With Fishing, Fast Cars, Boating, Daytona Beach is Ideal Venue for Father’s Day Weekend

Daytona Beach, on Florida’s East Coast, is rolling out the red-carpet for Dads on Father’s Day weekend. Its 23-mile shoreline is a haven for water sports like surfing, paddle boarding, boating, jet skiing and deep-sea fishing. The action on land is just as exciting, with options to watch the P1 SuperStock powerboat racing competition, tour the Daytona International Speedway, play a round of golf or enjoy a game of tennis.

Father’s Day weekend gets started in Daytona Beach with the two-day P1 SuperStock powerboat racing series June 15-16.  Dad and the family can watch this “Grand Prix of the Sea” spectacle as powerboats and jet skis race along a course close to the shore with tight, fast turns in a free stunt show for the public.  For an up-close view, visitors are welcome to visit the teams in the SuperStock pits at the Inlet Harbor Marina.

With adrenaline levels pumping high, Dad can head over to the Daytona International Speedway, home to NASCAR’s most famous race, for a look at how racing grew to serve as an icon of the area.  Though early stock car races in Daytona utilized the beach and nearby highways, it wasn’t until 1959 that the inaugural Daytona 500 sparked a permanent need for speed.  Daily tours of the Speedway are available, or the more adventurous man can get in the driver’s seat through the Richard Petty Driving Experience and take a lap around the track.

To unwind from a day on the track take dad for a day on the golf course.  Daytona Beach is lined with championship greens that are open to the public and claims the LPGA International golf course – the home course of the LPGA Tour since 1994.  LPGA International is not just for the ladies; it hosts two world-class courses for players of all skill levels.  Other notable clubs include the Daytona Beach Golf Club, which has been in existence since 1921, the Halifax Plantation Golf Club and Indigo Lakes Golf Club.

Another spot for recreation is the outdoor Florida Tennis Center in Daytona Beach.  Dad can play with family or friends on one of 24 clay hydro-courts.  A rented ball machine could give dad just the time he needs to himself to practice his backhand; otherwise, highly trained staff can provide a private lesson to give dad that extra edge.

If dad wants to get his sea legs, a number of charter boats depart daily for deep-sea fishing excursions or relaxing flats fishing on calmer waters.  Jet Ski and kayak rentals are also available to take dad out on the water, whether he prefers park creeks, rivers or the wide open ocean.

After a long day in the sun, dad and the family can head down to some local hot spots to chow down.  Our Deck Down Under restaurant provides fresh-caught fare at its location under the Port Orange bridge for a unique atmosphere of casual dining on the water.  Seafood is the tradition at this spot, but burgers and American options can please the whole family.  No sampling of seafood in Daytona Beach is complete without trying fresh oysters, and the Oyster Pub is a guys’ retreat in Daytona featuring sports games on more than 45 televisions.  This local favorite will let dad unwind from a day of fun and cater to his want for another round … of oysters.   For a more romantic dinner, there are dozens of other fine dining experiences for dad and mom to enjoy an evening out, while the kids check out the amusements and midway games along Daytona Beach’s famous boardwalk.

Daytona Beach and its surrounding area is located along a beautiful 23-mile stretch of Florida’s East Coast.  Named one of TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Beach Destinations in the U.S. in 2012, the world-famous Daytona Beach invites visitors to swim, surf and fish in warmer waters while basking under sunnier skies.  The destination is home to the Daytona International Speedway which hosts the Daytona 500, the Rolex 24 and many other events, and is also the home base of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and the Florida section of the United States Tennis Association.  With more than 15,000 beds, Daytona Beach features lodging for all lifestyles and budgets, and has earned the reputation of the Festival Capital of Florida with some of the largest events and festivals held each year.  The casual and fun atmosphere of Daytona Beach is perfect for families making long-lasting memories while seizing the day … or better yet, seizing the Daytona.  Learn more at DaytonaBeach.com.

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Travelodge Offers Free Children’s Zoo Admission with Two-Night Stay this Summer

Stay two consecutive nights at a Travelodge hotel and receive two complimentary children’s tickets good at more than 135 participating zoos across the country. Here, children are enthralled at the jaguars on view at Palm Beach Zoo, Florida © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Looking to get a little something extra out of this year’s summer vacation? Take a ZOOcation! Stay two consecutive nights at your favorite Travelodge® hotel and in addition to great rates and a comfy room, you’ll receive two complimentary children’s tickets good at more than 135 participating zoos across the country.

