I just got back from spending a few days exploring Pittsburgh, PA. While I have flown through the city's airport on US Airways literally hundreds of times, until this week, I never actually left the airport to see the city. In fact, all I knew about Pittsburgh until this week was that this was where Mr. Rogers lived and shot his TV show. It's also the home of Heinz ketchup.
Anyway, Pittsburgh is a lovely city that's clean, modern, friendly and chock full of places to see and things to do - especially if you enjoy outdoor activities. If you enjoy drinking locally brewed beers, for example, there is also no shortage of micro-breweries here. Besides that, Pittsburgh offers theatre, museums, culture, interesting places to explore, and, of course, sports!
Below is a compilation of photos from my three day trip. During the trip, I toured the city (and surrounding rivers) by boat, car, Segway and kayak. I'll add more descriptions of what I experienced soon, but these photos offer a preview....Enjoy!
All photos (c)2009 Jason R. Rich. All rights reserved.
Check out the article I wrote for the New York Daily News newspaper about all of the new fees/charges that hotels across the country and throughout the world are now charging, plus discover tips for avoiding at least some of them. To read this article from the Monday, July 27, 2009 edition of the newspaper, click here.
Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting Miami, Florida. While gathering content for my upcoming travel guide, Thomas Cook Florida Hotspots, Iexperienced many of the attractions, resorts, restaurants and activities that this incredible city has to offer.
Two of the highlights of the week were my visits to Miami MetroZoo and Jungle Island. In a nutshell, these two zoos are amongst the very best and most impressive in the country. Each offers a full day's worth of entertainment and excitement for people of all ages. Even adults traveling without kids will enjoy spending a few hours exploring these two animal-oriented attractions.
If you're planning a visit to Miami, definitely make time in your schedule to visit this zoo andJungle Island! When you do, plan on walking a lot. The alternative at MetroZoo is to rent a four-passenger bike, take the zoo's monorail, or rent a Segway to explore this massive and stunning attraction. Don't forget to bring a hat, drink plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and apply sunblock during your visit. This is primarily an outdoor attraction.
I guarantee that a day at Miami MetroZoo and/or Jungle Island is one you won't soon forget. Admission to the zoo is $15.95 per adult and $11.95 per child. Bike and Segway rentals cost extra. The zoo is open everyday of the year, typically between 9:30am and 5:30pm. A handful of tours and special programs are available (some for an additional fee). Visit the zoo's website or call (305) 251-0400 for details.
Jungle Island is open 365 days a year, from 10:00 am to 6:00pm. Special shows and events at this popular Miami attraction may extend the attraction's hours. Admission prices are as follows:
One-Day Admission
Adults (Ages 11-64) $29.95 plus tax Seniors (Ages 65+) $27.95 plus tax Children (Ages 3-10) $23.95 plus tax Children (Ages 0-2) Free
Okay, so a few weeks ago I blogged about receiving a Q-Link necklace, and was intrigued by the claims the distributing company makes about how wearing this pendant would increase the wearer's energy and focus, reduce their stress, plus reduce or eliminate jet-lag along with travel-related fatigue.
Well, as you know, if you've been following my blog or Twitter postings, I have been on-the-go, virtually non-stop for the past two weeks. Right now, I'm in Miami, FL, after having a wonderful experience visiting Daytona Beach.
Anyway, for the past few weeks, I was wearing Q-Link's "Classic" SR-2 pendant ($39.00). To be honest, I didn't notice a huge change. However, a few days ago, I acquired a Q-Link Titanium pendant ($239.00), and within a few hours, I did notice a significant difference in my overall well-being, fatigue level and stress level - and that positive difference has remained for several days now, despite the fact that my schedule has become increasingly more hectic.
I can't offer specific quantifiable proof that the Q-Link achieves everything the company's promotional materials says it does, however, for me, I have noticed steady improvements as I continue to wear the Q-Link Titanium pendant, which utilizes more powerful SR-3 technology (described on the company's website - www.QLinkProducts.com).
So, after a few weeks of wearing two different Q-Link products, I would say that if you too are intrigued by what Clarus Transphase Scientific, Inc. claims the Q-Link can do for you, I would give it a try firsthand. The company does offer a 90-day money-back guarantee.
My advice, however, is if you are going to try out a Q-Link, invest in one of the more costly SR-3 models (they start at $99.95), so you'll potentially benefit from the full impact of what this technology offers.
Before investing any money in this technology, however, visit the company's website or call them directly at (800) 246-2765, and have Clarus Transphase Scientific explain the Q-Link technology to you and help you choose from their line-up of products that will best benefit you.
It's important to understand that this is not a medical device. It's more of a "new age" thing that helps people counteract the negative impact of EMF fields that we're all bombarded with when we use cell phones, computers, fluorescent lights, most electronic devices, and when we travel.
If you'd rather wear handcrafted jewelry that incorporates Q-Link's SR-3 technology, consider one of the more expensive pieces from the Equilibrio line (described on the company's website).
