myLovetripper

A Trip to Canyons and Vortexes

2009-10-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from an eight day bus tour of The Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion Canyon, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley. There is no doubt about it; the Canyons are truly an awesome sight to behold. Time, wind, fire and water have worked their magic to make these shines of nature places of overwhelming wonderment and stunning awe. However, as a writer of nine spiritual books I have to state, that if you do not bring your serenity, tranquility and sense of spirit with you, then you will not find it in the canyons. It is the same if you go into a house of worship, if you don’t bring God in with you, then you will not find God in the books and ceremonies.

We started our journey in Phoenix, Arizona; on Caravan Bus Tours. It was a new 2009 bus and the guide and bus driver were excellent. Apart from one hotel in Bryce, all the other nights the accommodation was congenial to our taste. The meals that were provided were very satisfying and overall the holiday represented sound value for the money. Our trip had 43 eager passengers and all were punctual at every stop and start. Every day there was a seat rotation so everyone met everyone else and had a variety of places to sit and enjoy the scenery.

I will not describe my feelings of being so close to the natural beauty of the canyons as I do not feel words can do them justice. They are places where one becomes enmeshed and enthralled by the etchings, figures and shapes in each rock that time and weather has carved. The landscape changes second by second as the light changes. One could spend a lifetime viewing and sensing the treasures each rock holds hidden, then momentarily revealed, just for the sake of the viewers gaze.

Traveling through the canyons is a personal quest where the imagination takes center stage. Each person will see differing aspects of complexion and style as they journey through more and more spectacular sights of amazement.

There is much made of spiritual vortexes and spiritual journeys that may appease the appetite for people thirsting for a quick spiritual fix. There is no doubt every rock holds some form of energy. Some of the energy is strong and some are quite subtle, however, as I have expressed earlier...If you are not aware of your soul and spirit when you enter the canyons, you will not find it by extracting the energy from a vortex. There is lot of mumbo jumbo doctrines in the New Age movements, just as there is in all religions. All contain some measures of truth but, as I always have said, the results of people’s life will speak for themselves. If you want to find out what construes truth from man- made be-lie-fs, then go ask a wise old rock in the canyons. The answer will satisfy your gut’s feelings but your intellect may have a difficult time understanding what it means.

We finished our trip in Las Vegas, so it could be stated that we came from the sublime of nature and ended at the ridiculousness of Sin City. I spent two enjoyable nights in Vegas and went to see Cirque du Soleil’s show “O" at the Bellagio
hotel. The show project earth, wind, fire and water in dream like sequences. After seeing the faces and shapes in the canyons, this show seemed to bring them to life. All in all, to sum up my trip, it was a super experience, for we do live in a wondrous world, filled with the magnificence and resplendence of nature. However, that said, wherever we are in the world, if we can sit still, close our eyes and silence our minds, we do not have to venture further than the reaches of our imagination to explore the grandeur and infinite glory of just being alive.

Michael Levy is a professional optimist, his philosophy of life is one of joyful optimism. He is an international radio host and the author of nine inspirational books. Michael's poetry and essays grace many web sites, newspapers, journals and
magazines throughout the world. He is a prominent speaker on health and wellness maintenance, stress eradication, wealth creation and development, authentic happiness and inspirational poetry.

http://www.pointoflife.com/

"Let Joy be your feelings, Love your attire, Peace your guide and you will discover
a mystical paradise here on earth."_ Michael Levy

My Hometown: Oxnard, California

2009-10-13T13:17:00.000-07:00

Once an agricultural area, it is now an endless array of concrete and buildings covering some of the best farmland God has ever provided. To balance it out, California brought water to the desert for farmland.

--contributed by Bill

Filming Location: "Scarlett" in Charleston, South Carolina

2009-10-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

Many years ago I took a trip to Charleston, South Carolina. On the way I was reading a book called Scarlett, which was the sequel to Gone With The Wind. When we got there, we discovered they were filming the movie of that book. It was so cool to be able to actually walk the streets featured in the book and see the characters in costume milling around, it felt like I had stepped back in time.

--contributed by lapaulaf

My Hometown: Staunton, Virginia

2009-10-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

Oh, how you should see the streets of laid red clay bricks mixed with cobble stone that stretches from one end of town to the other. At the far end of a narrow street, buildings of old stand tall looking in the direction of one solitary building cut into the embankment of a cliff-- its name is the General Jackson Hotel. Its been there even before my great grandfather took his first breath, with brilliant crystal lights dangling from the creamy ceiling, reflecting evening light into glorious rainbows. My movie would begin in this very setting with the lovely couples sitting down at white covered tables just big enough for the two to sit comfortably, the staff coming to serve them a early dinner in old custom wears of the hotels' lineage, roasts all warm with steam rising from the silver covered dishes on tea tables. The room is silent other that a few mere I love you's and the sounds of the forks finding the plates.

