December Foodie Penpal

For the past few months I have participated in the foodie penpals.  (See November's box and October's box here.)  I sent a box of local Ohio goodies to Alexis @ Fit-Possible (Check out her blog here to see what I sent her!)  My penpal this month was Tara @ A Daily Dose of Fit!  She sent me a fun travel-themed box with lots of things that are easy to pack for trips - what a fun idea!!  

Glittery Card :)

My box contained:

Christmas Crunch:  Christmas Crunch is caramel popcorn with nuts and dried cherries that are drizzled with chocolate.  This delicious treat did not last very long at my house.  :)

Starbucks Via Colombian Coffee (pictured above):  I have seen these at the store and have been wanting to try them.  It is actually quite good for instant coffee.  I will definitely pack some the next time I am taking a trip!

Fruit Leather - Mixed Berry (pictured above):  A nice little snack.  I have tried the pomegranate ones before but not the mixed berry.  Both have good flavor.

Flax Seed Packet (pictured above):  I'm not exactly sure what to do with this - I'd love for some suggestions!

Justin's Peanut Butter (pictured below):  Brilliant idea from Justin's Nut Butter - a little portable packet of peanut butter!  I am saving these for my trip to Nashville in two weeks.

Blueberry Jam: Blueberry Jam from Radtke Farms - has good taste and texture.  I am planning to try it mixed in to some yogurt or even warmed up on vanilla ice cream.  :)  

Thanks again to Tara for sending me some tasty treats!

If you are interested in joining the Foodie Penpals program, here are some details:

-On the 5th of every month, you will receive your penpal pairing via email. It will be your responsibility to contact your penpal and get their mailing address and any other information you might need like allergies or dietary restrictions.
-You will have until the 15th of the month to put your box of goodies in the mail. On the last day of the month, you will post about the goodies you received from your penpal!
-The boxes are to be filled with fun foodie things, local food items or even homemade treats! The spending limit is $15. The box must also include something written. This can be anything from a note explaining what’s in the box, to a fun recipe…use your imagination!
-You are responsible for figuring out the best way to ship your items depending on their size and how fragile they are. (Don’t forget about flat rate boxes!)
-Foodie Penpals is open to blog readers as well as bloggers. If you’re a reader and you get paired with a blogger, you are to write a short guest post for your penpal to post on their blog about what you received. If two readers are paired together, neither needs to worry about writing a post for that month. *US Residents only please at this time- hopefully we can expand soon!*

For more information on the foodie penpals, check out the details on The Lean Green Bean.

If you’re interested in participating in December's foodie penpals, please send Lindsay an email at theleangreenbean@gmail.com by January 4th and include the following information:
-Your full name
-Your email address
-Your blog name/address
-Your twitter handle (if applicable)

Challenge: San Francisco, CA and surrounding areas

I spent a week this past February exploring San Francisco and the surround areas with my husband, and we absolutely fell in love with the region!  We were warned by several people about chilly weather, but since we were coming from winter in Ohio we thought it was beautiful outside!
This is a slightly different format.  I have select three areas for 2-night stays.  These can either be used separately as weekend trips or all three options could be combined into a week-long trip.

Criteria: These are 2-night trips priced on travel from San Francisco, CA

Needs/Wants: We would like a nice blend of indoor/outdoor activities.

Time Frame:  Friday, March 23, 2012 - Sunday, March 25, 2012

Budget: $500 for a weekend trip of 2nts/3days for 2 people

 Option #1: Downtown San Francisco, CA (City)

Golden Gate Bridge - Photo taken by me Feb 2011

Hotel:  Park Hotel - 1D with private bath @ regular-rate (no breakfast); Central location near Chinatown and Union Square; TripAdvisor Reviews  $180.80 TL (estimated 13% tax)

Transportation: Public Transit (includes BART, Trolley, etc)  $50 TL

Food: Breakfast (B): $5/day (2); Lunch (L): $20/day (3); Dinner (D): $45/day (3); Drinks (Dr): $15/day (2)  ~$235TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (L/D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D)

Activities: Alcatraz Tour-Daytime Tour $26pp; Walk on Golden Gate Bridge $0; Coit Tower  $52 TL

Trip Total:  $517.80 TL

Option #2: Sonoma Valley, CA (Wine Country)

Vineyard in Northern Sonoma County - Photo taken by me Feb 2011

Hotel:  Zinscape - Garden Room with 1Q @ Winter Special rate; continental breakfast; small bed & breakfast style place; TripAdvisor Reviews  $192.10 TL (estimated 13% tax)

Car: City Rent-a-Car; Economy Car; 2-day weekend; no additional insurance  $49.89 TL

Gas: 75 miles each way (~1.5hr); round trip 150 miles with 25mpg at $3.50/gal  $21 TL

Parking:  Free parking  $0

Food: Breakfast (B): $0/day (2); Lunch (L): $20/day (3); Dinner (D): $45/day (3); Drinks (Dr): $15/day (2)  ~$225TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (L/D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D)

Activities: Tour Wineries and have samples $ varies (find wineries with free samples and tours like Korbel Champagne Cellars)  $0 

Trip Total:  $487.99 TL

Option #3: Bodega Bay, CA (Coast)

