USA TRAVEL GUIDE, “SOUTHEAST” VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA: THE OLD DOMINION STATE

BY CLAY LARROY

Across the America many couples are having wonderful wedding after months of planning. The bride and groom will need a honeymoon to rest and recuperate.  Vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress-free relaxed environment. Couples that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Couples vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Look at the article below for a mesmerizing viewpoint on Virginia.

The Pride of Virginia - Tourism and Its Well-loved Hotels

By David Urmann

Virginia was referred to Queen Elizabeth I simply because she was regarded as the Virgin Queen. Virginia is an American State situated along the Atlantic Ocean of Southern U.S. it is also called the Old Diamond and sometimes the Mother of Presidents because it is noted as the birthplace of 8 United States presidents.

The capital of Virginia is Richmond. Virginia is shaped by the Chesapeake Bay and the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is home to the state's fauna and flora. Most of its rivers flow through the Chesapeake Bay including York, James, the Rappahannock and the Potomac. Geologically and geographically, the state is separated into some regions from east to the west by the Cumberland Plateau, Ridge and Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, Tidewater and Piedmont.

The country has an economy that has numerous sectors such as the military bases in Hampton Roads, agricultural production and federal agencies like The Pentagon in the Northern Virginia. The historic Triangle includes the famous custom tourism destinations of the living music of the Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown.

Virginia has numerous National Park Service Units like the Shenandoah National Park. It is established in the late 1935 and encompasses the Skyline Drive. Approximately 40 percent of the national parks area is protected as part of the NWPS or National Preservation System and designated as the Wilderness. About 30 trails and parks such as Prince William Forrest Park and Great Falls Park are coped in the NPS or National Park System.

Virginia celebrates several festivals such as the Virginia State Festival, Neptune Festival, Norfolk's Harborfest and the Virginia Lake Festival. The Virginia State Fair is celebrated every September at the Richmond International Raceway. Norfolk's Harborfest is celebrated in June that features air shows and boat racings. The Virginia Lake Festival is celebrated during the third weekend of July at Clarksville. There are also two significant film festivals in Virginia such as the VCU Film Festival and the Virginia Film Festival celebrated at Richmond and Charlottesville respectively.

Virginia is also home to several hotels and one of which is the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel. This hotel is situated about 20 minutes away from downtown Norfolk and the Norfolk International Airport. It is also 45 minutes away from Busch Gardens and Colonial Williamsburg. It is 5 minutes away from the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science.

It is only 10 seconds away from the popular Virginia Beach boardwalk and oceanfront. The hotel features a full service concierge desk, a variety of outdoor and indoor dining as well as courtesy shuttle services to some famous beach destinations. The hotel's guestrooms have a 32 inch flat screen television with premium cable channels, high speed Internet access, two telephones with voice mail, a coffee maker, hairdryer and iron with ironing boards.

Quality Inn Virginia is situated about a mile from the center of town and about 20 miles away from the Norfolk International Airport. Some of the local attractions such as the boardwalk and the Virginia Maritime Science Museum are only 1 mile away from the hotel.

The hotel features beach access, fax machine, interior corridor, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, indoor swimming pool, bicycle rentals and large vehicle parking areas. All guestrooms have refrigerators, iron with ironing boards, telephones, cable televisions, wireless Internet access, daily maid services, a balcony terrace and coffee maker.

The Sheraton Oceanfront Hotel is 15 blocks away from the fishing pier, 1 mile away from the lighthouse and about 20 miles away from the Norfolk International Airport. It is a mile away from the Virginia Beach Convention Center, 4 miles away from the Seashore State Park and 11 miles away fro the Verizon Virginia Beach Amphitheater.

This hotel features direct beach access, fitness center, room service, indoor pool and outdoor ocean view swimming pool and hot tub. All guestrooms have refrigerator, iron, telephone as well as cable television, microwave, coffee maker, balcony terrace, and broadband Internet access.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 http://EzineArticles.com/

My mother was a public school teacher in Virginia, and we didn't have any money, we just survived on happiness, on being a happy family.