As I continue to wear my Q-Link, this week I am in Miami, FL gathering information and taking photos for the Thomas Cook Traveller Florida Hotspots book I am currently writing.
Details about this Miami portion of my trip, including travel tips, reviews of top attractions/activities, money-saving advice, and vacation planning strategies will be posted shortly. Until then, please follow me on Twitter (www.Twitter.com/JasonRich7).
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.
RecommendedDaytona 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.
Naples, Florida is, without a doubt, a wonderful vacation destination for seniors, families and couples looking for beaches, golf, day spas, shopping, fishing and fine-dining.
While almost every major restaurant franchise and chain has a presence in the Naples area, there are a handful of independent, one-of-a-kind restaurants that offer superior and memorable fine-dining experiences that are also surprisingly affordable.
During my recent visit to Naples and Marco Island, I had the pleasure of dining at three unique restaurants that should not be missed if you happen to be visiting or vacationing in the area.
Sea Salt
1186 Third Street South
Naples, FL
(239) 434-7258
Open daily for lunch and dinner
No matter what your taste, Sea Salt, located on historic Third Street in Naples, is a wonderful, family-friendly restaurant that offers a fine-dining experience, but in a casual, yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Chef Fabrizio Aielli is on-hand every afternoon and evening (seven days a week) and creates a daily menu based on only the freshest ingredients he's able to acquire for that particular day. Only the finest seafood, Kobe beef, pastas and vegetables, for example, are used to create mouth-watering dishes you won't soon forget.
Complementing the chef's daily creations is an extensive wine list (from an inventory of more than 5,000 bottles) from around the world. Sea Salt also has a full bar, outdoor seating, and a very well decorated dining room which overlooks the open kitchen.
While the appetizers, salads, soups and main entrees are all incredible, be sure to leave room for the home-made desserts. As you'll discover, Sea Salt is a popular restaurant amongst tourists and locals alike. In fact, during peak travel seasons, reservations are an absolute must.
The management of Sea Salt has done a wonderful job creating a friendly, welcoming and open atmosphere that's classy, yet casual - although the food is what you'd expect from the fanciest of fine-dining restaurants. While the menu is always changing, it always offers a large selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts that will appeal to everyone, including the most picky kids.
If you're looking for an enjoyable way to spend an evening, consider eating dinner at Sea Salt, and then sticking around for drinks and dessert while you enjoy the live Flamenco guitar music that's presented several nights per week.
For more information about Sea Salt, or to make a reservation, call (239) 434-7258, or visit www.SeaSaltNaples.com. I have the opportunity to travel a lot and experience restaurants everywhere. Very few offer such a tasty and memorable meal that's affordable and so expertly prepared. I highly recommend dining at Sea Salt for lunch and/or dinner!
Naples Tomato
14700 Tamiami Trail North
Naples, FL
(239) 598-9800
Open daily for lunch and dinner
If you're in the mood for what could very well be the best Italian food you've ever had (featuring freshly made pastas and many other entrees), look no further than Naples Tomato.
I have to admit, when I pulled into the parking lot of this restaurant for the first time, I was extremely skeptical. After all, the restaurant is located in a strip-mall, and from the outside doesn't look like much. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I entered the restaurant and immediately realized it was going to be a memorable and extremely enjoyable meal. (The dining room was packed on a weeknight.)
Like Sea Salt, Naples Tomato is locally-owned. In addition to offering an extensive menu of Italian dishes (featuring ultra-fresh seafood, homemade pasta, steaks, and other entrees), Naples Tomato features the Enomatic self-serve wine-by-the-glass system that allows guests to taste and experience any of more than 48 vintages from the restaurant's extensive wine selection.
While the dining room is large, this is a favorite restaurant of locals and tourists alike, so expect a crowd every night of the week. Reservations are strongly suggested. The atmosphere is casual, but classy and refined. Casual resort attire is acceptable.
Naples Tomato first opened its doors about five years ago, but recently expanded its dining room and wine tasting lounge. The portions are large and the service is top-notch. Be sure to leave room for the homemade desserts.
Whether you're looking to experience a romantic dinner, an enjoyable dinner with the entire family, or you want to host a small group of close friends after a round of golf, dining at Naples Tomato guarantees a wonderful and memorable dining experience.
Guy Harvey's Island Grill
760 N. Collier Blvd.
Marco Island, FL
(850) 230-4321
While spending time exploring Marco Island, consider dropping by Guy Harvey's Island Grill for lunch or dinner. This casual restaurant is located on the water and showcases the artwork of Guy Harvey on the walls throughout the dining room. (The restaurant is located within The Esplanade shopping and dining complex, which is accessible by car, Marco Island Trolley or boat.)
This is primarily a seafood restaurant, but steak, chicken and other menu options are available, as are a selection of tasty salads. Within a dining room is a full bar. This is a mid-priced dining option that's suitable for the entire family. It's conveniently located a short drive from many of Marco Island's most popular resorts.