Pacific Ocean at Bodega Bay - Photo taken by me Feb 2011

Hotel:  Bodega Harbor Inn - Water Tower Room with 1Q @ regular-rate (breakfast only on weekends during winter); public spaces with chairs and picnic tables over looking water; TripAdvisor Reviews  $199.80 TL

Car: City Rent-a-Car; Economy Car, 2-day weekend; no additional insurance  $49.89 TL
Gas: 66 miles each way (~1.5hr); round trip 132 miles with 25 mpg at $3.50/gal  $18.48 TL
Parking:  Hotel Parking  $0

Food: Breakfast (B): $0/day (2); Lunch (L): $20/day (3); Dinner (D): $45/day (3); Drinks (Dr): $15/day (2)  ~$225TL (for two people)

Based on Day 1 (L/D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D)
Activities: Walking trails around coast $0pp  $0

Trip Total:  $493.14 TL

November Foodie Penpals

Where did November go?!  It seems like this month just flew by!  One bit of exciting news is that I got accepted into my grad school program!  I will be a (part-time) student starting in January - YIKES! 

So, I had so much fun last month that I decided to participate in the foodie penpals again!  (See below for more details.)  This month Sarah @ sarah learns sent me some delicious treats from Wisconsin!  I was so excited to try everything!  (Sorry that some of the items are open and partially eaten - I couldn't find my camera right away and couldn't resist sampling.)

My box contained:

Organic Tamari-roasted Almonds (aka: DELICIOUS!):  I had to hide these from my husband, and he is already asking if we can find these in Ohio! I have been eating a small handful of these to give me a boost before I work out.  (I work out at my office gym during my lunch hour and these help me survive until I have lunch afterwards.)

Sesame Bar with Date Syrup:  I have to admit that I was a little nervous about trying these as I did not know what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised.  They were quite tasty.

Dagoba organic chocolate - Superfruit:  This is "rich dark chocolate, acai, currants, & goji berries" and it is tied for my favorite item in the box! :)  

Christine's Coffee Toffee:  This is what tied with the Dagoba bar.  It is a thin layer of toffee with small coffee bean pieces on one side and a thin layer of dark chocolate on the other.  Made with Wisconsin butter and coffee! (Got to love local!)

Semolina Pizza Crust Mix:  Haven't gotten to try this yet, but it claims you only need to add water - sounds easy enough.

Slack's Red Raspberry Jam:  I love raspberries (good guess Sarah!) and this jam is full of favor.  I ate it for breakfast on bagels this past week. 

Thanks again Sarah for all the delicious Wisconsin treats!  It is always fun to see local favorites from other places. :)

She even included this cute little pocket guide of local Southern Wisconsin restaurants that use local ingredients!  What a great idea. :)

If you are interested in joining the Foodie Penpals program, here are some details:

-On the 5th of every month, you will receive your penpal pairing via email. It will be your responsibility to contact your penpal and get their mailing address and any other information you might need like allergies or dietary restrictions.
-You will have until the 15th of the month to put your box of goodies in the mail. On the last day of the month, you will post about the goodies you received from your penpal!
-The boxes are to be filled with fun foodie things, local food items or even homemade treats! The spending limit is $15. The box must also include something written. This can be anything from a note explaining what’s in the box, to a fun recipe…use your imagination!
-You are responsible for figuring out the best way to ship your items depending on their size and how fragile they are. (Don’t forget about flat rate boxes!)
-Foodie Penpals is open to blog readers as well as bloggers. If you’re a reader and you get paired with a blogger, you are to write a short guest post for your penpal to post on their blog about what you received. If two readers are paired together, neither needs to worry about writing a post for that month. *US Residents only please at this time- hopefully we can expand soon!*

For more information on the foodie penpals, check out the details on The Lean Green Bean.

If you’re interested in participating in December's foodie penpals, please send Lindsay an email at theleangreenbean@gmail.com by December 4th and include the following information:
-Your full name
-Your email address
-Your blog name/address
-Your twitter handle (if applicable)

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UPDATE:  Since it is not letting me comment on my own post:

@ sarahlearns:  The chocolate was wonderful.  I finally ate the last bite today and am sad that it is gone!

@ Lindsay @ The Lean Green Bean: The toffee was delicious!  Maybe you will get lucky and have Sarah as your penpal one month! :)

@ Sarah:  I would definitely recommend trying them if you like almonds - they are almost addicting!

@ Kimberly: AGREED!  :)

Saving for Trips

Having money to travel is like saving for anything else - you need to do it on purpose.  Rarely is there just enough spare money in your bank account to take a trip.  I choose to save money every month because for me travel is a priority.  I even have a separate savings account that is labeled as our "Trip Fund".  I understand that not everyone is that dedicated to their vacations, but even being able to get away every once and a while is nice.
 

Fortunately, it doesn't take much money for it to add up though.  I think some people would be surprised at how little you would need to put away when you break it down per day or per week.  For the previous post (Challenge: Romantic Getaway) the budget was $1500 by late August.  At first that amount may seem daunting, but if you save just $5/day ($35/week) then by the end of August you would have the $1500 for the trip (or at least pretty darn close).