Dave Grohl
 

Travel  and create magnificent memories for your family!

USA TRAVEL GUIDE, “SOUTHEAST” VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA: THE OLD DOMINION STATE

BY CLAY LARROY

After working and studying hard all year long families across the United States will be taking long awaited vacations. Family vacations and travel can be the most rewarding experience. Families that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. When you need to plan a trip contact me!

A Rich Historical and Romantic Get-Away in the Heart of Virginia

by Joy Lynskey

Rich in 18th century history, Colonial Williamsburg has much more to offer its visitors than just vast stores of historical knowledge. The lush landscape takes on a nearly tropical feel during the summer months and can make a visit to this lovely, educational vacation destination feel like more of a life experience than a quick vacation getaway. Family members of all ages will be able to find activities and entertainments to suit their desires in and around Colonial Williamsburg Virginia.

Experience Life Before Technology

This may be just the vacation one needs to get away from the hectic day-to-day of city living, and the digital world that often encroaches on those tiny peaceful moments we seek out for ourselves when and where we can. Get back to basics to see how the most menial tasks were completed while learning what it took to be a settler and pioneer in this vast land. This can help to bring a couple or the entire family closer by providing them with unforgettable together time and moments that cannot be recreated anywhere else in the world.

Revolutionary Family Adventure

Upon arrival with your family, visitors should take the Orientation Walking Tour that begins in the Gateway building. This leisurely thirty minute walk will help to familiarize your group with amenities, attractions, and activities in the area. The volunteers and costumed staff that lead these will do so while providing visitors with a bit of a historical background lesson along with helpful information on shopping, dining, and programming options.Covering the grounds of this 301 acre Virginia resort are 88 of the authentic 18th century buildings. Lining the colonial streets are hundreds of public buildings, shops, and homes that have been reconstructed on their original foundations.Visitors will be immersed in some of the real history that the United States was built upon.

Political Landmarks

Some of the ideas behind the American Revolution were created on the grounds in the affluent Governor's Palace. The personification of British order governing over the colonies, the building that is now known as The Capitol, was the structural spectator to America's vote for independence. A building appropriately named ' The Magazine', housed the colony's ammunition and weapons supplies, while Raleigh Tavern provided an objective setting that encouraged free and open debates.

Prolific Ornate and Operational Gardening

The flora and fauna indigenous to 18th century Virginia emerges with each season in the Historic Area Gardens. Known for its tidy flower gardens, cool tracts of greenery, fenced-in pastures, and some of the same trees that bore witness to the American Revolution, the decorative and functional gardens at Colonial Williamsburg are an impressive sight for families and couples alike.Professional horticulturalist and two hundred years of tender cultivation have ensured that Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area Gardens provide historically accurate and native plants. This is a popular location for local photographers so don't forget to bring your camera. With educational gardening programs provided by these experts, visitors can also take the knowledge to create such masterpiece expanses of gardens home with them.

Organic 18th Century Dining

The taverns at Colonial Williamsburg Virginia supply visitors with year-round comfortable lodgings in addition to providing serving areas for meals, entertainments, and good conversation. Using the freshest ingredients, tavern proprietors properly pride themselves on providing wonderfully filling meals in a warm and informal atmosphere.Even George Washington had a favorite tavern herein Christina Campbell's Tavern. Once a faithful customer of this travelers seafood establishment, Washington had a selection of dishes he enjoyed when visiting. These dishes have been passed down through the years so that visitors to this favored tavern can enjoy the same filling meals as our founding father.Colonial Williamsburg allows visitors to travel the footpaths and sidewalks that our very own nation builders once traversed. Each and every visitor will be quickly transported back to the age of the American settler and that feel will be constantly enriched by period garb worn by all Colonial Williamsburg staff.Whether a memorable familial experience or a romantic trip for two, Colonial Williamsburg will leave each and every visitor with a wealth of knowledge on what it took to be an American three hundred years ago.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

Travel  and create magnificent memories for your family!

