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Going on vacation should be a relaxing, fun proposition. Unfortunately for many, the choices and planning that go into creating a perfect vacation leave the time as being anything but relaxing. Just getting from point A to point B can be a nightmare and then, of course, there’s the fret that goes along with finding decent accommodations for the long haul. For those who take part in timeshare programs, this worry, at least is removed.

It used to be that timeshares were considered a fad, a gimmick, something that would soon pass. But as the advantages to these arrangements became known, the idea spread, and now timeshare opportunities are available in every major vacation spot the world over. Whether a person buys into a timeshare or simply rents one from an owner, these accommodations are generally solid and typically available the world over, helping take the worry of booking rooms off vacationers.

The advantages to timeshares are many and include:

* Location, location, location. When it comes to the best vacation destinations in the world, timeshares are there. From Orlando and Los Angele’s, to Europe and beyond, timeshares are available almost anywhere a vacationer would want to go.

* Choice. People can get in on timeshares whether they’re buying or just renting. Buying offers a whole host of advantages, financial and otherwise, over simply leasing a timeshare from another, but the perks of timeshares are pretty much available to anyone on vacation.

* First-class accommodations. Timeshares range from full condo units, complete with kitchens and living and sleeping quarters, to more common hotel rooms. They are generally in top-notch vacation resort areas and tend to include all the amenities of five-star resorts such as pools, weight rooms and more. In places where timeshares are simple rooms without kitchens, room service and other perks are generally available. Whether a person owns or rents a timeshare, there’s generally more than enough information available on the accommodations to take the guesswork out of what type of place the family will be staying in on vacation.

* Benefits for owning timeshares include the ability to trade out days with other owners with different accommodations, the ability to sell days for profits and more. This gives owners the flexibility to vacation where and when they want as long as they have a timeshare in a desired location to trade.

* Cost savings over regular hotels. This is perhaps one of the biggest perks. Timeshares tend to be cheaper and they tend to offer users more flexibility. Those that come with complete kitchens take the expense of eating out every night off the vacationers and those with room service, too, give them a world of choices for relaxation.

The advantages to timeshares over regular rooms are many, but perhaps the biggest is never having to worry about where to stay when on vacation. This takes a lot of the pre-planning burden off and lets vacationers do what they do best - relax and enjoy. If you haven’t looked into a timeshare, you haven’t seen some of the best vacation accommodations offered.

Are you planning a trip this year? There’s nothing like going on a trip, but when you forget to bring everything you need, your fun trip can turn stressful fast. Whether it’s business or pleasure, there’s certain travel “must haves” that you need to bring along. So whether your are traveling for a great vacation or a boring business trip, here’s 10 things you can’t do without.

Itinerary

You need to have fairly accurate plan of where you will be on certain days, not only for yourself but also in case anyone from back home needs to get in touch with you. A business trip will make this pretty easy as your days will probably be structured in advance. If you are traveling on vacation, it makes sense to plan your tourist stops ahead of time so you can be sure to fit everything in.

Clothing
Bringing the right clothes for the climate is key when traveling. Check the weather ahead of time so you know what to expect. You’ll need to bring something for every occasion you expect - casual clothes for seeing the sites, something more dressy for dinner etc… Try to make your clothes do double duty as much as possible. Bring clothes that are easy to wash and don’t wrinkle easily and you’ll spend less time doing laundry and more time enjoying yourself.

Shoes

If you’ll be sightseeing a good pair of comfortable walking shoes is a must but don’t bring a brand new pair you have never worn or you might end up nursing blisters along with your martinis. If you’ll be dressing, you’ll also need a pair of appropriate shoes and maybe some sandals for lounging around. Think about the activities you will be doing and plan your shoes accordingly. It won’t do to bring your favorite evening dress and then have only hiking boots to wear with it.

Essentials

Don’t forget your personal items such as drivers license or identification and passport. Do you need to bring your ATM card? Travelers checks? Don’t forget your toothbrush and clean underwear. Make sure you have some cash on hand just in case.

Medication

If you are taking medication be sure to fill your prescription and bring enough to last for the whole trip and then some. Also, you might want to include some insect repellent, cold medicine, aspirin and maybe even Pepto Bismal.

Tote Bag

Bring an extra bag, like a tote bag that you can use for lugging stuff to the beach or when shopping or to the laundry. If you bring it down empty, you’ll have an extra bag to fill with souvenirs on the return trip.

Locks and keys.

Make sure your luggage has a lock and keep the keys hidden or on your person while on vacation. Did you bring your house and car keys? You might need them after you get home.

Maps

It’s always a good idea to bring a map of your destination so you know where you are going, especially if you will be doing any driving. If you are really organized you can map out your day trips ahead of time and you won’t have to waste “vacation time” planning your trips.

Labels

Does your suitcase look like a dozen others? Then it might be smart to put a big label with your name on it. Put labels on the inside as well as the outside in case the outer one gets ripped off somehow during processing. Don’t put your address on the label, just your name and the airline you are flying on.

Insurance

You might want to buy the additional flight insurance offered just in case. If you will be driving a rental car, you should probably get the insurance they offer as well. If you do rent a car, make sure you go over every inch of it with the rental agent and be sure they write down any damage so that you are not charged for it later.

