3 Must Visit Paso Robles Wineries

Did the hundreds of wineries in Paso Robles, California, draw you to the area? If so, you may want to spend your trip, regardless of its length, visiting some of the fine wineries in the area.

With so many amazing Paso Robles wineries to choose from, you may be curious as to which wineries are worth the stop. Most are, but below you will find three Paso Robles wineries that are often referred to as must visits.

1. The EOS Estates Winery

Many Pas Robles wineries have an amazing story behind them and the EOS Estates Winery is no different. According to their official website, the winery got its name from the "Goddess of the Dawn." They use this Greek Mythology to perfect their wines. Vineyards at their estate are harvested immediately before or after the sunrise.

Complimentary tasting of EOS Estate wines are offered. This isn't the only draw to this Paso Robles winery. Self-guided wine tours are available as well. To relax in luxury, visit their rose garden.

The EOS Estates Winery is also known for the amazing events it hosts. Depending on your dates of travel, you may find educational events, musical concerts, and so much more. The EOS Estates Winery participates in many annual area festivals.

The tasting room at EOS Estates Winery is open daily from 10am to 6pm throughout the summer. The tasting room closes at 5pm the remainder of the year.

2. Still Waters Vineyards

Still Water Vineyards, due to being located six miles from Highway 46, may be considered off the beaten path, but it is well-worth the trip. In fact, the other local wineries in the close proximity can make for a day filled with great wines.

As for what makes the Still Water Vineyards worth the trip, it begins with their history. It is a story you will find inspirational. According to their official website, the owners had a dream of opening a winery on just one-acre of land. They soon realized the importance and potential of producing their own grapes. That led to the development of the Still Water Vineyards, which is now situated on 60 acres of land.

In addition to wine tasting, you are encouraged to explore the ranch and bring lunch. Wine tasting is available from 11am until 5pm.

3. Summerwood Winery & Inn

The Summerwood Winery and Inn is another area winery that is considered a must visit. This winery, as with many others, places a great focus on the production of quality grapes. Wines are made with grapes grown on the estate.

The tasting room is open daily from 10am until 5:30pm with extended hours, until 6, in the summer months. Wine tours are available, but by appointment only.

If you have yet to make your travel arrangements, consider a stay at the Summerwood Inn. Guests are provided with wine and a gourmet breakfast. Although a number of wineries offer onsite accommodations, Summerwood sets itself apart from the rest with its friendly and helpful staff, which will make you feel welcome and right at home.

As an important reminder, the three above mentioned wineries are just a few of the many you will find in the Paso Robles area of California. To maximize your stay and the number of wineries you visit, consider extending the length of your trip or be sure to return again.

5 Must Visit Maui Attractions

Are you in the process of planning to trip to Maui Hawaii? Maui is one of Hawaii's most popular vacation destinations. One of the reasons for that is all that you can see. Did you know that Maui is filled with amazing attractions, most of which are considered 'must visits?" After a close examination, you will be more than pleased with your decision to take a Maui vacation.

Once you have made your Maui travel arrangements, you should start focusing on which Maui attractions you would like to visit. Although having options is nice, your choices can seem overwhelming. Since there is so much for you to see, you will want to create a to do list or a vacation itinerary for yourself. If you don't, you may find yourself missing out on some of the history and beauty that Maui has to offer you.

For help with determining which Maui attractions you should visit, please continue reading on. For your convenience, five popular Mau attractions that come highly rated and recommended are outlined below.

 

1 - The Island of Molokini

The Island of Molokini is a crescent shaped island that is located not too far past the southern coast of Maui. Although those just looking to sightsee will enjoy the boat trip, Molokini is home to some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling that all of Hawaii has to offer.

Private and group tours are available to the island.

2 - Iao Valley State Park

The Iao Valley State park, located in central Maui, beautiful historical land. According to Hawaii's Official Tourism Site, it was home to the great Battle of Kepaniwai, which occurred in 1790.

The biggest attraction at the Iao Valley State Park is that of the Iao Needle. The Iao Needle is a sightseers dream come true. A visit to this state park is ideal for those who enjoy hiking and learning about the history or Maui.

