Comments for Explore America's Backyard http://usatmnews.wordpress.com "Explore America's Backyard & Beyond, where the miles are measured by memorable moments shared with family and friends!" Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:23:28 +0000 http://wordpress.com/ hourly 1 Comment on Enjoy A Toe River Studio Tour In North Carolina by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/27/enjoy-a-toe-river-studio-tour-in-north-carolina/#comment-233 Editorial Staff Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:23:28 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/27/enjoy-a-toe-river-studio-tour-in-north-carolina/#comment-233 Each studio hosts an open house, and the tour features artists from nearly every medium. The largest concentration is in pottery, followed by glass blowing. “There is no fee for the tour. Just pick up a map and follow the arrow signs throughout the counties,” Cook says. “Visitors love coming here. It’s become sort of a treasure hunt. They have map in hand and travel our beautiful countryside looking for artists.” The Toe River Studio Tour began in 1993 and is held twice a year, with the December tour taking on a holiday flavor. “Many of the studios provide refreshments and decorate for the holidays,” says Denise Cook of the Toe River Arts Council. “It’s a festive, holiday experience.” Mitchell and Yancey counties have become a haven for artisans in the last two decades, and the studio tours are a great way for folks to visit these artisans and see first-hand how they work with various media to create works of art. “It’s more than shopping. It’s an experience. You get a sense of how they make their products and it becomes educational as well,” says Cook. “There are new artists, emerging artists, and seasoned artists. Some have had their work exhibited in the Smithsonian.” Learn More Hours for the Toe River Studio Tour are noon to 4 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. In addition to picking up a map on the tour, folks may access the map online at www.toeriverarts.org. Information is also available by calling TRAC at (828) 682-7215. For lodging info, go to: www.VisitYancey.com. Each studio hosts an open house, and the tour features artists from nearly every medium. The largest concentration is in pottery, followed by glass blowing. “There is no fee for the tour. Just pick up a map and follow the arrow signs throughout the counties,” Cook says. “Visitors love coming here. It’s become sort of a treasure hunt. They have map in hand and travel our beautiful countryside looking for artists.”

The Toe River Studio Tour began in 1993 and is held twice a year, with the December tour taking on a holiday flavor. “Many of the studios provide refreshments and decorate for the holidays,” says Denise Cook of the Toe River Arts Council. “It’s a festive, holiday experience.”

Mitchell and Yancey counties have become a haven for artisans in the last two decades, and the studio tours are a great way for folks to visit these artisans and see first-hand how they work with various media to create works of art.

“It’s more than shopping. It’s an experience. You get a sense of how they make their products and it becomes educational as well,” says Cook. “There are new artists, emerging artists, and seasoned artists. Some have had their work exhibited in the Smithsonian.”

Learn More

Hours for the Toe River Studio Tour are noon to 4 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. In addition to picking up a map on the tour, folks may access the map online at http://www.toeriverarts.org. Information is also available by calling TRAC at (828) 682-7215. For lodging info, go to: http://www.VisitYancey.com.

]]> Comment on Take A Bite Out of Vacation Costs by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/25/travelnews087/#comment-232 Editorial Staff Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:15:59 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1045#comment-232 * Plan, Plan, Plan: There is no substitution for planning. Experienced travelers agree that shopping around for the best deals on the Internet is the most effective way to reduce vacation costs. People should research every aspect of a potential trip and compare the cost of each segment (air, hotel, rental car, etc.), and continue to check rates even after making a reservation, one traveler suggests. People that are proactive in the early stages of planning usually find the very best deals. * Look For The Best Deals: Consider calling the hotels directly to inquire about discounts. Another great idea is to sign-up for email notices of sales and promotions from online travel sites, and be flexible with your travel dates when your destination goes on sale or runs a special promotion, recommends one traveler. * Bring Food and Money: After scheduling for the vacation, people should consider bringing a cooler full of favorite foods and drinks when traveling by car to reduce or even eliminate the cost of dining out. Another tip is to avoid ATM fees by taking cash out at grocery stores. Many grocery and drug stores enable you to request some cash back with the each purchase (even when purchasing just a pack of gum, bottle of water or soft drink). Consider visiting local grocery stores to buy foods that are easy to store and prepare in your hotel room rather than dining out. * Be Loyal: Frequent travelers are even planning to use their airline and hotel loyalty program points to defer their travel cost. A few even mention redeeming points for gift cards to gas stations, restaurants, and national retail chain stores, such as Target and Wal-Mart, for use on their trips. This will help cut costs in other areas. * Bundle Packages: If your travels take you overseas to Europe, consider taking a cruise. Cruises typically offer an all-inclusive type package and may provide more “bang for your buck”, which should be considered given current exchange rates. * Consider Alternative Routes: Several travelers recommended flying to a major European hub to connect to your final European destination on Europe's low-cost airlines (RyanAir, Easy Jet, etc.). The trains in Europe are another convenient and economical way to travel to your destination. Whether the travels takes you on a road trip across the States or overseas in Europe, planning and researching for the best deals in addition to cutting basic costs with the tips from experienced travelers, you’ll be able to vacation without worrying about finances. <b>Learn More</b> Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands. Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/. * Plan, Plan, Plan: There is no substitution for planning. Experienced travelers agree that shopping around for the best deals on the Internet is the most effective way to reduce vacation costs. People should research every aspect of a potential trip and compare the cost of each segment (air, hotel, rental car, etc.), and continue to check rates even after making a reservation, one traveler suggests. People that are proactive in the early stages of planning usually find the very best deals.