For a shorter trip like Option #3 to Niagara Falls (Challenge: Niagara Falls) you would need about $600.  To reach $650 by the trip on May 10th, you would only need to save about $25/week ($3.57/day) and this even gives you a little extra.  If you wanted to take that same trip in the fall (assuming same prices) you could put away only $2/day and still have $650 by the end of September!  These are some examples of items most of us usually wouldn't think twice about buying:

-Starbucks drink: usually around $4
-Chipotle: $6 without a drink or chips
-Hallmark card: $3-5

-2 for $20 Meals: ~$25 with tax+tip
-New Shirt: $15 for even an average shirt at Kohl's or Target

While it is unlikely that you will stop buying these things completely, it just gives an idea of areas you could find a few dollars to save a for a trip - even if you only pick one!  So now instead of spending that money, put it away in your trip fund.  If you get a few dollars for a birthday or holiday put that directly into the fund, too.  It can help you save up to your goal quicker or give yourself a few days off from saving.

Anyone else saving up for a special trip?  If so, where are you planning to visit?  

I always have a hard time deciding where to go next, but my husband and I are thinking maybe New York City or Boston.

Challenge: Romantic Getaway

This is a request for a friend in D.C. Her and her husband are hoping to take a trip together during late Summer 2012. By waiting to travel until the end of summer, places are usually a little less crowded and most children have started back to school. While these trip are not overly romantic, they offer quiet time to enjoy the sun while relaxing together.

Criteria: Week-long romantic getaway

Needs/Wants: Sunshine - either a beach or cruise

Time Frame: Last-summer / early-autumn 2012

Budget: $1500 TL for two (Based on travel from Washington D.C.)

Option #1: Myrtle Beach, SC
(8/25/12-9/1/12)

This photo of Myrtle Beach is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Hotel: Dunes Village Resort - Oceanfront Deluxe 1K Studio @ "25+5 Online Early Booking Special"-rate; Kitchen; Spa; Golf; Indoor water park; TripAdvisor award $737.27TL
Option to add breakfast for $9pp/day

Car/Gas: 415 mile each way (~7.5hr); round trip 830 miles with 27mpg at $3.50/gal $107.59 TL
Parking: Optional Unlimited Valet $10/day $70+tip (Could not find details on other parking options)

Food: Breakfast: $5/day (7day = $35); Lunch: $15/day (8days = $120); Dinner: $40/day (7days = $280); Drinks: $10/day (6days = $60) ~$495TL = $90/day
To afford a nicer meal out, consider eating during lunch - same food for better prices. Then have dinner back at the hotel...you can eat while watching the sun set from your balcony.
See Challenge: National Parks for additional suggestions on food when you have a kitchen!

Activities: IMAX 3D $13pp (online prices); Tanger Outlet Mall; Myrtle Beach Visitors' Guide ~$26TL

Trip Total: $1435.86 TL

Option #2: Caribbean Cruise
(9/3/12-9/8/12)

This photo of Grand Turk is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Cruise: Carnival - 5 Day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, FL (9/3/12-9/8/12) - Interior Porthole Cabin @ Early Saver rate $945.14TL
Price includes round trip cruise transfers ($64) and gratuity ($115)
w/o transfers or gratuity =$766.14TL

Vacation Protection: $98TL (Optional)
Airfare: American Airlines - Washington DC (DCA) to Miami (MIA) Nonstop Flights $302.80TL

Food: Included with cruise $0pp
Beverages: Based on 2 drinks per person per day at $5/drink $100TL

Activities: Included with cruise $0pp
Passport: Passport Card (Valid for travel to Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, or Bermuda by land or sea ONLY) $55p
Trip Total: $1445.94TL (including vacation protection but not passport costs)

October Foodie Penpals

While I primarily write about travel, one of the joys of traveling for me is trying new food.  When I heard about Foodie Penpals, I thought it sounded like a fun way to try new foods from all over the United States.  October was my first month to participate and here is what I received:

My box was from Erin @ Creative Soul in Motion who lives in the Boston area.  She sent me a wonderful "I ♥ New England" themed package!

 

Item #1:  Maple Syrup - So far I have only used the syrup for Saturday morning pancakes, but I plan to use it for a few more recipes including a Maple-Simmered Chicken recipe from my Clean Eating magazine (Oct '11). It tastes much better than the artificially sweetened types.  

Item #2:  Apple Butter - This apple butter was delicious and perfect for fall!  I have been using it on my toast in the morning for breakfast.

Item #3: Apples - Fresh apples picked by Erin from Honey-Pot Hill Orchard...Yum!

Item #4: Homemade Muffins - I had these for breakfast.  My husband really liked these, too.  

Item #5: Honey - Sadly, the honey jar broke during shipping so I did not get to try it.  Since it smelled nice, I'm sure it would have tasted delicious... 

 Along with all my goodies, Erin included some information about her recommendations for restaurants and activities in Boston:

"...Start at the Flour Bakery in Fort Point for breakfast, meander over to the Isabella Stewart Gardner museum for the morning, stop by a farmers' market on the way to lunch at Cafe L'Aroma.  Then stroll through the gardens and explore Beacon Hill before going up to Cambridge for a fabulous dinner at Upstairs on the Square.  Then I would explore Harvard Square while the sun slowly sets."

This sounds like such a fun day in Boston!  She also included menus for:

-The Cottage  They have a delicious looking brunch menu - think Stuffed French Toast, Tuscan Omelette, and Maine Lobster BLT+A...yummy! (I love breakfast foods!)

