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9 Virginia Beach Budget Activities

July 30, 2015 by Rhonda Gales

Today, I’m sharing a few travel tips on Virginia Beach budget activities. First, as a single mother budgeting has become second nature to me. This year I will be spending a few days in Virginia Beach with my grandchildren instead of taking them to Myrtle Beach as we normally do. So, before I leave for vacation I search for things to do to ensure we don’t get bored and the activities within my budget. Unfortunately, many families think they can’t afford a vacation because they have to fund every activity for the entire week. Not true!

There’s more to Virginia Beach than the Atlantic Ocean and miles of sand. So, the key is to research free and budget friendly things for the family to do before you leave for vacation. Furthermore, make a list of Virginia Beach activities and discuss them with your family. If it’s something they aren’t interested in, you still have time to do additional research before you arrive. I searched the Hampton Roads area, which includes Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, Williamsburg and Hampton. Trust me, there’s something for everybody.

Here’s 9 Virginia Beach Budget Activities:

1. Naval Station Norfolk – You must see the world’s largest naval base. The base houses 75 ships and 134 aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers, large amphibious ships, submarines, supply ships, airplanes and helicopters. In addition, the tour includes historic homes in the Jamestown, VA area.

2. Beach Street USA Entertainment – Next, you can find laser and light shows to interactive adventures based on a theme or popular movies. You could be required to unravel a murder mystery, play other games or compete in contests. Also, they have nights where you dress up as characters from movies or watch a movie on the beach. Check out the site for activities of for day.

photo from Virginia Legends

3. Virginia Beach Legend Walk – Additionally, free tours of Virginians who have made significant contributions to the country and/or world. Some of the inductee are Arthur Ashe, Patsy Cline, Katie Couric, Ella Fitzgerald, and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson to name a few. Great way to get a family conversation going on the inductees.

4. Virginia Beach Amusement Park – The Hurricane, Skycraper, Music Express and Comic Storm are a few rides that you will discover on the boardwalk. Great entertainment for the entire family, and the park offers all day wrist bands too.

photo from Mt. Trashmore

5. Mt. Trashmore Park – Also, a 165 acre park that has 11 picnic shelters of various sizes, 2 volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, playgrounds, a skate park, restrooms, outdoor fitness stations, concessions and fishing awaits you. Also, if you have a driver’s license or other photo ID you can check out badminton equipment, a football, frisbee, horseshoes, volleyball and net, wheelchairs and more. So, it’s a great way to spend the day away from the beach and enjoy free activities along with a picnic.

photo from Jungle Golf

6. Jungle Golf – So, if you love miniature golf check out this 18 hole golf course with an air conditioned snack bar.

Photo from Ocean Breeze Water Park

7. Ocean Breeze Water Park – Fortunately, the park has over 30 rides, slides, and attractions. Additionally, it is located approximately 10 minutes from the Virginia Beach ocean front. Parking, sunscreen and inner tubes are free. Trams are also available to help you breeze your way into the park. Be sure to put this on your list.

8. Firework Display – The firework displays are awesome. The fact they are ocean front makes it even better. So, be sure to check the schedule for dates and times for the firework displays.

9. Hunt Club Farm – Last, Virginia Beach has plenty of ocean and sand. But, it also has a Petting Zoo and Pony Rides at Hunt Club Farm. They have chickens that are friendly enough to pickup, llamas, goats, peacocks, turkeys and many other animals. They also offer pony rides, a playground area and shaded tables to enjoy a snack. The farm also sells homemade jams, jellies, soaps, candles and more. So, be sure to grab a few souvenirs while you’re there.

Finally, the fireworks displays are truly spectacular over the ocean. Be sure to add this to your Virginia Beach activities. Additionally, my grandchildren love the petting zoo and pony rides at Hunt Club Farm. The Ocean Breeze Water Park is a great way to spend the day too. Adults and kids can enjoy Beach Street USA entertainment. Most importantly, you can find something for everyone on my Virginia Beach activities list without breaking the bank.

Filed Under: Travel Tips, Traveling With Children, Vacation Destinations Tagged With: family activities, family travel destinations, things to do in Virginia Beach, vacation tips

Traveling Solo As a Female

July 28, 2015 by Rhonda Gales

Today, I’m sharing travel tips for women traveling alone. I’ve traveled solo many times for business and on a much needed vacation. I’ve lost track of the number of times that I’ve been asked throughout my journeys, “Are you going alone?” “Don’t you have a friend to go with you?” or “You aren’t afraid to travel by yourself, I could never do that.” Lets not forget this one, “Do you get lonely?” There’s a difference being lonely and being alone.

females traveling solo, women traveling solo, travel tips for females

I remember the first time I traveled alone for vacation although I was married. At the time my daughter was five years old. So, I decided to head to Los Angeles to visit my sister and her family. It was the first time that my daughter and I had flown. My husband made sure we got on the plane without issues, and the flight to Los Angeles was smooth. The next task was to get our luggage and find my sister.