If you're a frequent traveler, one concern you should have is about the security of your data. Many of us travel with a laptop computer and connect frequently to the Internet via wireless connections at airports, hotels or from coffee houses in whatever city we happen to be in. While there are a handful of things you can and should do to protect your laptop computer from getting stolen or hacked, Ironkey (650-492-4055 / www.ironkey.com) offers a solution for protecting your most critical (and confidential) data.
The Ironkey Personal Flash Drive offers always-on data encryption plus a variety of other security features designed to keep your data safe. For starts, the flash drive is password protected. If a hacker fails to enter the correct password 10 times, the flash drive will "self-destruct" to keep your data safe.
The Ironkey Flash Drive unit itself is housed in a solid, tamper-resistant and waterproof metal casing. It measures just 75mm x 19mm x 9mm (it weighs just .9 ounces), so it easily fits in a pocket when not in use.
The drive connects to any computer's USB port, and is compatible with both Windows and Mac-based computers. It comes with a suite of specialized security software which will not only protect your data, but help keep your online surfing safe from hackers as well. The Ironkey Flash Drive is particularly useful if you find yourself using public PCs within a business center or an insecure wireless Internet connection, for example.
Versions of the Ironkey Personal Flash Drive are available in a 1GB ($79.00), 2GB ($109.00), 4GB ($149.00) and 8GB ($299.00) capacity, offering plenty of storage space for documents, spreadsheets, presentations, data and files that are highly confidential and that need to be kept 100 percent secure while you're traveling. I strongly believe this is an extremely valuable computer accessory for frequent business travelers.
Additional information about Ironkey Flash Drive products can be found at the company's website. As a frequent traveler who often stores important data of my laptop (where it could be compromised, lost or stolen), I have found that storing my most important files on an Ironkey Flash Drive offers added protection and piece of mind. It's well worth the investment!
The current economic condition is impacting cities and tourism across the U.S., but it seems that Las Vegas is getting hit extra hard. Conventions and business meetings that would typically be held in Sin City have been cancelled, scaled-down or moved, and vacationers don't seem to be shelling out the money for Las Vegas trips like they did in the past.
To combat the reduction in visitors, the Las Vegas resorts, hotels and motels are all offering incredible deals throughout the summer, with guest rooms at three-star resorts going for as low as $31.00 per night, and rooms at the most luxurious properties along the Las Vegas Strip going for a nightly rate around $100.00 per night (sometimes less).
To find the best accommodations rates, first visit the websites operated by the popular resort hotels located along The Strip, and search for online deals and promotions. Next, check out the special promotions offered online by TravelZoo.com. Finally, compare those prices with what's being offered by the popular online travel services, like Hotels.com, Travelocity.com, Orbitz.com and Kayak.com, for example.
I checked the current Las Vegas promotions being offered on TravelZoo.com, and here's just a sampling of the great deals I found:
Excalibur Hotel & Casino (Three Stars) - $31.00 to $36.00 per night. Available Sundays to Thursdays throughout August.
MGM-Grand (Four Stars) - $55.00 to $63.00 per night on select dates throughout July and August.
The Mirage (Four Stars) - $81.00 to $99.00 per night. Available on most Sundays through Thursdays, between now and late-August.
Caesar's Palace (Four Stars) - $90.00 to $100.00 per night (mid-week, throughout July and August).
In addition to these discounts, it's easy to find inexpensive flights to Las Vegas from most major U.S. cities on the "discount" airlines, like JetBlue, AirTran and Virgin America.
When shopping for the best rates on accommodations and airfares, you'll have the best luck if your travel dates are somewhat flexible. For example, try arriving on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday (as opposed to on a Friday), and try departing on a Monday (instead of on a Sunday). On return flights from Las Vegas back to the East Coast, the overnight flights are always the least expensive and most readily available.
Once you arrive in Las Vegas, leave time in your schedule and budget to see some of the amazing shows, like Le Reve at The Wynn. If music is more your thing, the Barry Manilow show is incredible, as are the Bette Midler's The Showgirl Must Go On and Cher shows.
You know you'll have an amazing evening of entertainment if you experience any of the mind-blowing and visually amazing Cirque duSoleil shows in Las Vegas, which include:
Mystere (Treasure Island)
"O" (Bellagio)
Zumanity(New York, New York) - This show is for open-minded adults only.
KA (MGM-Grand)
The Beatles Love (The Mirage)
Chris Angel Believe (Luxor)
Note: Cirque duSoleilis currently offering a 35% discount off of ticket prices for all of its shows to students, as well as a discount to seniors.
If you're planning a business trip to Las Vegas, be sure to first order a copy of my Entrepreneur Magazine's Business Traveler Guide to Las Vegas ($14.95, Entrepreneur Press) travel guide. You can order it from Amazon.com or BN.com. This book will help you save hundreds of dollars on your next business-related trip, plus insure you'll be as productive as possible, especially if you'll be attending an important business meeting or convention.
The Clear service, a fee-based program for frequent travelers that was designed to help people pass through airport security checkpoints faster, has gone out of business. Those who shelled out the annual $200.00 membership fee are now back to waiting in the long airport lines, and no refunds are being offered.