Created through an association between Travelodge, National Geographic and The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Travelodge ZOOcation promotion runs through September 30, 2013 and is only available at Travelodge.com. Free children’s tickets are awarded in the form of a voucher and are redeemable when combined with the purchase of an equal number of adult admissions at a participating AZA-accredited zoo.

“Travelodge wants to keep guests close to adventure and what better way to do that than to help them get out and visit their favorite zoo,” said Kevin McCabe, senior director of marketing for Travelodge. “Plus, with 350 hotels throughout the U.S., average rates starting at less than $70 a night and free extras like breakfast and Wi-Fi, having a great adventure isn’t dependent on traveling far or spending a lot of money.”

Among the zoos where families may redeem their vouchers are the San Diego Zoo in San Diego, Calif.; the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Columbus, Ohio and the Bronx Zoo in New York. A full list of participating zoos is available at www.aza.org/zoocation.

As an added bonus, guests who are members of Wyndham Rewards®, the free-to-join guest loyalty program of Travelodge hotels and parent company Wyndham Hotel Group, will earn valuable points during their stay. Points may be redeemed for a wide variety of reward options including free hotel stays, air travel, gift cards for leading retailers and restaurants and more. Information is available at www.wyndhamrewards.com.

To take advantage of this offer, visit www.travelodge.com or call 1-800-525-4055 and request special promotional rate code SFA. Vouchers will be mailed approximately two weeks after reservations are made and blackout dates for redemption may apply. The promotion is available for booking through September 30, 2013 or while supplies last. Vouchers are good through November 30, 2013. Full terms and conditions are available at www.travelodge.com.

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GaylordHotels’ Four Resorts Offer SummerFest Events, Activities Including DreamWorks Experience

Dancing Fountains, a nightly event, in the spectacular atrium of the Gaylord National, a premier resort just outside Washington DC. Gaylord Hotels are offering SummerFest, with special activities and events all summer © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Gaylord Hotels’ SummerFest, is offering family vacationers an exciting line-up of special events and activities available all summer long – from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend at all four Gaylord Hotels.

Located in or near Washington, D.C., Nashville, Orlando and Dallas, the four Gaylord Hotels are destinations unto themselves. Each property’s design provides a stunning backdrop for relaxing fun, whether it’s a family vacation or a couple’s getaway, with entertainment, art and architecture celebrating each area’s local history. Best of all – and new for SummerFest – guests can now earn Marriott Rewards points when they stay at Gaylord Hotels.

As part of SummerFest, guests can enjoy the Summer DreamWorks experience and vacation with the beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation films such as Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Puss In Boots and Madagascar. Interactive DreamWorks-themed activities created exclusively for kids and families will make their stays unforgettable. At each resort, guests will also discover dining options overseen by award-winning chefs who showcase regional delicacies, full-service spas and salons, indoor and outdoor pools, access to golf, shopping and much more. Or, with convenient transportation options available at each resort to local attractions, guests can set off on excursions to explore the exciting offerings found in each region.

SummerFest at Gaylord National Resort (National Harbor, Md.)
Gaylord National, the premiere waterfront resort on the Potomac River and a gateway to Washington, D.C., will embody all-American fun this summer. Guests will enjoy spectacular fireworks shows over the river, food and drink specials, nightly sunset toasts, a weekly Artisanal Cheese Class hosted by the hotel’s Maitre d’Fromage, splashin’ fun at the pool and adjacent sundeck overlooking the waterfront, and exclusive summer spa treatments. Kids and families are in for a treat with the Summer DreamWorks Experience, an exciting array of activities featuring favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation films such as Shrek, Madagascar, Puss In Boots and Kung Fu Panda. Exclusive events include DreamWorks Dance Parties and the Madagascar Crack-A-Lackin’ Cook-In (character dining). Just steps from the resort, guests can explore the exciting destination of National Harbor, Maryland, which offers dozens of restaurants, shops, art galleries, nightlife venues and weekly outdoor events such as movies along the waterfront, live musical performances, an open-air street market, and popular summer festivals such as the Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival. For packages and more information, go to www.gaylordhotels.com/summerfest.

