I just returned from a fun filled 5 days in New York City. What a great city to be in at holiday time.

I will have many more blog post about the city in the coming days.

Happy New Year everyone.

Plan your next trip now, email me at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

I will not say to much about this next link.

www.sun7news.com

Just pop on over, enter your information and watch. I found it amazing.

www.bonbontravel.com, for all your travel needs.

Unless you have not turned on a TV in the past 2 months or so, then you know that our country is having some financial trouble. I will not go into what I think is the cause or the solution.

But I do want to first say that if you have been one of the ones layed off I am sorry and know what your going through. I have been there and done that and bought the T-shirt. It will get better, it always does.

But what does all of this mean to travelers. One word DEALS.

There are deal a plenty going on right now. Hotels, theme parks, cruise ships they all are feeling the credit crunch and need to put heads in beds (or through turn styles).

Cruises: January though March is usually cold every where but in the Caribbean, so if you live somewhere near the Gulf of Mexico or Southern Atlantic, get to one of the many departure ports and hop on a 3-5 days sort relaxation cruise. Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Port Canaveral of course, but did you know about Tampa, or Jacksonville or Galviston or New Orleans. Yes Carnival runs ship out of all of these ports. And there are plenty of deals to be had. Plus if you limit the days on the ship to under a week you keep your cost down.

Hotels: Many hotels in many places are offereing deals. come on over to my Website www.BonBonTravel.com, I have many hotels offereing a ton of extras and deals this time of the year. For instance Disney is offering buy 4 get 3 free deals on stays a their parks. Las Vegas hotels are feeling the crunch and are giving the hotels night stays away or real good deals.

Airlines and Rental Car Companies: These guys are feeling it the most and you can usually not find to many WOW deals. But still lok, and you will find them. Here is a tip, apply for the Credit Cards where you gain airmiles for shopping. Buy some Christmas gifts and some groceries for a month and you could have enough to get a free plane ticket. Plus most of these cards come with enugh points for free tickets initially.

A recession does not mean you have to stop Traveling. Itt just means you need to think more about what your going to do now a days.


If you need any help planning that special trip, just drop me a note at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

All of you new MiB's get ready. Because this is not a drill. I repeat this is not a drill this is for real ...

Or so they have you belive at this one of a kind attraction.

First some facts about the ride:
• There are 120 different alien species, many created specifically for this ride. The rest are just here on vacation.
• Each seat in every six-seat ride vehicle is equipped with a laser gun and gaming system that records each agent's score.
• The height requirement on this ride is: 42". But it is suitable for many kids 7 and above.
• This Attraction has Universal's Express Pass, but you skip most of the cue riding it this way. So try and ride it in the morning before the park gets going just to see the entire cue.


The cue for this ride is spectacular, it really feel like your in MiB Headquarters. Take a look at the movie before going on and you will see that they did a great job with the feel of this ride.

You board a six passenger vehicle, three in front and three in back (the people seating in back are elevated so that they have a good view also). Each person has a blaster. Think Buzz Lightyear from the Magic Kingdom. And two of these vehicles are launched at the same time. So your competing against the other people in the othjer vehicle.

And with all rides something goes wrong and your thrust into the role of hero. It really is well done and fun to ride over and over. Just remembr to shoot the other ride vehicle when "Z" tell you to.

MiB Alien Attach is one of the best rides in Universal Studios, do not miss it.

Planning your next Family Getaway? Let me help with all of the details. Email me at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

I still can't believe it. I turned the calendar a page and it was right there in black and white. December. July 4th was a few days ago right?

In the travel business, it is time to start thinking about where to go this summer. Why so soon? Well, if you want to get into that exclusive, hard to get into resort this summer, you need to book early. All of the best cabins on the best summer cruises go quickly. So book now.

In the next few posts I will outline some different types of vacations to take over the Summer. So lets start with my favorite.


Cruising.

I love it. But I have not always loved it. For the longest time you could not get me on a boat. I was under the impression that they were stuffy boring places that old people go. Well was I wrong. Today's Cruise ships are floating wonders. With multiple restaurants, and more things to do than you can possibly fit into one day. Spas, kids programs, and did I mention the food. The food on a cruise ship makes eating at Thanksgiving feel like little league. Bring your eating pants, because you have never seen so much.

And the destinations. Why go to one place when your "Floating Hotel" can take you to two or three or four. Take the Caribbean for example, with so many Islands, and all having a different flavor and style, it is amazing the choices you have.

Plus nature. I do not know about you, but there is something that is calming soothing about the ocean. Just staring out and not being able to see land. You feel like your in a different world. Not to mention a cruise in Alaska, where you can see whales, or dolphins or sea lions right from the ship. And don't get me started on Glacier Bay.

Cruising is not what it was 15 years ago. So give it a whirl, you will love it.

If you feel like getting those summer plans started early, email me and I will treat your trip as if it were my own. You can email me at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

Even with all of the turmiol that is going on in our financial lives these past few months. I still think we all have a lot to be thankful for.

Good food, close family and friends, Walt Disney World :).

I hope you and your family have an amazing Thanksgiving, and do not listen to those people when they say "Do not eat to much." I say eat like crazy oday and diet tommorow.

OK, this post might be a tease for those of you reading this that do not live near one of the big ports in out country. Sorry.

Weekend cruising is a great way to recharge your batteries, get some rest, and eat some good food. Plus most of the time it is cheaper that what you spend in a weekend anyway.

More and more ports are offering weekend cruises. The big three do it year round, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Port Canaveral. But New York, Los Angeles and even San Fransisco, are offering more and more weekend cruises.

Just because a cruise is only three days, two nights does not mean you get less than if you go on 7-day cruise. No way, you still get all of the amazing shows, food and fun that you would on a longer cruise, you just do not have to take off as many days to do it.

And with Christmas coming up you can buy something for that person who has it all, a weekend cruise.

So get your email fingers ready and email me at bonbontravelbellsouth.net, tell me a little about yourself, and together we can dream up a weekend you will not soon forget.

OK, two post's in a row with Disney Deals, sorry, but I had to share this one with all of you.

You can now book a 2009 Walt Disney World vacation at one of the best prices ever offered!!! In order to get in on this deep discounted price, you must book by December 20, 2009 and your trip must take place between January 4th and June 27th, 2009.

The basic offer will give you a 7 night Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Stay and Magic Your Way Base Tickets for the price of a 4 night package. Also, if you book 5 or 6 night packages, you will still pay for the price of four with this special offer.

In addition, if your trip is between January 24th and March 29th, you will receive a complimentary $200 Disney Gift Card with the already amazing package.

For more information or to book your trip today email me at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

Extend the Holiday with these Special Rates

With prices so low they're jaw-dropping, now is the best time to steal away for a well-deserved getaway at Walt Disney World® Resort. Visit between January 1 and February 12, 2009 for the opportunity to be inspired, entertained and refreshed. With rates this amazingly low, you can afford to take care of yourself and your family in style!


See the dream rates if you book now:

Select Disney Value Resorts - Standard Room

$54 per night, plus tax*

Valid for stays most nights 1/2 - 1/15 and 1/19 - 2/12/09

Additional per adult charges apply if more than two adults per room


Select Disney Moderate Resorts - Standard Room

$94 per night, plus tax*

Valid for stays most nights 1/4 - 1/17 and 1/21 - 2/12/09

Additional per adult charges apply if more than two adults per room


Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge - Standard Room

$154 per night, plus tax*

Valid for stays most nights Sunday through Thursday 1/2 - 1/15 and 1/19 - 2/12/09

Additional per adult charges apply if more than two adults per room



Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa - Studio

$189 per night, plus tax*

Valid for stays most nights 1/1 - 2/12/09

*The number of rooms available at these rates are limited. Minimum length of stay requirements may apply for Friday and Saturday arrivals.

Also, ask about special rates available through February 12, 2009 at other select Walt Disney World® Resort Hotels.

Does all of this election stuff have your head spinning?