USA TRAVEL GUIDE, “SOUTHEAST” VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA:THE OLD DOMINION STATE

BY CLAY LARROY

When you choose to travel, whether it is for business or pleasure, it is important to plan your trip well before hand. Don't be afraid to cash in your airline miles. Many travelers let their miles accumulate and never bother using them. Reap the rewards of your traveling and spend the miles you've earned! Miles have expiration dates, so be sure to use them before they expire. Often you can use them on items other than travel, so check out your options and get to spending. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

11 FUN & FREE THINGS TO DO IN ARLINGTON

By RHONDA AGHAMALIAN

Who says you have to always have to whip out your banking card just to have some fun? We can help with discount tickets and coupons to area attractions. And don't forget about our, free and low-cost things to do in Arlington, we’ve got you covered with these eleven destinations you can enjoy all year long:

FREE things to do in Arlington

One: River Legacy Parks/Living Science Center

It’s hard to believe that this 1,300 acre urban oasis is located mere minutes from roller coasters and world class sports stadiums, but it’s true. Visit River Legacy whenever you’re in the mood to hike, bike, kayak, picnic, or catch a glimpse of wildlife—and if you have kiddos, you’ll want to be sure and make a stop by River Legacy’s Living Science Center, one of the most unusual museum destinations in the area.

Two: Levitt Pavilion Arlington

Not only is the Levitt Pavilion free, it’s also one of the best performing arts venues in the area, offering a robust lineup of 50 outdoor concerts in a charming, intimate setting each year. Pack a picnic dinner or buy food on site and enjoy music under the stars in the spring, summer, and fall in Downtown Arlington. See our helpful tips if you really want to rock the Levitt!

Three: Southwest Nature Preserve

One of Arlington’s hidden gems. Visitors love the Southwest Nature Preserve for its dramatic views, walking trails, catch-and-release fishing and variety of native plant communities. Arrive early and you’ll witness a memorable sunrise.

Four: The Gallery at UTA

Another “secret” Arlington destination that’s worth checking out if you’re an art lover or you just like the special vibe you get when you spend time on a college campus. The Gallery at UTA showcases original works in a range of mediums created by university students and faculty, and after you’re finished you can stroll over to the UT-Arlington Planetarium and catch a show (see below).

 Five: Crystal Canyon Natural Area

Billed as a “geology lover’s paradise” in the heart of Arlington, Crystal Canyonoffers a soft surface walking trail, fossil hunting, tons of wooded areas and beautiful hilltop views.

Six: Drive By History Tour

History lovers, this one’s for you. Take a trip back in time with a self-guided car tour of The Pioneer Trail, which includes many historical destinations related to Arlington’s earliest settlers—or try the Historic Buildings Tour, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the histories of Arlington’s oldest families, businesses, institutions and destinations.

Seven: Veterans Park

Packed with more than 100 acres of things to see and do, Veterans Park is as renowned for its versatility as it is for its scenery and pretty views. Amenities and points of interest include a military veteran memorial, disc golf course, equestrian trail, 120-seat pavilion and amphitheater, playground, picnic area, native plant gardens and a hike & bike trail.

Eight: Arlington Public Library

The Arlington library has it all: computer classes, discussion clubs, teen activities, story time, play groups and more—oh, and we’ve also heard that they have a few books laying around for you to read, too. There are multiple locations throughout Arlington, so decide which one works best for you and let your imagination run wild!

Nine: Public Art at Richard Greene Linear Park

Richard Greene Park is home to one of the area’s must unique public art installations: Caelum Moor, a series of giant freestanding granite sculptures located in the landscape area along Johnson Creek. After you check ‘em out, you can move on to the beautiful Sculpture Trail that connects Richard Greene Park with Robert Cluck Linear Park. Get ready for memorable views of the Arlington Entertainment District and a series of impressive three-dimensional art installations.

Ten: And speaking of public art…

Looking for a fun ongoing activity or project you can do whenever the mood strikes you? Take your selfie game to the next level by capturing an image of you (or your kids or friends) with each of the whimsical Star of Texas sculptures located throughout Arlington. See locations.