After dinner the young couples would find themselves going to a farm called Merdale Meadows just fifteen miles away. There they would meet up with the old man who runs the horse trail rides. Each horse is looked over carefully for temperament as he shows each person to their "old faithful." He starts off slow up a small bank-- some of the women look nervously downward holding tight to the saddle's horn, but the ride through rivers and streams across meadows and tree-filled woods with leaves falling like snow was worth it alone, but at the end of their journey, just before night dims the last light in the sky, they reach their destination-- a beautiful meadow more beautiful than all others. They dismount, wrapping the reins to a downed tree. They all stay still and hushed, but why one may ask. As night comes closer, the couples sit in the grass atop blankets-- soon the moons shines full and bright as a white sun blazing, a blue shadow to each tree. A sound comes slow at first but then louder more pronounced a nose shows from a bush. A small female fawn appears still with spots-- her mother is close grazing on the last honeysuckle of the season. The couples watch as more deer appear. Soon the group of people look on as
they are sharing the field with a heard of wild deer, a fawn skips and jumps just a little too far from mother and ends up in front of a women snuggled up to her husband. She reaches out to touch the nose of the fawn just as the tips of her
fingers touch the fawn's soft fur. The fawn runs back to mom to nurse and the group "awws" at the calming sight a small rabbit comes into view, as does a owl nestled up top an old branch. As he flies down to seek out a field mouse, the branch falls-- the large, dark buck perks his ears, raising his large graceful neck to look around. Something startles him and he runs the herd away-- jumping a low fence, the fawns squeeze through a broken fence wire hole.

The group stands to leave, and as they find there way back down the trail they had taken, each taken in the mystical power this wood still holds. When they reach the bottom they find themselves saying goodbye to the old man, thanking him for the most memorable time each had ever had. Each are given a token of their trip-- a book called The Book of Merdale. and then the couples leave. Going back to the hotel they go to their rooms with a glass of wine, and as the lights of the room dim the lovebirds go to the fire places and snuggle together on the couches-- the women kiss there love's cheek as they in return kiss there brows, and and a sigh of complete content ends the perfect afternoon in Staunton, Virginia.

-- contributed by Pararu Quamato

Filming Location: Smithville, Texas

2009-10-03T13:35:00.001-07:00

Brad Pitt and Sean Penn had already filmed their final scene for Tree of Life and Sandra Bullock's visit was a distant memory by the time I had the opportunity to drive past Smithville, Texas, but that didn't stop me from enjoying my brief stay in the cozy community.

Just like in Hope Floats, Smithville is small town America at its best, dotted with buildings that seem to welcome you back to the slower pace of the past. Any any movie fan planning on a visit, be sure to grab a bite to eat at Pocket's Grille-- good food and a chance to see some Hope Floats memorabilia on display!

-- contributed by Gary

My Hometown: Las Vegas and Tule Springs, Nevada

2009-09-27T09:04:00.000-07:00

When people think of Las Vegas, Nevada, they think of the strip, drinking and gambling. Doesn't sound so romantic right? I mean, half the people that do come here are single and are looking for a 'good time' which involves a one night stand with a stranger. And that has to be the FARTHEST thing from romantic. I've lived here my whole life, so I see things differently then most. Aside from the strip and the hot, hot desert, there is a little place near the mountains, call Tule Springs. It's our state's National Park. Not many people visit there, which makes it quite nice and quiet. There's fields and fields of grass and barns full of animals and you can even go horse back riding. There's benches for picnics and wishing wells for you to throw pennies. There's a bunch of trees for shade and a beautiful meadow you can walk through. It's the states largest park, so the possibilities are endless. If you
and your hubby want to have a romantic getaway for free that's peace and quiet, this is definitely the place to go!

--contributed by Alyssa

Filming Location: Niagara Falls

2009-09-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

As a fan of The Office, I'm so excited that an important scene in the new season was
filmed aboard The Maid of the Mist in Niagara Falls! Since this episode still
hasn't aired, I won't give anything away. Besides, when I planned a visit to
Niagara Falls with my fiance earlier this year, it wasn't the gang at Dunder Mifflin
that was on my mind, but rather screen queen Marilyn Monroe, who filmed her movie
Niagara on location at the falls in 1952.

Although the surroundings have changed since the era when the thriller was
shot, the falls themselves remain the same. From a distance, the falling water
gives the impression of a wedding veil, and the imagery must have inspired my
boyfriend, as he chose the site as the place to propose to me!

It was a beautiful June day when we boarded The Maid of The Mist, and a rainbow seemed to follow us as we approached the falls. Even wearing the blue rain jackets issued to each passenger, we were soaked by the time the tour was over, but that only added to the experience. I'll always have fond memories of my time in Niagara Falls, and like so many couples before us, we plan to go back on our honeymoon!

--contributed by Bridget

My Hometown: Newport, Kentucky

2009-09-18T12:21:00.000-07:00

If I were filming a romantic movie where I live I would do it in Newport, Kentucky. There is a place called Newport on the levee and it has romantic restaurants and
a movie theater. The restaurants are upper class, very romantic and right on the
river. You can take a walk on the river at night and it's very pretty. On the levee
it's lit up and has binoculars set up all along the walk way and benches you can sit
at. Walking along or sitting together, just looking out at the water is very
romantic. The breeze at night is great. After that, very close to there is Weller
Haus bed and breakfast. It's one of the most romantic places in the area. It's
historic, along with most of Newport, and it's very cozy. There is an English garden
and pond-- it feels very private, but still in the city. They have a wonderful porch
you can sit on. You're right by the levee and river. It's very romantic.

