History buffs, take note: the next time you are trekking through Virginia and are looking for a stop in between Colonial Williamsburg and the busy Northern Virginia/District of Columbia region, consider a detour in Charlottesville. Located approximately an hour west of Richmond and only a few hours from Washington, DC, Charlottesville is a beautiful stop along I-64, rich in American history and a noted hub of culture and arts in the state.

What to See

Charlottesville is natural associated with the University of Virginia. Founded in 1825 by Thomas Jefferson, the stately buildings of this major institution for higher learning reflect the President's eye for architectural design and integrity. Where the school had admitted just over a hundred students in the early nineteenth century, UVA is now home to thousands to students who come to study law, journalism, and medicine, among other subjects. Art enthusiasts don't have to be students, either, to enjoy the University of Virginia Art Museum on campus, which showcases prominent art of all media from ancient times to contemporary styles.

An extended day in Charlottesville allows visitors, too, to enjoy a multitude of day trips to various Virginia landmarks. Here history comes alive as people have the opportunity to view preserved treasures and step back into time...or remain in the present and see what else Charlottesville has to offer. Popular attractions in and around Charlottesville include:

• Monticello - Jefferson's Virginia home, designed entirely by the man himself, is probably one of the most fascinating private residences in the country
• Ash Lawn-Highland - Home of President James Monroe. This beautiful Victorian is carefully preserved and features beautiful landscaping
• Michie Tavern - a popular watering hole during the nation's early days, Michie Tavern remains a favorite spot for locals and history fans
• Downtown Charlottesville - renovated and always crowded, the downtown mall area offers many unique local shops, restaurants, and a whimsical children's museum to enjoy
• Rivanna and Panorama Trails - After the sightseeing is done, outdoor enthusiasts can take on these exciting biking trails and see the natural beauty of Central Virginia

For a day or a week, Charlottesville, Virginia is a must stop on any cultural or historical tour of Virginia. No matter the time of year, it is a welcome stop in the heart of the state.

If we had to pick any city on the Eastern seaboard for a relaxing weekend getaway, hands down we will select Charleston, South Carolina every time. Nestled against the shore of the Atlantic Ocean, situated almost dead center on the state's coastline border, Charleston is great little town rich in antebellum history, colorful architecture, and fine lowcountry cuisine. The downtown area provides visitors with many opportunities to enjoy individual or guided walking tours, taking in the beauty of a city immortalized as Rhett Butler's home and a true survivor of the Civil War.

Here follows just a brief primer of personal favorites - from food to fun to relaxation. Once in the city be sure to pick up a downtown map, as you will need it to wind through the many mews and avenues that conceal delightful hidden treasures.

Where to Stay

Staying in the downtown area is a must, as it allows for maximum walking time and close-up enjoyment of Charleston. As you compare prices on Internet travel sites and searches, you may find rates fluctuate according to the season. The Spoleto Festival, held annually in the early summer, tends to bring large crowds, so it is important to book early if you plan to soak up the sun. Otherwise, here are a few favorite accommodations which offer the location and amenities to guarantee a relaxing weekend:

• The Ansonborough Inn - 21 Hasell St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Planters Inn - 112 N Market St, Charleston, SC 29401
• Fulton Lane Inn - 202 King St, Charleston, SC 29401

What to See

The more often you visit Charleston, the more acquainted you will become with the names of the short streets that bisect the downtown area - Market, Meeting, King and Queen. Along the way you are certain to enjoy some of the most beautiful homes in the South, preserved antebellum structures that hearken back to another time, and the delightful pastels of Rainbow Row, a series of eye-catching townhomes situated along the battery. The Market Street outdoor market offers a bounty of local and regional goods, from delicious preserves to the intricate palm weavings of the Gullah women. Here are just a few favorite sites to see in and around the city as well.

• The Citadel - the famed military school allows visitors to stroll the grounds and witness the weekly afternoon parades
• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum - Location on Charleston Harbor, visitors can explore the USS Yorktown and take in Charleston's storied military history
• Fort Sumter National Monument - The scene of struggle between Confederate and Union forces, visitors may take a ferry from Patriot's Point to tour this preserved war monument
• Charleston Walking Tour - One of the best ways to know the city is with a guided tour. Various themes apply, from spooky twilight ghost walks to a lively pub crawl, knowledgeable and friendly guides further enhance your visit

For a weekend fling or an extended vacation, Charleston is one spot on the map to visit. Family friendly and a romantic backdrop for honeymoons, this city is full of Southern charm.

Labels: charleston, travel, vacation

The prospect of traveling to a foreign country for a holiday is always excited, yet one should never let the minor details get in the way of having a good time. Considerations like type of plugs to use in outlets, keeping necessary paperwork current, and what to pack and what to leave behind are hopefully decided well in advance, so you can relax and enjoy this experience. Most of all, one should consider how to handle finances while away.