SummerFest at Gaylord Opryland Resort (Nashville, Tenn.)
Gaylord Opryland brings the toe-tapping magic of Music City to life with live entertainment and easy access to Nashville’s most popular attractions, including the Grand Ole Opry, General Jackson Showboat, Wildhorse Saloon, and the historic Ryman Auditorium. This summer, guests will enjoy live music, culinary tours and demonstrations, carriage and Delta flatboat rides, and many other engaging events all season long. Families are especially in for a treat with the Summer DreamWorks Experience, an exciting array of activities featuring favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation films such as Shrek, Madagascar, Puss In Boots and Kung Fu Panda. Exclusive events include DreamWorks Experience Meet & Greets, Saturday Family Fun Nights, the Madagascar Crack-A-Lackin’ Cook-In (character dining), and DreamWorks-themed pool parties. For packages and more information, go to www.gaylordhotels.com/summerfest.

SummerFest at Gaylord Palms Resort (Kissimmee, Fla.)
SummerFest at Gaylord Palms is a great way to celebrate what the sunshine state is famous for: sun, music and fun! Guests will enjoy family entertainment, live music, and drink and dining specials all summer long, from our Key West Sunset Celebrations to specialty craft beers in our Wreckers Beer Garden. Kids and families are in for a treat with the Summer DreamWorks Experience, an exciting array of activities featuring favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation films such as Shrek, Madagascar and Kung Fu Panda. Exclusive events include DreamWorks Experience Meet & Greets, ShrekFeast (character dining), afternoon poolside games and the Crack-A-Lackin’ Pool Party at the fabulous Cypress Springs Family Fun Water Park with four water slides, Tree House water play structure and “Toddler Bay.” For packages and more information, go to www.gaylordhotels.com/summerfest.

SummerFest at Gaylord Texan Resort (Grapevine, Texas)
Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Grapevine (close to Dallas/Ft. Worth), Gaylord Texan celebrates the spirit and unique beauty of the Lone Star State with four-and-a-half acres of gardens and regionally inspired architecture under glass. This summer, guests will enjoy live entertainment such as strolling characters, magicians, stilt walkers and face painters, firework shows every Friday night, culinary events and classes such as junior chef camps, adult cooking classes, poolside music and mimosas, pool parties at Paradise Springs – the resort’s 10-acre pool and lazy river complex, acrylic painting classes for adults and kids, a Texas atrium art tour, sunrise yoga, spa specials and live music all season long. Families are especially in for a treat with the Summer DreamWorks Experience, an exciting array of activities featuring favorite characters from DreamWorks Animation films such as Shrek, Madagascar, Puss In Boots and Kung Fu Panda. Exclusive events include DreamWorks Experience Meet & Greets and the Madagascar Crack-A-Lackin’ Cook-In (character dining). For packages and more information, go to www.gaylordhotels.com/summerfest.

As part of the Marriott family of brands, Gaylord Hotels® is a collection of hotels and upscale resorts that afford endless opportunities for leisure travelers and conventioneers. The brand’s hallmark—“everything in one place”—provides guests with diverse dining options, quality spa and fitness center services, top-notch entertainment, on-site shopping and endless activities. Gaylord Hotels is a pioneer in the hotel and convention industry with properties in the nation’s most desirable destinations. Gaylord Hotels properties include Gaylord Opryland® in Nashville, Tenn.; Gaylord Palms® in Kissimmee, Fla. (near Orlando); Gaylord Texan® in Grapevine, Texas (near Dallas); Gaylord National® in National Harbor, Md. (near Washington, D.C.); and The Inn at Opryland® in Nashville, Tenn. For more information, visit http://www.GaylordHotels.com.

Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) is a leading lodging company based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, with more than 3,800 properties in 74 countries and territories and reported revenues of nearly $12 billion in fiscal year 2012. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 18 brands. For more information or reservations, visit our web site at www.marriott.com.

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Context Travel Launches Two New Walks in Istanbul Geared to Families with Children

Context, organizer of expert-led tours in major cities worldwide, announces the expansion of its critically-acclaimed family program to Istanbul. The company will launch two new walking tours designed specifically for kids 12 and under, designed by museum educators and teachers.