* Look For The Best Deals: Consider calling the hotels directly to inquire about discounts. Another great idea is to sign-up for email notices of sales and promotions from online travel sites, and be flexible with your travel dates when your destination goes on sale or runs a special promotion, recommends one traveler.

* Bring Food and Money: After scheduling for the vacation, people should consider bringing a cooler full of favorite foods and drinks when traveling by car to reduce or even eliminate the cost of dining out. Another tip is to avoid ATM fees by taking cash out at grocery stores. Many grocery and drug stores enable you to request some cash back with the each purchase (even when purchasing just a pack of gum, bottle of water or soft drink). Consider visiting local grocery stores to buy foods that are easy to store and prepare in your hotel room rather than dining out.

* Be Loyal: Frequent travelers are even planning to use their airline and hotel loyalty program points to defer their travel cost. A few even mention redeeming points for gift cards to gas stations, restaurants, and national retail chain stores, such as Target and Wal-Mart, for use on their trips. This will help cut costs in other areas.

* Bundle Packages: If your travels take you overseas to Europe, consider taking a cruise. Cruises typically offer an all-inclusive type package and may provide more “bang for your buck”, which should be considered given current exchange rates.

* Consider Alternative Routes: Several travelers recommended flying to a major European hub to connect to your final European destination on Europe’s low-cost airlines (RyanAir, Easy Jet, etc.). The trains in Europe are another convenient and economical way to travel to your destination.

Whether the travels takes you on a road trip across the States or overseas in Europe, planning and researching for the best deals in addition to cutting basic costs with the tips from experienced travelers, you’ll be able to vacation without worrying about finances.

Learn More

Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands.

Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/.

]]> Comment on Top Five Packing Tips To Help The Stressed Traveler by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/12/03/traveltips089/#comment-230 Editorial Staff Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:43:30 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1040#comment-230 <b>How To Pack In A Crunch: </b> For one, a great way to organize your suitcase is to use “space bags.” There are many types of space bags for each individual to choose from, but honestly, gallon size plastic bags work great. You can pack each day of clothes into bags to keep them organized or keep shorts separate from shirts, etc. These plastic bags are also great to store toiletries, shampoo, etc and prevent shaving gel or hairspray from accidentally leaking onto your clothes. Other “space bags” can be purchased in different sizes and allow you to vacuum out the air. These nifty bags allow you to easily pack everything you need instead of cramming everything into the suitcase and having to sit on top to close it. Another recommendation from experienced travelers is to use plastic bags called Eagle Creek’s “Pack-it-Folder”. It keeps the clothes from being wrinkled, while conserving space at the same time. These are very handy for business travelers. A third tip is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. Most hotels have an ironing board and iron located inside the room. Because of this convenience travelers can roll their clothes, allowing more room to pack, without the worry of wrinkling their garments. The fourth tip is to pack socks and other items into shoes in order to create more space inside the suitcase. This can also be an organizational tip because you can already match the socks with shoes you will wear instead of having to dig them out of the bottom of the suitcase. The final tip is to be sure to leave room for souvenirs. Pack some clothes that are not important and that you are willing to leave behind at the end of your travels. This can be a way to clean out your closet and simultaneously help you to be able to pack better for your trip. So next time you get ready to pack for your travels, keep these packing tips in mind and you won’t have to stress about trying to cram tons of clothes in a heavy and bulky suitcase. <b>Learn More</b> Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands. Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/. How To Pack In A Crunch: For one, a great way to organize your suitcase is to use “space bags.” There are many types of space bags for each individual to choose from, but honestly, gallon size plastic bags work great. You can pack each day of clothes into bags to keep them organized or keep shorts separate from shirts, etc. These plastic bags are also great to store toiletries, shampoo, etc and prevent shaving gel or hairspray from accidentally leaking onto your clothes. Other “space bags” can be purchased in different sizes and allow you to vacuum out the air. These nifty bags allow you to easily pack everything you need instead of cramming everything into the suitcase and having to sit on top to close it.

