In the surprisingly cosmopolitan town of Birmingham, Alabama you can have a deluxe five star vacation filled with down-home hospitality, beautiful scenery and amazing food while relaxing and rejuvenating your mind and body. Once you arrive you will immediately notice the sprawling green landscape and the fresh, clean air. The downtown seems old fashioned, yet the buildings are sleek, modern and clean.

2009 Travel Writing Contest
  2nd PLACE WINNER

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we only borrow it from our children”.

Redondo Beach, a lively little seaside town in Southern California embodies the fantasy of what California living and visiting should be. Offering clear blue oceans for miles, casual restaurants, shops on the pier and several fun-in-the-sun outdoor activities it could be the perfect family vacation location.

Start your picture perfect day at the upscale Portofino Hotel and Yacht Club. This recently renovated, contemporary nautical-themed hideaway is located on a private peninsula between the marina and the ocean.

One of five islands that make up the Channel Islands off the coast of Central California, Anacapa, is a small volcanic island about 14 miles off the shores of Oxnard. Named by the Chumash Native American Indians, the Channel Islands are five miles long and made up of 3 islets (East, Middle and West) that are not inaccessible to each other except by boat.

Known as the "Gateway to the Channel Islands" Oxnard offers seven stunning miles of beautiful sandy beaches with views of these islands. Approximately 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles County, Oxnard offers a pleasant year round climate providing constant ocean breezes.

Sun Valley, Idaho conjures images of snow capped mountains, lush winter landscapes, and visions of lounging around the fire sipping on steaming hot cocoa for many. Surprise! This winter playground also offers fun and adventure in the peaceful summer months. Hiking, biking, fishing, tennis, exploring nature and rejuvenating in the tranquil untouched wilderness is one of the top reasons to explore Sun Valley in the summertime.

Are you ready for some fun in the desert sun? Then pack an overnight bag and head 110 miles southeast of Los Angeles to beautiful Palm Springs. Located in the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is the perfect escape for a girlfriend getaway, romantic retreat or guys golf outing. The desert is sure to accommodate your every need.

The economy is in shambles, LA actors' talk of another strike, and the holidays seem miles away without 4 feet of snow. Not to worry, head to the world famous Grove for LA holiday festivities!

Centrally located in the heart of Los Angeles, The Grove is considered a boutique outdoor shopping mall that encompasses retail shops, restaurants, and Movie Theater over the sprawling, well manicured grounds.

What makes a good haunting? First-rate folklore, the stories of unfinished dreams, and opulent history. Glamorous Los Angeles possesses all these traits and the ghostly haunts that come with it. Check out these spooky places for a perfect haunted day in Hollywood:

Need to get away from everyday life and pamper yourself in the perfect surroundings? Whether you want to do everything or nothing at all, Palm Springs is the perfect luxury getaway.

If you are lucky enough to begin your day in Palm Springs, there is no better choice than the Spanish Colonial boutique hotel of the Pepper Tree Inn. This hidden gem offers romantic charm while remaining an intimate experience.