Then this could be a great time to go see where it all takes place. Washington DC.

This city is a wonder to behold, with more square feet of museums than you can ever handle. Monuments to amazing people that have made sacrifices and tough decisions throughout America's short time on the planet.

Do not try and take it all in in one trip. My advice, read up and see the highlights. Make a list of those 4-5 places you cannot live without seeing.

The Smithsonian is huge, massive. If you were to take a minute at each exhibit, it would take you 5 years of 8 hour days to see all of the exhibits. So again grab a guide and circle a few favorites.

Most of the public buildings like the White house and Capital uilding are open to the public, but they might need tickets to go. Research them just after booking your trip and get your tickets early.

From an plethora if dining options to seeing how this nation works, Washington DC is a sight everyone of us should take in.

Get out there.

www.bonbontravel.com has all of your Travel needs under one roof. Fast, Safe Secure.

Disney's Hollywood Studios has one of the greatest dark rides ever created. Now that is a bold statement, and it is true.

Housed inside a replica of Ming's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, CA the Great Movie Ride takes guests on an adventure straight into the movies.

Before entering the cue, take a look at the footprints in cement outside the front doors. Just like the ones in Hollywood. There are some funny ones here as well. Like Mickey Mouse and Kermit to name a few.

The cue to this ride is pure Disney. The detail, take it all in. Most people are so crazed to get to the ride that they miss the amazing work that went into the cue alone. The second part of the cue is in a movie theater, you serpentine through the line as you watch clips from some of the movies represented in the ride. Alien, Singing in the Rain, Footlight Parade, Indiana Jones. This part alone make you want to rush home and watch all of these movies again. Really, some you probably have not seen in some time or not at all. So the emotion that this brings to everyone is powerful.

You then board your moving theater cars (think Ellen's Energy Adventure at Epcot cars) with your host doing the driving.

I will not spoil what comes next, just say this. Like I have said many times before, you should let your self go a bit in Disney World. Imagine you are really there. When you pass by the Singing in the Rain scene, pretend to yourself that you right there watching from across the steet as this guy dances and sings. Or maybe your really on the Sulocke, scared to bits that some wierd Alien has taken all of your freinds and not it is after you. Just go with it, no one has to know your doing it. And if you do ... your experience will be that more magical.

Click this link and lets get you started on that Disney Vacation. bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

I know what your going to say, "Alaska? Didn't the season just end."

Yes it did, but this is the perfect time to plan next years vacations. And with this economy, it might be time to start to stash cash away for that vacation too.

I got in the mail today the new 2009 Princess Cruise brochure. As a travel agent I love to pour over these brochures, just to keep up with what is changing and what old favorites these amazing cruise lines have. And Alaska seems to be getting a lot of love these days.

And why not, it is an amazing place to see. I live in Ft Lauderdale, Florida, and with Miami, Ft Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, all we have is city after city with suberbs in between. Do not get me wrong, I love it here. But Alaska is so much different. Out there, there is nothing, and that is a good thing. Get on a cruise ship and do a North or South bound cruise and you can go days with out seeing civilization. Out there the wildlife are the ones in charge. The whales, the bear, the moose, they call the shots.

I open my cruise brochure and there is the Princess Cruise Line "Voyage of the Glaciers" 7 days of Alaska. This cruise is offered either North bound or South bound. Both north and south bound go to the same places, so in theory they are identical cruises. What caught my eye is that these north and south bound cruises offer so much more.

On the North bound cruise you depart Vancouver and cruise Cruise the Inside Passage on the first day. The Second day you find yourself in Ketchikan. Followed by Juneau and Skagway on the following days. Your sixth day you spend cruising Glacier Bay National Park, and the last day cruising College Fjord. You disembark in Whitter Alaska, which is a short train ride from Anchorage.

3 ports of call, Glacier Bay and College Fjord. Glacier Bay is breath taking, and not to be missed. If you go to Alaska, you need to cruise Glacier bay. Grab a hot cup of Coco, and a deck chair, cuddle up underthe blankets and just be amazed at the wonder of Glacier Bay.

Most people would not like the 3 days at sea, but most of these cruises have three dayd at sea now. Getting to Anchorage is tough and these three days allows for more relxation.

No one will be board. The Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess (sister ships making these runs) are really gteat ships. 116,000 tons, massive. Four dining rooms, two specialty dining rooms, pools and hot tubs, A world-class spa, Kids, and teens areas. Trust me no one will be board. Princess also on some ships offers Scolar at Sea, a program designed to teach you a little about Alaska and the wild life.

Tips: Get a Balcony, trust me this is one cruise you where you need to be glued to the windows at all times.
Register the Kids for the Princess Pelican's kids programs. And let them have fun. I sometimes cannot get my 7 year old daughter out of the kids area, she loves it so much. Ad the Pirate Parade they put on is real cute.
Glacier Bay will take most of the day ,s o stake out a good spot. But you might want to go down to the Promenade deck once in a while. When you get close to some Glaciers the Promenade deck is a must.

Alaska is not expensive and there are deals to be had. Take a few minutes and let me know your intentions. When the kids get off for summer vacation, you do not have to put the winter coats away so soon, keep them out and go to Alaska.

www.bonbontravel.com

A friend of mine asked me today about a short 4 day Caribbean cruise for himself and his wife. He mentioned it in front of one of his lunch buddies and he said that seemed like fun also. A few phone calls later and before you know it they have 10 cabins cruise going on an NCL ship in December.

Group vacationing is real hot right now.


Really it can be anyone. Think about it, your son's soccer team wants to go to Disney for the day, or your daughter's Cheerleading troupe wants to attend the Cheerleading show in Orlando together. Maybe you book club or the guys you golf with want to go to Las Vegas for a little RnR. And vendors eat up these groups, they love them.

With special perks and little bonuses. Not to mention reduced pricing for larger groups. You can all go on vacation for less than you know.

Take cruising for example, Cruise Lines Love Groups. They give out upgrades and ship board credits. Or cocktail hours foryour group or maybe even a free cabin (for larger groups).

And group travel can be lucrative to your club or Charity. A $300 cruise can be sold for $350 with $50 going to the Charity. I mean who wouldn't want to tke a relaxing cruise and give money to Charity.

And with a friend in the Travel Business (ME) wo will do all of the work for you, from booking to arranging all of the little details. That means no work for you.

Now I know we all know one group or another so put on those thinking caps, then drop me an email at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net. I will then send you back a personalized group quote and we can go from there.

By the way: I am also a Grpahic Designer, so those cool T-Shirts or Tote Bags that you see those other groups wearing, I can do all of that for your group too.

www.BonBonTravel.com

My previous post about traveling on the cheap, or doing your homework to get a great deals. Got me thinking about Las Vegas.

This town has it all. If you want to blow the budget and have a lavish vacation, this is the place to go. If you have a tiny budget and need to count every penny, this is the place to go. Vegas keeps on reinventing itself that it is hard to keep up.

From an adult destination, to ok for kids, back to an adult destination. Las Vegas has gone through some changes. This current incarnation is more geared to the adults. From to Topless Pool at The Mandalay Bay, to the countless risque shows up and down the strip. This is one vacation you might just want to go yourself and keep the kids at home.

Las Vegas is lasvish and in your face. But there is a certain charm to her. Go beyond the glitz and glamour, the casinos and the buffets. And you find a city that never sleeps.

You can litterally do everything 24 hours a day. Shop, dine, buy insurance, everything is 24 hours here. Walk around at 4 a.m. and it feels like 9 p.m. in any other city.

The hotels in themselves are all marvels to visit. There are way to many to list here in one seating so that is for another time.

Take a browse around my website www.bonbontravel.com and do a little thinking/ Is Sin City a good place for your and yours to unwind? You would be surprised.

Happy Travels

First I have to apologize. I have not been posting as much as I wanted to.