Another recommendation from experienced travelers is to use plastic bags called Eagle Creek’s “Pack-it-Folder”. It keeps the clothes from being wrinkled, while conserving space at the same time. These are very handy for business travelers.

A third tip is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. Most hotels have an ironing board and iron located inside the room. Because of this convenience travelers can roll their clothes, allowing more room to pack, without the worry of wrinkling their garments.

The fourth tip is to pack socks and other items into shoes in order to create more space inside the suitcase. This can also be an organizational tip because you can already match the socks with shoes you will wear instead of having to dig them out of the bottom of the suitcase.

The final tip is to be sure to leave room for souvenirs. Pack some clothes that are not important and that you are willing to leave behind at the end of your travels. This can be a way to clean out your closet and simultaneously help you to be able to pack better for your trip.

So next time you get ready to pack for your travels, keep these packing tips in mind and you won’t have to stress about trying to cram tons of clothes in a heavy and bulky suitcase.

Learn More

Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands.

Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/.

]]> Comment on Travelers Share Their San Francisco Sightseeing Tips Regardless of Budget by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/28/canews045/#comment-229 Editorial Staff Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:18:10 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1037#comment-229 For instance, the Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to walk around and explore. This nautical sight has several restaurants, family friendly attractions and plenty of events to plan a vacation around. Another great idea is to walk up the famous hills. If you have kids, you can make a game out of who can walk the farthest. You get your exercise and a fun family activity in one spot. <a title="Experienced Travelers Share Their San Francisco Sightseeing Tips Regardless of Budget" href="http://www.usatravelmagazine.com/a/004/CAnews095.html" rel="nofollow">Read More...</a> <b>Wondering what the Top Nine List of Things to Do in San Francisco are?</b> As you'll see, Fisherman's Wharf is number one on the list of things to do. And, here are some other suggestions of attractions to visit on your next trip: 2. Take a private boar tour of Alcatraz 3. Walk up the Famous Hills 4. Visit the de Young and Asian museums 5. See the Beach Blanket Babylon show 6. Go shopping at Gumps 7. Visit Berkley and its campus 8. Take an evening walking tour 9. Ride the trolley <b>Learn More</b> Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands. Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/. Thanks to our Priority Club Connect Contributors for sharing this interesting tidbits. For instance, the Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to walk around and explore. This nautical sight has several restaurants, family friendly attractions and plenty of events to plan a vacation around. Another great idea is to walk up the famous hills. If you have kids, you can make a game out of who can walk the farthest. You get your exercise and a fun family activity in one spot. Read More…

Wondering what the Top Nine List of Things to Do in San Francisco are?

As you’ll see, Fisherman’s Wharf is number one on the list of things to do. And, here are some other suggestions of attractions to visit on your next trip:

2. Take a private boar tour of Alcatraz

3. Walk up the Famous Hills

4. Visit the de Young and Asian museums

5. See the Beach Blanket Babylon show

6. Go shopping at Gumps

7. Visit Berkley and its campus

8. Take an evening walking tour

9. Ride the trolley

Learn More

Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands.

Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/.

Thanks to our Priority Club Connect Contributors for sharing this interesting tidbits.