-Cuchi Cuchi  A place meant to capture "old world beauty and early hollywood" which has international small pair&share dishes including mushroom risotto, thai mussels, and duck a l'orange crepes.  They even have vintage cocktails!  (Sounds like a fun place for a girls' evening out!)

- Dali  This restaurant and tapas bar is a sister restaurant of Cuchi Cuchi with many items to pick from including queso de cambra montañas (baked goat cheese w/ tomato & basil), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and conejo escabechado (braised rabbit w/ red wine, juniper, & garlic). 

 

For more information on the foodie penpals, check out the details on The Lean Green Bean.

If you’re interested in participating in November's foodie penpals, please send Lindsay an email at theleangreenbean@gmail.com by November 4th and include the following information:
-Your full name
-Your email address
-Your blog name/address
-Your twitter handle (if applicable)

Challenge: Niagara Falls, ON

The Niagara Falls in Ontario, Canada is a beautiful place. It was designated as a TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice® 2011 Winner (Destination and Family Categories).  Since this is only a 6hr drive from Columbus, it makes an easy weekend trip.  There are many things to do in the area besides view the Falls.  Please remember that you now need a passport to travel to Canada.  (For questions about passports go to the US Dept of State's website.)   
While some items are priced in US Dollars (USD) and others are in Canadian Dollars (CAD) the exchange rate is currently very close to even, so I did not bother to adjust Canadian dollars into US dollars.  All prices are US dollars unless otherwise noted.

This photo of Niagara Falls is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Criteria:  Close to the falls and other activities.

Needs/Wants: Variety of activities beside seeing the Niagara Falls.

Time Frame:  Long weekend - prices based on May 10-13 (3nights/4days)

Budget:  #1 $1500 / #2 $1000 / #3 $600 TL for 2 people

Option #1: Niagara Fall - Fallsview

Hotel: The Tower Hotel - Standard 1Q Fallsview @ 20% for 3nt-rate (no breakfast); mostly positive TripAdvisor reviews   $622.92 TL

Car/Gas: 352 miles each way (~6hr); round trip 704 miles with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $112.00 TL

Parking:  Valet Parking $15/day  $45

Transportation: Walking distance  $0 TL

Food: Breakfast (B): $10/day ($30); Lunch (L): $35/day ($105); Dinner (D): $60/day ($180); Drinks (Dr): $20/day ($60)  ~$375TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 4 (B/L)

Activities: Maid of the Mist Tour $16.50CADpp; Niagara Wine Trail $0 OR use the Vino Visa Passport $25pp (Worth the money if you plan to visit multiple wineries for free tastings); Fallsview Casino $0 (unless you gamble); Niagara Sky Wheel $8.99pp (with $1off coupon on website); Butterfly Conservatory $12.25pp; Botanical Gardens $0; Niagara Helicopter Rides $132pp; Crystal Beach $0  $390 TL 

Trip Total:  $1544.92 TL

Option #2: Niagara Falls - B&B

Hotel: Greystone Manor Bed and Breakfast - Topaz Guest Room 1Q @ TripAdvisor 15% off-rate (must pay in cash to received discount); private entrance; breakfast; mini-fridge and microwave; ranked as #1 B&B by the Niagara Falls on TripAdvisor  $300CAD + 13% tax = $339CAD TL

Car/Gas: 352 miles each way (~6hr); round trip 704 miles with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $112.00 TL

Parking:  Complimentary Off Street Parking  $0

Transportation: Walking $0 OR PeopleMover Buses  $8.85pp/day  $84 TL

Food: Breakfast (included): $0/day (0); Lunch: $30/day ($90); Dinner: $50/day ($150); Drinks: $15/day ($45)  ~$285TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 4 (B/L)

Activities: Maid of the Mist Tour $16.50CADpp; Niagara Wine Trail $0 OR use the Vino Visa Passport $25pp (Worth the money if you plan to visit multiple wineries for free tastings); Fallsview Casino $0; Niagara Sky Wheel $8.99pp (with $1off coupon on website); Butterfly Conservatory $12.25pp; Botanical Gardens $0; Crystal Beach $0  $125 TL

Trip Total:  $915 TL

Option #3: Niagara Falls - Near Falls 

(may include long walk or very short drive)

Hotel: The Rex Motel - 1Q @ regular-rate; breakfast; mini-fridge and microwave; good value based on TripAdvisor reviews   $215CAD + 13% tax = $242.95CAD TL

Car/Gas: 352 miles each way (~6hr); round trip 704 miles with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $112.00 TL

Parking:  Complimentary Parking  $0

Transportation: For parking if you do not feel like walking  $25 TL

Food: Breakfast (B): $5/day ($15); Lunch (L): $20/day ($60); Dinner (D): $40/day ($120); Drinks (Dr): $0/day (0)  ~$205TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (D), Day 2 (B/L/D), Day 3 (B/L/D), Day 4 (B/L)

Activities: Maid of the Mist Tour $16.50CADpp; Niagara Wine Trail $0; Fallsview Casino $0; Niagara Sky Wheel $8.99pp (with $1off coupon on website); Botanical Gardens $0; Crystal Beach $0  $75 TL 

Trip Total:  $605.45 TL

If Money Grew on Trees...Dhara Dhevi

I love autumn!  Lucky for me, Ohio is currently getting plenty of beautiful weather with sunshine and temperatures in the 70s!  Want to know what makes it even better?!  It is supposed to stay like this for the rest of the weekend!

