”Vacations continue to be very important to Americans, and even a sluggish economy won’t stop people from enjoying their much-deserved time off,” says Heather Leisman, senior director of merchandising for Orbitz.com. “Hotels have been offering up great deals this summer, so there has never been a better time to plan a road trip.”

To encourage travelers to hit the road for their summer trip, the Orbitz Insiders have found fun-filled destinations within 300 miles of ten major U.S. cities. From the East Coast to the West Coast, and the South to the Midwest, the ten often-overlooked destinations featured are easily accessible by car and a good bet for the whole family.

Local Destinations within 300 Miles of American Cities

* If you live near New York City try Lake George, N.Y.
* If you live near Los Angeles try Palm Springs, Calif.
* If you live near Chicago try Milwaukee, Wis.
* If you live near Philadelphia try The Poconos, Pa.
* If you live near Boston try Newport, R.I.
* If you live near San Francisco try Monterey/Carmel, Calif.
* If you live near Dallas/Ft. Worth try Houston, Texas.
* If you live near Washington, D.C. try Williamsburg, Va.
* If you live near Atlanta try Savannah, Ga.
* If you live near Houston try Corpus Christi, Texas.

Lake George, N.Y.

Just three hours from Manhattan and located in Adirondack Park, scenic Lake George provides a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Although Lake George offers outdoor activities year-round, summer is the perfect time to bike scenic roads or remote trails, take a leisurely canoe ride, thrash through rapids or horseback ride across the picturesque fields and mountains.

Palm Springs, Calif.

West Coasters seeking a desert oasis with a modern twist know that Palm Springs is the go-to spot for world-class dining and the quiet beauty of the desert. Rich in history and blessed with glorious weather, Palm Springs boasts a vibrant downtown area featuring quaint shops, galleries, eateries and coffeehouses. For those simply looking for an indulgent escape, visit one of Palm Springs’ famous spas and prepare to be awed by the variety of services offered.

Newport, R.I.

An hour and a half from Boston, Newport is fitting for both the young and the old as it combines a lively waterfront downtown with the history and grace of the Gilded Age mansions. The local yacht club hosts free waterfront festivals and outdoor concerts throughout the summer, leaving you with plenty of funds to enjoy the great restaurants and local shops.

Williamsburg, Va.

Colonial Williamsburg is a throwback to the “days of yore” and home to the largest living history museum in the United States. Historic trade demonstrations, dramatic vignettes and interactive programs happen daily, and four historical taverns offer unique 18th century menus. Children and adults alike will be swept up by the historical surroundings, as even homes, public buildings, and shops are furnished with objects from Colonial Williamsburg’s extensive collection of English and American antiques and reproductions made by local trade people.

Savannah, Ga.

Home to charming cobblestone streets and just a few hours from Atlanta, Savannah combines Southern hospitality with modern-day luxury. A favorite way to see the city is by taking a tour to experience the rich culture and history of Savannah and its breathtaking coastline. More than 20 tour companies are available, specializing in a particular aspect of the city from its homes and gardens to its role in the Civil War to its famous ghost stories.

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But, whether high or low, every vista is outstanding.

The Moorish Castle is one of this area’s outstanding sights. Begun during the Moorish occupation, it continued to grow under the auspices of the later Portuguese monarchs. King Joao I began a large expansion effort in the late 1300s that continued well into the 1880s.

Be sure to visit the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, too, with its distinctive huge white chimneys. Inside lie many more interesting sights. The Magpie Room (Sala das Pêgas) shows just one example. The ceiling is festooned with these chatty birds, said to represent the many fawning courtiers to the royal court.

The Sala das Armas shows yet another example of Lisbon’s love of fine ceramic tile. It also displays many fine shields from the 16th century. Covered with coats-of-arms from every line, they are a lesson in history at the same time they show the high art that touched even warfare.