]]> Comment on Waiting Because of a Delayed Fight?: Top 10 Activities to Keep You Occupied by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/09/06/travelnews089/#comment-228 Editorial Staff Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:01:29 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=838#comment-228 <b>Read: <font color="#800000"> <a rel="bookmark" title="Top Ten List of Things People Just Can’t Travel Without" href="http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/26/travelnews067" rel="nofollow"><font color="#800000">Top Ten List of Things People Just Can’t Travel Without</font></a></font></b> Read:
Top Ten List of Things People Just Can’t Travel Without

]]> Comment on Top Ten List of Things People Just Can’t Travel Without by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/26/travelnews067/#comment-227 Editorial Staff Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:52:19 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1033#comment-227 <b>Could you guess what would be on the list of top 10 items that people just can’t travel without? Here they are:</b> 1. Music Device (iPod, Zune, etc.) 2. Aquaphor 3. Nikon Camera 4. Credit card and cash 5. A good book (In print or electronic on the Amazon Kindle)/ magazines 6. Shoes 7. Cell phone (iPhone, Blackberry) 8. Laptop 9. A pashmina for the airplane 10.Toothbrush When traveling with all your stuff you can find a way to stay fit as well with these 7 tips: <b>Top Seven List of Ways to Stay Slim and Fit When Traveling</b> 1. Walking to all local sites, shops, and cafes as much as possible. 2. Skipping dessert no matter how irresistible it looks. 3. Eating a later lunch so you eat a lighter dinner. 4. Finding a machine in the gym that you love to work out on. 5. Pushing yourself at the gym to go those extra few minutes and get over that initial exhaustion in your workout. 6. Making the gym a part of your lifestyle and something you need to do daily. 7. Taking leisure walks to just explore the city. <b><a href="http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/09/06/travelnews089/" rel="bookmark" title="Permanent Link to Waiting Because of a Delayed Fight?: Top 10 Activities to Keep You Occupied" rel="nofollow"><font color="#800000">Waiting Because of a Delayed Fight?: Top 10 Activities to Keep You Occupied</font></a></b> <b>Learn More</b> Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands. Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/. Thanks to our Priority Club Connect Contributors for sharing this interesting tidbits. Could you guess what would be on the list of top 10 items that people just can’t travel without? Here they are:

1. Music Device (iPod, Zune, etc.)

2. Aquaphor

3. Nikon Camera

4. Credit card and cash

5. A good book (In print or electronic on the Amazon Kindle)/
magazines

6. Shoes

7. Cell phone (iPhone, Blackberry)

8. Laptop

9. A pashmina for the airplane

10.Toothbrush

When traveling with all your stuff you can find a way to stay fit as well with these 7 tips:

Top Seven List of Ways to Stay Slim and Fit When Traveling

1. Walking to all local sites, shops, and cafes as much as possible.

2. Skipping dessert no matter how irresistible it looks.

3. Eating a later lunch so you eat a lighter dinner.

4. Finding a machine in the gym that you love to work out on.

5. Pushing yourself at the gym to go those extra few minutes and
get over that initial exhaustion in your workout.

6. Making the gym a part of your lifestyle and something you need
to do daily.

7. Taking leisure walks to just explore the city.

Waiting Because of a Delayed Fight?: Top 10 Activities to Keep You Occupied

Learn More

Priority Club Connect is an online community for Priority Club Rewards members. It provides a forum for members to connect and engage with other travelers and to learn about the Priority Club Loyalty program and the InterContinental Hotels Group family of brands.

Topics of discussion range from exotic travel destinations and special offers to packing tips and financial travel information helpful for any traveler. To join the community and contribute your travel tips and experiences, please visit: http://community.priorityclub.com/.

Thanks to our Priority Club Connect Contributors for sharing this interesting tidbits.

]]> Comment on Gear Up For Sporting Events In Evansville, IN by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/19/innews087-3/#comment-226 Editorial Staff Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:10:43 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1024#comment-226 Evansville, Indiana sits on a East/West, North/South corridor of a hotbed of good soccer. They're expecting teams from Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, Michigan, Iowa, Kansas, and Wisconsin to participate. Several major clubs in those areas have already committed to playing. We hope to see you on the side lines joining their coaches and family members as we cheer them on during the weekend tournament. Later in the month of November, Evansville welcome the NCAA Division II Cross Country Championship. During this event forty-eight men’s and women’s teams from colleges throughout the United States will qualify for this championship series to be held at University of Southern Indiana. Come join the 2800 competitors and spectators for festive events and sportsmanship! Veterans Day weekend promises to be a great opportunity for teams to conclude their fall season or to use as preparation for upcoming college showcase events. Either way, we pledge to put on a tournament of the highest caliber. For information and on-line registration see our tournament website www.veteransinvitationalhttp://www.veteransinvitational.com.com. For more information on the NCAA event, call Ray Simmons at 812-465-1622. To plan your visit, and learn about options for future getaways visit the Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau online at http://www.evansvillecvb.org, where you can check out details on hotel packages, restaurants and upcoming festivities. Evansville, Indiana sits on a East/West, North/South corridor of a hotbed of good soccer. They’re expecting teams from Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, Michigan, Iowa, Kansas, and Wisconsin to participate. Several major clubs in those areas have already committed to playing. We hope to see you on the side lines joining their coaches and family members as we cheer them on during the weekend tournament.