Even while I am enjoying this wonderful fall weather at home, I would love to travel to Thailand to visit the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi hotel.  TripAdvisor ranks this hotel as a Travelers' Choice 2011 Winner (Luxury Category).  After looking at the photos, I can see why - it is stunning!  Their website lists several activities in the area including white water rafting, an elephant camp, and the Mae Si Waterfall, along with several places to shop.


Mandarin Oriental: Dhara Dhevi
Chiang Mai, Thailand

Main Entrance - This photo of Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai is courtesy of TripAdvisor

The Spa - This photo of Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Reception Area - This photo of Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Challenge: National Parks

"The farther one gets into the wilderness, the greater is the attraction of its lonely freedom."
- Theodore Roosevelt

The National Parks in the US are diverse and beautifully preserved.  They are parts of nature that most of us do not get to see on a regular basis.  I have selected three National Parks from different areas of the country for this weeks' challenge.

Criteria: We would like to be able to do some hiking and outdoor activities, but would like some other options in case there is bad weather at some point in the trip.

Needs/Wants:  Preferably a good location (either in the park or outside) for exploring.  Once again...it's about value.  There will likely be more convenient locations, but you will have to pay (usually more) for it.  There are also cheaper options (like camping) if you want to spend less.

Time Frame: May 19-26, 2012 - Saturday to Saturday (7nts/8days)

Budget: $2000 TL for two people

 Option #1: Yellowstone National Park

Old Faithful Geyser - This photo of Yellowstone National Park is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Hotel: Alpine Motel (West Yellowstone, MT) (5nts) - 1Q with mini-fridge and microwave - TripAdvisor Reviews $325+tx (estimated at 13%)  ~$367.25 TL
Hyatt Park Salt Lake City Airport (1nt) - 1K @ AAA-rate with complimentary breakfast - TripAdvisor Reviews  $80.22 TL
If you have your heart set on staying in the park, I would stay the first 4 nights in West Yellowstone and spend the 5th night in the park.  Last night is spent near SLC airport. 

Airfare: Southwest Airlines Columbus, OH (CMH) to Salt Lake City, UT (SLC)  $757.60 TL
Transportation: Enterprise Rental Car - Compact Sized for 1 week  $204.28 TL without additional insurance 
Before accepting any extra insurances from the rental company, check with your current car insurance or credit card company.  Some will cover your rental car in case of an accident. 
Car/Gas: 323 miles each way (~5hr 30min); round trip 646 miles with 30mpg at $3.50/gal  $75.37 TL

Food: Breakfast: $5/day (7day = $35); Lunch: $15/day (8days = $120); Dinner: $50/day (7days = $350)  ~$505TL (for two people)
Utilize the mini-fridge and microwave by stopping by the grocery store!  A bowl of cereal and a fruit or Greek yogurt with granola can make a cheap and filling breakfast.  Buy a cheap cooler and pack your lunch to eat in the park. 
While at any park, there are activities (ie: hiking) that will not be convenient to food.  I recommend packing easy snacks that can help keep you satisfied until your next meal such as granola, nuts, a PB&J sandwich, apples, etc.  
PLEASE be aware that wildlife may be attracted to your food, so take precautions! 
Activities: Park Entrance 7-Day Pass $25/vehicle; Hiking $0pp; Yellowstone IMAX Theater $8pp (if you print the $1off coupon); Yellowstone Mountain Guides Horse Rides (20mins away) - 2hr Trail $75pp/1/2 day Trail $95pp ~$191TL (with 2hr trail) 

Trip Total:  $2180.72 TL (without trail ride = $2030.72TL)

Option #2: Acadia National Park

This photo of Acadia National Park is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Hotel:  Eden Village Motel (5nts) - 1K in Motel section with mini-fridge and microwave (renovated in 2010 according to their website) - Good value TripAdvisor reviews  (Between $49-$99/nt; no online reservations so I estimated at $75/nt) $375+tx (estimated at 13%) ~$423.75 TL (Could range from $277-$559)

Howard Johnson Plaza - Portland (2nts) - 1K @ AAA-rate (no breakfast) - Good TripAdvisor reviews  $190.32 TL
Airfare: United Airlines Columbus, OH (CMH) to Portland, ME (PWM) - One-stop each way  $601.60 TL 
Transportation: Budget Rental Car - Compact Sized for 1 week  $156.52 TL without additional insurance 
Car/Gas: 257 miles each way (~5hr); round trip 514 miles with 30mpg at $3.50/gal  $59.97 TL

Food: Breakfast: $5/day (7day = $35); Lunch: $15/day (8days = $120); Dinner: $50/day (7days = $350)  ~$505TL (for two people)

See food tips from above. 
Activities: Park Entrance 7-Day Pass (Discounted price from 5/1-6/22) $10/vehicle; Park Tours & Activities $0pp (most); Acadia Mountain Guides Private Half-Day Rock Climbing Tour $90pp; Bar Harbor Whale Watching Co Lobster Fishing & Seal Watching Tour $29pp (Whale watching not available until mid-June for $58pp); Kittery Premium Outlets OR The Kittery Outlets $depends how much you buy!; Lighthouses $varies  $250TL 
Some activities are a little far and may require planning.  Maybe stop at some places on your way from the airport to Bar Harbor or on your way back.  