Well unless you have been under a rock or on a Cruise Ship in the middle of the ocean, then you have seen the ups and downs of the Stock Market this week. By Tuesday, we were all circling the wagons waiting for the firey pit of hell to open up and swallow us all. Then by Friday the Dow is up for the week, go figure.

All of this means great travel deals for all of you.

Take Las Vegas for example. Most najor hotels are cutting real good deals on stays of two or more days. Offering perks such as free gas, two for one spa packages, two for one shows and room credits.

Cruising. NCL has an offer of $99 per person for a three day cruise leaving October 3rd. Not bad. because most of us spend $99 in a weekend.

Orlando, this is the value season, Attendance at the Theme parks is usually real light these days. So avoid the holiday rush and ride some rollercoasters. Great deals on tickets and room are to be had.

It is easy to find the little three to four day getaway for all of my readers here. Why? Becuase you have a friend in the busness, me.

Drop me an email and let me know where you want to go.

Don't stay home with fabulous deals like this out there.

Well on the other side of Orlando there is a little theme park named Universal Studios.

Now I do not get to Universal much, why, well with annual passes to Disney, I can't bring myself to buy other tickets. Plus my daughter is young so I thought she would be afraid of the rides they had there.

I had to go to an awards dinner in Orlando at the Portofino Bay, so I said what the heck, it is my birthday, I will splurge and buy tickets to Universal.

That was a great idea. Because we had an amazing time. The Portofino Bay Hotel is the pinnacle of the three Universal Studios hotels. Built to resemble a small Italian town on a bay, this hotels is amazing. The walk down from the lobby to the Harbor Piazza, takes you back to Italy. Most of the guests rooms are situated in buildings on this u-shaped lake.

The rooms are big, real big. I entered the room thinking I was going to see the standard two queen set-up o most hotels. Well I was wrong. The Portofino does it better. They give you a huge king size bed for the parents and an overstuffed chair that converts to a full size bed for the kids. A welcome surpise if you ask me. With the Kurig coffe system in room and the huge bathroom this room is worrth every penny. In fact, these rooms are what the rooms at the Grand Floridian should look like. Unfortunately the Grand's room are smaller.

Our wing exited out ono the Piazza right next to the boat launch, which whisks you to Universal and Islands of Adventure (every 15 minutes).

3 pools, an arcade, and 8 restaurants including Bice, The Thrirsty Fish, A tasty Deli and Mamma Della's Ristorante. Round out the options here at Portofino Bay.

Plus everyone in your party gets Univerals Expres Pass. A line hopping pass that enables you to get onto every ride ahead of everyone else. Think of it like a permanent Fast Pass to every ride. A $30 or more value per person.

Now with all of this good there has to be bad right. The things I did not like.

The boat service runs only in good weather. So when it is raining (like it did when I was there) the boats do not run. So you have to either wait for a bus or walk back. Also it is a bit pricey, for people on a budget. Yes you get a lot and this is on the luxury side of hotels. So choose carefully. As with Disney, if you want to eat at places not on property you have to drive.

Overall, Universal has steped-up their game here. They are creating a world like Disney's, where if you stay on property your surrounded by Universal 24-7.

If you have the extra cash in your budget check this hotel out. You will like it I am sure.

Need help ith your vacations plans, visit www.bonbontravel.com

I have to admit it that I love watching the Olympics. To see someone, anyone run or swin or throw an 8 pound ball further than anyone has ever in the world is exciting to me.

Now I do not think I will be getting to China anytime soon. It is on my list mind you, but there are plenty of things to see before that.


Enter the China Pavilion at Epcot.

First, you cannot just breeze on by this pavilion. Because there is a lot to see. A lot of detail went into this slice of Epcot. The main focus is the Imperial Palace (or Forbidden City), and the Temple of Heaven. You enter China by passing under the Zhao Yang Men, or "Gate of the Golden Sun," modeled after the the one at the emperor's summer palace near Beijing. The yummy and currently under renovation Nine Dragons Restaurant, is to your left. Offering lunch and dinner mid September I hope. Also the Louts Blossom Café, a counter service outpost offering some quick but equally tasty treats.

The attraction here is the Circle Vision Presentation of the Relfections of China. This is one of those movies that is a must see each time I am at Epcot. It will take your breath away. But I am getting ahead of myself. Before entering the theater you must enter the temple of Heaven, and do not forget to look up at the amazing work the Disney Craftsmen did on the ceiling. Notice the Dragon and the Phoenix, two of China's most important symbols.

As you exit Relfections of China you enter Xing Fu Jie o "Strteet of Good Fortune." This was designed to make you feel like you are on one of those crowded streets of China that you just saw in the movie.

The kids should not forget to get their icons and stamps at the KidCot station here. Sometime the cast members will also write your name in Chinese on your mask. And there also might be some Olympic merchandise left when you arrive.

From the Koi Pond to the Acrobats that perform under the Gate of the Golden Sun, China is one of Epcot's special places. So the next time your walking around stop and marvel at the authenticity of this amazing place.

Remember to book all of your travel needs at www.bonbontravel.com

I know that school just got back in session and that the last thing we want to be thinking about is Christmas. But if we should do a little planning or else we could miss out.

Travel as Christmas Gifts.
You Mom has enough stuff, candles, jewelery, clothes. So why not take her on a Christmas Caribbean Cruise. Or go to a city and hang out for a few days. New York is great at Christmas, Los Angels, Miami, Orlando, all great places to spend some quality time relaxing.

The Kids. Why not get smaller gifts for the kids this year and use that extra money and go to Disney World or Disney Land. You can avoid the holiday rush by going either before or after the week of Christmas and New Years. And the kids will love it. You have not lived until you have seen Disney all done up for Christmas.

Skiing, January, February are not to far away, so why not go Skiing? Aspen, Brekenridge, Whistler, Blackcomb. All great spots. Heck feeling adventurous, then go skiing in Europe.

You will thank me, if you start your planning process on all of these great ideas now.

Really think about it, it does not cost anything to look right. Go to www.BonBonTravel.com and take a look around. Or drop me an email at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net, and lets see what we can wrap up for you this holiday season.

P.S., buy a trip from Bon Bon Travel and I will present you with a professional looking certificate for you to wrap up and give as a present this holiday season.

I live in Ft Lauderdale, Florida and have for the past 30 years. From June til November we call it "Living in the Cone." Yes we here in the tropics have to deal with these types of storms all of the time.

I have been though more than I care to count. Have not had power for more days than I care to count. But if you want to live in Paradise, there is some price to pay.

Hurricanes and Tropical Storms, while dangerous, do not creep up on you. They are not like Earth Quakes or Toradoes that just hit without warning. We usually have a good 4 days notice to get prepared. And with Technology getting better and better, we know where the storms will go most of the time.

So sitting in my living room last night watching the Olympics and hearing the rush of wind outside got me thinking about what to do if your on vacation or going on vacation and a storm hits.

First off do not panic. You have that wonderful Trip insurance that you bought when you payed for your cruise right? Right? Well I hope so, because this is where it might come in handy. So reread the policy and call your agent to see what exactly it covers.

Then go to one of these hands sights and see what this named storm is doing.
www.weather.com
www.weatherunderground.com
www.nooa.gov

These sites will have the most up to date information you need on the storms track.

Next, Contact the Airline and the Cruise line or Hotel or Tour Group. Everyone has some kind of Hurricane plan, ask them what it is.

Cruises, remember that the last thing that a cruise wants to do is go into a hurricane. The second to lat thing it wants to do is cancel an entire trip. So what Cruise Lines usually do is rerouting. They might skip a port, or go to an alternate port and then back to the other port once the storm leaves. Trust me these guys know what they are doing.

12-hours prior to a Storm hitting an area, most everything will be shut down. Stores, restaurants, bars, theaters. So if your in the area and are told to stay put, then turn on the tube abd watch a movie till it all blows over. If your forced to leave, then check with your host to see what options are avaliable, like early flights, or bus service, or hotel options.

Everything will get back to normal, depending on how bad the storm was. We got lucky with Tropical Storm Fay, so the following morning mot evetything was back up and running.