Later in the month of November, Evansville welcome the NCAA Division II Cross Country Championship. During this event forty-eight men’s and women’s teams from colleges throughout the United States will qualify for this championship series to be held at University of Southern Indiana. Come join the 2800 competitors and spectators for festive events and sportsmanship!

Veterans Day weekend promises to be a great opportunity for teams to conclude their fall season or to use as preparation for upcoming college showcase events. Either way, we pledge to put on a tournament of the highest caliber. For information and on-line registration see our tournament website http://www.veteransinvitationalhttp://www.veteransinvitational.com.com. For more information on the NCAA event, call Ray Simmons at 812-465-1622.

To plan your visit, and learn about options for future getaways visit the Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau online at http://www.evansvillecvb.org, where you can check out details on hotel packages, restaurants and upcoming festivities.

]]> Comment on Start Your Holiday Traditions in Kansas City by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/19/monews055/#comment-225 Editorial Staff Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:30:57 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1019#comment-225 In Dec. you can experience a classic tradition at the Kansas City Ballet. Featuring a cast of more than 200 dancers, the Kansas City Ballet’s enchanting presentation of The Nutcracker is the largest in an eight-state region and one of the hottest tickets in town. The same story gets a historical twist for A Kansas Nutcracker, a charming production at the Lawrence Arts Center. The rolling plains and prairies of the Sunflower State are the backdrop for this whimsical staging, which recounts the magical dreams of a young Kansas girl in the 1850s. Eric Stonestreet, KC native and star of the hit ABC comedy Modern Family, will headline the festivities at the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Nov. 27 at Crown Center. Home to Hallmark Cards, the creative complex pulls out all the stops each holiday season and the 100-foot-tall Mayor’s Christmas Tree as its centerpiece. KC native and Saturday Night Live regular Jason Sudeikis will flip the switch on Thanksgiving night for the 80th Annual Country Club Plaza Season of Lights. The Plaza spends seven weeks each winter dressed up in jewel-colored lights that outline every shop, dome and tower of the Spanish-inspired shopping and entertainment district. The Kansas City Repertory Theatre will present the world premiere of A Christmas Story: The Musical, Nov. 20-Dec. 27. Based on the iconic 1983 holiday film, this new musical follows the holiday hijinks of Ralphie and company—complete with BB guns, frozen tongues and, of course, that infamous leg lamp - if you've ever wanted to see this iconic piece of history, then this is your chance! Contemporary vocalist Jim Brickman and American Idol star David Archuleta will both deck the halls of downtown’s revamped Midland by AMC. Brickman’s holiday showcase, Beautiful World Christmas, arrives Nov. 21, and Archuleta’s Christmas From the Heart takes place Dec. 8. Straight from the mind of Dr. Seuss, The City Market will be transformed for Whoville Holidays, a yuletide celebration even The Grinch would love (Saturdays Nov. 29 & Dec. 6, 13, 20). Get your picture taken with the grumpy green one, plus take part in holiday art activities and a Cindy Lou Who Look-Alike Contest. After bringing back the downtown tradition of gigantic holiday crowns, Zona Rosa will reintroduce another local favorite: the Kansas City Museum’s nostalgic Igloo (Nov. 21-Dec. 3). Now part of Zona Rosa’s winter wonderland, the chilly, crawl-through structure was once the centerpiece of the museum’s popular “Eskimoland” exhibit that opened in 1954. As you can see there will be plenty of entertaining options for a festive holiday in Kansas City! Visiting Kansas City has never been more affordable. This holiday season, KC’s premier attractions have come together to offer significant savings to visitors. The citywide deals include cool, <a href="http://kccva.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT01MjgzMjkmcD0xJnU9MTAwNDUyNjM0NSZsaT0xOTQ1MzA0/index.html" rel="nofollow">money-saving discounts</a> on everything from hotels to theater, plus several 2-for-1 specials. For a complete list of discounts, go to <a href="http://kccva.informz.net/z/cjUucD9taT01MjgzMjkmcD0xJnU9MTAwNDUyNjM0NSZsaT0xOTQ1MzA0/index.html" rel="nofollow">VisitKC.com</a> and click on “Season of Magic.” In Dec. you can experience a classic tradition at the Kansas City Ballet. Featuring a cast of more than 200 dancers, the Kansas City Ballet’s enchanting presentation of The Nutcracker is the largest in an eight-state region and one of the hottest tickets in town. The same story gets a historical twist for A Kansas Nutcracker, a charming production at the Lawrence Arts Center. The rolling plains and prairies of the Sunflower State are the backdrop for this whimsical staging, which recounts the magical dreams of a young Kansas girl in the 1850s.