This too went without incident. I juggled luggage and a 5 year old through a international airport. We had a great time in Los Angles and the surrounding areas. We made our way back to Washington-Dulles, and it was at that point I was bitten by the travel bug. Traveling solo as a female no longer intimidated me.

I started making my way around the country for my job shortly thereafter. Getting in and out of airports became second nature to me as well as either renting cars and driving in strange cities or hailing taxis to get from point A to B. When you have a job that requires you to travel, your company doesn’t pay for another person to accompany you. So, you go alone. You put on your big girl pants and you conduct business.

Vacationing in Savannah, GA

I’m no longer married, so I travel solo as a female. I still love to do personal travel. Yes I have friends that I could travel with. But, trying to coordinate a week’s vacation with a friend or group of people can be taxing. I’ve been through that experience before. And, it was by far worst than anything I’ve encountered while traveling solo.

So, I made a vow to never go there again. I’m not one to sit around and wait for another person to get in a position financially to vacation. Or find the time for a vacation. Most importantly, because a person is alone doesn’t mean they are lonely. There’s a difference. I wish people would understand that.

The people that I have met along the way have been insightful. They have impacted my life immensely. On my last trip I met a lady at the airport that I have now become friends with. She called me her angel. I had arrived early at the airport, and the United counter had not opened. Furthermore, they didn’t have a sign posted about their hours.

As a result, I asked if she knew what time the counter opened. She didn’t, but after a small conversation I could clearly see that she was stressed. She was on her way to the states as well; however, she was an inexperienced traveler. We talked and got to know each other and it turns out that she was from South Africa. In fact, not far from where I would like to go on safari.

It’s funny people see women traveling alone as courageous or brave. Why don’t they see men this way? Actually, I see myself as neither. I’m simply doing what I love to do. As a matter of fact, I believe traveling solo has contributed to making me who I am today. I also believe that every woman should travel solo at least once in their life. It’s empowering! If you decide to travel, here’s a few tips for women traveling alone:

1. It Forces You To Step Outside Your Comfort Zone – It requires you to face your fears. I was quite nervous the first time I traveled alone, but I pushed through and marched forward. As a result, I became quite confident in my abilities to reach a destination and enjoy myself. It is definitely a self-esteem boost.

2. It Broadens Your Perspective – Traveling allows you to see that that there is another part of the world. It allows you to interact with people outside of your circle. Furthermore, it allows you to get to know them and a little about their daily life. I have met wonderful people along my journey. Some I have remained in touch with and some I’ve just had a pleasant conversation with. All remain memorable. Why should you miss out, simply because you’re traveling solo as a female.

3. It Allows You to Experience Different Cultures and Foods – One of the things that I love most is experiencing different cultures and treating myself to local dishes. Eating out by myself the first time was a little uncomfortable. However, I decided to take my Kindle and catch up on my reading list. I noticed one lady who was traveling solo doodling. Traveling solo as a female doesn’t have to be difficult.

People find a way to occupy themselves. I’m comfortable enjoying my meals alone and not feeling like an outcast. I’ve had people invite me to join them, but I’ve found I like relaxing and eating alone. Besides, I’m really not into small talk or trying to force a conversation. Getting online and retrieving emails is a much better way for me to occupy my time.

4. It Teaches You To Think About Your Safety – Safety should be a major concern when traveling solo. It forces you to listen to your intuition and to become aware of your surroundings. I always do my homework before traveling. I educate myself on taxi fares so I will have some idea of what I should be buying. If I will be driving, I make sure I arrive during the day so I can reach my destination before night fall.

I make it a habit of checking my surroundings, and never venture too far my hotel at night. I always park under lights and always keep my doors locked when driving or in my hotel room. They make peep holes for a reason, I use it before opening the door for room service, maintenance etc.

5. You Return Feeling Like You Can Conquer The World – Traveling solo as a female makes you stronger as a person. It enhances your leadership, planning and organizational skills. It allows you to get in touch with what you like and do they things you want to do. You get to plan and set your own schedule and not feel obligated to anyone. It’s freeing and totally invigorating!

Furthermore, why can’t women travel alone? Women who are executives in corporations or own their own businesses travel constantly. It seems that traveling for business is acceptable, but there’s still a stigma about a woman traveling alone for a little rest and relaxation. Women want to feel invigorated, and they are refusing to be stifled in any matter. Tips for women traveling alone can be beneficial. Assert your independence, and have a great time!