Eleven: Playground Playtime

Did you know that Arlington is home to more than 50 playgrounds located in parks and other public spaces? It’s true, and the Arlington Parks & Recreation Department’s Park Finder tool can help you find a playground near you.

AFFORDABLE things to do in Arlington

While not free, these fun-packed Arlington destinations won’t empty your wallet even if you’re playing on a tight budget. Check it out:

College Sports

Tickets to college sports events at College Park Center, Clay Gould Ballpark, Allan Saxe Field and Maverick Stadium frequently ring up at 10 bucks or less, with big discounts for kids, seniors, and students.

UT-Arlington Planetarium

One of the coolest things to do in Arlington is also one of the most affordable, charging just a few dollars for adults and offering discounts for kids, students, and seniors. Check out the UT-Arlington Planetarium’s lineup of weekly shows, stargazing opps, and education events.

Museum Madness

The Fielder Museum and the International Bowling Museum charge less than $10 per adult and offer discounts for the usual suspects (kids, etc.).

Arlington Tennis Center

The award-winning Arlington Tennis Center offers 26 lighted outdoor courts, including courts for players 10 and under, for a mere $3.50 a pop. The facility also has a locker room, shower, a pro shop, and onsite tennis instruction.

Skate, skate some more, or golf

Putt-Putt Golf, ICE at the Parks, and Arlington Skatium are all excellent choices if you’re looking for things to do in Arlington with kids (or if you just want to act like a kid yourself)—and on many nights you can play for hours for around bucks a head.

AUTHOR: RHONDA AGHAMALIAN

Rhonda Aghamalian is a freelance writer, third-generation Arlington native and occasional guest contributor to the Pursuit of Happy blog. Arlington organizations she’s been involved with as an employee or a volunteer include Arlington ISD, Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington and the Junior League of Arlington.

REFERENCE SITES
https://www.arlington.org/

Live Life and Travel to create marvelous memories!

We should come home from adventures, and perils, and discoveries every day with new experience and character” – Henry David Thoreau

 

USA TRAVEL GUIDE, “SOUTHEAST” VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA: THE OLD DOMINION STATE

BY CLAY LARROY

People in general consider traveling as their personal interests.  Traveling can quickly became an interests simply because it is such an enjoyable experience. When you travel around the world and you will see a variety of different cultures and people.   There are two things to remember while traveling. The first thing is to be open-minded about people and their culture. The second thing and the most important, is to respect other cultures no matter how different. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

A thrilling fusion of inspirational scenery and fascinating history, Virginia packs in sweeping beaches, forested mountains, exceptional wine and stories aplenty.

From tales of swashbuckling pirates to fierce Civil War battles, Virginia racks up more history lessons than a high school syllabus. It boasts the USA's birthplace at Jamestown, where the first English colony set up shop in 1607. Then there's Colonial Williamsburg, aka the Revolutionary City, where the quest for independence from Britain kicked off and where you can dive head-on into revolutionary life with uncannily authentic townspeople.

Go all out and immerse yourself in a full-scale battle re-enactment, complete with thundering hooves, flaming log cabins, clashing swords and smoking guns. Richmond was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, and more battles took place in Virginia than in any other state.

If these skirmishes have you reaching for a glass of something strong, you're in the right place. Wineries are ubiquitous in Virginia, which has also hopped aboard the craft beer express; hit the Blue Ridge Beer Loop for a round-up of thirst-quenching mountain ales.

A brisk dip in the ocean will vanquish your hangover. As well as shimmering waters, Virginia offers 45km (28 miles) of glorious sandy beaches. Insider tip: escape the crowds on the sugary beaches of Assateague Island National Seashore. At Norfolk, you can also dive into maritime history, tour the world's largest naval base and slurp fresh-from-the-Chesapeake oysters.

Take a road trip on the spectacular Blue Ridge Parkway, which curls 755km (469 miles) along the Appalachian Mountains, from Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. Scenic hiking trails, cascading waterfalls and stellar views will lure you out the car at every turn.