Sultan’s Way takes children into Topkapi Palace with a trained Ottoman historian for a hands-on learning experience. Using the figure of the sultan and his life as the narrative thread, museum educators with Context have designed a series of fun, engaging activities for kids that introduce basic ideas of Ottoman history and reveal the extent and power of the Ottoman Empire, at one time the largest empire in the world.

Young Archaeologists of the Ancient Orient focuses on Istanbul’s famed Archaeological Museum, home of one of the world’s best collections of antiquities. Designed for families with children between primary and middle school, this kid-friendly walking tour asks children to put on their archaeologists’ hats and, using objects from Mesopotamia to the Ottoman period, tell a tale of ancient empires.

“Istanbul is a city of layers,” explains Ceylan Zere, manager of Context in Istanbul and a mother who raised her own son in the museums and monuments of the city, “It can be complicated and daunting, especially for parents of young children. These tours flip that dynamic around. They make the city accessible, reveal the richness of Istanbul, and take children back in time.”

Context’s Family Program employs museum educators, teachers, and other experts trained in such inquiry-based learning techniques as Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) to create interactive tour experiences for children under 12.

Sultans Way Private tours  cost 575 Turkish lira and last 3 hours. Young Archaeologists of the Ancient Orient Private tours cost 535 Turkish lira and last 2.5 hours.

Context Travel is a network of English-speaking scholars and professionals, including art historians, writers, architects and gastronomes, who organize and lead “walking seminars” in twenty-three world cities, including: Florence, Rome, Venice, Naples, Paris, London, Edinburgh, Madrid, Barcelona, Berlin, New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Washington, D.C., Istanbul, Athens, Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Shanghai, Beijing, Tokyo and Kyoto. Travel + Leisure has called Context one of the top European tour companies for its innovative approach to travel and the depth of its programs. To learn more about Context, visit: www.contexttravel.com

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Prehistoric Squire Boone Caverns, Indiana, Now Offers Nighttime Lantern Tours; Zipline Canopy Tours

Squire Boone Caverns has just launched two new outdoor adventures for visitors to southern Indiana’s Harrison County. A brand new high-flying zipline canopy tour takes visitors soaring above the caverns on six nonstop tree-to-tree ziplines and a swinging suspension bridge. Squire Boone Caverns Zipline Adventure is open daily April 1 through November 15, with various tours offered each day. Tours are $59 for visitors age seven and up, with discounts for groups of 10 or more. Reservations and complete information are available at http://www.squireboonecavernsziplines.com or (812) 732-1200.

Just 20 minutes outside of Corydon, Indiana’s Squire Boone Caverns has also just added a unique new nighttime tour for travelers, with the first being offered June 8 at 7:00 p.m. The Squire’s Lantern Tour leads groups through complete darkness, guided only by the soft light of lanterns. As gifted cavern guides tell the history-filled tales of Squire and Daniel Boone’s cavern discovery, visitors are led to through this dramatic underground marvel. At the cavern’s shadowy dead-end, the cave lights ignite, illuminating the interior and giving visitors a completely different experience as they make the return trek out of the cavern. These nocturnal tours are $16 for ages 6-11 and $25 for guests age 12 and up. The tours are limited to just 12 guests at a time and are offered by reservation only, once a week throughout June and July. Explorers can book reservations by at (812) 732-4381 or squireboonecaverns.com.

Squire Boone Caverns welcomes thousands of guests each year as they’re wowed by dazzling cave formations, picturesque underground waterfalls, rushing rivers, vast ceilings and the unique history of this ancient wonder. Beyond a variety of cave tours, visitors to Squire Boon Caverns experience a variety of activities, including a gift shop, picnic areas, a playground, nature trail, gemstone mining a working grist mill and a historic village offering everything from candle-dipping and soap making to a candy shop.