Sintra grew to its present position as a tourist attraction in the early-19th century, even attracting such notable visitors as Lord Byron. The area soon fell under the romantic gaze of Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, husband of Queen Maria II.

In 1840, collaborating with the Prussian architect Eschwege, he produced the Palácio Nacional da Pena. Displaying a mixture of Bavarian and Manueline architecture, the interior sports an eclectic variety of furnishings and numerous paintings, many by the royal Ferdinand himself.

But even the surroundings themselves are a delight to visitors.

Near the westernmost point of Europe, this section of Portugal enjoys warm sunshine and cool Atlantic breezes. The whole atmosphere, reflected in its people, is one of relaxation and enjoyment. They have much to enjoy.

Not far away is the casino in Cascais. Just a few minutes from it is the famed nightclub, Coconuts, where many of the locals gather to party the night away.

In addition, there is a Formula One racing track near Estoril. Here, visitors can catch one of the internationally famous races. From one section of the course one can see one of the many outstanding beaches in the area. At night, the neighborhood comes to life in the numerous bars that dot the shoreline.

When touring Lisbon, be sure to visit Sintra and take advantage of all it has to offer.

Sintra is easy to reach from Lisbon via bus or train. But for those who really want to see all the area has to offer, a rented car is the ticket.

The city is divided into several districts each with its own set of highlights. But no matter where you go, you’ll find attractions galore.

The Gulbenkian Museum is one of the most popular, and it isn’t hard to see why. It’s filled with some of the finest art anywhere in the world. It may be less well known than the Musée D’Orsay in Paris, but it’s just as deserving of praise. Whether your taste runs to Egyptian masks or Japanese screens, or the best Rembrandt portraits, there’s something here to please.

The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (Museum of Ancient Art) is equally worth a visit. Popularly known as the MNAA, it offers a wide selection of sculpture, drawings and more from the Middle Ages to the early 19th century.

Looking for something a little more lively? Head out to one of the many delightful fado clubs. Be serenaded with a soulful tune and enjoy a fine meal. You may happen to be in the old Moorish Alfama neighborhood. Or, you might be near the 16th century Bairro Alto quarter that’s full of local artists. No matter where you are, you’ll find a club that offers this music that has come to symbolize Lisbon.

If, after that, you manage to get up on Saturday morning head down to the Fiera da Ladra. The name means Thieves Market, but you won’t get ripped off. No, indeed, you’ll find so many interesting items your only real concern will be how to haul all the stuff back home.

Once you’ve stashed the goods at the hotel, head out to one of Lisbon’s many monuments to its glorious seafaring past. This nation of ocean traveling traders boasts of heroes like Vasco da Gama, Magellan and many other well known names. Their exploits are well honored at the Discoveries Monument, in the Belem section.

While there, be sure to check out the Monastery of the Hieronymites, built in 1502. Even the religious buildings in this city echo Lisbon’s maritime culture. The cloister is festooned with carved sea monsters, coiled ropes and more.

Stroll over to the nearby Belem Tower, completed in 1515 as a fortress to guard Lisbon’s harbor. It is the site where many of those aforementioned explorers departed.

Lisbon has a fine zoo, as well, not far from the Jardim Botanico housing many prehistoric plants. In the adjoining facility is a natural history museum well worth a look, too.

Don’t leave the city without spending some time at the famous Coach Museum. Even those who might not be interested in royal transportation from the 17th century will find their opinions being tested. It offers a look into Portugal’s royal past that will impress even lovers of modern Ferraris.

Take a trip up the hill and see Saint George’s Castle. One of the oldest structures in this centuries-old city, visitors will come away with a new appreciation for Portugal’s architectural achievements.

That same skill can also be seen in the Lisbon Cathedral, one of the earliest buildings erected after King Alfonso Henriques expelled the Moors in 1147.

Get a view of what the Moors left behind by visiting Sintra, only a half-hour outside the city. An easy trip by bus, train or rented car, the Moorish Castle and the Palácio Nacional de Pena make the trip well worthwhile. While there, soak up some of the local nightlife at one of the internationally populated clubs.