--contributed by Stephanie

Filming Location: "Viva Las Vegas" and The Little Church of The West

2009-09-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

Being one of the world's biggest Elvis Presley fans, I've not only made a pilgrimage to Graceland, but also to the city that, to this day, seems to worship him as much as I do-- Las Vegas. As my husband (bless him) humors my passion for The King, for our recent summer vacation we packed out bags and headed for the bright light city that sets my soul on fire, singing "Viva Las Vegas" along the way.

Although the ghosts of gold lame Elvis appear at most of the Vegas chapels we drove past, it was the experience of walking in the real King's footsteps at The Little Church of the West Wedding Chapel that brought a tear to my eye. This cozy wooden chapel-- which has been the site of a number of famous wedding ceremonies over the years-- starred in the wedding scene of Viva Las Vegas with Elvis and Ann-Margret. Those two had such chemistry. Even though they found love with others, they always kept a special place in their heats for one another, and I'll keep a special place in my heart for The King of Rock 'n' Roll and that little wooden chapel.

--contributed by Pauline
photo by Pauline

Filming Location: The Alamo and The River Walk in San Antonio

2009-09-11T05:33:00.000-07:00

As a resident of San Antonio, I've walked past The Alamo countless times, and while I've never failed to reflect on the event that took place there in 1836, as a movie fan I'm also reminded of the many times the Spanish mission has appeared on the big screen. Two of my favorites are Miss Congeniality (remember Sandra Bullock's performance with the glasses for the talent competition?) and in a performance montage in the movie Selena.

Even years after her untimely passing, Selena Quintanilla is still the queen of Tejano music and her music remains a fixture on San Antonio radio play lists. During the filming of Selena's biopic, Jennifer Lopez shot a scene on one of the bridges that stretch over the waters that run through the River Walk, one of the city's most romantic attractions. When visiting, be sure to take a cruise in one of the many boats that float past the area's hotels and stores!

--contributed by Sophia
photo courtesy Sophia

Filming Location: "The Amityville Horror" House in Long Island

2009-09-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

I went to see the Amityville Horror house in Long Island, New York last summer. It did not look the same as it did in the movie. They had rebuilt the whole house. It didn't feel good to see the house because I was thinking it would look the same as it did in the movie.

--contributed by Melissa

My Hometown: Salado, Texas

2009-09-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

Salado may have achieved momentary fame when former President Bush's daughter chose the town for her pre-wedding celebrations, but in the eyes of this Central Texas community's residents Salado has always been a star.

The past is always present here, from the classic movies that flicker on screen and vaudevillian acts that entertain at the Silver Spur Theater to the vintage clothing, porcelain dolls and china cups that look right at home in the myriad antiques stores along Main Street. (I suggest a stop by Antiques Rose of Bell, which is housed in a Victorian era home that adds to the back-in-time experience.)

Visitors that walk through the entrance of The Stagecoach Inn follow in the footsteps of former guests Sam Houston, Robert E. Lee and General Custer. After enjoying a romantic lunch or dinner at the inn (you'll love their chicken fried steak!) take a souvenir snapshot by the stagecoach outside.

I had to move away from the Central Texas area, but it's still has a big part of my heart. Sometimes, if I concentrate, I can still hear the trickling waters of Salado Creek as it skips over its pebbled bed. If you get a chance to visit Salado, stop by the bronze statue of the mermaid "Sirena," who watches the water roll by, and tell her I said "Hello."

--contributed by Arthur

My Hometown: Boise, Idaho

2009-09-04T08:00:00.001-07:00

Well, if I were to have a romantic getaway in Boise, ID. First, I would go up to Tablerock Mountain and enjoy the breathtaking sunrise. Then, I would head downtown to Goldy's for an amazing breakfast. Hand in hand I would walk over to Julia Davis Park and enjoy a paddle boat ride on the lake. Then I'd spend some time walking along the Greenbelt, Boise's nature trail, ending up a private oasis behind Veteran's Memorial Park. After a day of enjoy the water and the sights, we would head to Chandler's Steakhouse for mouthwatering steak. Finally, we would drive up to eighth street extension to stargaze and admire the skyline.

-- contributed by Courtney

Photo courtesy Courtney

Planning a Romantic Holiday

2009-08-01T11:56:00.000-07:00

Planning a romantic holiday does not simply involve hopping on a flight to Paris, France. On the contrary, whilst Paris deserves its place as the most romantic city on Earth ñ although the Italian city of Venice would likely contest this point ñ there are a host of other destinations throughout the world in which lovers can enjoy a romantic getaway. Moreover, the traditional tourist spots are not always the best for an intimate break, so it is important that the destination chosen can provide a little privacy alongside the usual offerings of rest and relaxation. Furthermore, the less mainstream the destination is, the more spontaneous it will appear to be - and, as many people appreciate, spontaneity is the cornerstone of keeping a romance alive.

Arguably one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets - in large part thanks to the USA's invasion in the early 1980's - Grenada is about as good as it gets in terms of atypical romantic holidays. Indeed, Grenada has long been a forgotten island whose features are marked by spectacular waterfalls, unblemished waters, blue skies and delightful beaches. However, it is now amongst the world's best romantic travel destinations after the Laluna Resort was opened, which offers a collection of exquisite cottages that are ideal for lovers who want a little privacy in paradise.

A traditional US holiday will invariably involve a visit to New York, California, Las Vegas or Miami, which are the "happening" places in the country. For romantic getaways, however, loved-up tourists should look at something a little more low-key. In this respect, a trip to Whidbey Island in Washington is ideal. With modern accommodation available in the area, a 1937 movie house and various coastal retreats, Whidbey Island offers a pleasant and relaxing holiday that even boasts whale-spotting during spring!