Just do not panic and keep all of those emergency options and number on hand in case you need them.

If you ever have any trouble or need advice, just email me and I will help. bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

Disney's Take on the big easy. This is the Sister Resort to Port Orleans River Side, and you really have to think about where you are or you might think you are on Bourbon Street. This is one of Disney's Moderate Resorts. A little more bang for your buck than the value resorts.

Boasting a "Mardi Gras" atmosphere, and some good ole Southern Charm this one of a kid resort will make you feel like your home. If your home happens to be New Orleans.

Enjoy to unique dining experiences. Boatwrits Dining Hall. Seerves American cuisine with flavors of the South in this shipbuilder's paradise along the Sassagoula River. Or you could enjoy
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory Food Court. Mardi Gras is celebrated every day in this converted warehouse setting adorned with some festive parade props. All of your quick meal favorites are served here. Hot pizza, tasty pasta, hamburgers, chicken, BBQ ribs, Cajun meatloaf and scrumptious sandwiches. Plus Breakfast and light snacks.

French Quarter also boasts:
A pool, Doubloon Lagoon, complete with a kiddie pool and spa.

If you have never tried Google Earth, Then go now and begin the download. This amazing program is a wonder. You can travel anywhere in the world, virtually at the touch of a button.

Go ahead and type in your address you will see a satellite images of your house. It is awesome. But that is not all, go to Las Vegas, or New York and turn on the 3-D button and see the city come alive in 3-D.

Speaking of 3-D, type in Walk Disney World, and make sure the 3-D button is on. And you can stroll though all of the parks at Disney world in 3-D. It is amazing.

So the next time your at work and need a break and wish you were at Disney World. Just pop open Google Earth and take a little trip there.

For all of your Travel needs, visit www.BonBonTravel.com

3. Atlantis, Paradise Island

2. South Seas Island Resort, Captive Island

1. Sheraton Grand Bahama Island, Our Lucaya Bahamas

I would like to thank the Sun-Sentinel for their awesome list. Remember when booking any of these properties, please check out www.BonBonTravel.com for the best pricing on these or any other travel.

Need a little more personal touch, then email me bonbontravel@bellsouth.net

4. Disney's Vero Beach Resort

5. Beaches Negril Resort and Spa, Jamaica

6. Hilton Hawaiian Village, Honolulu, Hawaii

7. Ocean Edge Resort & Spa, Brewster, Mass.

8. Loews Coronado Bay Beach Resort & Spa, San Diego, California

9. Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

I recently found a list of the Top 10 Hottest Beach Resorts for Families in my local news paper. I loved the list, so I thought I would publish it here.

10. Rio Mar Beach Golf Resort Casino & Spa, Puerto Rico


(List courtesy of Ft. Lauderdale, Sun-Sentinel)

Atlantis is an amazing oasis on Paradise Island, the Bahamas.

I say this because, lately there is not many good things to say about The Bahamas in general. The city itself is not much to look at and kind of dirty. So when your Cruise Ship Docks on the Big Island the best thing to do is take the ferry on over to Atlantis.

Now there are several ways to get there. Taxi, Water Taxi/Ferry and Shore Excursion. From the Cruise ship Terminal all youhave to do is cross to the other side of the island to get to Atlantis. It is huge and you will see it as you sail in. So naturally the Ferry/Water Taxi is the best, fastest option. And there is usualy several of them just asd you exit the Cruise Ship Terminal. Trust me the locals will try andget you to buy a ride. I was there last year and then, the going price was $6.00 one way. Not bad. A taxi is kind of expensive and take a little bit of a pain, because they have to take the long way around to get to the resort. And the other option is to buy one of the Shore Excursions from your Cruise Ship. Trust me your cruise should offer many different options for Atlantis. Like a day at the beach, or a tour of the hotel and the Aquarium.

This past year Atlantis just Opened Aquventure, a 141-acre water park. With slides, a lazy river and fun for all ages. If you like water thereis always Dolphin Cay a 14 acre dolphin habitat. Where you can touch, feel and swim with these amazing creatures.

Of if you just want to relax and do a little shopping, Atlantis has a Great collection of shops.

Atlantis is a one stop Resort. Once there, there is no need to go anywhere else. This place is a must see.

Visit www.bonbontravel.com for all of your Travel needs.

It's Tough to be a Bug, is a funny romp through the tiny world of the Bug.

Flick, from "A Bugs Life" is the MC to this 4-D movies starring a host of zany Bugs. But do not rush into the theater so fast. Because this attraction is build at the base of the Tree of Life, Animal Kingdom's Symbol and center of the park.

The Tree of Life Garden surrounds and acts as the cue to "It's Tough to be a Bug." Carved into the tree of life are an amazing number of animal's. As you stroll through see how many you can spot.

Once you have received your 3-d bug glasses. Its into the theater for a rel fun show. I will not give away any surprises, trust me your going to love it.

As for the Tree of Life, Well there are great viewing points throughout the park, so as you stroll through this amazing theme park, keep counting how many animals you see carved into its trunk.

INSIDER TIP: This park is usually open from 8 a.m. till 6 p.m. So its manes a great start to the day. when your finished, take a bus or your can over to Epcot (open each night till 9 p.m.) or the Magic Kingdom.

www.bonbontravel.com

Well we are in yet another amazing Canadian city. Montreal.

A small bone of contention. The disembarkation. I am spoiled by the way Disney does Disembarkation. In case you have not had the priviledge, let me explain.

You wake up, have breakfast and then when your ready you get off the ship. No waiting no lines no hassle.

Well Holland America goes by the tried and true Cruise ship, "wait till your number is called" method. And if your like us, and are staying the night in Montreal you get one of the last numbers to be called. We waited almost two hours for our number to be called.

And I do not know why we waited so long. Canadian customs went really fast, really fast. The only thing that we waited for once we were off the ship was a taxi to our hotel.

Later that afternoon, we took a Grey Line bus tour of the city. You cannot go wrong with Grey Line. They have tour offices in almost every city. And offer a wide range of tours in every city.


In conclusion, I would recommend this tour to anyone who want something out of the ordinary. If your tired of the Caribbean, or Alaska and still want to stay close to home. But do your homework and take the right boat, and the right excursions. It makes all the difference.

Have fun traveling.

www.bonbontravel.com

Wednesday, we were sailing from Prince Edward Island to Quebec City. Now something interesting about this cruise. We never got about 15 knots. We were always going real slow. Which is great, because you never feel any movement. So for all of you out there that get motion sick real easy. This is the cruise for you.

Well the day at sea had the usual fare. A cooking demo, Club HAL was open all day (Thank god), an Indian Lunch BBQ, which was amazing al topped off with our second formal night and a Midnight Chocolate dessert buffet.

Thursday we arrived in Quebec. My favorite port of all.

This is such an amazing city. The European flare, yet so close to America. Go ahead and try your hand at French, knowing that almost everyone speaks English also.

Hungry, while your strolling around this amazing city, just stop into one of the Bakeries for a snack. You have to try the Brie and ham on a baguette. Or if you want something with a more hometown feel, then MCDonalds and Subway are here also. We took a city tour, and I have to say it is a must. Because there is so much to see. Just take one early so you can have some time to walk around before the ship departs.

There are tons of little art shops with some great pieces. Of course the touristy stuff, and some gems to be found. Take the Cable Car up to the old town and walk around there too.

Quebec City is one of those ports where you want to get up early and be one of the first off, just to take in all they have to offer.

www.bonbontravel.com

The home of Canada as a Nation.

PEI (Prince Edward Island) apparently was the site for a huge summit of all of the different providences of Canada to hash out a confederacy. And they did. If you want to know more about it, there is an amazing museum that shows you everything from Canada's birth on up to the present. Founder's Hall is a short walk from where the ship docks. And they have set it all up like a mock news broadcast. When you enter, they give you headphones that work when you get near certain displays. And this news woman who "goes back in time" takes you through it. Founder's Hall is very well done and very informative. It balances all of the information and makes it fun and never boarding. A must see.