Beyond the region’s stunning caves and caverns, Corydon visitors are provided with a variety of ways to enjoy Hoosier Hospitality, from nostalgic old-time ice cream parlors to the State Historic Site marking Corydon’s place as Indiana’s first state capital. Downtown Corydon, Constitution Elm, a Civil War battlefield and reenactment and tours of one of the nation’s oldest standing early African American schoolhouses attracts history buffs nationwide. Guests can also enjoy diverse dining ranging from fresh seafood to spicy Mexican restaurants and warm country cooking, and accommodations include a historic B&B, affordable modern hotels, country cafes and a riverboat casino. From live bluegrass music to experiencing a roll of the dice at Horseshoe Southern Indiana or savoring the home of the Paula Deen Buffet, Harrison County offers intriguing nightlife activities as well. Information on reservations for all hotels and activities can be found inside the Corydon Visitors Guide.

For more information or to order the Visitors Guide, visit http://www.thisisIndiana.org or call 888-738-2137.

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Heart2Heart Hosts Weekend Nature Retreat in Vail, Colorado, Celebrating Mother-Daughter Relationship

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Women’s Empowerment Workshop presents Heart2Heart, a weekend retreat for mothers and daughters ages 16 and older.

Created by Susie Kincade and featuring a stellar crew of professional guides, Heart2Heart offers a nurturing, playful experience in nature for mothers and daughters to enrich and deepen their relationship, build trust, and explore the phases of womanhood together. The retreat will be held May 17-19 in Vail, Colorado at the Vail Racquet Club Mountain Resort.

Led by life and spiritual coaches and mothers of six daughters between them, Susie Kincade and Narda Reigel, transitional life coach specialists, the weekend includes developing trust through a rock climbing adventure, communication exploration and deep listening skills, as well as having time to enjoy yoga and spa experiences, restorative reflection, and gather for chef-prepared meals in the nurturing and inspiring setting of Vail in springtime.

“Being attuned to our surroundings, to the natural world, to our family members, offers us so many opportunities to give and to receive,” says Kincade. “It connects us deeply to the wholeness of life. Most importantly, we become more connected to the source within us-to our own capacity for love.”

The weekend package includes:

• Two nights lodging at the luxurious Vail Racquet Club Mountain Resort (double occupancy)
• Delicious, healthy meals (Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast)
• Transportation within Vail to and from activities
• Rock climbing exploration
• Women’s Inner Wisdom: Life coaching, communication, emotional discernment skills
• Spa offering
• Pool, hot tubs, tennis and other amenities
• Cost: $595* (*non-lodging rates available)

Formed two years ago, Women’s Empowerment Workshop started with one four-day nature adventure retreat, now called Awaken in NatureTM which combines outer and inner journeys through rafting/kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, healing with horses and other nature-based activities. The retreat drew attendees from as far away as Pakistan and from a dozen U.S. states. Its success led founder, Susie Kincade to create additional retreats and diverse workshops to satisfy the hunger she sees in women of all ages across the world who want to rise to their full potential.

For more information and to register, visit http://www.womensempower.us or call 877-595-8622

Summer in Tahoe South, ‘America’s Best Lake,’ is Packed with Entertainment, Celebrities, Recreation-Adventure Events

Remember summer camp? Intense and fleeting, full of traditions, camp was the bright beacon in the depths of winter. Tahoe South offers its own rituals of the season: sun-drenched beaches, Grammy winning artists on outdoor stages, family events and outdoor recreation, the country’s biggest celebrity golf tournament, fireworks, and enough nightlife to put the wild side into summer. (http://www.tahoesouth.com)

Voted by USA Today readers as “America’s Best Lake,” Tahoe South visitors can expect the best this summer with warm summer days, countless adventures and entertainment venues that brim with high endurance.

MUSIC, STAGE STARS AND SPORTS GREATS

A powerhouse lineup of sports legends including Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Oscar de la Hoya, and Bodie Miller will join entertainers Ray Romano and Jack Wagner for the 24th annual American Century Championship, July 16-21, 2013. (www.TahoeCelebrityGolf.com).

More than 80 of the brightest sports and entertainment stars and celebrities will tee it up at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, vying for the $125,000 winner’s share of the $600,000 purse. First-timers this year include NFL Hall of Famer John Randle; former NFL Pro-Bowl wide receiver Andre Reed; former NBA All-Star Detlef Schrempf and former MLB All-Star Tim Wakefield.