According to the company's website, "At 11:00 p.m. PST on June 22, 2009, Clear ceased operations. Clear’s parent company, Verified Identity Pass, Inc., was unable to negotiate an agreement with its senior creditor to continue operations. Verified Identity Pass regrets that Clear will not be able to continue operations."
Meanwhile, travelers in many U.S. airports will begin seeing display advertisements on the baggage claim conveyor belts as they pick up their checked luggage after a flight. It's a program designed to boost revenues for airports, while taking advantage of a captive audience of travelers waiting for their luggage. Is a program created by Double Take Marketing that will soon launch within at least 15 U.S. airports.
Have questions about travel insurance, or want to discover how travel blogs can help you save money when booking your next trip? Well, check out my two articles that appeared in the "Your Money" section of today's New York Daily News newspaper.
The first article deals with why travelers should consider purchasing travel insurance before their trip (especially if traveling abroad). It features an interview with a spokesperson from TravelGuard. Click Here to read it.
The second article focuses on how to use travel blogs (like this one) to help you save money when planning your next trip. Click Here to read it.
Okay, I have to admit that I am always skeptical of items being sold that make grandiose promises and sales statements that seem too good to be true.
However, being a frequent traveler, I am also always on the lookout for products that make traveling easier, more comfortable and less stressful.
Well, I've been seeing ads for Q-Link pendants in airline magazines and elsewhere, and later read in the company's promotional materials about how these pendents will help people "reduce their stress, increase their energy, focus better, improve concentration, have more restful sleep, and suffer from less jet lag when traveling." Oh, and it's also reported to help your golf game.
The company selling the Q-Link pendents is Clarus (800-246-2765 / www.clarus.com). I visited their website and discovered a complete line of these pendants, which can be worn 24-hours-a-day by men or women. (They even have a version for pets). The prices range from $39.95 to $999.95.
Being a curious journalist (and a sucker for products I see advertised), I ordered a "classic" Q-Link pendant. It just arrived today. I've been wearing it for about an hour so far. To be honest, I don't feel any different yet, but the literature that came with the pendant suggests wearing the Q-Link around your neck for at least 30-days before passing judgement as to whether or not it works.
According to the company, "Some people feel immediate effects, whereas others will notice effects increasing up to 30 days, at which point, 80 percent report positive benefits. However, tests with FDA registered diagnostic equipment show that even if there isn't a noticeable change, the Q-Link is working." So, I guess we'll see what happens. I will be traveling during most of July, so we'll see how my energy level improves and whether or not I suffer from jet lag during my travels as I continue to wear the pendant.
The Q-Link isn't magic. It uses "Sympathetic Resonance Technology," which Clarus reports has been scientifically tested and shown to consistently reduce the stress in one's body. The technology utilizes a copper induction coil and resonating crystalline water embedded with life-supporting frequencies. (Very new age sounding, huh?)
This "technology" is supposed to work well for people who frequently use a cell phone, computer, or other electronic equipment. It's also being used by athletes and golfers - some of whom report their performance playing their sport has improved dramatically.
I'll keep you all posted about my reaction to Q-Link over the next 30-days or so. If you want to learn more in the meantime, however, I suggest visiting Clarus' website.
At this point, I am not endorsing this product in any way whatsoever. I'm simply intrigued, and thought I'd share my fascination, since it potentially could help frequent travelers better cope with the physical stresses of travel and jet lag.
One of the biggest challenges for business travelers is finding hotels that offer the ideal guest room layout, as well as services and amenities that are truly designed for people who need to get work done in their hotel guest room.
What I've found is that many popular hotel chains that promote a business-friendly environment, or that offer special guest rooms designed for business travelers, have missed the mark and never bothered to ask business travelers what, in fact, they need within their guest room and from a hotel, to be productive.
Business-Friendly Hotel Checklist
As you're planning your next business trip, use the following checklist to help you find the best business-friendly hotel in order to insure your comfort and productivity, without having to overspend on extras:
Free Wi-Fi Internet access throughout the hotel (including within the guest rooms) - Traditional (wired), high-speed Internet access in the guest rooms is fine too, but you should not be charged up to $20.00 per day for it. Look for hotels that offer free Internet access and free local calls. Or, find a hotel that offers a flat rate for unlimited Internet, local and long distance calls. If you travel for more than three or four days per month, seriously consider investing in a wireless Internet card for your laptop computer. (Contact AT&T Wireless, Sprint, T-Mobile, etc., and shop for the best wireless service plan that meets your needs). A wireless Internet card for your computer will insure you have high-speed Internet access virtually anywhere you travel within the U.S. (airports, hotels, on trains or buses, etc.).
A good size desk and workspace with a comfortable chair.
Ample lighting near the workspace.
