the beach or by a pool, or keep yourself entertained with thrilling activities - day and night.

A Few Words About Daytona-Area Accomodations

There are literally hundreds of hotels and motels located in Daytona Beach - most along the ocean. A few, like The Shores Resort and Spa, or the Hilton, for example, offer superior accommodations.

Some of the smaller, independently owned/operated motels and hotels, however, offer far less luxurious accommodations, starting at just $35.00 per night. Before booking one of these inexpensive motels or hotels, seek out an independent referral from someone you know and trust. As a general rule, when it comes to accommodations in Daytona Beach (and elsewhere, for that matter), you typically get what you pay for. So, for that $35.00 per night, expect a no-frills, one-star hotel or motel, with minimal amenities and services.

Some of the less-expensive hotels and motels are not family-friendly, offer only basic accommodations, are outdated, or would be classified as one or two-star properties. After spending several nights at The Shores Resort and Spa, however, I honestly can't recommend this resort highly enough. You and your family be extremely comfortable here, plus you'll feel like you're getting your money's worth.

For more information about all that there is to see and do in Daytona Beach, visit the DaytonaBeach Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau's website at www.daytonabeachcvb.org, or call (800) 544-0415.

Hyatt Better Caters to Business Travelers, While Marriott Offers Families A New Hotel Alternative

Business travelers will soon find their stays at Hyatt Hotels and Resorts more comfortable. In fact, when business travelers reserve the new Hyatt Business Plan accommodations at any of more than 190 participating hotels and resorts worldwide, they can expect a variety of new amenities included with their stay, such as:

* A full breakfast for one guest each day
* Free high-speed Internet access for one computer
* Bottle of water (replenished daily)
* Daily newspaper
* One pressed shirt or blouse (per room, per day, during business hours)
* Unlimited local, toll-free and long distance calls to the U.S. and Canada

In addition, between now and April 30, 2009, Hyatt Gold Passport members who stay eight nights will earn 20,000 bonus points redeemable for free nights at Hyatt Hotels and Resorts around the world.

Hyatt Hotels and Resorts have always been a popular choice amongst frequent business travelers, but these new amenities and incentives will help make each stay more comfortable, affordable and productive.

For more information, or to make a reservation, call (800) 233-1234 or visit www.hyattbusinessplan.com.

Hyatt isn't the only hotel and resort chain taking steps to cater to a specific audience. For families traveling with kids and teens, for example, Marriott Vacation Club has begun making its timeshare vacation properties available for nightly or weekly stays to non-owners.

For about the price of a standard (typically small) three-star hotel room at or near any popular vacation destination, guests at any Marriott Vacation Club timeshare property will enjoy very spacious, two or three bedroom accommodations, a full kitchen, living room and multiple bathrooms. Most also offer in-room laundry facilities, plus access to all of the resort's services and amenities - swimming pools, tennis courts, spa, restaurants, golf, gym, etc.

I recently stayed at a Marriott Vacation Club property in Orlando for a week and found it to be extremely comfortable. The two bedroom accommodations were clean, modern, spacious, well-decorated and the location was very convenient to Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and International Drive. In fact, the property was located about a 1/4 mile from SeaWorld. 

In addition to the accommodations being top-notch, the resort also has a wide range of on-property activities, including a fully supervised activities program for kids and teens. All this is now available to non-owners, typically at very affordable rates (compared to a typical hotel).

Instead of staying in a small hotel room, any family should consider staying at a Marriott Vacation Club timeshare property (even if they're not an owner). In addition to offering affordable nightly or weekly rates, you'll have plenty of extra space and more privacy. For a family, just having two bathrooms and multiple televisions can relieve some stress. Plus, you can save money by utilizing the full kitchen to prepare breakfasts and lunches (instead of dining out). With the in-room laundry facilities, you can also pack less, which means you can travel with less luggage.

For additional information about booking nightly or weekly accommodations at any of the more than 49 Marriott Vacation Club properties, visit http://www.marriott.com or call (800) 845-5279. While you'll probably be invited to participate in a timeshare sales pitch as a nightly or weekly guest, you are not obligated to attend.