Currency exchange can be a tricky business, particularly in this day of the wavering dollar value as it relates to the foreign markets. Oftentimes when traveling, friends strive to hang onto American dollars to make transactions easier for them. Especially when traveling to Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, and other Caribbean islands where the American dollar is valued, some may find it simpler to negotiate purchases with merchants who will accept American cash. One advantage to this is that no extra fees are taken as they would be were you to withdraw foreign money from an ATM machine, and if you are a good judge on the value of souvenirs you may not feel as though you are being cheated.

However, not every foreign country is as accommodating. In Europe and Asia, you may find some places will not accept a Lincoln for that pint of ale or bag of chips. It becomes inevitable then that you must exchange your cash and keep track of its worth.

The question arises then, where to exchange the money? Is it more economical to obtain necessary cash in the US, or try a bank in a foreign country? Are hotels a better source, or specialized exchange offices? The answer is not always simple to pin down, as the fluctuation of the dollar varies too much. The simplest solution one can offer is to constantly study the exchange rate of the country you plan to visit. For the few weeks before you leave the country, check the daily rates online to determine how much your American dollar will be worth on foreign soil.

Determine how much ready cash you think you will need for your trip, though it is prudent not to carry more than a few hundred dollars regardless of where you go. Travelers checks, though rarely seen or advertised these days, are always handy to have in the event of loss or theft, whereas cash is more difficult to reclaim in such a situation. Once arrived, exchange a small amount at the airport immediately for incidentals (a newspaper, drink, or transportation fare), then inquire with your hotel's concierge about nearby exchange offices and banks. Compare the current rates and make your decision from there.

Depending upon where you travel, most ATMs will accept American bank and debit cards. Look for matching symbols and look for machines associated with banks. Ultimately you may pay an exchange fee, and bank machines may be easier to negotiate. Keep track of everything you buy, and don't forget to enjoy yourself as you shop.

Labels: currency, travel

With today's heightened security in airports, it is perfectly natural to want to have your luggage with you when you travel. You want to be certain everything you packed for your business trip or vacation arrives intact, and vigilance can guarantee that. For extended trips, however, travelers are likely to pack more, ultimately forcing them to check in some of their luggage.

It is important, therefore, to pack efficiently and smartly any bags that must be checked up front. Whether flying on a weekend trip or an extended stay overseas, know what is necessary to take and what is not as essential.

Clothing: Consider the trip, the places you plan to visit and the length of your absence from home. How many changes of clothing are necessary, and what types of clothing can you expect to wear? Sometimes, you might find you have packed too much for a trip, resulting in wrinkled clothing upon arrival. Or, you might find you have packed too many formal items for a trip that didn't require it.

Before you open your suitcase, determine exactly what is on the itinerary. Consult weather reports for your destination and, if possible, research attractions and restaurants for any dress requirements. If you are headed to an all-inclusive Caribbean resort, you might find all you need is your swimsuit and one nice outfit! Check with your hotel in advance, too, to determine what laundry services are available or nearby. You may be able to pack half as much if you have such access.

Accessories: Do you really need to pack an iron? Can you live a few weeks without your laptop? Despite the gadgetry designed to make our lives easier, it is not difficult to find that too many gadgets on a short trip will prove to be aggravating. Thankfully, as hotels evolve even the "economy" accommodations offer enough amenities so travelers need not pack everything and the kitchen sink. Coffee makers, irons, hair dryers, and other home necessities are made available, though it is always a good idea to check with your hotel to see what is offered and what is not. For those traveling overseas, if you need to take electrical appliances, make sure you have the proper adapters so the plugs will fit.

Personal Grooming: When we forget things like soap and shampoos, those little bottles at the hotel are a blessing, yet you might not feel there is enough to suit your needs. Does this mean you should pack economy size bottles of everything? While the large bottles are nice, they are not always necessary for a trip, and sometimes those bottles can prove dangerous. Packed with clothing, there is always the risk of damage, and opening your suitcase to find every outfit soaked with mouthwash and smelling minty fresh.

Determine what essentials you need to pack - shampoo, makeup, toothpaste, etc. - and pack in a suitcase with a separate compartment. Medium size plastic bottles, no more than ten fluid ounces, is a good gauge. Make sure the bottles are not completely filled, in the event of temperature changes in cargo that may cause the plastic to expand or burst. Better yet, pack all bottles in an extra plastic bag to help ensure protection from leaks.

Knowing what to pack and how much is beneficial to your enjoying a vacation. The less encumbered you are by luggage, the less worry of damage, theft, or loss.

Labels: luggage, travel