However, if star-crossed lovers prefer something a little more exotic, Bora Bora is the place to be. This beautiful Pacific Ocean island is located some 140 miles to the northwest of Papeete and is quite literally the very definition of paradise. Visitors can enjoy stays at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort, which, whilst not exactly empty, is also rarely overcrowded. Furthermore, lovers can enjoy the clear water lagoon, the inactive volcano peaks and the delightful tropical surroundings for what is the ultimate exotic getaway for couples.

Nevertheless, if spontaneity is to be taken to the extreme, the more adventurous of couples would take immense pleasure in a trip to San Camp, Botswana. Whilst a trip to Africa is perhaps not everybody's idea of the perfect romantic holiday, Botswana is a truly beautiful country that offers fantastic safari opportunities. What could be more romantic than spending steamy nights under the stars and experiencing jaw-dropping adventures during the day that may involve watching zebras and cheetahs roaming the floodplains?

Obviously, the answer to that is Honolulu in Hawaii. This visually stunning island is matched only by the quality of its warm, unbroken sunshine. Mauna Kea is the island`s highest peak (4,205 metres) and provides excellent views across the Pacific Ocean, whilst couples can enjoy a stay in the Royal Hawaiian, which has recently been given a $100 million makeover and features a restaurant that is perfect for enjoying sunset meals.

Finally, relatively cheap holidays can make excellent romantic getaways. Indeed, a trip to Fez in Morocco offers an exquisite taste of a romantic bygone age on a shoestring. Whilst perhaps not as cheap as somewhere like Prague, Fez is ideal for young couples and restaurants such as the Riad Ibn Battouta will not bust the bank.

Old Country, New City

2009-07-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

by Joy Polanco, Queens, New York

For repeat visitors to Jamaica, Montego Bay offers something old with something new!

On my past visits to Jamaica, I've vacationed in Ocho Rios, the destination for many newlyweds who choose to "honeymoon" on this photogenic Caribbean island. I love Ocho Rios but hate the long, winding drive on Jamaica's northern coast to get there. This drive can easily take one or two hours depending on how far into Ocho Rios your hotel is from the nearest airport.

Jamaica has only two airports used by the major airlines, Norman Manley International Airport in the capital city of Kingston and Donald Sangster International Airport in the resort town of Montego Bay. Sangster Airport is the one you'd use to get to Ocho Rios but for this trip, I was able to get off my plane at Sangster and head to my hotel just five minutes away. This time I chose Montego Bay, affectionately called "Mo Bay" by native Jamaicans, as my vacation destination.

Just knowing that I would go from collecting my luggage off the conveyor belt to sipping on a frozen pina colada in less than an hour was a great feeling. My home for the week was the Royal Decameron Montego Beach Hotel. The resort is part of the Decameron All-Inclusive Hotels and Resorts located throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Montego Bay's Royal Decameron is designed to give all guests a front-row panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea. Having stayed at quite a few all-inclusive hotels in the past, this one had all the amenities (and trappings) common of all-inclusives.

Upon my arrival, I was impressed with the West Indian décor of the lobby. Vivid bright hues, natural-colored bamboo furniture and a central statue of a Rastafarian man squatting and smoking an "exotic" pipe, were all there to greet me. The airy, open lobby has a nice-sized bar on the opposite side of the registration counter with comfortable cushioned seating surrounding it. From there it's just a hop, skip, and a jump to the hotel's main restaurant call The Passa Passa, the small but cozy beach, as well as two inviting pools, one with a swim-up bar.

Unlike some of the reviews I read about this hotel prior to my trip, checking-in went fairly smoothly and the interior-decorating of my clean and spacious room pleasantly looked like an extension of the lobby. My one complaint was that the bathroom desperately needed renovation. Otherwise, everything in my ocean-view room was as expected, including the breath-taking view of the sea from my balcony, perfect for creating post-card caliber sunset photos.

Montego Bay was originally called by the Spanish "Bahia de Manteca" or Bay of Lard. Lard was an early major export of Jamaica. Montego Bay is on the northwest coast of the island and considered to be the more "hip", more vibrant tourist town, as opposed to Negril on the west-coast of the island, known for being a quieter, more lackadaisical resort area. Since this was my first time staying in Montego Bay, I was determined to see the attractions it had to offer. Luckily for me, I took my trip during the spring when the weather in the Caribbean is mild and warm, not unbearably hot. I had blue skies throughout my trip and therefore had no trepidations about venturing outside the shelter of my resort.

I decided to visit Rose Hall via one of the many taxis waiting just beyond the main gate of my hotel. Rose Hall is the name of the lush resort area just a 15-20 minute drive east of the airport in Montego Bay. The Ritz-Carlton Golf and Spa Resort is located here. The beautiful and immaculate golf course just begs for golfers on the level of champions, to play on its pristine and luscious green course. I, unfortunately, am no Michelle Wie, so I made my way over to Rose Hall Great House, which was the reason for my visit to the area.

