I'm Back.....

Yes, it has been quite awhile since I have last blogged. Work has been busy with getting a new project off the ground and I have done much testing on the new website. Keeping our fingers crossed that it takes off and does well.
My travels of late have been low key. I did travel over to the west coast of Florida and visited Naples. Quaint, nice beaches, but kind of dull in the off season. Most of the shops downtown are on limited hours, usually opening around 4pm and catering to the dinner crowd. There were some great end of season sales for up to 75% off, but when the shirt was originally $375, it is still kind of pricey for my budget.
This past weekend was the Miami Metro Zoo. I was quite impressed, it is ranked in the top 10 zoos in the country. The zoo is located in southwest Miami/Dade county and is about an hour from Ft. Lauderdale. The pathway guests follow meanders around the various enclosure for the animals. The only cages were for a few birds and small species that would be hard to see otherwise. Most of the walk is shaded except in the newer stretch near the Amazon are that recently opened. I highly recommend a counterclockwise path, that way the sunny part is in the beginning while you are still nice and fresh.
The complete walk took approximately 3 hours to complete. There are many vendor carts set up along the way selling snacks, cold drinks along with frozen lemonade and ice cream. Facilities are also provided along the route.
Besides being busy at work my home laptop has passed on to that big CPU in the sky and no pictures for now. I need to download some programs on my new one so I can get my pictures off the camera. A coworker is going to try and get my old pictures off the dead laptop.
So if you are looking for a local get away, maybe a long weekend to a nearby city you have never visited? Damron Vacations can assist in just a hotel, an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean or maybe a multi-city European vacation. Let one of our experienced agents help

Holidays

Yesterday was Mother's Day in the United States. Countries around the world have similar holidays, but the actual date varies, in England it was in March and in Israel it is in February. I guess Hallmark cannot get everyone to agree to one day.
Since my mother passed away almost four years ago, I had no one to buy flowers for, or mail a card to. My roommate and I went out to lunch after he got home from church. His mother has also been gone for a number of years. It seemed most of the restaurant parking lots were crowded with families out enjoying the day. The place we chose eventually filled up with families with mothers and in some cases grand mothers.
My father used to make sure that their was a card from all the children and a present from us, which he had bought. While still in New Jersey my mother would get breakfast delivered to her in bed. As we got older it was just a big breakfast in the kitchen. But honestly, my father cooked breakfast every Sunday for the family, so only the cards and gifts made it something different.
My family accepted my lifestyle and it was not much of an issue, but so many gay men and women are disowned by their families. And that is such a waste. Relationships that grew for years are destroyed by the truth, and no one is to blame.
If life has taken you away from your family, maybe it is time for a visit? Damron Vacations can help plan a weekend trip to the old hometown. While offering packages to exciting gay destinations, along with Europe and other exotics, Damron Vacations does offer packages to most US cities with an airport. A flight and car can be of assistance if there is no airport nearby. So contact one of the experienced agents and visit your family.

It's over

And I'm not talking about the recession. I'm referring to the work week. It is now 5:20 on Friday afternoon. The sun is shining and it is almost time to hit the streets.
The usual plan will be adhered to tonight. My boss will drop me off, I will consume a few gin & tonics and head home around 9:00. I might treat myself to a few pieces of Humpy's pizza. I have been craving pepperoni lately, hmmmm wonder if that is a gay thing. Alibi should have nice crowd and since there is lots of food served, no smoking inside the bar. One thing I really do like about that place. I can go home and not reek of cigarette smoke.
Tomorrow the plans are to head to Lincoln Road in South Beach for lunch. It is a nice little break from the norm and only 45 minutes away. Will bring my camera to get a few pictures to post. Also send them to people around the country to make them jealous.
It is a bit too late for this week, but check out Damron Vacations for a quick trip maybe next weekend or for Memorial Day. It is not too late and hotels are having some great deals to fill empty rooms!!!