Well we disembarked and took a Double Decker Bus tour. The guide whom was very nice took us through the town and also took us to the outskirts to show us a little of what life is like on PEI. She then stopped in the middle of town and gave everyone 50 minutes to get lunch or look around before the tour would take us to Founder's Hall. Out of the 40 people onthe bus, only 8 of us when back to founders hall. They missed out.

There are many places to shop and to eat. And most of the town is withing walking distance from the port.

This was a great day, not to windy, and just a bit cold. Prince Edward Island is a very nice place to visit.


www.BonBonTravel.com

Sydney, NS.

I was on my quest to see whales. Having onle seen two from my state room the day before. I was convinced that someone in Sydney can get me out on the water and next to some whales. Well it did not work out.

Sydney was a quaint little town. Not much to do in the Tourist just walking around department. We got off the boat real early. At the terminal they had a CVB, tourist info center. And they told us about something interesting. Taxi Tours. Seems like a lot of the taxi drivers in town come to the port and do 1 - 4 hour tours on their own. You pay a per car fee (any where from $135 - $200 canadian) and they will tke you on a tour of the surounding areas. My advice to anyone reading this ... either take one of these tours, or take a tour with the cruise ship. Because there is nothing to see in Sydney. This was probably the worst port we were in on the entire trip. Not that it was bad or anything, there is just ot much to do, unless you willing to drive 20 miles out of town.

So we ended up walking around town for a bit, then going back to the ship for lunch, then back out for another walk. We did find a little park and watched the ducks swim by, and a local play ground, where my daughter got to do a little playing with a local boy. I can see life in this town to be amazing, but not to visit it unless you have an agenda.

So take the time, again to do a little homework. Maybe get off the ship early and do some walking, then back on for the resto f the day. Or this might be that "sleep in" day we needed.

Well on ward.

www.bonbontravel.com

Halifax, NS

Now we are getting to the weather I wanted. A cool 65, with a slight breeze. A real nice change from the 90's I am used to in Ft. Lauderdale.

Halifax is a rather large town, with a myriad of things to do. Even though the cruise terminal is a hike from the main touristy area.

One of Halifax's claims to fame is that it was the port that they launched the Titanic rescue ships from. So if has a large calling to the Titanic disaster. See the maritime museum and take a tour that goes past the cemetary, where most of the victims are buried.

Halifax also has a large British citadel at the top of a hill overlooking the city. It was a very steep climb, but it was worth it to see the city. We also visited the local museum of science, and did some shopping.

Overall we had a full, fun day in Halifax. Plus this was the day that they lifted the health ban on the ship. So we had sugar, salt and pepper on our tables again. The only thing that I missed was the staff serving you your food in the buffet line. I know they did it as a health precaution, but it was nice. And it also helped control portions.

See you next time.


www.BonBonTravel.com

Bar Harbor Maine.


What an amazing little town.

We dropped anchor in the Bay because The Dock is small and cannot handle a ship like the Maasdam. But no worries, we all had to take tenders into town. I like the tenders, especially when you have a great driver and good crew to help you along. And we did. The only hick-up is that you had to go to a lounge and get a tender ticket and sit there and wait for your number to be called. So if your ever in a situation where you have to take a tender, go early.

Well Bar Harbor is a great little town, with a bunch of shops and small eateries. The Lobster is amazing. My wife told me because I do not eat it.

You can also take a few tours while in town. We took an open air trolley tour of the town. Our guide was real good. One of those tours guides who loves to get up in the morning and do his job. He took us all the way up to the top of a mountain and the views from up there were amazing.

You also have to see the tides. In the morning the tide is low, but at high tide, the water level raises 10-12 feet. There is this small island out in the bay that you can walk to, but do not stay to long or else you swimming back.

So if your going to be cruising to Bar Harbor, do your homework. You might be able to save quite a bit of money doing the excursions on shore rather than with the cruise ship. But watch that clock or you might miss the last tender at 4:30 :)

Overall, Bar Harbor Maine was a highlight on our trip.

Happy Travels.

www.BonBonTravel.com

So, we kind of got off to a rocky start, no problem that is all behind us right? Well not exactly.

Today we were to go and board the Maadam a Holland America Cruise ship that was going to take us on our journey.

At noon our hotel shuttle dropped us off at the Black Falcon Cruise Terminal. Now the Black Falcon is no Port Everglades or Port of Miami. It is one berth surrounded y the normal maritime commerce you would see. So it is not the best thing to look at. But no worries.

Our bags were taken on board the ship and we were ushered to the check in line.

My wife, daughter and I opted not to do full the online check in (I just filled out the passport and personal information). I choose this route because Holland America wanted to charge $420 per cabin as a deposit.

We were told at check in that the ship was being cleaned and that we were unable to get on until 3 p.m. The previous weeks cruise had 15 people come down with the Rota virus and they wanted to disinfect everything. But to our surprise Holland America, did us right. They gave each person a $15 credit on their on board account and had tour buses to take us to town for lunch. Since we were not able to see much of town last night, this was a great thing as we had an extra 4 hours there today.

Finial Hall is three old buildings that house shows and restaurants. One of the neat things is the Food Court. A city block long food court. And they have everything, from BBQ to Indian Curry, to Sushi. So after some great food and some shopping we boarded a tour bus and got on the ship. We were finally on our way.

The Maasdam. I knew going in that all of the Holland America ships were geared towards the older crowd.And this is what I found when I got on board in Boston. Kids are welcome but most of the people on board are not happy they are there. And most everything closes early. The shore excursion desk is open maybe 3 hours a day, the coffee bar closes at 8:30, and the library closes at 9. Seriously, walk around the ship at 10 p.m. and it is a ghost town. The late night buffetts (yes not midnight like other ships) ends a midnight and is usually dominated by the staff grabbing something to eat. You want to rub elbows with the dancers or tht comedian you saw at the show, well show up for the late night buffett and they will be there.

They have a kids program called Club HAL. But it is only open 1-1/2 hours a night during port days. And IMHO, that sucks. The kids on board are people to and they payed as much as other passengers did, so why not give them some extra play time. Really, we had plently of dirty looks from people becuase we were having fun, cracking jokes and goofing around. This is a serious, laid back relax ship. And I do not know why they would not keep the kids program open longer. Think about it, the longer the kids program is open the less kids they ae running around the ship.

Oh well, the ship is beautiful and there is plenty of space even for a smaller ship. They do not slack on anything.

Tune in next for day Three (Bar Harbor, Maine)

www.BonBonTravel.com

Friday June 6.

The Players. Myself, my Beautiful wife and my special little daughter. Also coming along for the ride are my mother-in-law and my wife's aunt.

Our flight is supposed to leave Miami International Airport at 7:15 a.m. The key word here being "supposed." We arrive at the terminal and as my wife is parking our van I am pulling most of the luggage into the sliding glass doors. I look up and see that on the LCD screens, the only flight on the board with a red "canceled" in the status bar is our 7:15 flight to Boston. So now things get interesting.

All of us had booked our flights at the same time, but we all booked them different ways, some with mileage points some just straight flight bookings. Well all of the transactions did not get put into one record, so we all got automatically booked onto different flights. Big hassle. But if it were not for an amazing counter staff person at American Airlines we would all be flying alone (except for my daughter who was flying with my wife.) Trust me, in situations like this it pays to be nice and calm. People will be willing to go that extra mile for you if you do not make their day a living hell.

So at 4:30 p.m. we arrive in Boston. A shuttle for the Double Tree I booked comes to get us.

Lesson #2 of the trip. Weigh your hotel options carefully. Yes we got a free ride from the Airport and a free ride to the Port the next day, but the hotel I choose was in the middle of the University of Mass. A very nice campus, but nothing for us tourist to do. We had to take a cab to the middle of town just to get dinner and do a bit of walking around. But on the other hand, if I had stayed in the DoubleTree downtown, right in the middle of all of the action. We would have hd to pay for the cab ride from the airport and to the port. Overall we like to stay at DoubleTree's because they consistantly have good rooms and comfy beds.