3 - The Banyan Tree

The Banyan Tree, located in Lahaina, is another must visit for all Maui tourists. The Banyan Tree is one largest trees of its kind in all of the United States. The Official Hawaii Tourism Site states that the tree is the size of an average city block!

If your Maui vacation is a family vacation, you should definitely take your children to see the tree, as it is something that they will likely never forget.

4 - Haleakala National Park

The Haleakala National Park is located on the eastern side of Maui. There you will find the world's largest dormant volcano. Past tourists recommend hiking to watch the sunrise at the Haleakala Crater.

The Haleakala National Park, like many other parks in Hawaii, can be explored by foot, car, or bike. In addition to the Haleakala volcanoes, you will be able to see and explore tropical landscaping that features rare flowers and plants, beautiful streams and waterfalls.

5 – The Hana Highway

Also located on the eastern edge of Maui is the Hana Highway. Although a highway itself may not seem like a must see tourist attraction it is. It is one of the most scenic places to visit in all of Hawaii and what you will see will, literally, amazing you. On the drive, you will pass through narrow, yet beautiful bridges, see amazing waterfalls, get breathtaking views of the ocean, see amazing foliage, and so much more.

A drive along the scenic Hana Highway is enough reason alone why you should rent a car for your next Hawaii vacation.

As highlighted above, there are a number of Maui attractions that you should take the time to visit. Since the above mentioned Maui attractions are just a few of the many that you will find on the Island, you may want to do a little bit of research before your trip. With a standard internet search online, you can find detailed Maui travel guides, as well as request free printed travel guides to be delivered to your home.

4 Must Visit Big Island Hawaii Attractions

Are you in the process of planning a Big Island trip? Hawaii's Big Island is a popular vacation destination, partly due in fact to its size. Why? Because there is so much for you to do and see.

Once your Big Island travel arrangements are made, you may want to shift for your focus to what you can do and see. Creating an itinerary for your trip has a number of benefits. It is important to remember that Big Island is filled with so much for you to do and see; so much that you may not have enough time to do so. Familiarizing yourself with popular Big Island attractions before your vacation can help you make sure that you visit the mostly highly rated and recommended sites, a few of which are outlined below.

1 – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must see for all Big Island tourists. This National Park is situated on 377 square miles of a vast array of landscaping. Whether you are interested in traveling by car, foot, or bike, there is a large part of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that you can examine.

When traveling by car, you can visit the summit of the Kilauea volcano. Chain of Craters Road is also a must visit in the park, as this is where lava once flowed over the road. With so much to do and see in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including guided tours and themed wilderness tours, you may want to stay onsite. What better way to end your day than camping? Camping is free as long as you paid admittance into the park.

2 – Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is also known as "The Valley of the Kings." This Big Island attraction is a must visit if the history and culture of Hawaii is of interest to you. Here, you will be able to explore an area that was once populated with native Hawaiians. There are unlimited hidden treasures in the area, including beautiful waterfalls, rivers, and tara fields.

To learn the history of the Waipio Valley, not just see it, a guided tour is recommended. Guided tours of "The Valley of Kings," are available by way of car, horseback, and foot.

3 – Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

 

The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is often referred to as "A Garden in the Valley of the Ocean." Due to close proximately, a visit to the gardens is advised either before or after a visit to "The Valley of the Kings."

Guided garden tours are available for multiple trails, including the Onomea Falls and Palm Jungle Trail.

4 – Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

If you are unable to visits the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a must visit for you. Situated on 180 acres of land, this National Historicaj Park is considered sacred ground. It was once refuge and home to those who broke the law.

When visit the Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, you can see the black lava rock, a sacred temple, wooden statutes of Hawaiian gods, and so much more! The area is filled with beautiful fish ponds; therefore, you can enjoy a fishing adventure in addition to hiking and examining the historical background of Hawaii's Big Island.

In addition to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, and Waipio Valley, there are other popular and well-known attractions that you should place on your vacation itinerary. Those visiting the North Side of Big Island will want to examine Parker Ranch. Those visiting the South Side of the island should checkout the views at the Ka Lea South Point.