Eric Stonestreet, KC native and star of the hit ABC comedy Modern Family, will headline the festivities at the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Nov. 27 at Crown Center. Home to Hallmark Cards, the creative complex pulls out all the stops each holiday season and the 100-foot-tall Mayor’s Christmas Tree as its centerpiece.

KC native and Saturday Night Live regular Jason Sudeikis will flip the switch on Thanksgiving night for the 80th Annual Country Club Plaza Season of Lights. The Plaza spends seven weeks each winter dressed up in jewel-colored lights that outline every shop, dome and tower of the Spanish-inspired shopping and entertainment district.

The Kansas City Repertory Theatre will present the world premiere of A Christmas Story: The Musical, Nov. 20-Dec. 27. Based on the iconic 1983 holiday film, this new musical follows the holiday hijinks of Ralphie and company—complete with BB guns, frozen tongues and, of course, that infamous leg lamp – if you’ve ever wanted to see this iconic piece of history, then this is your chance!

Contemporary vocalist Jim Brickman and American Idol star David Archuleta will both deck the halls of downtown’s revamped Midland by AMC. Brickman’s holiday showcase, Beautiful World Christmas, arrives Nov. 21, and Archuleta’s Christmas From the Heart takes place Dec. 8.

Straight from the mind of Dr. Seuss, The City Market will be transformed for Whoville Holidays, a yuletide celebration even The Grinch would love (Saturdays Nov. 29 & Dec. 6, 13, 20). Get your picture taken with the grumpy green one, plus take part in holiday art activities and a Cindy Lou Who Look-Alike Contest.

After bringing back the downtown tradition of gigantic holiday crowns, Zona Rosa will reintroduce another local favorite: the Kansas City Museum’s nostalgic Igloo (Nov. 21-Dec. 3). Now part of Zona Rosa’s winter wonderland, the chilly, crawl-through structure was once the centerpiece of the museum’s popular “Eskimoland” exhibit that opened in 1954.

As you can see there will be plenty of entertaining options for a festive holiday in Kansas City!

Visiting Kansas City has never been more affordable. This holiday season, KC’s premier attractions have come together to offer significant savings to visitors. The citywide deals include cool, money-saving discounts on everything from hotels to theater, plus several 2-for-1 specials. For a complete list of discounts, go to VisitKC.com and click on “Season of Magic.”

]]> Comment on Turn Your Bucket List Into A Dream List by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/21/journalnews099/#comment-224 Editorial Staff Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:41:55 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1016#comment-224 The Dream List Journal has a great amount of space for us to write our memories of our visit to the <a title="Florida Keys review" href="http://www.usatravelmagazine.com/a/009/FLnews095.html" rel="nofollow">Florida Keys</a>, and the fun we had with our friends. It also allows us to add notes and photos, creating a unique journal for the future that we can look back on. When we travel we always find there are so many things to do that there's often not enough time, so we put them in our Dream List Journal to remind us later. Melissa Borghorst’s, Dream List for the Traveler is for anyone who dreams of visiting new places, and recording the experiences you had once you got there. Okay, what's next? Endless adventures once you set your mind to it! With 25 photo journal pages, an address book, and the blank pages in the Dream List Journal you'll have enough room to create and share your adventures. They also make perfect gifts for birthdays, graduations, retirement, and as holiday gifts! Visit www.dreamlistonline.com , for a variety of products and services to help you along your journey, as well as inspirational tips, quotes, and stories to keep you motivated. Inspirational product and service reviews can also be found on Melissa’s blog, www.dreamlistonline.com or listen to Melissa on Dream List Radio at www.dreamlistradio.com. The Dream List Journal has a great amount of space for us to write our memories of our visit to the Florida Keys, and the fun we had with our friends. It also allows us to add notes and photos, creating a unique journal for the future that we can look back on. When we travel we always find there are so many things to do that there’s often not enough time, so we put them in our Dream List Journal to remind us later.