We planned on getting into Boston at noon and taking a Trolley hop on, hop off tour, but now it was to late. Oh well we would have to see Boston on some other trip. But for the little we saw, Boston is a real nice town. Old world inner city charm.

Stay tuned for Day two.........

www.BonBonTravel.com

Well the annual big, fun filled family vacation ended today with the 5 of us flying back to Miami from Montreal. I will over the next week or so be posting all about my trip and the places we saw. Today's first installment will be a grand overview of the entire trip. So here we go.

Canada/New England Cruise
We sailed from Boston to Montreal on the beautiful Holland America Maasdam for a 7 night cruise of Canada and New England.

OUR ITINERARY:
Friday - Fly from Miami to Boston. Spend he day sightseeing Beantown.
Saturday - The Maasdam boards at 12:00. Then we are off.
Sunday - Dropping Anchor in Bar Harbor, Maine
Monday - Halifax, Nova Scotia
Tuesday - Sydney, Nova Scotia
Wednesday - Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Thursday - At Sea
Friday - Quebec City, Quebec
Saturday - Arrive in Montreal
Sunday - Fly home.

We had a great time. The food was amazing.

So check back for more. I will do my first post for Boston sometime in the next few days.

Thanks,
Angelo LoPresti
www.bonbontravel.com

I live just north of Sunny, beautiful and hot Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. And this sunday on the front page of the Sun Sentinel (our local newspaper) there was a story on all of the fees that have been surfacing lately. Here is a few of them.

Airtran: First Checked Bag: none, Second Checked Bag: $10, Curbside Check in: None, Domestic Ticket Changes: $75, Assigned Seating: $6/ $20 (for an exit row seat)

American Airlines: First Checked Bag: $15, Second Checked Bag: $25, Curbside Check in: $2, Domestic Ticket Changes: $150, Assigned Seating: none.

Continental: First Checked Bag: none, Second Checked Bag: $25, Curbside Check in: none, Domestic Ticket Changes: $150, Assigned Seating: none.

Delta: First Checked Bag: none, Second Checked Bag: $25, Curbside Check in: $3, Domestic Ticket Changes: $100, Assigned Seating: none.

JetBlue: First Checked Bag: none, Second Checked Bag: $20, Curbside Check in: $2, Domestic Ticket Changes: $100, Assigned Seating: none.

Southwest: First Checked Bag: none, Second Checked Bag: none, Curbside Check in: none, Domestic Ticket Changes: none, Assigned Seating: none.

Spirit: First Checked Bag: $20, Second Checked Bag: $20, Curbside Check in: $2, Domestic Ticket Changes: $60-70, Assigned Seating: none.

US Airways: First Checked Bag: none, Second Checked Bag: $25, Curbside Check in: $2, Domestic Ticket Changes: $150, Assigned Seating: $5.

So as you can see, the only airlines that is not charging fees is Southwest. We all have the Saudi Oil Barons to thank for this. As fuel goes up the board of directors at these airlines need to keep things in the black. And I have heard that they do not want to raise ticket prices because people would jump ship and go for the lower priced airlines.

Maybe it is time the Airlines look into a few things to cut costs internally. Like I am sure that the CEO's of these companies have salaries of $2 million + with annual bonuses topping their yearly salaries. We could trim that a bit couldn't we? What about better more efficient jet engines? Come on we can put a remote controlled car on Mars and we still use jet engines? We do not have any other means of propulsion on the drawing table? Security. Hire private firms, with competive bids. And have FBI and CIA inspect these firms at all times. Have them try and get stuff through security check points.

But beyond all of that how do we fly cheaper? Here are a few things I have come up with.
1) Look closer at those fees above. Some airlines like American waive the fees for flyers that hold certain credit cards. Before you book your flights see if you are e member of any frequent flyer program and if being a member waives the fees for you.

2) Frequent Flyer miles. Last time I checked it was only 25,000 miles to purchase a domestic ticket through American Airlines. And most of the time you can get free 25,000 miles just for signing up for the card. You could also put everything in you life on the frequent flyr credit card to earn miles. Gas, groceries, bills, Christmas Presents. It all adds up, adds up to a free plane ticket.

3) Sorry ladies. Pack less. Go to an airlines website and see what their baggage size limits are and go get a bag that meets those requirements to the "T". And take only one bag. A seven day trip means, only seven changes of clothes plus some for nighttime wear. Take only three pairs of shoes. Or ask your self if it is worth the extra fee to take that eleventh pair of shoes Carrie Bradshaw.

Have fun Traveling.

Go to www.BonBonTravel.com for all of your travel needs.

I have heard it increasingly in the past few weeks. "I cannot possible consider going on a $500 cruise now."

But think about what happens if your do not get away and recharge those batteries once in a while. I will tell you from experience. We get tired and sloppy. We hate getting up in the morning and going to work. And eventually every little thing we do gets tiresome.

So what can we do with the little funds we have available?

How can we travel when things are so bad?

But really are they that bad? Take a step back and read a few finance articles on the internet. Go to www.HowStuffWorks.com and search for Recession. You will be surprised, that we are in fact not in a recession. And most top dogs in the world of finance say that we are over the hump and that we will not go into a recession. That things will get better. Now we all knew that eventually gas prices were going to go up. With the Middle East and the fact that we have not embraced a new energy source in 50 years. Oil is not in an infinite supply.

So ask yourself. Is your job secure? Do you need to get away?

I know we do not want to go rushing out and spend $3,000 on a 14-day European getaway. But could we spend $350-$400 a person on a 5-day cruise? East Coasters could get to one of the Big Three Ports (Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, or Cape Canaveral) in a matter of hours and set sail. West Coasters, just the same Port of Los Angeles has amazing 3, 4 and 5 day cruises all year long. Also Hawaii and Alaska. Listen Alaska might seem out of reach, but if you look at the prices you will see that it is in fact a great deal.

Heck, you might just want to hop on over to www.BonBonTravel.com rent a car, get a few nights at that little hotel you love so much, and just relax. Forget about Primary's and the Economy, and Iraq. Just Chill.

Well then those economic stimulus checks should be gracing your mailbox anytime now. Drop it into your bank account then head on over to www.BonBonTravel.com or email me at bonbontravel@bellsouth.net and lets get you out there.

Happy Travels,
Angelo LoPresti

Disney's Hollywood Studios, it is still weird to say it. I still catch myself saying MGM. So 6 short months after the name change and a new ride is set to open.

I have not ridden it yet, but from all of the buzz, all of the reviews and all of the you tube videos about the ride, I just had to write something on the subject. After reading this blog, go over and read Kevin Yee's review at Miceage (A great Disney site BTW). Kevin basically said that this is almost an "E" ticket ride.

So here is the story. Andy, the boy from the Toy Story movies, got a new Midway type Carnival game. So now that he is out of his room, the toys have set up a little Carnival for everyone to enjoy. So us, the visitors, all become toys, shrink down to their size and go have some fun.

The que for the ride is some Disney Magic at its best. I hear it is like walking through a toy box. And you cannot miss the interactive Mr Potato Head Carnival Barker. Interactive I said, it talks to you. It will make jokes, you know the ones about bad shirts and other mild humor, and yes that is the voice of the one and only Don Rickles. WDI says that this is Animatronics at its best. Mr. Potato Head can remove his ear and put it back, he has realistic mouth movements, the whole 9 yards.

The ride vehicles are two, 2 person seats back to back. Each seat has a pull string cannon on it to use in the games. After you don your 3-d goggles, your first station is an introductions and how to work the cannons. You then move through the different games scoring points for hitting targets. Throwing pies, or rings or baseballs. Its 3-D so you see the shots leave your cannon and hit the targets. Some hits will have 4-D effects like water or air. I hear it is real fun. An onboard screen tally's your score. And at the end you might even win a virtual prize.