As you can see, there are a number of must visit attractions for your next Big Island vacation. The above mentioned attractions are just a sample of what you will find on the island. For that reason, you are encouraged to use the internet to your advantage or request free Big Island travel guides, which are relatively easy to find online.

For your Italy vacation

All About Money For Your Italy Vacation

If you are traveling to Italy for vacation, you need to be aware of some basics about the currency. Travelers are usually concerned with several questions. What is the currency conversion rate? Where can I change my dollars into Euros when I arrive? Can I use my travelers' checks? Are ATM machines readily available? What if I need a larger amount of cash and I need a bank? Can I use my major credit card at many places? What about tax-free shopping?

These are all great questions to ask before you go on your Italy vacation and each one has an answer that will be addressed here. First of all it is important to know that Italy uses the European Euro. There is no "Italian currency." One dollar ($1) is equivalent to approximately 0.70 euros. The currency conversion rate can fluctuate daily so it is best that you check for a more accurate figure before you leave for your vacation to Italy. You can find the most current exchange rate at The Universal Currency Converter website which is www.xe.com/ucc/

How can you get Euros once you arrive in Italy for your vacation? There will be an exchange office at the airport when you arrive. This is usually most accurate if you are arriving in a main city. Exchange offices may also be available at railway stations in the main cities. You can always also get Euros at any ATM or bank. This leads in to the next question about the availability of ATMs. There are ATMs all over Italy mainly in big cities but also in some smaller towns. But you need to know that in Italy ATMs are called "bancomats." During your Italy vacation you will find that these bancomats work just like they do in the US and you will get the chance to select your language of preference from the screen when you begin. You can use your credit or debit card to get money (euros only) out of the bancomat as long as there is a Cirrus or BankMate symbol on that machine and your card.

You could always find out from your Credit Card Company or bank if their cards can be used worldwide before you leave for your vacation to Italy. Most businesses accept major credit cards in Italy and you should always look for the credit card signage stickers on doors of shops just like there are in the US. Travelers' checks are also widely accepted in the major cities.

If you need a larger sum of cash than the bancomat will provide during your Italy vacation you will find that there are banks all over Italy especially at the main tourist attractions. Most Italian banks close for about an hour and a half for a lunch break during the week and are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and National Holidays.

People taking an Italy vacation will be glad to find out that non-resident visitors may claim a refund for the tax they pay on many of their purchases. You can go to www.globalrefund.com to pursue a refund.

All About Passports And Visas For Your Italy Vacation

When traveling to Italy there are several things you must have. The least of these are a passport and maybe even a visa. If this is your first time traveling out of the US you will need to apply for a passport. You may also need to apply for a passport if your old one has expired, is damaged or lost. Applying for a passport is a fairly simple process which may be as simple as a trip to the post office but be sure to start early so you can be ready for your Italy vacation. There are stories of people who have had to cancel vacations because their passport was not ready. You don't want to do this as it will be very disappointing and also expensive especially if you have reserved an airline ticket or some sort of package vacation.

The US Department of State asks that you allow six months for them to process your passport application however some travelers have found it only took a few weeks for them to receive their passports. You can apply online however first time applicants must apply in person. The main supporting document that is required is a valid original US birth certificate. Passport applicants are sometimes surprised to find that their original birth certificate needs to be submitted to the Department of State with a promise of it being mailed back. Many people tend to be leery of this especially because they have found how difficult it is to get a replacement birth certificate. However, most report that within a short period of receiving their new passports, their birth certificates arrive in the mail safe and sound. For all the details on where the 9000 passport application accepting facilities are and how to apply for a passport for your Italy vacation you can go to www.travel.state.gov/passport

If you are a US citizen you will not need a visa to go on an Italy vacation. However you must show that your airline ticket includes a return back to the US. If you are planning to travel to Italy for reasons other than a vacation the requirements are different and usually stricter. When on vacation in Italy you can stay for a maximum of 3 months at a time but remember that this is a combined period to include any time spent in several other European countries. Italy has an embassy in Washington DC that can process visas for non-US citizens. They must go to the embassy for personal interviews. If you are going to Italy for a vacation the prime concern of the Italian government is that you plan to return to your country. Therefore they always ask for proof that you have a full-time job especially if you are a non-US citizen. The Department of State recommends that during your Italy vacation you register your presence there with the US embassy. This is important in case someone needs to contact you for an emergency home or in case of a disaster abroad so your whereabouts can be confirmed.