The great house is actually a Georgian Mansion built between 1770 and 1780. In the 19th century, it was home to Annie Palmer, who is said to have dabbled in witchcraft while also murdering her husbands and countless lovers. She was dubbed the name, White Witch of Rose Hall, which became the title of a book later written about her. Annie is rumored to be one of the many ghosts which haunt the house. A placid tour guide takes you on a walk throughout the two-story home that naturally had to be re-built and repaired over the years. However, just being in the historic residence, gave me a sense of what life must have been like back in Jamaica during its period of slavery.

Like other countries in the Americas, slavery afforded a pampered life for the slave owners but a miserable life for the slaves. Eventually that misery led to a slave uprising at Rose Hall, which resulted in the killing of Mistress Annie. You end your tour by visiting the mansion's dark and damp cellar/dungeon, which is a stark contrast to the beautiful courtyard it opens out to. Lily ponds and bright pink azaleas surround you as you conclude your eerie visit of this massive former sugar plantation.

My next venture was within walking distance of my hotel. This time just a short 7-minute stroll brought me to a long-standing tourist attraction called Doctor's Cave Beach. Considering how small the beach was at the Royal Decameron, which I'm sure is becoming quite a common sight, as more and more beachfront resorts spring up demanding their piece of the shore action, it was a welcomed relief to see a large beach with all the room I needed to spread out and relax under the sun.

Doctor's Cave located right off Gloucester Ave., a.k.a. the "hip strip", is listed in tour books as one of the best beaches in the West Indies. It was once the property of Jamaican tourism pioneer Dr. Alexander McCatty. A small fee of $5 U.S. will allow you to enter and from there you can enjoy what you imagine a Jamaican beach to be. Clean sand and clear blue-green water. The sea was calm and at the perfect temperature for my visit. I was able to see cruise ships in the distance and was grateful they did not dock too close. I believe these mega-floating hotels, however luxurious, create muddied, polluted sea water which is becoming all too common in certain parts of Jamaica.

Doctor's Cave also features a small café, as well as chairs and umbrellas for rental. All you need to bring is your desire for sunbathing. During my mid-afternoon visit, the beach wasn't too crowded and the sun wasn't too high in the sky but that was okay with me. I was able to swim unfettered and overexposure to UV rays aren't good for you anyway.

Along the hip-strip is where you'll find many souvenir shops, which are essentially mom and pop stores which will compete for your patronage by meeting you on the street and asking you to take a "look-see." Although the prices are right, especially at the small supermarkets where you can buy Jamaican-made condiments, the famous Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee and bottles of rum, the prices are better at the airport, where you can buy many of the same items duty-free. However, I would recommend buying t-shirts and other clothing items at these souvenir stores since I think you get a bigger and better selection with the opportunity to haggle.

Finally, how could I leave Montego Bay without stopping by what has become a well-touted hot spot in Jamaica--the increasingly popular Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. The bar and grill is just a short walk from Doctor's Cave Beach. It looks like just another store-front but as you get closer you eventually discover the elaborate set-up, which includes an open-air bar, a huge waterslide and floating trampolines.

Margaritaville commands its own section of the Caribbean Sea. The two-level hotspot attracts tourists from both sides of the hip strip. In the afternoon, you can snack on a hefty plate of nachos and enjoy one of the 52 varieties of margaritas while listening to American dance music under the sun. Late at night you can re-visit and have a Red Stripe beer while listening to more American dance music under the stars. You can also head to the second-level for a live band singing and playing home-grown reggae music, which is the moment when it finally dawns on you that you're in Jamaica, you have left all your worries behind, and everything's gonna be alright.

Photo by Lovetripper.com

Las Vegas: myRomanticGetaway

2009-02-28T07:05:00.000-08:00

Where: Las Vegas

Why I Love Las Vegas: It has the fountains at the Bellagio Casino which are very romantic!

My Favorite Part: the restaurants

--contributed by Lily Kwan

Ireland: myHoneymoon

2009-02-28T07:02:00.000-08:00

Where: Ireland

Why I Love Ireland: As an avid reader of romance novels, I've always fantasized about traveling to the majestic green isle of Ireland. My adoring fiance wanted to be the man of my dreams, so he took us there for our honeymoon!

My Favorite Part: We visited many different towns and cities during our 10 day trip. My favorite location by far was the small town of Westport, Ireland. The town has won the title of "Tidiest Town" for 3 years running and this title is well deserved. This adorable little town will steal your heart.

What I'd Like Others to Know: If you want to fall in love all over again, you must visit Ireland. The lush green fields, the plush white sheep, the romance inspiring castles, the hearty food, and those adorable accents are all the things that dreams are made of.

--contributed by kerri1973, Prattville, Alabama, USA

New Orleans: myRomanticGetaway

2009-02-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Where: New Orleans

Why I Think New Orleans is Romantic: BEEN THERE AND FELL BACK IN LOVE AGAIN

--contributed by Craig Cota, Versailles, OH, United States

Niagara Falls: myRomanticGetaway

2009-02-23T07:07:00.000-08:00

Where: Niagara Falls, New York

Why I Love Niagara Falls: We live here and we wanted to get away from our 8 kids. We got a room at the casino downtown and overlooking the falls, it was beautiful. The mist in the snow covered gorge was breathtaking. The falls was light up and you could see Canada it was awesome

My Favorite Part: just being with my husband alone taking in the sights of our home town.

What I'd Like Others to Know About Niagara Falls: That it truly is one of the 7 wonders of the world whether in winter or summer.