Visit Lisbon and be prepared to leave disappointed - because you couldn’t stay twice as long.

Today, visitors from all over the world marvel at the new sights and sounds of Lisbon’s Parque das Nações, the Park of Nations. Here, one can explore the Oceanarium, the Vasco da Gama Tower and Bridge, and any of the hundred other fun things to see and do on Lisbon’s shoreline.

One entrance to the area is via the famed cable-stayed bridge, one of the world’s longest: the Vasco da Gama Bridge. At nearly 17km (~10 miles), it is a marvel of engineering. Nearby are lovely gardens where travelers can rest and admire the view before heading off to some of the other sights.

Capping off this area is the Vasco da Gama Tower. Rising 175m (575 feet) into the air, travelers can have a meal in the restaurant, then proceed onto the Parque. If the idea makes you queasy, fear not. There are dozens more restaurants and cafes throughout the area.

Anyone coming here will not want to miss the Oceanarium. The largest in Europe, it houses 15,000 plants and animals encompassing 450 different species. The aquarium is divided into four sections, each holding representative species from four different coastal habitats. There are flora and fauna drawn from the Antarctic to the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

One housing, the Global Ocean tank, is 7m/23ft deep. This massive container holds several species of shark, tuna and other large aquatic creatures.

Apart from the displays, the Oceanarium offers a backstage tour lasting 45 minutes. Knowledgeable tour guides take visitors to areas behind the scenes. Here, one can see how the staff do their jobs to take care of some of the inhabitants.

While some members of the family are exploring the sea life, others might want to take advantage of some of the best shopping in Lisbon. The Vasco da Gama shopping center, named for Portugal’s heroic explorer, offers enough quality and variety to challenge even the deepest pockets.

If you have any money left, spend some time at the Lisbon Casino. There is gambling at 22 gaming tables along with shows in the 600-seat auditorium. There are additional performances at the rotating bar in the Arena Lounge.

All that activity might be a little exhausting. So, stop in for a breather at one of the Parque das Nações fine bars for a little liquid refreshment. The conversation is always lively and the views are spectacular.

You can reach the park via the convenient metro, where you’ll exit at the Oriente Station. That is a sight itself worth seeing, with a variety of murals and contemporary artwork on display.

First begun in the 6th century by late Romans, it bears a strong stamp of the Moors who inhabited the region after the Visigoths. Conquering the site in the 8th century, the Saracens performed much of the construction on the castle.

Its final form grew during the 12th-14th centuries when it served as the royal palace of several of Portugal’s monarchs. It served as the center of government for Portugal during the period, gaining the name Saint George’s after King Juan I of Portugal took an English princess as a bride.

After the ‘new’ Royal Ribeira Palace was built by King Manuel I in the early 16th century, the castle began to decay. A 1531 earthquake hastened that process. Though much of the castle was destroyed by another earthquake in 1755, what remains is still an outstanding window into the past.

The current entrance is through a 19th century gate sporting the coat of arms of Queen Maria 11th, dated 1846. Once through it one can see a number of interesting cannons and a fine bronze statue of King Alfonso Henriques, who expelled the Moors and took over the citadel. Part of the remaining structure is the Ogival House, once part of a 17th century jail.

As with many designs of the period, the grounds housed a castle surrounded by a large defensive wall. From this high perch one can look out onto the outstanding terraces and gardens. On the northwest side there is a series of walkways that lead to the highpoint of the visit: the medieval towers.

One of the inner one’s, the Tower of Ulysses, contains a periscope and projector that displays spectacular views of the surrounding area onto the walls of the Interpretation Center inside. Even with the naked eye, though, walking along the ramparts on a hill high above this port city provides a look at the beautiful scenery that is modern Lisbon.

Renovations during the 1940s have helped restore the site to a status that allows visitors to see the grounds safely. Those who do won’t be disappointed.