I Dreamed a Dream

Yes, the song sung by Susan Boyle on Britain, You've Got Talent. A rather frumpy woman in her late 40's, single, lives alone with her cat, never been married or romantically involved. Up until her death a few years past, she cared for her mother. Sounds familiar?
To an extent, her life parallels a lot of gay men's lives, except for the not being kissed or romantically involved. But there are a lot of single gay men out there that pushing 50 and wondering where there youth has gone.
Growing up every child has dreams and aspiration of how they will be as adults. Changing the world for the better through science or medicine, being happily married with children and grandchildren.
Then comes reality. Career paths take detours and never get back on track, marriages or relationships falter, health fails. Sexuality changes. Outside forces alter the options forever. But time marches on, slowly ticking away from youth to middle age.
That is what makes the song I Dreamed a Dream so poignant. The words are very cutting to core of many people's lives, whether gay or straight, married or single. Life has lost most of its excitement and has become routine. Days flow into weeks, then months and eventually years. We have become our parents, something we swore we would never do.
But all is not hopeless, life is still alive. Susan Boyle always wanted to be a professional singer, but never had the chance until almost 48. After the first few notes of her song, it looks like her dream might come true, probably long after she gave up hope. The same holds true for people everywhere. Maybe it has become too late to study medicine, or discover a renewable non polluting power source, but there are other ways to change the world and make a lasting impression. Volunteering for a cause, every locale has an AIDs hotline or fundraising committee. There are possibilities everywhere to help the less fortunate. Even when you think you life has been wasted, remember somewhere there is at least one person that smiles when they think of you.
Maybe a career change is in order? If you are bored and unfulfilled at your current position, try job.travel for opportunities in the travel and hospitality industry. Jobs in travel and hospitality are world wide and encompasses many talents. Perhaps a trip to a place you have always dreamed of visiting? Damron Vacations can help with the planning. So do not let the rest of your life pass you by, make some changes to spice it up and enjoy.

I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I'm living,
So different now from what it seemed...
Now life has killed the dream I dreamed...

Looking to travel?

As the years have passed the world has become much smaller. I remember the days when people dressed to go on an airliner, and it had propellers on the engines. To fly over the ocean was incredible, that was the domain of he liners, the United States, the France, the QE II. Remnants of a long forgotten age. The France became the Norway and is currently being cut up into scrap on a beach in the Indian Ocean. The United States is rusting in Philadelphia, I once saw her berthed in Tidewater. The QE II, the last remaining liner is about to become a hotel in Dubai.
There are two successors to this lineage, both Cunard Liners, the Queen Mary II and the Queen Victoria. Both of these have purpose built hulls to cross the North Atlantic, even in rough weather. This is in contrast to cruise ships that are built to ply gentle seas. These cities at sea can carry 1,000s of passengers to exotic ports around the world.
Unlike residents of other countries, United State residents usually do not have a valid passport. Crossing the border to Canada, Mexico or flying to the Caribbean until recently did not require one. Over the past few years, since September 11th, the rules have gradually changed, starting with air passengers requiring passports and slowly adding remaining with all people traveling will need a passport starting this summer. I have actually had a passport for aver 30 years.
With the economy in upheaval as the result of the housing bubble and credit crunch, there are a lot of empty airline seats and vacant hotel rooms. Air carriers are offering discounts to fill seats and hotels are slashing rates. The dollar has gained against the euro since a low from last summer. Maybe now is the time to hit the airport and see the land of your ancestors?
I have been to Italy three times where my maternal relations hail, and would move there if I could. la dulce vita. WOOF! to all those humpy Italian men. I have only been to England once which is the closest to my paternal family, they are from England, Ireland, and Scotland. Hopefully soon I will find out what they really wear under those kilts.
Damron Vacations can help with your travel plans. Whether a cruise close to home, or a European vacation, the agents can assist in making memories to last a lifetime. So, if you do not have a passport, now is the time to get one, and start the process before the summer rush.

Holy Week

Yes we are officially into Holy Week. Christians around the world are celebrating the start of their religion. Tomorrow is Good Friday, and a long weekend in most parts of the country. It is also the week of Passover when the Jewish people escaped from slavery in Egypt.
Yes I know it is a little last minute to book an escape for the weekend, but not impossible. With the recent cold snap across the South and East Coast, warm south Florida might be the place to grab some sunshine. The white sand beaches of Miami combined with the fantastic Art Deco architecture is like having a part in The Bird Cage, remember it was filmed on Ocean Drive. Being an international destination, the sand in South Beach will be covered with barely covered hard bodies. European and South American women laying out topless, public nudity is not illegal in Miami/Dade. Latin men with almost no body fat will be covered in small pieces of spandex, making the temperature rise even a few more degrees. WOOF!!!
The nightlife in SoBe is known to be festive and starting late. This allows for a late lunch on Lincoln Road, a little shopping, maybe pick up a new outfit and then a disco nap before heading out to the clubs. Score is conveniently located in the heart of Lincoln Road, an easy walk from the South Beach hotels. The next morning maybe brunch at one of the hotel restaurants fronting Ocean Drive with a few bloody marys or mimosas to help get in the proper mood.
So with this weekend quickly approaching, call Damron Vacations and see if an escape is possible. And if not this weekend, maybe one soon? The economy seems to be at least breathing, as opposed to gasping, so maybe a little stimulus trip is needed. And if a hunky Argentinian man in a swatch of spandex isn't stimulating, better check your pulse.

All about the Hoops!!