Filed Under: Travel Tips Tagged With: travel tips, travel tips for women, traveling solo

Tips On How To Pack For Vacation

June 10, 2015 by Rhonda Gales

Some people think Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. I agree, but so is packing for a vacation. In the past, I tried to pack everything that I owned. For some insane reason, I really thought I needed 2 – 3 outfits per day and 10 pair of shoes. I remember when I used to carry a garment bag. Seriously, I had bruises on my shoulders because the bag was so heavy. You think I would have learned, but no I didn’t pack less. I purchased new luggage and filled that to capacity too. Today I have travel tips on how to pack for vacation. Lets get started!

I had the nerve to look at people at the airport and wonder how they traveled with so little. Now I realize that they were probably looking at me and wondering why I was dragging around my closet. Want to know what turned me around? When I traveled for business. I usually drove myself to the airport for business trips. Additionally, I was on per diem when I traveled. As a result, my company would not pay for daily parking. So, I was forced to park in the satellite parking lot. When you park in satellite parking, you have to take a shuttle to the terminal to catch your flight. I soon realized that the world isn’t full of gentlemen who jump up to assist you. No sir, I was on my own getting everything in the car, out the car, on the shuttle, off the shuttle through the airport and back into my car.

I realized that it was unnecessary for me to take so much. I realized that I had to learn how to pack for vacation and business trips like a pro. Have you noticed that we’re the cause of the majority of our own problems? The light bulb finally came on and I accepted that I didn’t need half of what I packed. I don’t know what took me so long, but I’m glad I arrived.

Here’s a few of my packing tips and tricks on how to pack for vacation:

1. Make a list with 4 columns – One column is for what I have to take like medicines, phone charger, tickets, address for the hotel/resort and confirmation numbers. Another column is for things that I would like to take like my laptop, Kindle, camera, additional batteries etc. The third column is for activities that I have planned and the fourth column is for clothing, shoes and accessories based on what I have planned. If I’m on vacation, I check out sights that I would like to see prior to my trip so I can plan accordingly.

2. Assess your luggage – Most airlines will allow 2 bags on the plane. So, I will have my tote with my laptop and another carry on. The tip here is to place your small purse into your tote. I use a cross body bag. It holds the essentials: money, hairbrush, keys, lipstick, a credit card, drivers licence and money. I pack a larger bag in my suitcase if needed. If you’re checking your bag, remember the weight limit so you don’t incur additional expense.

3. Decide on a color theme – I lay everything that I want to take based on the activities on my list. I cut everything down to half and place the excess back into my closet and drawers. Mixing and matching pieces has become second nature for me. Using the same shoes, but different accessories will give you the change you need with your outfits. For example, I take a black skirt that I can wear with 2 different blouses. I just use different accessories.

I also pack sundresses that I can wear casually or dress up with a necklace, scarf, and cute sandals or pumps. They’re light and don’t take up much space. Leggings are great too. You can wear them under a casual dress or skirt from the above group, pair with a shirt or wear with a tee to lounge around in for the day. Throw in a few pair of shorts and tees. You can pair these with sandals.

4. Pack toiletries in zip lock bags – Pack body wash, hand wipes, toothbrushes, shampoo, toothpaste, sunscreen, tanning lotion etc. in gallon zip lock bags. Take extra bags with you too. I always have one handy for my wet loofah after showering the morning on my return trip. It’s never dry enough to just toss in the luggage. Additionally, zip lock bags are great for your lotions and wipes on the beach or by the pool.

5. Shoes – I take a pair of black pumps to wear if I want to dress up, a pair of walking shoes for sight seeing, and a few pair of sandals or two that will go with my final selection of clothing.

6. Neutral hat – When I’m heading to the beach or a tropical location, I always take a neutral hat that’s made specifically for travel. I can pack it and not worry about it losing its shape or getting damaged. Make sure that it will give you UV protection that you will need as well.

7. Pack neutral custom jewelry – Learning how to pack for vacation includes zip lock bags. Using zip lock bags to pack my custom jewelry allows me to see what I have. I place the zip lock bag in a cosmetic bag for extra protection. With the exception of my rings, I do not take my gold jewelry with me. I also don’t remove my rings when I’m traveling.

8. Take 2 swimsuits and a plastic tote – How to pack for vacation includes a tote, which I place the tote on the bottom of my suitcase. I use the plastic tote as my beach bag. I’ve been carrying the same plastic tote for years. It can withstand the sand and I can wash it off to repack on the return trip.

9. Pack a wrap or blanket – I always pack a wrap or light weight blanket in my carry on. I don’t like to be cold on my flights, so I just fold it and place it back in the bag after I land.