Harrah’s Outdoor Concert Series, an annual South Shore favorite, features a star-studded lineup: Steve Miller Band, June 22; Tim McGraw, July 16; Rascal Flatts and The Band Perry, July 19; Phish, July 30-31; FUN with Tegan and Sara, Aug. 27; Brad Paisley, Aug. 30 and Dave Matthews Band, Sept. 4. Shows are anticipated to sell out. In the meantime, showroom entertainment includes: Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings, April 27; Sammy Hagar, May 3-4; Super Diamond, May 11; Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, June 1 and Eric Burdon & The Animals, June 8. www.SouthShoreRoom.com.

MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa’s Summer Concert Series second annual Lake Tahoe Reggae Festival returns on Saturday, June 29. Tahoe’s taste of island irie at the 4,000-seat outdoor amphitheater will feature breezy Jamaica rhythms and reggae ska beats from headliners SOJA and Alpha Blondy, along with special guests Passafire, Stickfigure, Tomorrow’s Bad Seed and Island of Black & White. Also added to the outdoor concert lineup are Slightly Stoopid and Atmosphere with Tribal Seeds, The Grouch and Eligh, July 18. Additional acts will be finalized soon but expect a variety of rock, reggae, hip-hop, punk, etc. In the meantime, showroom entertainment inside includes: The Shins, May 11; Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros, May 23; Gretchen Wilson, May 31; The Virgins, June 8. www.montbleuresort.com.

The Valhalla Arts & Music Festival (http://valhallatahoe.com/) celebrates music and visual arts from June through fall. In its 33rd year, this event series is set against a backdrop of Lake Tahoe and the Tallac Historic Site. It features performances and comedy at the Boathouse Theater, outdoor concerts, festivals, and cultural events.

SPECTACULAR SHOWS

Recognized by NBC’s Today Show as one of the country’s top Fourth of July weekend celebrations, Lights on the Lake fireworks show is a Tahoe South ritual that packs the shoreline with spectators. The best viewing spots are South Shore’s sandy beaches or aboard the M.S. Dixie II or Tahoe Queen paddlewheelers. An end-of-summer fireworks display will grip the skies over Tahoe South again Labor Day weekend. Both displays feature simultaneous music set to sky rockets on local radio stations KRLT-FM 93.9 and KOWL-AM 1490.

Hot August Nights South Lake Tahoe Experience returns for its fourth year, Aug. 2-3, at MontBleu. Car lovers can slide behind the wheel and cruise through four straight days and nights of show-n-shines, car exhibits, exclusive car auctions, and an outdoor pavilion with food, beverages and great oldies music.

The 24th annual (www.lakeintheskyairshow.com) Lake in the Sky Air Show takes flight, Aug. 23-25, and features some of the world’s top aircraft performers, radio-controlled demonstrations and military aircraft.

Labor Day weekend also features the 4th annual (www.samplethesierra.com) Sample the Sierra, a farm-to-fork festival, Sept. 1. This event offers regional products such as honey, jams, olive oil and soaps along with pottery, painting, photography and handmade crafts by regional artists. The festival brings live entertainment, storytellers and acoustic music as well as tastings of local produce paired with beverages from Sierra Nevada wineries and breweries.

FESTIVALS, FAIRIES AND COMPETITIONS

The 21st (http://www.valhallafaire.com) Valhalla Renaissance Faire, June 1-2 and 8-9, will exhibit the pleasures and pageantry of the Elizabethan era. Costumed players perform at Camp Richardson Resort in the shady lanes and byways, and sell their wares from market stalls filled with fine handmade crafts.

During the 22nd annual (http://www.bikethewest.com) America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride, participants pedal the 72-mile circumference of Lake Tahoe, June 2. This ride promotes Lake Tahoe Bikeway, a plan to build and interconnect bike lanes/trails around Lake Tahoe. Rounding out summer will be the Tour de Tahoe — Bike Big Blue Ride to Cure Diabetes, Sept. 8.

World class paddlers strike out from El Dorado Beach, June 29-30, for the nation’s premier flat-water standup paddleboard competition, Race the Lake of the Sky (http://racethelakeofthesky.com/). Multiple races are offered including short course, long distance, team relay, grom races plus a new SUP Cross Sprint course. Vendors, food booths and music are available throughout the weekend.