It is the last week of March and Spring is trying to get established across the country. Here in South Florida, it never was winter as most Americans know it. Yes, it did dip into the 30s a few nights, but when those chilly nights are followed by sunny and 70, it is hard to call it winter. We have been rather dry the past few months, though that was helped some a week ago with a rainy few days. But it is definitely better than the residents of Fargo, ND. It seems the river has crested but there is a chance of several inches of snow during this week.
In various cities around the country the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament is being played. From the original 64, only 4 remain and they are heading to Detroit for the semi-finals on Saturday and the finals on Monday. In years past, the colleges were placed in brackets to provide good match-ups and also occupancy for hotels. This year, because of the economy, teams started their quest much closer to home. This allowed fans to drive to the venues instead of flying.
Memphis was the scene for the quarterfinal game of UNC and Oklahoma. Both of these school are a days drive away from Memphis, yes it is a long drive, but $75 in gas for 4 people is a much better deal than several hundred each if flights were needed. Remember, there is no 14 day advance purchase, more like 7.
I will watch the game with my alumni association in a local sports bar. Going to the finals would be fun, but VERY $$$. And tickets to the game would be EXTREMELY hard to obtain for less than the value of a kidney. If I had planned to attend, Damron Vacations could have booked my flight, hotel and car. Even though Detroit is not known as a gay mecca, it is one of the destinations offered by Damron Vacations. So if a last minute dash to Detroit to watch UNC win the championship is needed, call or go on line to Damron Vacations, and hake it happen.

Bailout, perks and travel

Since about everyone in the country is watching the economy with a magnifying glass, and news coverage as in depth, actions of CEOs and companies often make the headlines. The banking industry has received billions, yes they do not want to reveal where it went. AIG is in dire need of additional funds, yet passed out over $200 million in bonuses. Two US automakers want billions n loans.
Meanwhile, Congress seems to give the impression they are working on helping the country pull through this. But are they really? Yes, they might have prevented major banks from collapse by infusing capital, but these are the same people that passed legislation that allowed it to happen. It is kind of like taking responsibility for extinguishing a fire, even though you set it. Of course the President at the time gets the blame, but who voted for it? Guess that fact is something that should be kept under the rug.
With regards for the deficit, why doesn't Congress re-write their pensions? After serving just one term in office, a Congressman will receive his salary until he dies. I do not know of any employer that offers such wonderful terms. Is this benefit offered to all federal employees? If not isn't it preferential treatment of the executives? Years ago, my father's insurance plan changed since the executives had a better plan than hourly. Legislation made that illegal so all options were made available to all people. Why does Congress operate differently?
Congress has opened a new probe into the AIG bailout. So there goes more of our tax money going for meetings. I think it should be easy and done in one meeting, just ask, Who got the money and why? I was always under the impression that bonuses were for performance. At AIG, the money went to the Derivatives Department, the same people that destroyed the company in the first place. Where I work a person gets fired for actions like that, not rewarded.
There have been a few more glimmers of hope on the scene. Personal spending rose again in February following a rise in January. Maybe the population is gaining confidence in the economy. House sales are also showing some sign of life too. Perhaps a small vacation is in order? Or maybe a once in a lifetime trip that has been postponed? With tourism down around the world, now is a good time to travel. Europe hotels have major discounts and so to the airlines since planes are not near capacity. So contact Damron Vacations to set the wheels in motion. Rome, Paris, London, perhaps the county of your ancestors? The experienced agents at Damron Vacations can help with all aspects of your trip, including dinner shows or maybe play in London. Why wait any longer?

On Line vs With an Agent

There are so many travel websites, booking a trip can be quite confusing. There are sites from the major airlines, discounters, last minute specialists, niche groups to name a few. Which one to use?
The travel sites associated with a major airline are well established. But the main problem is that they only offer flights on their airline and partners. This limits destinations and travel options. Most of the discounters do offer various airlines, but sometimes the flight connections are on different lines and the chance of lost baggage is increased. Plus, the flights and hotel are usually separate reservations. The last minute operators do not disclose flight times and hotel selections until payment is received. This can be problematic if the hotel needs to be in a certain area, or flights arrive by a certain time.
The main drawback to the last minute and volume discounters is customer service. There is usually no phone number to speak to a live person. Everything is done electronically. Changes are either not allowed or extremely difficult to make.
The niche operators while catering to a specific group of travelers or a certain destination, usually offer more options and can better tailor a trip to meet one's needs. Websites like Damron Vacations offer the flexibilty to book on line, or with an agent, same price. The agents are extremely well trained and knowledgeable about the destinations and optional features. The Customer Service Department is willing to work out issues with hotels or flights within established policies.
While Damron is an established name in the gay and lesbian section of society, the hotels offered include major chains in most cities that have an airport. So if the next trip is home to Butte, Montana, Damron Vacations can arrange a flight, hotel and car for a great rate. You will also be offered a selection of flight options based on service to the destination allowing for additional miles for your favorite carrier, the least expensive, or the best flight schedule.