All of the rievews I have read said it is a real great ride full of fun things for everyone to do. There is a single riders line and fast pass, but someone said that these lines skip most of the que theming. So if you want a total experience, you might want to just stand in line. The ride is still in soft opening (only open certain times of the day) but should open all day come June 1.

And take a look around you before approaching Midway Mania. Now look at these photos. Yes The Pixar section of Disney's Hollywood Studios looks just like Pixar Studios in California. Awesome job WDI.

So go check it out. BTW, TSMM, is the first ever dual coast ride. Meaning WDI is building the ride In Cali and Fla at the same time. So if your reading this west coast time, take a trip to the place that started it all and have a look see.

Thanks for reading.

Angelo

For all of your Travel Needs. www.bonbontravel.com

Hola, Bienvenidos

Disney's Coronado Springs resort is Themed after the excitement and the culture of Mexico, throw in some of the American Southwest, and your adventure awaits.

This is one large resort. The Coronado has 13 guest buildings, a convention center, a Pyramid Themed pool, and several restaurants. It is sure to have something for everyone.

This is one of Disney's Moderate Resorts. This means that it has those amenities and little touches that Pop Century and the All Stars do not. And it is truly a site to see. It is like you have stepped back in time to a Mexican Seaside resort. The architecture, the landscapes. Heck while your in line checking in check out the amazing mural behind the check in desk. And what about the Cathedral ceiling.

CSR's has several dining options, The Pepper Market, is the Disney standard Food Court, like you see at other resorts. Several stations where you can get breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Maya Grill is a table service restaurant serving Breakfast from 7-11 a.m. and Dinner from 5-10 p.m.. Please call for reservations as all of Disney's table service restaurants fill up quickly. Or if you just need a quick bite, Cafe Ric is open 6:30 a.m. till Midnight.

If your taking a break from the parks, there is lots to do a CSR. An arcade, Bike rentals, A gym, The Explorers playground and kiddie pool, A real sand volleyball court, and watercraft rentals.

CSR, has bus service to all of the parks. With 4 pick-up locations throughout the property.

Need tickets, a concierge in the lobby can help with that and other fun stuff, like La Nouba tickets or dining reservations.

All in all The Coronado Springs resort is a unique way to spend a Magical Vacation in Walt Disney world.

Safe Travels.

Need reservations, wanna take a relaxing cruise. Got to fly to your sister's wedding? Try www.bonbontravel.com.

This is important. After days or hours of driving you want to relax. You want a nice warm bed, a cold shower and some hot food. But don't you need a little more?

Hotels and Resorts come in all shapes and sizes these days. From the Mega 1,100 room resorts with multiple pools, restaurants and other attractions; to that cozy little B&B. My advice...go with what you know, go with your favorites, do not take chances.

My wife and I love the big chain hotels, DoubleTree is our favorite. So we tend to choose a DoubleTree over other hotels. But sometimes you need to be near the action. Near that attraction you have driven so far to get to, or near the beach. Then take a chance but an educated one.


Go to my website www.BonBonTravel.com. There you can search a city for hotel deals. Then you can show the results on a city map. Or check off several hotels and compare them side by side.

I mean your already on the internet, reading this and watching that. Why not use the internet to not only save you a few dollars, but also make your vacation that much better.

Click, Save.

Now Get Out There and Travel.

www.BonBonTravel.com

Well after reading part one and figuring out that taking a drive this summer with the family is a fun vacation, you now have to figure where to go.

Well here are some sites and a few tips to make the planning easier.

The biggest thing about planning a driving trip is the distances. Do you want to have short little legs on your trip of no m ore than 300 miles a day? Or do you just want to get there, so you do not mind driving for 12 hours or more. This is your first decision. Remember that with older Kids your going to need to keep the distances per day short or perhaps drive at night so they sleep all of the way. A good rule to follow, in my opinion is weigh your options. If you drive straight through, you avoid having to get hotels on the way up and back. You also get more time to enjoy your destination. But then again there might be many things you want to see in between. And if this is the case, then take your time. You are in total control, and you’re the one who knows your passengers best. So take some time and look at all of the factors we discussed (time, distance).

AAA. Back in the old days our Dad’s used to go to the local AAA office and they would make for their members this really cool set of maps called a “Trip Tik.” Well now in the information age this process has gone online. Go to www.AAA.com and go to the Trip Tik planner section. Yopu are able to turn on and off all of the features you want. From attractions, to AAA offices to Gas Stations, to Hotels. Also your able to plot your route and see how many miles/ how long it will take you between legs of your trip.

Map Quest. Another amazing site. This one is a little les friendly than AAA, but it gets the job done. It will give you precise directions to anywhere.

Garmin, or some other navigation system. You might want to invest in one of the newer navigation systems out there, or better yet, rent a car that has one in it already. This way you will never get lost (or almost never).

A little planning before you leave will save you a lot of headaches when you on the road. With Map Quest directions or a Nav System or a AAA Trip Tik in your hands you do not have to spend your time looking for that elusive highway, or that little street.

Oh, and do not forget a DVD player, or the Nintendo DS's for your drive. Trust me! :)

In Part Three we will take a look at Hotels and the best Places to book them.

Happy Earth Day.


We all by now should have seen the Classic "National Lampoon's Vacation." If you have not, well then there should be a Blockbuster or go to NetFlicks. It was a classic, real funny.

Driving. You might think I m crazy. Why would I want to take a driving trip with Gas at $4.00 almost. Well because, sometimes it is all about the journey that counts.

Think about it this. I took a driving trip one year from San Fransisco to Seattle. Up the Coast 8 days and it was amazing. Yes it was 1,500 miles after all was said and done. So lets look at that 1,500 miles.

Option A:
Father, Mother and Little Suzie (7 years old)
1,500 miles
A car that gets 20 miles to the gallon.
75 Gallons of gas needed.
$4.00 per gallon
= $300.00
or
$100 per person.

Option B:
Now lets say you get that Mini Van and take five people with you on this trip.
Father, Mother, Little Suzie, little Billy and Grandma.
1,500 miles
A car that gets 15 miles to the gallon.
100 Gallons of gas needed.
$4.00 per gallon
= $400.00
or
$80.00 per person.

Option C:
Same set-up as A but you rent that Hybrid Prius, or Escape that gets 60 miles to the gallon.
Father, Mother and Little Suzie (7 years old)
1,500 miles
A car that gets 20 miles to the gallon.
25 Gallons of gas needed.
$4.00 per gallon
= $100.00
or
$33.34 per person.


So you see gas does not cost all that much if you think about it. And $4.00 a gallon is the average now for San Fransisco. Go driving in a region that has lower gas prices and you cost goes even lower.

It all takes a little work before you go. Just a little planning. Go to Gas Buddy, and they will show you the best places on your drive to get gas.

Seriously, drive the PCH, the Pacific Coast Highway. Start in Los Angeles and make you way up to Monterey. Up these steep winding mountain roads, the views are breathtaking.

I live in Ft. Lauderdale so driving from down here to any other state taken a good 7 hours. But if you live in New york state lets say, 7 hours can get you to a lot of places. Like Niagra Falls, or Toronto, or Washington, DC. Plus your in control, you leave when you want to you stay where you want to.

Please do not let the media hype of huge gas prices get you down. Grb those keys andtake a driving Trip. You will love it.

In Part 2 I will explore some of the sites you can use to map your exploration of this amazing country we live in.

This edition of Spotlight on takes us to the mysterious Himalayan Mountains. Where our weary party of explorers treks on ignoring the locals warnings about the Yeti that guards the mountain.

Everest resides in Disney's Animal Kingdom and is in my opinion Awesome. Joe Rhode has really out done himself this time. Joe and his team went to Serka Zong village, they designed the buildings at the foot of the mountain to look like the ones they found there. Just look at the mountain itself. It sends chills up your spine. Each time I see it it feels like there could really be ice and snow on a mountain in Florida.