--contributed by l. filx, niagara falls,ny usa

Honolulu: myRomanticGetaway

2009-02-22T06:53:00.000-08:00

Where: Honolulu

Why It's Romantic: It has the most beautiful view of the beach for 5 miles. Every room is decorated to recreate a beautiful beach scenery, it makes it feel like you are right there on the beach.

My Favorite Part of Honolulu: The clear waters, the amazing views, the overall relaxing feel of the whole place.

What I'd Like Other Romantic Travelers to Know: Go when it's warm, because you will want every second of your time to be spent on the beach.

--contributed by Marqelle, Grants Pass, Oregon, United States

Paia, Maui, Hawaii: A Fresh New Alternative to a week in Wailea or Kaanapali, or Kapalua

2009-02-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

Paia, Maui. The North Shore. Getaway for Willie Nelson, world class windsurfers and kite boarders, surfers, artists, and hippies, Yes, actual hippies, some from California's counter culture of the 60ís and 70ís, others younger but spiritually attuned to the lifestyle and its ways. All authentic organically fed and real reminders of when all we asked of each other was to "Give Peace a Chance." The Zen and spirituality of the area is supported by a number of Yoga studios and spiritual shrines like The Great Paia Peace Stupa, recently blessed by the Dalai Lama in a 2007 visit.

Paia is also the home to eye popping surf including famous Ho'okipa Beach, inspiring surfers and boarders from locals to world class daredevils to pursue their adolescent fancies, to defy the sea's wind driven fury, to remain youthful and to "Catch the Perfect Wave." There is a balance to life here from the raging surf and tropical landscapes to the gentlest namaste. Take a few deep cleansing breathes; you can feel it in the air.

The Paia Inn, a beach town boutique hotel right in the center of Maui's North Shore, is the perfect destination to tie these elements together into the most fabulous finish to your visit on Maui. 2 or 3 nights here on Maui's spiritual North Shore seems just right before returning to the mainland. The Paia Inn is the child and love of Michael Baskin, son of a successful hotelier. He has converted an old main street Plantation style building into a boutique hotel so enchanting that it exceeds any measure you can place on a small hotel . The design and planning of the 5 small but extremely comfortable rooms includes upgraded baths with marble showers, refrigerators, specially designed beds and furniture to allow for needed storage of luggage and active gear, and flat screened TVs. The guest rooms located on the upper floor also have 2 additional common but private restrooms (what a great idea), a large open common area to read; sitting on comfortable upholstered leather arm chairs and a computer station to print your return tickets or surf the Web. Attention to details is evident everywhere and always with their guests comfort in mind. In addition to the hotel rooms there are 2 larger 2 and 3 bedroom cottages on an immediately adjoining property.

The art displayed throughout the Inn is original, fabulous, colorful and locally available in a nearby gallery. The featured artist is Avi Kiriaty, a "Painter of Polynesia" whose works are inspired by Gauguin's impressionism. Go to www.avikiriaty.com to view more of his works and request his DVD.

Enter the Inn thru the gated garden patio; note the native wood carvings over the door and archway. At check in you will receive a tour of the grounds. The private path to your beach is just a few steps away and beach chairs are provided free of charge, as is everything but the mini bar. Note the outdoor covered ping pong table too. The beach is breathtaking by the way. Paia's little nude beach is a beach walk away if you'd like.

The Inn features all the elements to make your stay comfortable. Outside patios highlighted by a waterfall and tables to enjoy your morning coffee and scones from Anthony's, a famous in town coffee stop for most, but a morning staple for you. In the evening, enjoy a glass of wine and some music. At the Inn the music is played based on your individual likes and requests. This is a great gathering spot just prior to dinner hour. Everyone freely exchanging information about their day's fun or dinner plans. Maybe a review from last night or a suggested stop along the "Road to Hana."

This personalized care is all orchestrated by a staff of young managers under the on site direction of the owner. These people are attentive, locally knowledgeable about all things Hawaiian and Paian , and seemingly perpetually happy to be able to assist you in finding a place to eat or a shop that carries particular gifts which you might want to bring back home. The staff's personalized attention to any guest's needs makes this place pop. They provide the fun and the local connection to the fabulous North Shore. Theirs is that specialness that transforms you from a tourist to a visitor. You especially feel at home as the sun sets and the day trippers head back to their resorts and you feel local. Its very cool. Have a cold beer and a few laughs before a restful sleep.

The town has many studios and galleries featuring local and established talent. There are 2 artist co ops in town as well. Even though the airport is just 10 minutes drive, leave your purchases to the shop owners to ship back home for you. You might save the tax and the trouble of taking it through inspection.

Though the dining in this region of Maui is quite reliable and in fact terrific, there are several restaurants that exceeded their internet/ guide book description. Almost all are within close walking distance of the Paia Inn. Those that arenít are a short easy drive away.

Next door to the Inn is Flatbreads. This local pizzeria and meeting spot serves ice cold beers, many local to Maui and Hawaii, and the finest flatbread pizzas anywhere. The locally grown ingredients and their farm source are prominently displayed on a chalkboard next to the special wood fired clay oven which sits stage center, open to all to watch as their thin crusted special pies are crisped to perfection. The crowd is young and fun and families can enjoy the affordability. The bar is hopping on weekends. Cheap and cheerful . Try the Mobley's special with Kalua pork, Maui onions, pineapple and goat cheese. Remember all local!