All About Photography And Your Italy Vacation

Taking pictures when you go on vacation is extremely important. It will allow you to re-visit all those fond memories and also make for great conversation pieces when you return home. On your Italian vacation there will be many opportunities to take tons of pictures. The country is famous for its beautiful architecture, amazing landscapes and friendly people. There is a photo opportunity every corner you turn. You will want to remember what the Vatican looked like when you first saw it or the huge Colosseum. If you visit Tuscany, you will see architecture at its best and you will be able to take pictures of all the wonderful buildings and structures like the leaning tower of Pisa. Even quaint chapels and little Old Italian ladies make for perfect shots that cannot be missed during your vacation to Italy. There are a few things to remember if you want to be able to take great shots each time.

Make sure your subject matter is within the frame of your shot. You must always check the corners and edges in the shot before you click. This will reduce the chances of amateur mistakes like missing top halves of heads. Also look for patterns and symmetry especially when shooting buildings on your Italy vacation. For example if you are taking a picture of a street scene, try to have all the buildings in your shot on an angle. Simple patterns and simple subjects also make for beautiful shots especially when you use natural light.

The best times to shoot for the best shots are early in the morning or late in the day. This is because film or digital sensors in digital cameras are much more sensitive to light than your eyes so what may seem to be a normal bright day could show up in your prints as too bright and washed over. You will do best to also always make sure the light is behind you unless you are shooting people. If you take pictures of people who are looking into the sun you end up with squinted eyes in your pictures. You can also avoid this by taking pictures early morning or late in the day when the sun is not as powerful.

Another technique to use for your photographs during your Italian vacation is to change your point of view from the subject. For example shots looking up usually turn out beautiful so try taking some pictures on your knees. Other variations include taking close ups rather than always trying to get too much into the frame of the picture. Also, to make for some great photography during your Italy vacation, try one of the most powerful techniques that professional photographers use. Avoid placing all your subjects in the middle of your frame. Have the subject on an edge or in a corner and click. It is important to remember that even amateurs can take great looking pictures and an Italian vacation presents tremendous opportunities to practice taking pictures.

All-inclusive Vacation Resorts In St. Thomas



Each year, millions of individuals, couples, and families make the decision to schedule a vacation. St. Thomas is a popular vacation destination, unfortunately, a large number of individuals believe that a St. Thomas vacation is out of their reach. If you are interested in scheduling a St. Thomas vacation, you should not let the cost of vacationing there prevent you from vacationing at your dream destination.

If you are interested in how you could be spending your vacation in St. Thomas without having to be concerned with the price, you may want to examine all-inclusive resorts that can be found in St. Thomas. Many couples and families find that they are able to save a large amount of money by booking their vacation at an all-inclusive resort.

When examining all-inclusive resorts in St. Thomas, you are encouraged to take a number of important factors into consideration. One of these factors is what each resort considers to be all-inclusive. All-inclusive resorts come in all different shapes, sizes, and styles. Each of those resorts is likely to have different resort rules and regulations. You may find that a number of these rules and regulations are placed on all-inclusive packages.

What one popular St. Thomas resort may consider all-inclusive, another resort may not. That is why it is extremely important to determine everything that is considered in an all-inclusive resort package, before making your reservations. Fine dining, beach travel, and onsite entrainment is often included in most vacation packages. Alcohol may or may not be included in an all-inclusive package. Some St. Thomas resorts offer their guests all the free alcohol they can drink and other require that alcohol be paid for or a limit is placed on the number of drinks you can have.

When examining all-inclusive resorts in St. Thomas, you are also encouraged to consider the type of vacation that you are planning on taking. St. Thomas is a popular vacation destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway or families who are on a family vacation. There are a number of all-inclusive St. Thomas resorts that have age restrictions.

The age restrictions in place at many St. Thomas resorts are designed to help create a romantic environment. These restrictions often keep children, under the age of eighteen, off of the resort. If you are planning on vacationing with your family, it is important that you schedule your vacation at a resort that caters to individuals of all ages. Below is an overview of two popular all-inclusive St. Thomas resorts that are ideal for family vacations.