The Conch Republic

Home of Parrotheads, wreckers, Robert the Doll and Mel Fisher, Key West has quite a colorful past and present. Located at the southern end of the Florida Keys, it is the farthest south you can get in the continental United States. The actual island is only about 6 square miles not counting the lagoons and canals.
The drive down starts of rather boring, interstate highway to the Florida Turnpike. In western Miami/Dade, there are subdivisions and gravel pits. At the end of the turnpike at Florida City, traffic is routed onto US1. Built for the most part on the former East Coast Railroad, it crosses vast grasslands of the southern Everglades. To get to the actual keys, a new bridge replaces an old drawbridge, and Key Largo starts the journey. Made famous by a Bogart movie, it has the feel of most beachside town. Since it is the largest key, views of the water are rare. South of Key Largo the islands are smaller and water views are common. Bridges from small 20 foot spans to the famous 7 mile bridge carry traffic farther south and west to the end f US 1 at the Post Office on Whitedhead.
The island and town are essentially one with not town limit signs to be seen. The western end of the island is Old Town, the original settlement area and the tourist area. In the last few years cruise ships have started to use Key West as a port of call, much to the detriment of the town's quaintness. Duty Free shopping areas and the major chains are replacing the small mom and pop shops and restaurants.
Before the advent of cruise ships, Key West was mostly known for its alternative lifestyle. Gay men would flock to the island to stay at one of the many guest houses catering to men. Most located in old Conch style cottages enclosed in a compound with pool, hot tub etc, and clothing optional is the norm. Many gay bars lined the streets from the Copa in an old movie theater on Duval to smaller bars catering to niche clientele on the side streets.
The La te Da complex is alive an kicking with its guest rooms, restaurant, bars and show room. It is a convenient base of operation. The New Orleans House and Bourbon Street Pub are a short stroll up the street, along with the 801. This past Saturday night, a pedi-cab delivered a large drag queen in her sequined gown along with two yummy bartenders in Speedos for their shifts. This is the same bar where on New Year's Eve, a drag queen named Sushi is lowered in a large red slipper.
The 801 is a more laid back kind of neighborhood bar. With doors and windows opening right onto the Duval sidewalk, tourists cannot not help but peak in. Upstairs is a show room where performances are held nightly and the performers stand out front to attract people into the show. Something that the straight tourist would not do at home, but since they are on vacation in Key West, it is okay. Attached is Saloon One on the side street and is much more cruisy.
After checking into the Fairfield Inn, we took the bus to town. We had lunch at the Conch Republic Seafood Company overlooking the marina. Several of the afternoon cruises pulled out loaded with tourist to do some snorkeling, look for dolphins and just enjoy the great weather.
With lunch done we walked to Duval Street and headed south. Since there was no cruise ship in port the sidewalks were manageable. Eventually we made it to the far south end after numerous stops along the way for browsing, shopping and a few photo ops. A quick spin past the Southernmost Point Monument and then back up Duval. After all that walking, a drink was needed and the $2 mojitos at Island Dogs quenched it well.
Some more wandering around and then a stop at Mallory Square. Unfortunately it was too early and the sunset vendors were just arriving for the nightly show. Bargain tee-shirt shopping and then the search for dinner. Menus are posted outside to make selection easier. Christine's was the front runner until it started to rain, and most of their seating is al fresco. Jack Flatts finished first.
Inside Jack Flatts was a rowdy sports themed bar. Maybe because all the televisions, at least 6, were turned to the NCAA Tournament. Luckily our booth was in front of the UNC vs LSU game, GO HEELS!! My roommate was for LSU since it was the last SEC team left, though he went to Auburn, but I informed him that I could make a four hour drive very annoying. Plus, I'm a UNC graduate. There seemed to be an equal number of fans for both sides, but LSU ended up loosing. After the UNC lead was more than 10, other closer games were switched on by the network. BTW, the food was quite good and very reasonable.
Back on Duval after dinner we headed back to the hotel. we flagged down one of the pedi-cabs, but he said it would be like $50 to get there, so we passed it up. Since the Fairfield was out on N Roosevelt, there would be no return fare and we think that was why the price was high. So we walked the mile and a half back.
On Sunday we enjoyed the free continental breakfast and checked out of the room. It was a grey overcast morning and we took a tour of the island. Just before lunch we headed back to Fort Lauderdale for a late afternoon nap. The drive home became sunny after about an hour of driving and was an easy trip, no wrecks on US1.
If Key West seems like a fun place to visit, it is. There are many options of gay guesthouses to gay friendly resorts and spas. Damron Vacations can help make all your arrangements. So plan a trip to America's Caribbean and enjoy the slow lane where most people walk, ride a bike or scooter, or takes a pedi-cab. your stress will melt away in the warm tropical sun.