Across the street from the Inn is the Paia Fish Company. Famous for their fish sandwiches and other assorted fresh seafood treats. Ahi? Mahi? Ono? O My. You stand in line to order then find a seat at one of the many long wooden benches and tables. Make friends with a neighbor till they shout out your number. The orders come up fast so this isnít a place to dally but for lunch its perfect and for dinner its perfect too if judged by the crowds. All the fish served is fresh caught locally. Another cheap fabulous meal in Paia.

Across the intersection from the Inn is Milagros Food Company. This gem of a Mexican eatery serves the freshest ingredients and manages to mix the standard dishes with a local flavor of the Islands to create outstanding somewhat upscale food to compliment the tequilas and cervazas. The large outside patio is always packed due to its prominent intersection location. Prime for people watching. The menu is diverse and very reasonably priced. The blackened Ahi taquitos with mango passion fruit salsa was outstanding.

The last restaurant Iíd mention as particularly special is Hali'Imaile. You need to drive from the Inn about 15 minutes but this is well worth it. Of all the restaurants, this is a bit more money so I'll recommend you go for lunch. The view from the base of Haleakula is panoramic so lunch it is. Served Monday thru Friday. This delightfully bright airy hillside jewel was one of the first to serve Hawaiian Regional Cuisine. The menu is so varied and the tastes so delicious. The food is stylishly presented using very island fresh ingredients; very whimsical and fun. The desserts are epic endings and worth sharing. Our waiter worked in a local theater company and revealed by night he was the fanciful evil witch in Sleeping Beauty, but by day, he was a wonderful server, well versed in all the menus offerings. Reminded me a bit of Ed Begley Jr.

Before leaving Paia it seems appropriate to pass on some local knowledge I learned from the gals at the Paia Inn. Firstly, the cream puffs at the 100 year old T. Komoda Bakery in Makawao are the real deal and worth the 10 minute drive. Maybe try out their glazed "doughnuts on a stick" or a local Malasada pastry . Secondly, if you stop just passed the first one lane bridge beyond the Garden of Eden, on the Road to Hana, hop over the grey cinder block fence used in the shooting of Jurassic Park, and follow the trail to the left past the first waterfalls, you will find a secret second falls, known only to locals, and a swimming pool to privately enjoy. Or possibly share with a group of soapy hippies. Promise me you won't tell anyone else. Enjoy the Maui less traveled. Aloha

Contributed by Kendo, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, USA

Boracay, Philippines: The Next Big Thing

2009-02-11T10:25:00.000-08:00

by Jon W. Wick

I'm going to let you in on a little secret. I finally figured out Hollywood. I've got all those television commercials pegged. I know the secrets of those tourist ad campaigns where a sweeping shot of the most beautiful beach imaginable is shown, where it quickly becomes the backdrop for some cliché catch line as, "the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world; visit (fill in the blank)."

Yup, I'm on to all of them. Here's the secret: Boracay, Philippines is all of those pictures. No matter the country, the continent, or hemisphere, all those pictures are Boracay. Boracay is the silhouetted sailboat against a burning sunset, it is the sand so soft it resembles cooking flour, it is the brown palm trees with striking green leaves stretching over the aqua marine waters and crystal blue sky, and it is the happy hour margaritas with your toes in the sand. It's everything that every beach in every part of the world wants to be. And the best part about the entire thing, you'll be the first person in your group to know about it.

I took the advice of a well traveled friend after a conversation we had about some different destinations in Asia. As soon as he finished describing it, I booked tickets for Manila. My girlfriend and I were on our way.

Manila, at first impression, is an unkempt, run down, impoverished, and threatening sprawl of a city. "Pearl of the Orient" it is not; barely a shadow of its former self. The raw energy of the city, intimidating gawks from nearly all we encounter, and oceans of jeepneys, the local and very unique form of transportation, are enough to turn anyone away, but at the end of this exhaust choked journey, lay our golden ticket, a week of pure bliss on the most beautiful beach in the world. It was only a short puddle jumper flight later that we were sipping freshly made mango margaritas from the comfort of handcrafted bamboo chairs, watching the sun gently slip below the horizon, and drifting into a meditative trance by the sounds of the relaxing ocean swells.

The second I walked out on the sand, those pictures weren't just pretty pictures of a place I'll never dream of finding, they weren't the images of great expectations; they were right in front of my eyes. It was if somewhere between Manila and the alley path we used to get to the beach, we crawled through the same coat rack and entered our very own world of Narnia. Palm trees stretching to the ocean then gracefully curving to the heavens, sand so white that it takes a second for your eyes to adjust before you can take in the entire scene, and a beach lifestyle so chilled out and cool that Jack Johnson would feel at home. We looked in both directions and saw restaurants, shops, massage therapists, dive companies, adventure companies, and beautiful auburn island goddesses waiting to accommodate any way they can. The restaurants served their meals at tables in the sand; you can drink your fruity concoctions from the shade of a palm tree with your mind a million miles from any where. I did, in all my sensory ecstasy, notice there was a lack of something; a lack of something I had only recently become accustomed to "hordes of people" and this was considered the "high season." That made me think, am I on to something here?