Numerous ducks and geese and swans paddle lazily along the moat. Wandering among the flocks of birds who call the hilltop home, one can see much of Lisbon, both historic and modern. The peacocks provide a view of beauty close up, while the River Tagus, the 25th of Abril Bridge and other sights of Lisbon beckon below.

Saint George’s Castle is located near the Alfama district and is easy to reach by tram or taxi. Food and drink are available either at the snack stand or the restaurants outside where the tables provide a fine view.

Lisbon’s botanic garden is one of the more unusual to be found in a major city. Built in 1873 from designs created by professors in the Faculty of Science at the university, it is in the shape of a large polygon. But that polygon is still more unusual in that it occupies two different levels. In total, those levels cover 10 acres outside the Museu de Ciência da Universidade de Lisboa (Museum of Science at Lisbon University), which houses the natural history museum.

Within those 10 acres one can find flora that reside nowhere else. There are exotic local plant life, such as the Cocos flexuosa, a native palm tree. Numerous colorful flowers dot the walkways, interspersed with fascinating species like the Phoenix.

The elevated portion of the garden holds the Botanical Museum, as well as a Planetarium and the Greenhouse.

The greenhouse within the garden houses some of the Jardim Botânico’s most unusual offerings. These include a large array of prehistoric plants that have remained relatively unchanged for millions of years. Among these are several carnivorous plants that will fascinate both young and old.

In the other section there is an open-air amphitheater where occasionally small concerts are held. Nearby is a lovely pond that offers the perfect compliment to the vegetation.

The Museum of Natural History is housed inside the Museu de Ciência and both are associated with Lisbon’s outstanding university. Like many similar collections around the world, there is an assortment of minerals, rocks and preserved animals. But Lisbon’s natural history museum focuses on those items which could be found in Portugal itself.

There are local species of quartz that glow an eerie orange under fluorescent lights. There are jewels that lay untouched for centuries on the plains near Porto until being collected for the museum. Several species of local rabbit, of a type not usually found outside Portugal, are on display as well.

As part of the Museum of Science, the natural history museum offers Lisbon visitors a glimpse into Portugal’s ancient geological and biological past. Coupled with the lovely grounds outside, the Jardim Botânico, visitors can spend a few hours relaxing and learning all about them.

You can reach the museum and garden via the convenient metro, where you’ll exit at the Rato Station.

It began in 1726 as the stables for a riding academy commissioned by Joao V. Connected to the Belem Royal Palace, it later served to house the royal horses and the coaches they drew. Nearly two centuries later Queen Amélia, the wife of Carlos I, established the museum to display many of the royal coaches collected over the intervening years. Today, those coaches are the featured attraction.

There are simple sedan chairs, which transported royals and important visitors thanks to the labor of those men who carried them. There are cabriolets and chaises and litters. There are even small coaches built for the royal children. But even these relatively ordinary vehicles clearly show the magnificence that was the royal court of Portugal at the time.

A trip upstairs rewards visitors with a view of the many harnesses and other gear used on the horses. Far from mundane bits and bridles, they are works of art. Delicately carved silver and leather display the care that went into making even these most utilitarian of objects.

On the second floor there are also a number of costumes on display, examples of what the well-dressed royal would wear on a coach trip. The walls hold several portraits that allow one to easily imagine the entire scene.

But the piece de resistance is unquestionably the royal transports themselves.

The oldest is one from the 16th century used by Phillip II on his journey from Madrid to Lisbon to review one of his 17 territories. The interior is a fine example that neatly shows the origin of the phrase ‘traveling in royal style’.

The center of the entire exhibit is widely agreed to be the three coaches commissioned by Joao V for the Portuguese ambassador to Rome. Built in Rome in 1716 during the time of Pope Clement XI, they would have impressed even the ruler of the Vatican. Highly decorated, these gilded coaches make it easy to believe that the Portuguese monarchy was then among the richest in Europe.