Trip Total:  $2187.16 TL ($2007.16TL without Rock Climbing)

Option #3: Great Smokey Mountains National Park 

This photo of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Since there is no airfare for this location, we are able to upgrade our accommodations. 

Hotel:  Great Cabins in the Smokies - Rendezview Cabin - 1K with hot tub on deck, sauna, washer/dryer, 2 gas fireplaces  $1031.67 TL

Car/Gas: 400 miles each way (~6hr 45min); round trip 800 miles with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $127.27 TL
Food: Food: Breakfast: $5/day (7day = $35); Lunch: $15/day (8days = $120); Dinner: $50/day (7days = $350)  ~$505TL (for two people) 
Take advantage of a full kitchen - stop by the grocery stop when you get there and buy food to make at the cabin.  
Activities: Park Entrance $0pp; CLIMB Works Canopy 3hr Zipline $89pp; Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies $22.99pp; Smoky Mountain Riding Stables 1hr ride $25pp; Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery Tour and Tasting $0pp  $273.98TL 

Check out coupons at Smoky Mountain Coupon Book or request an official Gatlinburg Travel Guide.

Trip Total:  $1937.92 TL

Stay tuned...

I was out of town visiting the lovely city of New Orleans for some travel inspiration!

A new Challenge is in the making and will be up later this week so stay tuned!

 “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails.  Explore. Dream. Discover.”  

-Mark Twain

If Money Grew on Trees...ICEHOTEL

It's Friday!  

So I have never been much of a beach bum...I am not the girl who dreams of a warm tropical place by the ocean.  In fact, as the weather turns chilly in Ohio I am dreaming of this year's ICEHOTEL.  An intriguing blend of art, ice, and lodging - I hope to someday stay in this glamorous igloo!

Today's location:  ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden


This photo of ICEHOTEL is courtesy of TripAdvisor
2011 Main Hall Artists: Sofi Ruotsalainen, Mats Nille Nilsson & Lena Kriström, Sweden

Every year they construct an entire hotel made of snow and ice (and some steel for support).  Each room is unique and designed by a different artist.  Guests can stay in the ICEHOTEL and sleep on "beds" (blocks of ice) with reindeer hides and sleeping bags.  Their website states:

"Inside ICEHOTEL, the temperature is never colder than -5 °C to -8 °C, regardless of how cold it may be outside.
Dress in warm thermal underwear, put on a hat and slip into the cozy sleeping bag. You are awakened in the morning with a cup of hot lingonberry juice at your bedside."

This photo of ICEHOTEL is courtesy of TripAdvisor
2011 Art Deco Suite Artists: Tomasz Czajkowski & Eryk Marks, Poland

  If you are thinking that is a little too extreme for you, they do offer warm accommodations so you can still enjoy the beauty without sleeping in it.  The list of activities at the hotel includes dog sledding, snowmobile tours, ice carving classes, and Northern Lights tours.  Couples can even get married in the The Ice Church during their visit.  For more pictures and reviews on this unique hotel, check out travelers' posts on TripAdvisor!

You can even follow their blog (ICEHOTEL blog) to see concept drawings of the rooms for this upcoming year!

Challenge: Washington, D.C.

I just got back from a weekend in Washington DC visiting family, so I felt inspired to use the nation's capital as this week's challenge.  

Washington DC is a great place to visit for multiple reasons with one of the best (travel) reasons being FREE ADMISSION to many of the museums and monuments!  (This site lists 100 things!)  There is so much to see and do in the DC area, and this week's challenge shows what you can afford with three different budgets.  For more ideas beyond those listed here, check out washington.org and thedistrict.com. 

Criteria 

Needs/Wants:  We are looking for a place with easy access to monuments and museums, either by walking or public transportation.   

Time Frame:  3 nights / 4 days - Leaving early on Day 1 in order to arrive during mid afternoon.  Departing around lunchtime on Day 4 in order to arrive home in the evening.  I have picked October 21-24, 2012 (Friday-Monday) for pricing estimates. 

Budget:  There are three different trip budgets: $750, $1,000 and $1,500.  This includes transportation, lodging, food, and activities for two people.  Please note that prices are TOTAL (not per person).  Since most of the activities are free, these plans could be adjusted to a family of 4 - two adults and two kids.  Most of the budget adjustments would be in Food, Metro Passes, and Airfare (if flying).

Option #1: $750 Total Trip Budget

Hotel:  Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Shirlington - 1K @ Advanced Purchase (non-refundable)-rate (no breakfast); Complimentary shuttle to the Pentagon City metro stop (Check out the great reviews on TripAdvisor)  $340.67 TL

Car/Gas: 417mile each way (~7.5hr); round trip 834 miles with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $132.68 TL

Parking:  Hilton Garden Self Park  $0

Transportation:  DC Metro - Calculate exact metro lines (ex: Blue Line Pentagon City to Smithsonian $4.80pp round trip  ~$30.00 TL

Food: Breakfast (B): $6/day (3); Lunch (L): $20/day(4); Dinner (D): $40/day(3); Drinks (Dr): $10/day(3)  ~$248TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (L/D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 4 (B/L)
To save money, buy food at a local grocery or market.  For a cheap yet filling breakfast, I recommend a protein bar or shake.  Groupon, Living Social, and other discount websites can help you find restaurant deals so you can get more for you money.