Runners will take to the woods around Sierra-at-Tahoe Ski Resort this summer for the Ragnar Trail Relays, July 26-27. (http://ragnartrail.com/) This overnight running and camping race pits eight- and four-person teams as contestants charge around three loops that range from four to eight miles long.

One of the largest gatherings of unique boats in Northern California is the South Tahoe Wooden Boat Classic, July 26-27, at Tahoe Keys Marina & Yacht Club (http://www.tahoewoodenboats.com). Enthusiasts can get an up close look at the vessels, talk with their owners and hear the powerful roar behind straight V6, V8 and V12 engines. From the early 1900s to the fiberglass vessels of the 1960s, enthusiasts can see more than 65 wooden antique and classic boats in the water and eight race boats on their trailers.

The Valhalla Grand Lawn is also the site of the annual Wa She Shu It Deh Native American Arts Festival, July 27-28, a cultural gathering that features traditional American Indian dancers and drummers, basket weaving displays, art and great food.

The third Tahoe Show (http://www.tahoeshow.com/) body building and sculpting competition at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa is set for Aug. 24, and will bring hundreds of the area’s fittest to compete for cash prizes in a judged competition featuring bodybuilding, figure and physique, fitness and bikini.

Return to the 1920s and enjoy the (http://www.tahoeheritage.org) 28th annual Great Gatsby Festival on the Pope Estate at the Tallac Historic Site, Aug. 10-11. Visitors will find antiques, Roaring ’20s era costumes, live music, interactive historic house tours, vintage auto rides, ice cream, cotton candy and vintage kid’s games.

Run, walk, swim, paddle, peddle or golf, Sept. 27-29, during one of the many (http://www.laketahoemarathon.com) Lake Tahoe Marathon events. Both the half and full marathons are along the west shore of Lake Tahoe and feature challenging hills around Emerald Bay.

For real time updates on events, promotions, packages, conditions and events in Tahoe South, The Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority is on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TahoeSouth, Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/TahoeSouth, YouTube: www.youtube.com/LTVA. For Tahoe South information: 1-800-288-2463 or www.tahoesouth.com.

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Lake George Region in New York’s Adirondacks Announces New Summer Packages

The time for summer vacation planning has arrived – and in the Lake George Area in New York’s Adirondacks, new summer vacation packages, super saver coupons, discounts, and more offer affordability and savings for your next getaway to the Adirondack Mountains.

Experience the lakes, natural beauty, and array of attractions and start taking advantage of the variety of savings available this summer for an unforgettable vacation experience.

Currently, the Lake George Area is offering the following summer vacation deals:

• Summer Vacation Packages: From golfing, hiking, paddling, and fishing, to seasonal deals revolving around unique Adirondack events, find the perfect lodging package for an affordable summer getaway to the Lake George Area. Visit mid-week and experience even more savings! Rates vary.
• Super Saver Coupons: With hundreds of dollars in coupons available for use this summer, savings can be found for everything from cottages and campgrounds, to dining, outdoor recreation, and other area attractions.
• Military Discounts: The Lake George Area is proud to support the men and women serving in our armed forces. This summer, numerous area businesses are offering special discounts to active and retired military alike – don’t forget to bring Military ID to save even more during a visit.

The Lake George Area in New York’s Adirondacks is an easy-to-reach, affordable, year round vacation destination for the whole family. For free information on lodging, camping, dining, events, recreation and activities call 800-365-1050 X5100 or http://www.VisitLakeGeorge.com.

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Royal Caribbean offers Families up to 50% Savings for 3rd, 4th guests for bookings through May 10