10. Roll your clothes – Roll your clothes instead of folding them. It give you more room and less wrinkles. Rolling your items in tissue paper keeps down the wrinkles too. If you don’t want to deal with tissue paper. Get a travel spray bottle, and fill it with Downy Wrinkle Releaser. This stuff is great.

11. Buy sturdy luggage – Purchase or use luggage that can endure your flight. Make sure your address and cell phone number are on your luggage tag. I also tie a piece of red ribbon on the handle of my luggage. The ribbon helps me to identify it on the carousal.

I hope these tips on how to pack for vacation will help you pack more efficiently too. They certainly have helped me to keep it simple when I travel now.

You may also like: Traveling Solo As A Female

Filed Under: Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: family travel tips, travel tips, travel tips for women, vacation destinations

Twelve Hotel Atlanta Georgia

September 19, 2009 by Rhonda Gales

Today, I’m sharing my Twelve Hotel Atlanta Georgia review. I was actually there for a business trip. And, it was absolutely beautiful. Especially, if you like high end hotels, The Twelve Hotel Atlanta Georgia is a must. The hotel is located in downtown Atlanta about 5 blocks from the Coca Cola Company, Aquarium, Olympic Park and the CNN Building. I was hoping that I would see that gorgeous Don Lemon or Dr. Gupta, but it didn’t happen.

Fortune Magazine has named this hotel as one of the best business hotels in the country. I agree.

travel destination

There’s a wonderful gourmet sandwich shop around the corner from the hotel, Jimmy Johns. They have the best sub sandwiches. It takes less than 5 minutes to get your order. By the time I paid, the sandwich was made, bagged, and ready to go. If you want to splurge, visit BLT Steak on Ivan Allen Blvd. It’s ranked as the number two steakhouse in Atlanta. It’s also around the corner from the hotel. You see that I spoke of food first. Food is a top priority rather I’m traveling for business or pleasure.

Now for my take on the hotel. There’s nothing better than having the comforts of home while you’re away. This hotel delivers. It has a full kitchen with gorgeous stainless steel appliances and cherry cabinets. It also offers a dining area and breakfast bar if you wish to cook. Not interested in cooking, they have a ghost computer where you can order room service and set your wake-up call on line. Room service can be expensive with the delivery fee and gratuity, but it was worth it. The hotel also delivers mixed drinks, wine, beer whatever your preference. Furthermore, if you want to socialize, they have an upscale restaurant and bar down stairs.

There’s a balcony off the bedroom. I was on the 11th floor, so I didn’t venture out too far. Although I’m a veteran flyer, I have a fear of being on balconies if I’m up that high. I wanted to admire the view of downtown Atlanta, so I did stick one foot out while holding on to the door, lol. Downtown Atlanta is beautiful at night. I tried to get a few night photos, but they didn’t turn out. Proving once again, I need photography lessons.

I absolutely loved the bedroom. The decor was stunning. It was spacious, and offered ample closet and drawer space. It was decorated in a contemporary decor with a king size bed and full length stainless steel mirror. The bed was comfortable and the bedding soft. I woke up feeling rested and ready to start my day.

The hotel room had a separate shower, but I decided to filled this tub while I was there. I always carry candles when I travel. So, I lite my candles and soaked until the water turned cold. It was so relaxing. My tub at home is just as nice, but I’m always in a hurry so I jump in the shower. I’ve decided that I’m going to use it more often. It’s good for these aching joints and old bones. Twelve Hotel Atlanta Georgia offers a complimentary robe too. If you wish to purchase it will cost you $75.00. I didn’t purchase, but I did make use of it while I was there. It was so soft and comfortable. My body could get used to Egyptian cotton. Than again anything would be better than my tattered and torn bathrobe at home.

In the summer, you can take a swim in the pool located on the roof top. I’m a veteran traveler, and this hotel met all my needs except one. It doesn’t have a washer or dryer for hotel guest. It offers laundry service, but there’s a fee for each piece of clothing. I had a week’s worth of clothing with me, so I opted to carry my dirty laundry home. That’s something I hate to do.

The suites start at $189.00 a night with a discount. The Marta Train is across the street, which takes you to the airport or the hotel will arrange a shuttle or a cab. I took a cab since I was carrying numerous bags. The hotel is located 12 miles from the airport. However, they offer a flat rate fee of $30.00 for door to door service. If you’re in the Atlanta area and looking for a 5 star hotel, Twelve Hotel Atlanta Georgia is the place to stay. It’s a business traveler’s paradise.

I thank my employer for such luxurious accommodations. They usually set me up at the Crown Plaza when I’m in Atlanta, but they out did themselves on this trip. I hope my Twelve Hotel Atlanta Georgia review will give you some insight on this beautiful hotel.