Located in the Belem district of Lisbon, the museum is easy to reach by bus or tram.

Investing in a vacation property is an investment in memories. It promotes relaxation and spending quality time with friends and family. But with all the options available, there are a lot of things that should be considered before making a final decision.

“Choosing the right vacation property is complex,” comments Steve Greer, CEO at The LUSSO Collection, an organization that specializes in luxury vacation residences. “It’s not as simple as buying a second home or participating in a shared-usage program. People need to take a close look at their expectations and all the cost considerations, so years down the road they are happy with their choice.”

Second-home ownership is one option. This could include buying a home by the slopes, a villa on the beach, or a penthouse in the city. Club membership is another option. This is a situation in which a group of people share the use of a collection of properties. Here’s how both of these options compare:

Second Home — Vacation homes are permanent destinations that work well for those who know they enjoy one area, want to return time and time again and might need to stay for an extended period of time.

* Positive
Owning the home gives the person the freedom to decorate, organize and change the home to fit their needs.

* Negative
Home maintenance often takes a lot of time and can be costly. If you live away from your vacation home for most of the year, you will need to hire someone to clean and care for the yard. When you are at the property, this maintenance can take time away from more preferred activities. And with any home ownership, there is bound to be unanticipated problems and expenses.

“Owning a second home is an option that seems to make sense in the beginning, but if you investigate the restrictions and maintenance costs associated with this ownership, many people think twice,” comments Greer.

Destination Clubs — Destination clubs consist of members who join a country club type of organization to utilize a portfolio of properties that the club owns.

* Positive
The clubs work well for people who enjoy the privacy, space and conveniences a home offers, but don’t want to be tied down to just one location. Additionally, members don’t have to worry about maintenance because the organization takes care of each property. Certain destination clubs also provide vacation planning and on-site concierge services that you would normally find at a luxury hotel.

* Negative
Decor and amenities are determined by the club. Although this freedom is forfeited, this could also be viewed as a positive depending on what you value. Some people prefer not to spend their own time on these items and find comfort in knowing the organization is consistently keeping the properties in top shape.

Chris Cowan of Dallas, Texas, has experienced the hassles of second-home ownership and decided to become a member of the LUSSO Collection. “My wife and I have owned mountain houses, ranches, and still have a lake house. LUSSO is such a relief. They eliminate the maintenance, staffing, and upkeep hassles,” comments Cowan.

With a single-tier membership structure and a members-to-residence ratio of 5.5-to-1, LUSSO is a choice that makes sense for a lot of people. Residences are fully equipped with all needed items including a Lincoln Navigator, golf clubs, a gourmet kitchen stocked with pre-arrival groceries and amenities for all travelers regardless of age.

With an economic structure that is similar to a country club, members pay a fully refundable deposit (currently $425,000) and annual dues for unlimited access to the club’s portfolio of residences and services. Properties are in locations such as Lake Tahoe, Calif.; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Aspen, Colo.; Manhattan; Hawaii; the Bahamas and other choice destinations. For more information, visit www.lussocollection.com, or call (866) GO LUSSO.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - Some grandparents do it to be fair to all the siblings. Some grandparents do it so cousins get to know each other. Some grandparents simply love having all, or at least a group of their grandchildren together while on a vacation. However, unless your grandkids are twins or same-age cousins, you should consider the challenges — and pleasures — that age differences create before planning that big trip with the grandkids.

“When first considering a trip with your grandkids — before you even mention it to them — decide how many children you can handle at one time,” says grandparents.com travel writer, Sue Poremba. “Also, decide with which age group of grandchildren you’d be most comfortable.”

As a grandmother herself, Poremba loves to take her grandkids to the beach come summertime. But she’ll only take those ages 7 to 13. She learned that she can neither physically keep up with younger grandchildren, nor keep late enough hours to properly supervise the older teens.