Anticipation

Today is Wednesday, 18th of March. It is a very unusual day here in South Florida, it is raining. Yes, it is winter and most of the country is used to cool, dreary, rainy weather, but winter here is our dry season. The dry season is the opposite of hurricane season, it starts in December and runs through the middle of May.
Monthly rain totals in these months is usually less than one good afternoon storm in July. The first year I lived here, we had a storm in late June that dumped 10" of rain in 4 hours. In the winter, a wet month would be 4" for the entire month. It rained through out the night and some parts of Miami/Dade and Broward counties are experiencing some minor flooding.
It is supposed to rain on and off today as a slow moving front passes through the area. And it better, I head to Key West on Saturday for the weekend. It is just a one night minication, but will be nice to get away. The drive is easy and once on the Overseas Highway, the scenery is quite nice. We should be in Key West by noon on Saturday, a nice lunch a stroll along Duval Street, maybe a beer or three.
There is a place on Front Street, east of Duval, that has 1/2 Mojitos in the afternoon. Might have to stop in there too. Dinner will probably be at 7 Fish. It is off Duval in a rather plain building, but the food is great. I have eaten there on every trip I have made to KW for 10 years.
If a quick escape to America's Caribbean sound like a good idea, contact Damron Vacations. The well trained staff there can help make plans whether flying from out of town or driving. Lodging options range from small conch style cottages to luxury resorts, and can fit most budgets. I suggest not renting a car in Key West since Duval is a great walking street and parking comes at a cost.

More Staycation Information

This past weekend was beautiful in Ft Lauderdale. This is the dry season in South Florida. Translation: clear sunny blue skies, no humidity and a nice breeze. The reason that people move here. The only ice hazards here is too many mojitos.
On Saturday, a nice ride down A1A showed that Spring Break is in FULL SWING. I have not seen the sand that crowded in a long time. I guess the economy has curtailed some travel for Spring Breakers. Instead of flying to Mexico, 4 guys in a car driving to Ft Liquordale.
Also this weekend was the Atlantis Celebrity Solstice cruise. Celebrity's stellar new ship, the Solstice carrying over 2,500 gay men. That might be just a few too many men for me. The bars over the weekend were hopping with early arrivals, lots of new faces.
Since it was the first full weekend in March, the Las Olas Art Fair was held. The main shopping street in Ft Lauderdale is closed for several blocks and tent are set up along the median. Artists from around the country come to display their artwork. The items on display are towards the high end of traveling art shows. No puppets made out of socks. In one of the intersections was a display of large metal animals with bobbing heads painted in bold primary colors. I think a few of these by my pool on the intracoastal would be nice. Guess I better buy some LOTTO tickets so I can buy that point lot.
With the economy barely breathing, and budgets being tightened, check out your local newspaper for local events. Most museums have a free day during the month, or account holders at certain banks get discounts. Or check out your local fag rags to check out Alternative events. I know the Gay Rodeo is coming to town. YUM!! Gay cowboys.
If a trip out of town is what you desire, try Damron Vacations. With possibilities to fit any budget, Damron Vacations can make your travel dreams reality.

Travel on a Dime

The downturn in the economy has also had an adverse effect on the travel industry. With the Federal bailout, many companies have recently canceled meetings as a result of adverse publicity.
Las Vegas and other popular cities have been hard hit and trying to fill vacancies.
This does have an upside. With empty rooms to fill, bargains are everywhere. There are many websites that offer last minute deals. Also some send weekly emails with specials they have uncovered. Though some are still on the $ side, some are quite reasonable. Maybe it is just a weekend away in a nearby city that you drive to, or a cheap flight to visit friends.
Low budget does not mean boring and dull. Staying in a 5 star property in your own city for a great price is a nice get away. Instead of a few hundred dollars in airfare, use the money for spa treatments, show tickets, or that expensive restaurant you always wanted to try. So many people are always waiting for a special occasion to pamper themselves. Why wait? There could be a bus out there just waiting........
Damron Vacations offers some great deals to great destinations. The experienced agents can help plan a quick get away to Vegas, or maybe someplace warm and tropical? A little stress release is just a phone call away.