Multiple electrical outlets located near the desk. (Surprisingly, few hotels offer this). Many business travelers need to plug in their laptop computer, cell phone, PDA, iPod and other devices simultaneously. One quick fix is to travel with your own power strip. I have stayed at countless hotels that offer wired Internet service (with the cable attached to the desk), but the desk had no electrical outlets nearby, so guests could not plug in their laptop computer while it's connected to the Internet.
Two phone lines.
Free parking.
Coffee machine in the room and/or a coffee shop (Starbucks) in the lobby.
A business center that is open 24-hours-a-day, and that doesn't charge a fortune to use a printer, fax machine or copier.
Complimentary daily newspaper.
A concierge to offer restaurant suggestions and make your reservations, especially if you need to impress important business associates.
Express check-in and check-out.
24-hour room service (since many business travelers prefer to dine in their guest room, as opposed to alone in a hotel's restaurant).
A kiosk in the lobby or business center for airline travelers to check-in with their airline, obtain seat assignments, and print boarding passes 24 hours before a flight.
In-room iron and on-site dry cleaning/laundry service (preferably that offers express service). It's common for a business traveler to unpack and find their business clothing has become too wrinkled to wear, or it somehow gets stained before an important meeting or presentation.
The ability to earn and redeem airline frequent flier miles and hotel rewards for each stay.
If you can find an affordable business hotel offering some or all of these business services and amenities, your next business trip will be more productive, hassle-free and comfortable.
In terms of saving money when booking a business-friendly hotel, I strongly recommend using Hotels.com, Travelocity.com, Kayak.com, Orbitz.com or one of the other popular online travel sites. I am also a big fan of TravelZoo.com for finding travel discounts and special deals.
Make sure, however, that you understand the online service's hotel rating system. I have discovered that Priceline.com, for example, sometimes tends to over-rate some hotels it offers at a discount. For example, I booked what Priceline.com called a "four star" hotel in Los Angeles recently, but every other hotel rating service called it a "three star" hotel (and that was being generous).
Sometimes, visiting a hotel's website directly and looking for online specials, and/or utilizing a AAA or corporate discount will allow you to find the best possible rate for a hotel.
So while many airlines allow pet owners to bring their small dogs aboard an airplane for a hefty fee, the options for large dog owners is more limited.
Crating a large dog and placing him into an airplane's cargo hold during a long flight is uncomfortable for the pet, potentially unsafe and costly.
Now there's a solution to transporting your pet cross country or between a handful of popular U.S. cities. A new airline, called Pet Airways, is exclusively for dogs and cats. It offers a safe, comfortable, supervised and convenient way for pets to fly (albeit without their owners).
According to Pet Airways' website, a one-way flight starts at $149.00 (between New York and Chicago), for example. A one-way flight between New York and Los Angeles will cost $199.00. Pet owners can track their pets throughout the flight with ease. This is the first attempt by any airline to treat pets like passengers and not cargo. To learn more, visit Pet Airways' website.
Despite the tough economy, great travel deals can be found by anyone who taps the Internet in search of money-saving offers, travel packages or other promotions.
For example, JetBlue is launching non-stop service between New York's JFK Airport and Barbados on October 1, 2009. As a special promotion, the airline is offering a $99.00 one-way airfare. Travel must be booked by June 17th, and take place between October 1st and November 14th, 2009. Additional conditions and restrictions apply. Call (800) JET-BLUE for details. To learn more about Barbados, visit www.visitbarbados.org.
Meanwhile, for golfers, The Boca Raton Resort and Boca Raton Beach Club, both of which are part of Hilton's luxurious Waldorf Astoria Collection of resort hotels, is offering a $100 golf or spa credit when a guest redeems their Hilton HHonors points in order to stay at one of these two resorts between now and December 31, 2009. For details, call (800) HONORS.
Between May 2nd and June 7, 2009, thousands of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered tourists and activists flocked to Zurich, Switzerland for EuroPride ’09 – the largest festival for gays and lesbians in Europe.
All of the gay pride events held throughout the past month collimated with a massive and festive Gay Pride Parade, which attracted upwards of 50,000 people on June 6th. Winding down the streets of Zurich, dozens of organizations and corporations took part in this event. The parade featured colorful floats and thousands of individual participants (some of whom truly dressed up for the occasion).
Corine Mauch, the Mayor of the City of Zurich, kicked off the parade, however, representatives from countries throughout all of Europe took part. Zurich tourism is quick to point out that as Switzerland’s largest city, it is home to a well-established and diverse gay community that goes well beyond the typical gay bars and clubs found in many most cities throughout the world.
According to Zurich Tourism, “Zurich’s residents have a very liberal attitude towards gays and lesbians.” What was both surprising and refreshing about this year's EuroPride was the total lack of protestors, as well as the overall sense of acceptance and safety one felt throughout the city during these events.
Regardless of your sexual preference, throughout the year, Zurich is a wonderful vacation destination for anyone looking to visit a beautiful European city that has a rich history, diverse culture and an abundance of activities suitable for the entire family. From museums and art galleries, to world class shopping and dining, Zurich offers something for everyone.