Other savvy travel with multiple grandkids tips:

Don’t plan around only one child’s needs or interests.
Dining is a good example. Although it might be easier to feed a messy six-year old at a kid-friendly restaurant, if that’s all you do, you’ll miss out on local cuisine and the chance to give older grandchildren a new experience. Aim to vary your dining experiences each day. Try to let each grandchild choose at least one restaurant during a trip.

Give some freedom.
Teenagers need some freedom. On days without scheduled plans, try giving teens the opportunity to sleep late while you enjoy breakfast with the younger kids. Before the trip, consult with the parents on what each child is — and is not — allowed to do.

Don’t expect babysitting services.
While older grandchildren should be expected to help out with younger grandkids, don’t forget that they, too, are on vacation. Try and balance your requests for help with little ones with this knowledge. Asking the older children to help supervise the younger kids at meal time or during fast-moving activities are reasonable requests.

Divide and conquer.
Plan some activities suited for one grandparent to attend, so the other grandparent can rest. Or, break into two groups and meet up later. Amusement and theme parks, where each grandparent may accompany a different age group to appropriate rides, is one example. Pick a time and place to regroup over lunch.

Plan down time into each day.
Traveling can be exhausting, and even older grandkids need an opportunity to unwind. Try to plan some downtime into every vacation day. Encourage grandchildren to pack some items specifically geared toward a quiet break, like books, magazines and portable video games.

For more travel tips and other grandparenting advice, visit www.grandparents.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

The museum is named after an Armenian oil entrepreneur active in the early 20th century. After making his fortune trading in oil in Turkey, Iran and elsewhere he began to gather an art collection comprised of a wide variety of styles. Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Asian and European art all found their way into his rooms.

Later in life he turned his attentions to his beloved Lisbon. The city benefited in several ways, not least of which is the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian. Though not among the world’s largest museums, the quality of the works on display is second to none.

In the Egyptian collection resides a famed gold mummy mask that would be the envy of the Metropolitan in New York, itself housing an outstanding wing of ancient artifacts. A well-preserved bowl from 4,000 BC is only one more of the many ancient treasures on display.

Not far away are Greek and Roman coins, statuary and other objects from the ancient world. Even the Getty, with its world famous collection in this category, would give an admiring nod to the Gulbenkian.

Following the chronological order of the displays is simple and leads the visitor gradually into the later eras. The 18th century works are particularly outstanding. Views of Venice from the period by Francesco Guardi compete well with his more famous fellow countryman, Canaletto.

Paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens dot the walls. The Dutch master’s Portrait of an Old Man is as exquisite as any one could see in the galleries of Washington, D.C. or the Rijksmuseum. The Pallas Athene provides a different look into a variety that Rembrandt is not often given credit for. Ruben’s Portrait of Helen Fourment is not to be missed by any fans of this artist. Further on there are several works by Monet and Renoir.

Besides paintings there are several other forms of art at the Gulbenkian. The Diana by Houdon is among his best works. Rodin’s Blessings is housed here. Then there are the delightful samples of French furniture that rival those found in the Louvre. The Italian and Spanish ceramics that sit on top are equally impressive.

Moving still later toward the modern era there are numerous textiles from the 19th century and beyond. The Art Nouveau jewelry nearby is not only lovely, but are excellent representatives of the style and the era. The Lalique glassware and jewelry, given to Gulbenkian by the artist who was a personal friend, are among the best examples to be found anywhere. Not least is his Dragonfly, which adorns many a book cover.

The exterior of the museum offers gardens that are both beautiful and relaxing, especially in the warm Lisbon air that hints of the sea nearby. To get an overall view of the gardens from above, the cafe balcony provides the best spot.

When Lisbon became Gulbenkian’s home during World War II it was set to become the fortunate recipient of one of the world’s finest small collections of art. You can reach the Gulbenkian museum via the convenient metro, where you’ll exit at the S. Sebastião or Praça de Espanha Stations.