The more we walked the beach, the more we were amazed at purely the set up of this place. Apparently the city planners and engineers that were supposed to be fixing Manila, gave up on the poor place, and all went to Boracay instead. To describe this best, I'll pull out a perpendicular cross section of the beach and try to describe it. First, opposite the water, you have all the businesses, all tropical themed as you can imagine they would be. The accommodations, along the beach, very from the backpacker's bungalows at $3 a night, to the posh luxury resorts. Their storefronts are all generally lined up with the beach path, an eight or ten foot wide, hard sand area everyone accepts as the main highway of transportation. One step closer to the water is the area of palms. This is about a fifty foot wide swath of deep sand, the gorgeous palm trees, lounge chairs, with the occasional tiki hut grill or bar. It seems as though the corresponding businesses have claim to this area and either serve meals or drink there, but it is mostly set aside during the day for people looking for some shade. Then come the chairs and umbrellas in the sun, mostly all of them come with waiter service from the closest restaurant. Next, you reach the beach, where we normally tossed down our towels by day, and took in the sunsets by night. Finally, you reach the waves of the crystalline blue ocean waters.

Approaching the late afternoon time, the beach goes through this incredible transformation; almost beyond recognition. The restaurants spill their tables out onto the section of sand under the palms and decorate the areas with the utmost brilliance. Tables and chairs in the sand, tablecloths and candles, rope lights on the trunks of nearby trees, the sound of waves crashing, and decorative lights hanging from the canopy above. The reflections of the beginning sunset over the water were casting wondrous, soft orange hues about. It was romantic, it was hip, and it was fun.

What can I possibly say about this place? Why isn't there tour bus after tour bus pulling up to the line of gaudy concrete mega resorts? Where are the armies of, too tanned to be just arriving, too hot for their own good, spring breakers? When are the developers going to come here with their bags of money and "pave paradise to put up a parking lot"? There is definitely a heaven on earth and it is found here, without a doubt, without the crowds, and most importantly without everything and anything that seems to always ruin the very reasons we seek the destinations.

The sirens song and clarity of water is truly irresistible, the sand tugs childhood fantasies of sandcastle building and burying a loved one to the surface so much that you need to recognize and act on them. The breezes dance through the palm trees and drift over your skin to butterfly kiss your sun drenched cheeks. Here, your mind has the room it has yearned for, leaving the complexities of life somewhere in the banana tree groves you passed over on the flight. This is a place where your soul can forget about what is true, and live what has been only previously imagined. It can sip fresh mango margaritas while pulling up a bean bag chair, first row, center stage, to take in the explosions of oranges radiating from a glorious sunset, wonderfully silhouetting sailboats and distant parasails, before it slowly slips just beyond the curve of the earth.

Boracay is an island oasis disguised as, well, an island oasis. One that will set the standard for all future trips to any island paradises, anywhere.

But just remember, that's our little secret.

Article & Photo Contributed by Jon W. Wick, Yeoju, Gyeonggi, Province, South Korea

Grand Haven Michigan: Most Romantic Place in My Hometown

2009-02-11T10:18:00.000-08:00

My hometown: Grand Haven, Michigan

What's the most romantic place in your hometown? The whole town we have a beautiful pier lit up with lights at night. We are a tree city a quaint park in the middle of town. We are on Lake Michigan. Wonderful sunsets.

--contributed by pumkin, Grand Haven, Michigan

Vama Veche, Romania: My Favorite Romantic Getaway

2009-02-08T10:05:00.000-08:00

My favorite romantic getaway: To the Black Sea, in Vama Veche

What made you select this destination for a romantic getaway? The place itself and the people. Or maybe the sea which sometimes is "bluer" than the sky. And also the sand which gets so hotter at noon, that people that are walking on it, appear to be dancing. Or maybe the wind which drys your lips. That would be a romantic getaway to me and also to my lover, peanut :D.

What was your favorite part of this destination? The nights. I am a very romantic person and in summer time, I often spend nights under the sky looking at stars. For me, Vama Veche was a magic place with all those boutiques with earrings and bracelets which are being sold by a hippie dressed in a blue dress.

What would you like other romantic travelers to know about this destination? A small place called "Papa la Shoni" which is made of reed mace and trawl. And than a place called "The happy Pancake" or something like this were you can find a variety of pancakes,which have funny names. And also a night slept under the sky,on the sand, with no roof above. Yes this I'd recommend. But this thing has no charm if you haven't your girlfriend, wife, husband, lover by your side, holding your hand.

--contributed by Petra, Suceava,Romania

Budapest: My Favorite Romantic Getaway

2009-02-05T14:09:00.000-08:00

My favorite romantic getaway:Budapest, Hungary

What made you select this destination for a romantic getaway? When I was 6 years old, I travelled with my dad there and it was love from the first minutes.

We arrived at night, and when I woke up (I felt asleep in the car because of the long way) we were exactly on the Chain Bridge, full of lights. I can't forget the feeling. Since then it's my favourite place. By the way, the love of my life lives there, although we never walked together in this city, it's my dream...

What was your favorite part of this destination? Each part of the city, because this city is breathing old and new air, the atmosphere, the places, the castle, the museums, the old parts of the historical part.

What would you like other romantic travelers to know about this destination? The best time to visit is in the summer, on 20 August is a national celebrations with fireworks on the Danube. Must visit locations are everywhere, not only the well known tourist museums, places but even if you walk without destination on the street, you can find signs of history everywhere.

--contributed by Hermy, Miercurea Ciuc, Transylvania, Romania