More close to home

When people think of Miami and Ft Lauderdale, visions of white sandy beaches, glamorous hotels and Art Deco buildings come to mind. While all this is true, the 'settled' area is just a narrow band stretching only a few miles westward from the tranquil waters of the Atlantic. The major north/south routes are A1A, US1, I-95, the Turnpike, the Sawgrass Expressway and farthest west, US29. The Sawgrass as its name implies is the last road before the Everglades, the River of Grass.
This area of sawgrass plains, shallow marshes, small islands with trees and slow moving rivers used to cover almost the entire area south of Lake Okeechobee. Low ridges along both coast diverted the slow moving water into the Florida Bay. As development encroached, houses and subdivisions sprung up on the eastern border, sugar and farmland advanced from the north. There is currently a major push to restore the natural flow of water to the area. many plans are in the works with the purchase of vasts amounts of farmland from a major sugar company the latest.
Along the western fringe of the cities are a few businesses catering to the exploration of the Everglades. Due to the the shallow water and many dense patches of grass, air boats are the predominate for of travel. Just a 5 minute ride away from civilization, one is surrounds by swaying grass that blocks the surrounding view from the channel. Wildlife proliferates here, birds, alligators and mosquitoes.
The alligators lounge on the muddy banks and swim lazily in the currents. The air boats will drift up close for many good photo-ops, so keep your camera handy. On the small hills that are really islands in the wet season, camps have sprung up to attract tourists. These camps usually feature information on the native Indian population, and wildlife displays. And since this is 'gator country, some wrestling with the reptile is almost required.
On the more tranquil and laid back western coast is Naples, a quick hour plus drive across I-75, Alligator Alley, as it is known. The interstate cuts across in an almost straight line. The view is mostly sawgrass and trees on the islands, an occasional building can be spotted. The drive at night is phenomenal with the abundance of stars.
One in Naples there is always the beach, more family oriented than the eastern relations. Sanibel and Captiva are known for the shelling done. There is also the Naples Zoo, though not in the big leagues, it is a nice experience. A water tour of the canals in the area is a great way to see Florida as it was.
So if South Florida is calling to you, especially those of you in the frigid north, call Damron Vacations and get the process going for a warm weather break. With accommodations from gay guesthouses to oceanfront resorts, the options can fit any budget. Just remember the sunscreen and insect repellent if visiting the River of Grass.

Minications

Hey, if a Madison Avenue advertising company can create staycation, I can create minication. To me a minication is a short trip away from home. It can be for just a day, a weekend, or maybe a three day weekend.
Many people have no idea what attractions are in their area. Just last night I was watching the Travel Channel' Ghost Adventures, and they went to a house in Palm Beach, a 45 minute drive from my place. It was about a house that was formerly the caretaker's house at a cemetery, and has been moved to a village of historic structures. While still at the cemetery, a man hung himself in the attic and reputedly haunts the structure. There was unknown voices, boards being moved and items being knocked over. So will add the house to one of my weekend trips. Plus, if you have not watched the show, you should, one word - WOOF!! Zac the main guy is quite tasty, and the two other team members are nice too. Lots of the hosts on the Travel Channel are similar, the Mark & Olly series.
There are many more interesting sites in the area. There is the Bonnet House, the Stranahan House here in Ft Lauderdale. Also in Palm Beach County there is Whitehall, the Breakers Hotel and others. In Miami there is Vizcaya(home of the White Party), the Deering Estate, The Art Deco District to name a few.
While doing research for work, I found the Oheka Castle. It is about 20 blocks from where my family used to live on Long Island. It is the second largest home in the country, only to Biltmore in Asheville, NC. Built to resemble a French chateau, it has extensive gardens and is currently used as a hotel. Tours are still offered of the estate.
So if you want to get away even for a day, check out the local Convention & Visitor's Bureau, they will have a list of nearby attractions. Many are very reasonable, and some offer free admission days once a month. If you want to travel farther afield, log-on to Damron Vacations website and check out the deals. If you have any questions, contact one of the knowledgeable agents to help plan your vacation.

Memories......

One of the few things that can never be taken away from us by another person. Time my dim them, some diseases will make you live in them, but they are always yours. There are things from my early childhood I remember as if they happened yesterday. Memories of my mother are circa 1966 and a birthday party where she decorated cupcakes with colored coconut, ice cream was in individual cups with wooden paddles for spoons, and we played games like pin the tail on the donkey.
There were the trips into New York City to visit my maternal grandparents and the Museum of Natural History. The enormous blue whale is still vivid in my mind. The smell of Italian food cooking at my grandparent's apartment. My grandmother in her wheelchair, a harbinger of my own mom's fate. Summers were spent at Seaside Heights in a rented apartment or house, the nights spent on the boardwalk.
After the move to North Carolina, the vacations to Daytona Beach, my parent's favorite place to visit, the Blue Ridge Mountains. 1973, we were the Griswalds years before Chevy Chase and Company. Mom's Country Squire, yellow with wood siding, Charlotte to San Francisco, Painted Desert, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Hoover Dam, Death Valley(with broken A/C), Bristlecone pine trees, Yosemite. Then the loop through Tahoe, Grand Teton, Yellwstone and the Pacific Coast Highway. My first plane flight.
Senior year in high school was my first taste of international travel. Madrid and Seville with Mrs Cassale. College spring breaks at the beach and Bermuda for my senior year. Tips to Europe after graduation and cruises. Yes, I love to travel.
Along the way I have owned cars, a condo, watches, etc. Most of which are gone, lost or just worn out. But the memories of all those trips and many more will always be with me and are mine to keep. They include the sights and sounds of the destinations, but also the people I with who I traveled. Some are still good friends, some lost to the years. In a way they will always be with me, whether as a high school senior or as they are today.
There was a conference recently where Ryan Howell of San Francisco State University announced the findings of his latest research. Experiences provided more happiness than possessions. The glamor of a purchase might last for three months, but experiences provided happiness long after the actual event. The experiences provided more of a feeling of being alive, and involved social interaction and bonding. By the way, I have no idea what I got at that birthday party.
Let Damron Vacations help you create some memories to keep forever. Maybe a trip to Europe or teh Caribbean, or maybe a trip home to attend a reunion, remember living well is the best revenge. The knowledgeable agents can help make a trip you will remember for a long long time.