Americans looking to visit Zurich can take any of several major airlines, including Swiss Air International, which offers affordable nonstop flights from several U.S. cities, such as New York, Boston and Los Angeles, to Zurich.
Once in Zurich, acquiring a SwissPass offers tourists unlimited use of the city’s ultra-modern and convenient transportation system (including buses and trains), so no rental car is needed. The SwissPass also includes unlimited entry into many of the city’s more than 50 museums and 100 art galleries, as well as admission to many popular tourist attractions and historical landmarks.
As the city that’s located in the heart of Europe and the center of Switzerland, Zurich is continuously ranked as one of the most desirable places to live in the world. After spending just a few days here, it’s very easy to see why. In addition to being a beautiful city, the people here are extremely friendly and welcoming to all visitors.
Once in Switzerland, however, don’t just limit your visit to Zurich. Using the country’s train system, traveling throughout the country as a tourist is extremely inexpensive and easy, plus top-notch hotel accommodations can be found throughout the country.
Out of all of the European countries I’ve had the pleasure to visit, Switzerland is definitely my favorite for a multitude of reasons, including the multitude of activities and attractions it has to offer, the wonderful restaurants, the abundance of shopping opportunities, and the friendliness of the population. Americans truly feel safe and welcome here.
For more information about traveling to or vacationing in Zurich, Switzerland, visit www.zuerich.com. Additional information about EuroPride ’09 can be found at www.europride09’eu.
The following is a sampling of photos from EuroPride '09...
Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to spend a few days exploring Clearwater, Florida, and was pleasantly surprised by all that this city has to offer - whether you're looking for a luxury vacation, or a more affordable getaway to a breathtakingly beautiful beachfront community.
First and foremost, Clearwater offers absolutely exquisite and pristine white sandy beaches. In fact, you'll find more than 28 miles of lovely beaches in Clearwater, which allow for all sorts of water-based recreation (not to mention sunbathing).
The city is located within a two hour drive from Orlando, and is easy to reach from Sarasota, Tampa and St. Petersburg. The nearby major airport is the Tampa International Airport, although the smaller St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport is a bit closer.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to stay at the luxurious Sandpearl Resort & Spa (877-726-3111 / www.sandpearl.com), which is located right on the beach. This resort property is as nice as any Ritz-Carlton or Four Seasons Resort. It offers spacious, nicely decorated and extremely comfortable rooms and suites (many overlooking the ocean), plus fine-dining restaurants, a full-service day spa, a lovely swimming pool, and plenty of beachfront activities for kids, teens and adults alike.
An alternative (and less costly) alternative to the Sandpearl Resort & Spa is the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, which is also located on the beach, near Pier 60.
The main reason to visit Clearwater is to experience the award-winning beaches, which have been called some of the most beautiful in the United States. The Caladesi Island State Park offers boat-only access to a wonderful nature reserve and beach area, although there are plenty of public beaches located within a short walk from many of the hotels and resorts in the area.
Clearwater Beach is one of the most popular in the area. Lifeguards are on duty during the day, plus you'll find a wide range of activities available - including jet ski and boat rentals, as well as parasailing. This beach is also home to Pier 60, a boardwalk attraction which offers ongoing special events.
As for nearby attractions, Clearwater offers something for everyone. In addition to the beaches, you'll find nearby theatres, museums, theme parks and family-friendly attractions. Within a short drive, there's Bush Gardens Tampa Bay (888-800-5447), for example, but within Clearwater itself, there's the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (727-441-1790), an attraction which I can't recommend highly enough.
Unlike most aquariums that are open to the public, like SeaWorld, for example, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is primarily a research-based, non-profit facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured marine life. This attraction is relatively small and non-commercial. What people of all ages will experience here is a heartwarming and educational look at marine wildlife.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to perhaps the world's most famous dolphin, named Winter, who lost his tail after it got caught in a trap. Since being rescued, the aquarium has nursed Winter back to full health and with the help of some of the world's leading experts in prosthetics (including people from Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics), Winter has been fitted with a state-of-the-art artificial limb to replace his tail.
The research being done in conjunction with Winter's artificial tail has directly led to some major advancements in prosthetic limbs for children and injured war veterans. In short, this dolphin has directly touched and improved the lives of many people, and his story is told in a very touching way to visitors of Clearwater Marine Aquarium. In fact, guests get a chance to see Winter up-close as part of the "hands-on" opportunities this very unique aquarium offers.
Even if you don't plan to stay in Clearwater, but you happen to be visiting Tampa or even Orlando, a day trip to Clearwater Marine Aquarium (especially if you're traveling with kids or teens, or someone with a disability) is highly recommended.
Other activities available in the Clearwater area include fishing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and golf. What was pleasantly surprising was that the majority of these activities are offered at very affordable rates. For example, if you'd like to rent an inexpensive sail boat, visit the Clearwater Community Sailing Center(727-517-7776) for boat rentals and sailing instruction.
As for land-based activities, located within Clearwater (or in nearby Tampa or St. Petersburg) are hundreds of wonderful restaurants, shops, museums and galleries. In St. Petersburg, for example, I had the chance to visit the Salvador Dali Museum (727-823-3767), and truly enjoyed my experience.