The Flowrider, one of Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines’ signature onboard activities. Royal Caribbean is offering families up to 50% savings for third and fourth guests for bookings through May 10 © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Bringing the whole family on an adventurous Royal Caribbean International cruise vacation is easier than ever before, with the cruise line’s new significantly reduced third- and fourth-guest fare offer. For new U.S. and Canadian bookings made from Apr. 10 through May 10, 2013 aboard select Royal Caribbean ships, the reduced third- and fourth-guest fares offer vacationers up to 50 percent savings for sailings departing on Sept. 1 through Dec. 31, 2013. The additional savings on already significantly lower fares for third and fourth guests offer families even more reason to share in a vacation only found on Royal Caribbean’s innovative ships. Reduced third- and fourth-guest fares start at $99 per guest for three-night Bahamas cruises and $199 per guest on four- to seven-night Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean and Europe cruises. For more information, please visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com/April34Guest.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean International is offering its valued travel agents more tools as part of the cruise line’s ongoing Loyal to You Always commitment to supporting them in growing their business and increasing profits. For all new U.S. and Canadian groups created from Apr. 8 through 21, 2013, aboard any Royal Caribbean sailing departing from Jan. 1 through Apr. 30, 2014, travel agents will earn two bonus Group Amenities Plus (GAP) points to add more value to their clients’ vacation. Travel agents can apply the GAP points toward additional stateroom amenities, such a bottle of sparkling wine, a welcome aboard fruit basket, robes to use on their cruise and more, to help secure a booking; recognize loyal clients; or acquire repeat business. Additional restrictions may apply. For more information about the Bonus GAP offer, travel agents should visit www.CruisingPower.com, the online portal dedicated to providing the most comprehensive tools and information for travel professionals selling Royal Caribbean International.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 innovative ships, calling on more than 270 destinations in 72 countries across six continents. The line also offers unique cruise tour land packages in Alaska, Canada, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand. Royal Caribbean provides a world-class vacation experience with a wide range of signature onboard amenities, entertainment, and award-winning family programming.

The cruise line has more than 40 years of history of delivering to guests the Royal Advantage – the most innovative cruise ships, exciting itineraries to popular destinations, and world-renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service. Royal Caribbean has been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 10 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards. For additional information or to make reservations, call your travel agent, visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN. Follow Royal Caribbean on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RoyalCaribbean or on Twitter, @RoyalCaribbean. Travel professionals should visit Vicki Freed’s Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/VickiLovesTravelAgents; go to www.cruisingpower.com; or call (800) 327-2056.

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Kids Sail Free on 17 Additional Crystal Cruises in Europe this Year

Crystal Cruises had added 17 European cruises where kids 17 and under can sail for free sharing parents’ stateroom.

Due to popular demand, Crystal Cruises is adding17 voyages to the ultra-luxe line’s “Kids Sail Free” program. With the promotion, kids age 17 and under can sail for free when sharing a third berth stateroom with two adults.

Previously offered on just four luxury European cruises during June and July, families can now choose from seven- to 15-day voyages in the Mediterranean, Western Europe, North Cape, Baltic, British Isles, Canary Islands, and across the Atlantic from May-December aboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.

New Magic Castle at Sea “junior cruisers” shows and classes will be offered on board during summer cruises, in addition to all-ages shows on every cruise.

“While summer break is a key time for a ‘whole family’ vacation, many families enjoy sharing the history, beauty, and educational journey of Europe at non-break times like autumn, when airfares may be more attractive,” says Jack Anderson, Crystal’s senior vice-president of marketing and sales. “With visits to some of Europe’s most storied and breathtaking locales, such as Monte Carlo, Casablanca, Venice, Dubrovnik, Mykonos, Stockholm, and Edinburgh, the additional savings make these voyages an incredible value, sure to create lifelong memories.”

In addition to the new Magic Castle at Sea enrichment, every Crystal cruise offers family-friendly learning and entertainment, from iPad Digital Filmmaking classes (in association with USC’s School of Cinematic Arts) to dedicated on-board kids and teens spaces — a rarity among luxury cruise lines. During school vacation times, junior activities directors host complimentary supervised activities on board, ranging from behind-the scenes tours to cooking classes and scavenger hunts. Every cruise also has babysitting services, “finicky eater” foods, movies, library books, family-friendly excursions, and more available.

All-inclusive, “Book Now” fares for “Kids Sail Free” applicable voyages begin at $2,495/person if booked by April 30. The “Crystal Family Memories” program also offers additional free berths and perks for groups of six or more.

With sophisticated tours worldwide, enriching learning opportunities, international gourmet cuisine, complimentary voluntourism excursions, and a host of other activities for all ages, the Crystal experience gives families exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime access to creating intimate bonds, gleaning a global education, and building lifelong memories while sailing in elegance, making Crystal Cruises the leader in family-friendly luxury cruising.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

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