You step into an authentic looking Climbers Outfitting center. The Walls are adorned with all sorts of Yeti artifacts, and photos of some of the other expeditions that have crossed this way.

TIP: There is a single Riders line for this ride. And it usually moves pretty quick. So if you do not mind your party being split up for the ride, then save a few minutes and hit the Single Riders line.

Usually I give you an account of the ride here, but this time I will not spoil it. This ride has a few surprises that you have to see to get the full effect.

Here are some interesting facts about the ride:
• The mountain is 199 feet tall. Why? All 200 foot tall structures in Florida need to have red blinking aircraft lights on them. And the Imangineers did not want to spoil the mountain like that.

• The ride is nearly a mile long.

• 1,800 tons of steel was used in the structure. That is about six time more than an office building of the same size.

• Artisans at work: Artists from Imagineering used hammers, chainsaws and blowtorches to "age" wood and buildings in the village, giving them the appearance of being longstanding parts of the landscape.

See this ride it is worth it.

Thank you for reading.
Angelo LoPresti
www.bonbontravel.com

It has been a rough week for me. And I have not updated my blog in a week and have to say sorry to you all.

I came down with a cold right after my wife and my daughter had the same thing. So there has been a lot of sleepless nights around my household.

But we are all better and you should see a new post from me sometime shortly.

If you want a good read why not try some of the blogs I love to go to very often.


2719 Hyperion, a great Disney Blog. When you see his images and read his descriptions it feels like your in the middle on the Magic Kingdom.

Epcot Central, another great Disney Blog. Here you can find ramblings of someone who liked Epcot the way it used to be. You might not agree with everything he says, but it is a good read anyway.

Hello again,

We allhave to or need to or want to fly at some point. Either to get to an important business meeting or get to that once in a lifetime cruise. But if your wifes is like mine, she will want to pack every stitch of clothing she owns, and we are just going away for three days.

So how much can you take on a plane?

Every Airlines has a website that lists how much you can take. Most of the ons I have researched are the same:
2 pieces of luggage checked. Cannot weigh more that 50 lbs, or be 62" total (measure l+w+h).
and
1 piece of carry one luggage. Cannot weigh more that 40 lbs, or be 45" total (measure l+w+h).
Plus a personal items like a purse or laptop case.

Now this does not mean you cannot have that steamer trunk weighing 100 lbs. It just means that you going to get charged more for that bag. And this stinks if your not ready for it. Getting to the airport and having to pay $50 to $100 because your bags are to large or weigh to much.

Now carry on items are a different story. Please do not try and carry on over sized items. Usually the stewardess will have to check your bag if you do. So just follow the rules and you will save your self and everyone else a big headache.

I just purchased a few new bags. And it took my wife and I a month to find the right one. Why? because we wanted to get the max space without going over. So it was a lot of measuring at the Mall.

So the moral to this story, take a few minutes before you pack and see what you can and cannot bring. Your current suitcases might be too small or to large. This way you can avoid those nasty charges at the airports.

Sweet Traveling.

In this edition of Spotlight on, I will discuss Nemo and his friends introduction to the Living Seas at Epcot.

Anything that gets kids to learn. If we need to introduce characters into Epcot to get kids coming back, then so be it. For years and years at Epcot, you would never see any of the other Disney Characters at Epcot. The Immagineers ment Epcot to be different. Thus, no characters.

Well times have changed and so have the minds and thoughts at the House of Mouse. Because now the characters are everywhere. And Nemo invading into the Living Seas, is in my opinion, a welcome change.

Finding Nemo is my second favorite Pixar movie behind Toy Story. Nemo is a great character, and so are his buddies. Everyone from Marlin, Dory, Mr. Ray, Bruce, and the Tank Gang can and will get kids interested in the life we rarely get to see under the waves.

The cue to this attraction is amazing. Take a few moments to experience what they are getting across here. As you enter the building you are transported to a windy, dune beach in Australia. You wind in and out getting closer to the waves. Before you know it your in the water and then under it. You pass the rusty remains of out world to experience life under the sea. Ever see a boat from underneath it?

I will not try and spoils the ride for you here. Just immerce yourself in it, take it all in. Ride it twice or even three times just to see everything. Then when you have had your fill, go say hi to Crush, he will say hi back.

So the next time your at Epcot, climb abaord a Clam Mobile and have a little fun under the Sea (sorry Sabastian). You will not be disapointed.


Epcot is a truly magical place for the whole family.

Well after 9/11/01 our lives changed forever.

And this goes triple for Airport Security. Personally I think it is a good change, but it was a hard lesson learned.

I have been to a handful of Airports since the changes took place, and accept for a few nasty people and some long lines it really is not that bad. If you prepared.

As with all air travel, if you travel light, your going to have a much better time at it. So check what you do not need to carry.

First the line up to security. Take a few minutes and read the signs. They will tell you what you need to know. Yes some of it is real obvious like do not bring guns on board. But some of it you might not have known, like the fact that your going to have to remove your shoes and place them on the x-ray machine. So take a few minutes and plan out what your going to do. Maybe untie your shoes ahead of time, so that you can just slip them off. This way you can help your son or daughter with their shoes faster. Also check out the signs for laptops and computers. There are specific things you must do at security. And what ever you do do not joke with these people. I have not seen a nice security person yet. And joking with them can lead to more searches, and more time lost.

Put all of your stuff on the x-ray machine, yes, glasses, money clips, minus the cash. wallet, keys, everything, jut in case. Most airports will have little bins to put your stuff in. LAX does it right by providing plastic bags in line so that you can get everything ready before the x-ray machine. And read a few paragraphs above, and travel light. I saw a guy one time trying to juggle a baby, his car seat a bag and his wallet and keys through security. It was not pretty, especially when the car seat would not go through the machine. Leave it at home or check it.

If you get stopped and have to be rechecked, do not get mad, just do it. It is for everyones safety.

I would rather have extra work at security, taking off shoes and removing everything from my pockets, than having planes fly into buildings.

Travel Safe, and as always if you have any tips on getting through airport security quicker and with less hassle we all would like to hear about it.

G-Force Records, thats is where your adventure starts.

Hi, in this post I will talk a little about the Rock-N-Roller Coaster Staring Aerosmith. There will be spoilers, so if you want to experience the ride for yourself first hand then stop reading....now.


O.K., So before you say, well this is just another Roller Coaster, well it is and it isn't. First off this Coaster goes from 0 to 65 MPH in four seconds. Yes FOUR seconds. How? Well it is all magnets baby. The coaster uses a type of propulsion based on magnets, pulling and pushing each other. This allow for the amazing acceleration and stopping. Trust me it is one kickin' ride.

It all starts out when your ushered into a recording studio that your favorite Aerosmith stars are working in. Their manager comes in and says that they are late for a concert at the LA Forum. As they are leaving Steven Tyler does not want to leave us, his loyal fans behind so he tells his manager to get us to the concert, and fast. So she orders up a stretch limo, a super stretch limo and tells us it is ready out back.

I love the Themeing of the loading portion of the ride. You really feel like your out back in some dirty alley next to a parking garage. With construction going on overhead and cars zooming all around.

Your lead to your limo and prepare to launch. With two speakers in each seat, the music is pumping you holding on waiting for the car to zoom away. And it goes.....

The rest of the ride your zooming upside down and through a bunch of LA sites. Like the Hollywood sign and past the Hollywood & Vine Street signs.

You end up back stage at the concert when it is in full swing.

This Roller Coaster with am attitude might now be the fastest or the longest. And it does not win any Largest this award, or fastest that award, but it still is real fun.

TIP: If you cannot get Fast Passes for this ride, then try the single riders line. You will not be sitting with your friends and family but the line goes much much faster.

This ride might now be for smaller kids because of the loops and being in the dark, so try out Big Thunder or Space Mountain on the little ones before trying this ride.

Rock On!!!!