If you're traveling with kids, the two-hour Pirate Cruise (727-446-2587) offers a fun-filled, high-seas adventure. Okay, maybe not high-seas, but you will enjoy a cruise along the Clearwater coastline in a large pirate ship staffed by pirates who play games with the kids and entertain the passengers.
Clearwater is a wonderful, beautiful and laid back place to visit during a vacation. However, it also provides an ideal setting for a beachfront destination wedding or a romantic honeymoon.
For more information about Clearwater, point your web browser to www.visitclearwaterflorida.com and/or www.myclearwater.com. You can also call the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce at (888) 425-3279.
The following are some photos from my memorable and enjoyable trip to Clearwater...
All images (c)2009 Jason R. Rich. All rights reserved. To see additional images, visit www.JasonRichPhotography.com.
Starting June 1, 2009, all U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. Passport to travel aboard - including to the Caribbean, Canada, Mexico and Bermuda.
This new rules apply whether you're driving, flying or taking a cruise. A driver's license and birth certificate is no longer acceptable when traveling abroad.
I wrote an article about the new passport regulations for the New York Daily News, so be sure to check it out before your next trip. Click Here to read the article.
You can also visit The U.S. Department of State's website by clicking here. If you need to obtain a new passport or renew an old passport, be sure to allow between four and six weeks for processing. Otherwise, you'll have to pay hefty rush charges to obtain a passport in a timely manner.
Even when using online-based travel services, like Travelocity.com, Hotwire.com or Kayak.com, to book airline tickets with the major airlines at significant discounts, passengers still need to pay up when it comes to all of those extras – checking luggage, food, drinks, and booking fees, for example. These fees easily add $50.00 to $100.00 to the cost of a roundtrip ticket.
As a frequent flier, I’ve begun to seriously wonder why the major airlines aren’t following in the footsteps of JetBlue, Southwest, Virgin America, AirTran, and the other “discount” airlines when it comes to offering extremely low airfares, few or no extra fees, and a friendly attitude amongst its flight attendants, ticket counter representatives and customer service personnel.
Many of these discount airlines also still offer free snacks and drinks, plus they’re not charging to check one or two pieces of luggage. They’re also a lot more flexible when it comes to cancelling or changing flights and don’t charge outrageous penalties of $100.00 or more, like the major airlines. (Pay attention United, Delta, American Airlines, US Airways, etc.!)
If you’re looking for truly low airfares with far fewer restrictions and lower (or no) extra fees, but still want comfort and convenience on the airplane, seriously consider booking your future flights on one of the “discount” airlines, like JetBlue, Southwest, Virgin America or AirTran.
Many of these airlines don’t offer their flights through the popular online travel services, so you’ll need to visit each of these airlines’ respective websites directly to compare fares, find flights and make online reservations. In fact, it’s often cheaper to book your airfare online than it is to call these airlines directly on the phone.
When visiting each airline’s website, sign up for their free email mailing list, and you’ll automatically be notified of online sales and special promotions that’ll allow you to save even more money on airfares or complete travel packages.
Simply by shopping around online and visiting the websites of the discount airlines directly, you often don’t have to worry about seven, 14 or 21-day advance purchases, or the traditional need to stay over on a Saturday night to get the lowest airfares.
This afternoon (Monday), I booked a non-stop flight on JetBlue for my mother - from Boston to Oakland, CA, departing tomorrow (Tuesday afternoon), and found a one-way airfare of just $99.00 (plus tax). Other airlines were charging $400.00 or more for a similar one-way, last-minute ticket. That brings me to the point that unlike the major airlines, JetBlue, Southwest, AirTran and Virgin America, for example, allow you to easily and cost-effectively book one way flights.
These airlines typically have fleets of new airplanes that offer comfortable seats featuring private TVs with a selection of cable TV channels (just bring your own headset to avoid a $1.00 or $2.00 charge). Some also now offer Wi-Fi Internet access on the flights (for a low fee). Check with each airline directly to see what in-flight services and amenities are offered.
Oh, and if you’re traveling with a pet, JetBlue is one of the first airlines to offer a really well thought out pet travel program, called JetPaws (www.jetblue.com/jetpaws). And, if you’re a student or senior citizen, be sure to inquire about special discounts offered by these airlines.
After recently flying with several of these “discount” airlines, I’ve become a fan, and I’m confident you will too! Plus, your bank account will appreciate it. One thing to consider before booking a flight that has one or more stops is the length of the layover.
On a recent flight from Boston to San Francisco on JetBlue, I had a three hour layover in Long Beach, CA, which really extended my travel day. Obviously, book a direct flight whenever possible. If you do have a layover, one that lasts between 60 to 90 minutes is ideal. Any shorter, and you run the risk of missing your connecting flight, and any longer means waiting around in an airport. Happy travels!