Where to stay in Virginia

Hotels

Virginia's accommodation is bursting with character. Visitors looking for self-catering options away from it all, can chose from cozy farmhouses and quaint cottages, while many of Virginia's vineyards offer rooms on their land. There are plenty of camping options throughout the state, and those looking for a glitzy hotel will easily find something in one of the main cities.

Things to see and do in Virginia

Arlington National Cemetery

Visit Arlington National Cemetery (www.arlingtonnationalcemetery.org), where an eternal flame burns at the gravesite of John F Kennedy.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Follow the Blue Ridge Parkway (www.blueridgeparkway.org) along the spine of the Appalachians. This drive, one of America's most scenic, overlooks lush farmland, fertile valleys and winds through forests vibrant with rhododendrons, azaleas and wildlife.

Busch Gardens

Catch a ticket to adventure on wild rides, stage shows and family entertainment at Busch Gardens (www.buschgardens.org) in Williamsburg.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

Follow the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (www.cbbt.com) to Virginia's Eastern Shore, a 112km- (70-mile-) long peninsula bordered by the Atlantic on one side and Chesapeake Bay on the other.

Cruise the Potomac River

Cruise the Potomac River for scenic views of Alexandria, Washington, DC and the Mount Vernon Estate.

Edgar Allan Poe Museum

Explore the intriguing Edgar Allan Poe Museum (www.poemuseum.org) in Richmond, which highlights his life and career with photos, relics and writings.

Iwo Jima Marine Memorial

See the Iwo Jima Marine Memorial, dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives in defense of America.

Jamestown Settlement

Visit the Jamestown Settlement (www.historyisfun.org) and see a full-scale replica of James Fort on display, along with reproductions of three 17th-century ships that brought the English settlers to Virginia.

Join the carnival

Join in the Chincoteague Carnival in July and watch the 'saltwater cowboys' herd the Chincoteague ponies across the Assateague Channel at low tide.

Mansions

View some of the Virginia's beautiful mansions: Thomas Jefferson's beloved Monticello (www.monticello.org); the 216-hectare (535-acre) Ash Lawn plantation that belonged to President James Monroe (www.ashlawnhighland.org); and James Madison's home, Montpelier (www.montpelier.org).

Mount Vernon Estate

Tour George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate (www.mountvernon.org), and enjoy the gardens that overlook the Potomac River.

Norfolk

Tour Norfolk, home of the largest naval base in the world, and inspect the USS Battleship Wisconsin, the last battleship built by the US Navy. Fish off the pier, learn to sail or take a harbor cruise on a 19th-century cargo schooner.

Paramount's Kings Dominion

Spend the day at Paramount's Kings Dominion theme park (www.kingsdominion.com), 32km (20 miles) north of Richmond, and enjoy the best rollercoaster collection on the east coast.

Skyline Drive

Travel the scenic Skyline Drive, which traverses the Shenandoah National Park and follows the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, canoeing, horse riding and a variety of naturalist programs.

Virginia Beach

Enjoy the fun and sun at Virginia Beach (www.vbfun.com), a popular seaside town offering a range of attractions and facilities.

Walking tour of Richmond

Take a walking tour of Richmond (www.visitrichmondva.com), the state capital that was also the capital of the Confederacy. This compact city is ideal for walking tours of historic districts and is ringed by Civil War battlegrounds.

Whale-watching

Take a whale-watching excursion from Virginia Beach, and see the humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins at play.

White-water canoeing

Try white-water canoeing on the Shenandoah, Maury and James rivers. Rapids as high as class IV are found along urban Richmond's stretch of the James River.

Williamsburg

Travel back in time to 'Colonial Williamsburg', a recreated colonial village with working artisans in period costume. Formerly the state capital, Williamsburg is the largest restored 18th-century town in America and home to William and Mary, the country's second-oldest college.

REFERENCE SITES:

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

And later, if I ever felt that I was getting swept away by the craziness of being in a band, well, I'd go back to Virginia.

Dave Grohl
 

Live Well, Laugh Often and Travel Much!