Activities: Smithsonian Museums & Zoo $0pp; White House $0pp (must set up tour with your congressman at least 21 days in advanced!); US Capital Building $0pp; Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Monument $0pp; Holocaust Museum $0pp; Arlington National Cemetery $0pp; Walk around Georgetown $0pp  $0 
(Please note that while all of these museums are free, many do require a ticket!  Free tickets can usually be picked up on a first-come first-served basis at each museum but check their web pages for more details.)

Trip Total:  $751.35 TL

Option #2: $1,000 Total Trip Budget

Hotel:  Renaissance Arlington Capital View - 1K @ AAA-rate (no breakfast); Complimentary shuttle to the Crystal City metro stop (Check out their reviews on TripAdvisor)  $310.90 TL
(This hotel is cheaper than option #1, but charges a minimum of $16/day for parking making it more expensive.)

Car/Gas: 417mile each way (~7.5hr); round trip 834 miles with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $132.68

Parking:  Renaissance off-site Parking $16/day $48 TL

Transportation:  DC Metro - One Day MetroRail Pass: $9pp/day - $54 TL

Food: Breakfast (B): $15/day(3); Lunch (L): $30/day(4); Dinner (D): $60/day(3); Drinks (Dr): $30/day(3)  ~$435TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (L/D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 4 (B/L)

Activities: Smithsonian Museums & Zoo $0pp; White House $0pp (must set up tour with your congressman at least 21 days in advanced!); US Capital Building $0pp; Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Monument $0pp; Holocaust Museum $0pp; Arlington National Cemetery $0pp; Walk around Georgetown $0pp  $0  
Trip Total:  $980.58 TL
(Please see notes from trip option #1.)

Option #3: $1,500 Total Trip Budget

Hotel:  Hotel George, a Kimpton Hotel - 1Q @ AAA Advanced Purchase (non-refundable)-rate; $10 Starbucks giftcard per night; Walking distance to the sites (just north of Capital Hill) and Union metro/train stop (Check out glowing reviews on TripAdvisor)   $491.22 

Residence Inn Washington, DC /Capitol - 1K @ AAA-rate;  Full breakfast buffet; Walking distance to the sites (just south of National Mall) and Federal Center SW metro stop (Check out their good reviews on TripAdvisor)   $553.03   (Same hotel on washington.org is $475.27; I would call to see if they would match the price without booking through a third-party site.)
Airfare: US Airways Columbus (CMH) to Washington DC (DCA) Direct Flights - $440 TL

Transportation:  Estimated taxi fare ~$20 each way  ~$40 TL
DC Metro - One Day MetroRail Pass: $9pp/day - $54 TL

Food: Breakfast (B): Included (or use Starbucks card); Lunch (L): $30/day(4); Dinner (D): $60/day(3); Drinks (Dr): $30/day(3)  ~$390 TL (for two people)
Based on Day 1 (L/D/Dr), Day 2 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 3 (B/L/D/Dr), Day 4 (B/L)

Activities: Smithsonian Museums & Zoo $0pp; White House $0pp (must set up tour with your congressman at least 21 days in advanced!); US Capital Building $0pp; Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Monument $0pp; Holocaust Museum $0pp; Arlington National Cemetery $0pp; Walk around Georgetown $0pp  $0 

Trip Total:  $1415.22 (Hotel George) OR $1477.03 (Residence Inn)

(Please see notes from trip option #1.)
 

Please note that prices were accurate at the time of posting but can change quickly.  Feel free to post any questions or comments!

If Money Grew On Trees...

HAPPY FRIDAY!  

What better way to start off a weekend than dreaming of someplace exotic!  Since there is usually a difference between where I dream of visiting and where I can actually afford to visit, I am calling this my "If Money Grew On Trees" post.  This is where I would LOVE to visit if I money were no object, and I could travel without worrying about a budget!  Hey, a girl can dream! 

Today's location:  Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, India 

Picture from Orbitz.com

This hotel was a TripAdvisor Travel's Choice 2011 Winner!  It is located in the western region of India.  The hotel-palace is literally in the lake; visitors take a boat from shore to the hotel.  The courtyard in the center looks stunning!  For more pictures and traveler reviews on what makes this place so spectacular, check out the posts on TripAdvisor!

Picture from Orbitz.com

Challenge: Girls' Getaway

While having dinner last weekend with two of my friends, we decided it was time that we take a trip together.  We discussed several options for our Girls' Getaway...here are our choices:

Criteria 

Needs/Wants:  We are looking for a place with shopping, activities, and good food & drinks.   

Time Frame:  We are trying to make the trip around 3-4 days, spanning over a weekend.  (We all work and this helps maximize our vacation days.)  I have picked January 2012 for pricing estimates and will give the exact dates for each trip below. 

Budget:  The goal is to keep the trip around $500 per person.  This includes transportation, lodging, food, and activities.

Option #1: Bahama Cruise

During January it would be nice to enjoy the sunshine since Ohio is usually pretty dreary this time of year.  A cruise is a nice option because it is mostly all-inclusive (except for soda and alcohol).  Unfortunately, this is at the higher end of our price range.  And the big question - is it worth $50pp for an extra day??