Another Friday night

The week is over, and time to start the weekend. Typically for me this is the one night of the week that I will go out. Usually for happy hour then home.
I go to one of, if not THE, most popular places in Wilton Manors. Located in what was once a strip shopping center with a grocery store, it is now the unofficial center of the gay world in Ft Lauderdale. With a large parking lot, which is rare for most bars, it is a first stop for many bar hopping trips. From the parking lot, which it shares with another bar, it is an easy walk to at least 6 other bars and numerous restaurants and shops catering to alternative lifestyles. One of my favorite things about it is, no smoking. With the smoking legislation a few years ago, establishments that sell a certain percentage of food, smoking is prohibited inside. So no going home reeking of cigarette smoke. That and the 2-4-1 cocktails until 9 pm is also nice.
It seems the that usual crowd is there. I had taken a period of time off from bar hopping, so now that I have resumed, it seems the same people are in the same location each week sitting on the same bar stool. Since this is a vacation city, there is always an assortment of tourists. Some of the regulars I recognize from when I moved here over 7 years ago.
One thing I noticed this past weekend is cell phone usage. It seemed that over 50% of the people were calling or texting most of the night. I saw a few couples that seemed to be on dates, and one would leave for refills, the other would pull out a cell phone and start typing. I do not even know how to text on my phone, and since I have worked in a call center, talking on the phone gets old.
If your week's entertainment has become a routine, maybe a weekend get away is in order? A road trip to Key West? Weekend cruise to the Bahamas? Maybe Cancun? Check out the offerings from Damron Vacations, where experienced agents can help plan a long weekend or even a multi-country trip to Europe. With many of the world's economies experiencing a downturn, deals are everywhere. If there is a bunch of people traveling together, Damron Vacations also has a Group Department for 10 or more passengers.

What is a Staycation?

Staycation, the new buzz word in travel. A staycation is when you do not travel for your vacation, you stay home. Sounds like a long weekend to me. Staying at home for vacation would result in lots of housework.
My last staycation was almost 5 years ago and I redid a bathroom. Yes, I did the work. I removed the vanity, sink, and toilet and replaced them with new. I also put up bead board panelling and trim to frame it and a nice long shelf along one wall. It was quite time consuming, though a neighbor lent me his table saw so the miter cuts was a breeze.
I know that staycations are the result of lack of funds, to be polite. Maybe the grand vacations of the past need to be put on hold until the economy rebounds, but there are lots of good travel deals out there. Instead of a two week stay in Paris, maybe a few days at the beach, or maybe a city you have never been too. With hotel occupancy falling faster than Bush's approval rating, rates are coming down almost as fast. Empty rooms generate no income, discounted rooms at least bring money in.n And if you are lucky enough to live in or near a cruise port, the fares are at the lowest in years.
So check out Damron Vacations for a vacation deal, and leave the staycations to to other people. And don't forget to bring your Damron Guide if visiting a new city. It is loaded with useful information

Live from the Jackie Gleason Theater in beautiful.....