I just had the opportunity to spend a few days exploring San Mateo and Palo Alto, California (just outside of San Francisco), and I had a wonderful time. This region is loaded with fun and exciting things to see and do, not to mention, a ton of really great restaurants, shopping opportunities, and countless outdoor recreational activities (including golf, biking, hiking, kayaking, surfing, whale watching and sport fishing).
So, if you happen to be visiting the San Francisco area for business or pleasure, consider taking a short detour to San Mateo and Palo Alto (located less than an hour from the San Francisco Airport).
San Mateo County is located on a 60-mile peninsula immediately south of San Francisco, and is bordered on the east by the world-famous San Francisco Bay. To learn more about this region, visit www.VisitSanMateoCounty.com, or call the San Mateo County/Silicon Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau at (650) 348-7600 or (800) 288-4748.
One of my first stops was a visit to Thomas Fogerty Winery & Vineyards(650-851-6777). This winery and vineyard offers a variety of ongoing events that are open to the public, including tours and wine tastings. Founded in 1981 by Dr. Thomas Fogarty, this winery and vineyard produces a handful of award-winning wines.
While tasting the wines is a treat onto itself, exploring the vineyards is a memorable experience because the mountainous landscape is simply breathtaking. If you're looking for a unique and stunningly beautiful setting to host a private event, such as a wedding, party, corporate event or any type of social gathering, Thomas Fogerty Winery & Vineyards is set up to handle groups of almost any size.
Even if you're not a big wine aficionado, chances are you'll enjoy a visit to this winery and vineyard, which is located about 2,000 feet above sea level in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Photographs from my trip to San Mateo. (c)2009 Jason R. Rich. All rights reserved.
Located about 55 miles south of San Francisco, along the Pacific Ocean, is the Ano Nuevo State Nature Reserve. It's easy to spend a few hours (or even an entire day) exploring this park, which is home to hundreds of wild elephant seals, sea lions and other marine mammals living along the shoreline.
Visitors can view the elephant seals from just a few yards away, so you'll get an up-close look at these amazing creatures, yet visitors are kept far enough away from them so they remain undisturbed in their natural habitat. Park rangers are on-hand to answer questions. Oh, and be sure to bring a camera.
The Ano Nuevo State Nature Reserveis a lovely and beautiful place to explore. Be prepared to do some walking (however, much of the park is handicap accessible). If you want to see wild elephant seals, sea lions and other marine animals up-close, a visit to this park is far more memorable and exciting than a visit to any zoo or marine life theme park.
If seeing flowers, exotic plants and breathtaking landscaping is of interest, plan on spending at least a few hours on a walking tour of Filoli Center. Here, you'll find a gorgeous, 36,000 square foot mansion which is open for tours, plus more than 16-acres of incredible landscaping in the form of gardens. Visitors are free to explore the incredible and colorful gardens, plus take part in a wide range of activities, lectures and classes which regularly take place here. Visit the Filoli Center's website for a listing of special events.
The estate was built by William Bower Bourne II (who earned his great wealth as an owner of gold mines in California.) While the mansion is an impressive site, the gardens are truly spectacular, as you'll find literally thousands of flowers, trees and exotic plants on display here throughout the year. And, as the seasons change, so does the landscaping.
While this region features hundreds of wonderful casual and fine-dining restaurants, two which deserve a special mention are Cameron's Restaurant & Pub in Half Moon Bay (on Highway 1, about 30 minutes south of San Francisco) and MacArthur Park Restaurant (located in Palo Alto).
Cameron's Restaurant & Pub is modeled after an authentic English pub and is extremely unique. The food and drinks are top-notch, but it's the decor and atmosphere of this casual dining and drinking establishment that truly set it apart. Drop by for a drink or enjoy a full meal. In addition to traditional British menu items, Cameron's is known for its burgers.
For a much more elegant dining experience that is sure to be delightful, make a reservation for dinner at MacArthur Park Restaurant. The restaurant is housed in a fully-restored historical landmark building designed by Julia Morgan (circa 1918).
MacArthur Park Restaurant is home to award-winning chef Faz Poursohi, who has partnered with restauranteur Chuck Frank to create a menu that's chock full of mouth-watering specialties.
In terms of accommodations, if you're looking for a full-service and upscale business-friendly hotel, the Sofitel San Francisco Bay (located in Redwood City, between downtown San Francisco and San Jose) offers the perfect place to stay. A free shuttle is available to/from the San Francisco Airport. The guest rooms and suites are clean, spacious, comfortable and offer a wide range of amenities that are ideal for business travelers.
Another business-friendly hotel that's located just minutes from the San Francisco Airport is the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport, which is rated as an AAA Four-Diamond property. Offering luxurious guest rooms and suites, plus meeting rooms and conference facilities, this large hotel features extremely comfortable and modern rooms, with all of the services and amenities a business traveler could ask for.
I am a bestselling author of more than 52 books, as well as a frequent contributor to numerous national magazines and major daily newspapers. I am also an accomplished photographer. You can view my work at www.JasonRichPhotography.com and visit my main website at www.JasonRich.com.
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