(1) The Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa comes highly recommended by past St. Thomas vacationers. This all-inclusive resort is located within a short driving distance to the closest airport, making the Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa ideal for couples traveling with their children.

Located directly on the beach, the Wyndham Sugar Bay Beach Resort and Spa offers an unlimited number of beachside activities. These activities may include, but are not limited to, swimming, sun bathing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating. Beach lovers, of all ages, will enjoy vacationing at this all-inclusive resort.

(2) The Bolongo Bay Beach Club and Villias is one of the most highly rated all-inclusive resorts. Bolongo Bay Beach Club and Villias is ideal for romantic getaways, weddings, honeymoons, business meetings, and family vacations.

On and offsite activities and facilities are geared towards individuals of all ages. Adults and children will have fun playing on the beach, swimming in the hotel pool, playing numerous outdoor sports games, participating in snorkeling tours, and much more. Whatever you and your family are looking for, the Bolongo Bay Beach Club has what you may need.

As previously mentioned, additional all-inclusive resorts can be found on the St. Thomas Island. It is important to remember to closely examine each resort and their policies before placing your reservations. By taking the time to examine multiple resorts, it will be easier to make sure that you get everything that you want and need while on vacation.

Greece

Historically Modern

The Cradle of Civilization, Greece has long played a part in the history of the world. It is located in the southeastern part of Europe between Albania, Turkey, and Italy. Greece is one of the smallest countries in Europe. However, despite its size, it hold an astoundingly rich history and culture. Thus, Europe especially Greece, became a haven for over 16 million tourists each year making it the 15th most visited countries in the world to date.

Cosmopolitan Living

Life in Greece is peaceful and serene. The locales are calm and charming people that think of the future optimistically. Theft and violence are kept down to the lowest level. Thereby, tourists consider this a safe place to travel in. People live simply. These amicably hospitable people welcome guests with open arms.

Activities in Greece vary from place to place. However, despite its difference, they all satisfy the different needs and likes of the guests. Mealtime in Greece is best enjoyed at late nights. Party starts at 10 pm and people, both the locales and guest, frequent the clubs, bars, restaurants, and taverns.

Joining the Greeks during mealtime will not be an awkward experience. Don't be afraid to start a conversation. You will surely find yourself sharing quite an interesting, not to mention, memorable conversations with them.

And now we move on to places that placed Greece on the map and tourists on the country.

Santorini

The volcano which has the greatest eruption mankind has ever known - that is Santorini. It is located in the most well-known islands in the Cyclades. Superstitions say that if engaged young couples stay and last for a week on Santorini, they will be blessed a lifetime marriage.

Crete

Crete island is located between the Libyan Sea and the Cretan Sea. Crete's long and rich history, amazing features, charming villages, breathtaking natural areas, scrumptious cuisine, fabulous beaches, century-old traditions, and hospitable inhabitants makes it one of the most visited places in Greece. Visitors can spend leisure time exploring the ancient sites, swimming in crystal-clear waters, participating in a wide array of outdoor sports, and having fun at the nightlife venues. Truly, Greece is a versatile vacation spot that is worth visiting.

Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece, not to mention, one of the most magnificent cities in the world. It is the birthplace of principles and values that our society bases today and the cradle of the western civilization. Athens" excellent infrastructure, spectacular historical and ancient sites, the Athens Acropolis Hill, the Parthenon, the Herod Atticus Odeon, and the Erechtheion make it one of the most visited cities in the world to date.

A stroll through the charming downtown commercial areas of Athens, the Monastiraki Bazaar, and the Plaka Quarters is a must. Observe how the modern changes and characteristics compliment the ancient features as well as how the east and west are fused to create Athens, a unique holiday spot.

Holiday Getaway

Planning your vacation in Greece will surely be difficult because of the many choices it offers. From an active hobbies, leisure interests, or relaxing pastimes, one can surely get confused. Be spontaneous! Discover the country by yourself. Don't forget to check out the mentioned places to complete your stay in Greece.

So, if you"re planning for a vacation but you have no idea where, need not worry just think Greece!