Miami Beach. I remember the Jackie Gleason show when I was growing up. Little did I realize I would end up living 45 minutes away. One never knows the turns life will take.
Going to Miami Beach is a regular outing for my roommate and I. We drive down on a Saturday to have lunch on Lincoln Road and wander around. Years ago the City of Miami Beach created a pedestrian mall of approximately 9 blocks of Lincoln Road. Great idea. The various cycles of the economy and the surrounding neighborhood had led to ups and downs on the mall. Right now it is still doing well despite the economy.
Parking is easy at the city owned convention center lot, which is only 1/2 block away. Just remember to take your ticket and not leave it in the car. Drivers without a ticket have to produce a drivers license and the information gets recorded. This has cut down on car thefts. And the city lot is the least expensive in the area.
The variety of restaurants is only rivaled by the various nationalities of the visitors. All the restaurants have menus posted which makes selecting easier. Nexxt is our favorite, lots of food for the price. They have the largest outside eating area by far. And with the network of umbrellas and plastic channels, downpours, while numerous in the summer, are under control. After lunch a leisurely stroll past the shops is a good way to burn off the calories. One usual stop is the Ghiredlli shop, free samples, yum. There is a William Sonoma, a Pottery Barn and a long list of clothing stores.
Right about in the middle is Score, the only gay bar on Lincoln Road. I was in it years ago when it was the Kremlin in the mid 90s. That was when it was a slow time in the area. I remember walking down a fairly deserted Lincoln Road to get there. Now it always has a group of guys having a few adult beverages and watching the parade of people.
As you eat, drink or stroll, there is a varied assortment of languages heard. The predominant is Spanish, though Italian, French and German are also common. And lately, Eastern European languages are started to be heard. This is due to Miami International is a non-stop from most European and South American capital cities.
With the varied languages, the beautiful people and the abundance of sidewalk cafes, Lincoln Road is very cosmopolitan and more European than American. Easiest way to leave the country with out a passport, and it is LEGAL!!
At the eastern end of Lincoln Road is the sand of South Beach. Known the world over for young beautiful tanned bodies. The old Art Deco hotels that line Ocean Drive are as vibrant as in their heyday. Gloria Estafan owns the Cardoza, maybe a celebrity sighting? The movie The Birdcage was filmed nearby.
Though South Beach is not as gay as it used to be, it is still a great place to escape winter's hold. I think it is in the minus degrees in Chicago today. With the Winter Party right around the corner and the South Beach Food & Wine Festival, now is the time to contact Damron Vacations to plan your tropical escape. Great food, good drinks, tan lines, and warm tropical waters are just a few of the attractions in Miami beach. Do not forget your Damron Guide to find the perfect bar to make your own memories.

Your next port of call is......

Traveling on the high seas. This was the only way to cross the ocean in ease until the arrival of jet airliners around 1960. In their heyday, the ocean liners ruled the oceans. Each country had its own line and battled for the fastest crossing. Famed ships include the Normandie, United States, both Queen Elizabeths, Norway(formerly the France), and the Andrea Doria, to name a few. These were built with reinforced hulls to tackle the rough North Atlantic. There were various classes and one did not mingle with those of a higher rank. The only remaining true liners are the Cunard Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Victoria. The Queen Elizabeth 2 is on her way to become a floating hotel in Dubai, much like her predecessor the Queen Mary. The United States is rusting away at a Philadelphia dock, the rest have met their fate with disaster or the scrap yard.
Today's ocean travel is accomplished mostly by cruise ships, which ply more tranquil waters such as the Mediterranean, the Caribbean or the South Pacific. These ships are geared more for fun, relaxation, and sightseeing. They come complete with rock walls, bowling alleys, lawns, theaters, and casinos to name a few amenities.
There are a few companies that charter the complete liner for a gay cruise experience. All the shows and activities cater to the tastes of those passengers. Most will cruise the popular routes, Northern Europe, ancient wonders of the Mediterranean, the Caribbean or Rio de Janeiro for Carnival to name a few.
Truthfully, I have never been on such a cruise. I have sailed on Celebrity three times, the Eastern Mediterranean, the Western Mediterranean and the last was the Caribbean. I like to describe the Celebrity line as going to sea in a country club. Very tasteful and subdued decor. The clientele tends to be older and the number of children is usually very low. Makes for a quiet time around the pool.
On a cruise there is a list of daily activities that is published, well daily. On the Celebrity Cruise Line, at 7:30 there is a meeting listed as Friends of Dorothy, it is usually near the meeting of Friends of Bill W. Is this coincidence? Friends of Dorothy refers to the Wizard of Oz, Somewhere over the Rainbow, get the connection? on the Constellation this past December and the Galaxy the year before, the meeting was in the new Martini Lounge on each ship. What a combination, gay men and martinis, is there ever a better match?
A section has chairs pulled together and a small Reserved sign is there to hold the seats. The group varies from cruise to cruise, but usually at least a dozen or so. On the Galaxy, I think we numbered over 30. You get to meet people from around the country or even the world. Some friends continue after the cruise, some do not. But it is nice to have people to do excursions with.
So if a cruise is one of your favorite types of vacation, or perhaps you have always thought about one, contact Damron Vacations, and get connected to our cruise desk. The agents there can arrange your cruise on any of the major lines, along with flights and extra hotel nights if needed. Don't forget your Damron Guide, to find stores, bars, or sights that might not be listed in most guide books.