Melissa Borghorst’s, Dream List for the Traveler is for anyone who dreams of visiting new places, and recording the experiences you had once you got there. Okay, what’s next? Endless adventures once you set your mind to it! With 25 photo journal pages, an address book, and the blank pages in the Dream List Journal you’ll have enough room to create and share your adventures. They also make perfect gifts for birthdays, graduations, retirement, and as holiday gifts!

Visit http://www.dreamlistonline.com , for a variety of products and services to help you along your journey, as well as inspirational tips, quotes, and stories to keep you motivated.

Inspirational product and service reviews can also be found on Melissa’s blog, http://www.dreamlistonline.com or listen to Melissa on Dream List Radio at http://www.dreamlistradio.com.

]]> Comment on Nature Awaits At White River Gardens by Editorial Staff http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/2009/11/19/innews087-2/#comment-223 Editorial Staff Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:29:04 +0000 http://usatmnews.wordpress.com/?p=1012#comment-223 When you need a break from the fast lane a visit to White River Gardens makes the day brighter! With beautiful plants, butterflies, and fountains, you'll find any stress has fading away; or at least it does for us when we visit. Along with beautiful plants and butterflies, the White River Gardens are ideal for social events like wedding, and a afternoon brunch. They also offer interesting classes, programs, and tips that help your garden grow. <a title="Click here to view photographs" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/usatravelmagazine/" rel="nofollow">(Click here to view photographs)</a> During the Holiday Season be sure to visit the Christmas Shoppe at White River Gardens both offer truly unique holiday shopping experiences. Offering a wide selection of animal ornaments, conservation ornaments, traditional holiday ornaments, and train ornaments perfect for any holiday tree, holiday themed stuffed animals, books, train toys, and traditional Christmas decorations, the shops are a favorite with visitors. While visiting the White River Gardens take time to visit the Indianapolis Zoo next, which also holds exciting events and holiday celebrations. Among the upcoming events during the holidays is a visit with Santa Claus and carols around the campfire. The nighttime antics of Amur tigers, walruses, sea lions and other Zoo animals along with special holiday food offerings are also part of the fun! All the magic of the holidays in the one-of-a-kind setting of the Indianapolis Zoo. To learn more about the White River Gardens and the Indianapolis Zoo visit www.indyzoo.com. It's so easy to do so much with so many attractions and events held throughout the year in Indianapolis. For great discounts and exciting things to do in Indy go to www.visitindy.org. When you need a break from the fast lane a visit to White River Gardens makes the day brighter! With beautiful plants, butterflies, and fountains, you’ll find any stress has fading away; or at least it does for us when we visit.

Along with beautiful plants and butterflies, the White River Gardens are ideal for social events like wedding, and a afternoon brunch. They also offer interesting classes, programs, and tips that help your garden grow. (Click here to view photographs)

During the Holiday Season be sure to visit the Christmas Shoppe at White River Gardens both offer truly unique holiday shopping experiences. Offering a wide selection of animal ornaments, conservation ornaments, traditional holiday ornaments, and train ornaments perfect for any holiday tree, holiday themed stuffed animals, books, train toys, and traditional Christmas decorations, the shops are a favorite with visitors.

While visiting the White River Gardens take time to visit the Indianapolis Zoo next, which also holds exciting events and holiday celebrations. Among the upcoming events during the holidays is a visit with Santa Claus and carols around the campfire. The nighttime antics of Amur tigers, walruses, sea lions and other Zoo animals along with special holiday food offerings are also part of the fun! All the magic of the holidays in the one-of-a-kind setting of the Indianapolis Zoo.

To learn more about the White River Gardens and the Indianapolis Zoo visit http://www.indyzoo.com.

It’s so easy to do so much with so many attractions and events held throughout the year in Indianapolis. For great discounts and exciting things to do in Indy go to http://www.visitindy.org.

]]>