Option #1a (1/26/12-1/30/12)

Cruise: Carnival - 4 Day Bahamas from Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL - Interior Cabin  $233.44pp

Airfare: Southwest Airlines - Columbus (CMH) to Orlando (MCO) Nonstop Flights  $263.40pp

Transportation to/from Port: AAA SuperRide for round trip transfers  $38.00pp+tax

Food:  Included with cruise $0pp

Activities:  Included with cruise $0pp

Trip Total:  $534.84pp  (Please note this per person total does include known taxes but not gratuity or alcoholic beverages...realistically, it would probably be closer to $600pp with those items factored in.)

Option #1b (1/20/12-1/23/12)

Cruise: Carnival - 3 Day Bahamas from Miami, FL  $228.26pp

Airfare: AirTran - Columbus (CMH) to Fort Lauderdale (FLL)  $218.10pp

Transportation to/from Port: SAS Transportation $15pp each way (mixed/good YELP reviews)  $30pp
Food:  Included with cruise $0pp

Activities:  Included with cruise $0pp

Trip Total:  $476.36pp  (Please note this per person total does include known taxes but not gratuity or alcoholic beverages...realistically, it would probably be closer to $550pp with those items factored in.)

Option #2: Chicago, IL (1/12/12-1/15/12)

Chicago is a beautiful city!  There is plenty of shopping on the Magnificent Mile, several museums, good food (think Chicago deep dish pizza and Garrett's popcorn!), and several theaters.  One downside to this choice is the chilly weather that can be unpredictable during the winter.

Hotel:  Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown - 2D @ AAA-rate Breakfast Included  Plus, great reviews on TripAdvisor - always a nice thing!  $113.21pp 
(We could get a slightly cheaper rate at $106.92pp, but it would be non-refundable. Given that we are traveling in January it is worth it to have the option of canceling in case of bad weather.)

Car/Gas: 713 miles (~6hr) round trip with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $37.81pp

Parking:  North Clark Street Parking Garage - $23 for 24hr  $23pp
(Use Chicago Parking Map and Chicago Central Parking to help find a parking garage and prices.)

OR 
Transportation:  MegaBus (Estimated price since you can not book that far in advanced.) $36pp 
(Save even more by selecting the overnight bus to arrive on Friday morning - saves $37.74pp on hotel costs!)

Food: Breakfast: Included; Lunch: $15/day; Dinner: $30/day; Drinks: $20/day  ~$200pp

Activities: Willis Tower (formerly known as The Sears Tower) $17pp; Art Institute of Chicago $18pp; Millennium Park $0pp  $35pp
(Check Chicago Office of Tourism for discounts and coupons.  Hot Tix has half off on day-of tickets for plays and musicals.)

Trip Total:  $409pp (Drive & Park) OR $384.21pp (MegaBus)

Option #3: Nashville, TN (1/12/12-1/15/12)

Nashville is the heart of country music.  It is just far enough south to feel "southern" but still an easy drive from Columbus.  Plus, a large outlet mall beside the Grand Ole Opry (note that the outlet mall is still being redone after the flooding, but some stores are supposed to be open by the end of 2011.)

Hotel:  Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville-Downtown - 2Q @ AAA-rate Breakfast included  $174.32pp 
(Rated #6 on TripAdvisor for Nashville Hotels plus walking distance to the downtown nightlife.)

Car/Gas: 762 miles (~6hr 15min) round trip with 22mpg at $3.50/gal  $40.41pp

Parking:  329 4th Avenue South Downtown Lot (right beside the Hampton Inn) with coupon $5pp

Food:  Breakfast: Included; Lunch: $15/day; Dinner: $30/day; Drinks: $20/day  ~$200pp

Activities:  Ryman Auditorium; Grand Ole Opry ~$50pp

Trip Total:  $469.75pp 

Alternative Nashville Hotel Option: Alexis Inn & Suites Nashville Airport Opryland Hotel - 2Q @ 15% off with Continental Breakfast  $93.61pp  

(This is not the best options for us because we plan to enjoy the downtown nightlife and would have to take a cab at ~$28 each way, otherwise good reviews on TripAdvisor especially for the great price!)

Please note that prices were accurate at the time of posting but can change quickly.

Introduction

I have always enjoyed traveling.
I enjoy everything related to traveling, even planning for it...yes, PLANNING.  I will create itineraries and budgets for trips that I have no intentions to take anytime soon.  (I always plan to go eventually, but vacation days and budget limit the number of adventures I can take.)  I am already spending hours doing research for fun, so I thought I would share my findings so that other people can be inspired to travel, too!  I do not base my travel on budget alone.  I think of it more as value travel - getting the best experience for the best price!

Since I live in Columbus, OH all of my trips will be based from Columbus as the starting point unless stated otherwise.  I am always looking for new ideas on where to go.  I would love to hear other people's thoughts, suggestions, or questions.  If you are a local to one of my destinations, please comment and share some insight about great things to do while there! 

If you have a location or type of trip you are curious about then send me a message, and it may be the travel challenge for the week!

My Abbreviations:

 TL = Total (usually includes tax unless otherwise stated)

pp =  per person

/nt = per night for a room (usually based on double occupancy)

tx = tax 

 ~ = approximately 

(example: ~6hr means approximately 6 hours)

Hotels: T = Twin bed / D = Double bed / Q = Queen bed / K = King bed

(example: 2D means two double beds)

Breakfast (B) / Lunch (L) / Dinner (D) / Drinks (Dr)