When traveling, a bit of planning up front can save you headaches later on so next time you travel, make a little checklist to be sure you include all the things you need and don’t forget to have a safe and happy trip!

Taking a cruise vacation is a spectacular way to get out of the daily grind and enjoy some quality time with the whole family. If you are planning a cruise with the kids in tow, some additional preparation will be needed to avoid unnecessary headaches.

Lets face it, kids get sick often. Think about your normal life at home and how often you come across a sudden cold, sniffles, belly aches and the like. Take this into consideration when packing. Make sure you have all the normal medications such as cough syrup, aspirin, heating pad, eardrops, etc. before you leave. Many of these items will be available onboard, but it is worth taking your own to be sure you have what you need, the type your child likes, and that you don’t get cheated on the price.

If you have one, it is worthwhile to bring a collapsible stroller with you. These are usually available for a fee onboard but again, its worthwhile to have your own. The ships are very large and there will be a fair amount of walking around to get from one place of interest to the next. Just going to dinner or getting a snack will usually involve a few elevator rides and a stroll down a long hallway or deck path. Be prepared here, you want the stroller you and your child are used to using.

Many cruises offer some sort of baby sitting or child activities where the parents can get away and have some time to themselves. Don’t count on this, however, and be sure to check in advance. Many cruise activities are scheduled throughout the day but there will certainly be ‘down time’ at day or night when your children will need to be entertained. The best advice is to bring along some of the same activities you have at home. Books, games, video games all work well when there is time to be spent in the cabin. You may think &quothey, I’ll be on vacation and not spending my time in the cabin&quot…but you will, trust me.

In conclusion, the moral of the story about bringing your kids on a cruise vacation is to bring the comforts of home with you. Anything you can pack that is not too overbearing to carry you should consider bringing. Following this advice will make for a much more comfortable and relaxing vacation for you and your kids. Packing to stay healthy on a Cruise Vacation

The most important items that you could take on a cruise vacation often is overlooked during the packing process. Medical items such as aspirin or prescription drugs are a critical part in making sure your cruise vacation is a success. Considering that cruise ships are not always required to have doctors, nurses, and a full line of medication, these items should not be overlooked.

The wonderful poolside decks are surely were you will be spending most of your time on your cruise vacation. Being out in the middle of the sea, particularly in the Caribbean waters, can be severely damaging to your skin. Be sure to have plenty of sunscreen and proper clothing to shield you when things get a bit too hot. Items such as these are typically available on board but the selection will be limited and you will pay a premium price!

Although the ships are typically very large, you will surely feel the rocking effects of the seas. It may not be the same effect you will get on a small boat or roller coaster for that matter, but you will feel something. It is nothing to worry about too much. Don’t count on there being motion sickness medication on board for this is not always available. If you are not experienced with being out at sea, you may want to consider bringing along some seasickness pills.

Given that cruises are typically all-inclusive when it comes to food, the buffets will present you with a wide variety of foods from all parts of the world. Keep this in mind when packing also, and don’t forget the stomach-related medications!

Of course you should bring any prescription medication you will need to take while on your cruise vacation. What you may not consider is taking the actual prescription itself. Cruise or port officials may ask to see this as proof that the drugs you are traveling with are legitimate. This is not to say that it is illegal to travel without your prescription. It is more of a matter of convenience so that you do not run into any unforeseen problems.

A small first aid kit and typical over the counter items such as aspirin, cough, or cold medication should round out your supply of medical related items for your cruise vacation. Preparing for an unforeseen medical situation will help your chances of having an enjoyable, trouble-free cruise vacation. Remember, the key here is trouble-free cruise vacation.

Is it time to get away, kick up your heels, and relax a bit? Don’t want to spend and arm and a leg to do so? Here are the top ten cheap vacations for under $1000.

Cheap Vacation 1: A week of camping with the Family

You can take the whole family to a State or National park for a full week for under $1000! This includes traveling by car, supplies and food. Invest in some basic outdoor cookware and pack some coolers full of food and drink to grill in the great outdoors.

Cheap Vacation 2: Disney World!

Believe it or not, Disney World is one of the greatest values when it comes to family vacations. If you are flying, the Orlando airport usually has many choices for cheap flights from most major cities. The park offers &quotvalue resorts” which are specially discounted for family stays. Also look into the off-season rates at these resorts and the savings will add up quick! Check on staying at near by Kissimmee for even deeper discounts.

Cheap Vacation 3: An Igloo up North!

In Cochran, located in Ontario, Canada, you and your family can stay in an actual igloo mad of snow and ice. Now, I know what you’re thinking…&quotcold!” Actually, the igloos are cozy and supplied with modern amenities. They are designed to keep warm on the inside when it’s cold outside. What an adventure! Check the major discount airlines for the best deals in airfare such as AirTran, Southwest, and JetBlue.

Cheap Vacation 4: Boston

Believe it or not, Boston can make for a truly affordable vacation since so many of the historical attractions are free and in walking distance of downtown. Airfare, if applicable, and lodging will be your primary expense. Check out the Freedom Trail while there and give your family a history lesson they will not forget!

Cheap Vacation 5: Hot Springs!

Visit one of Americas Hot Springs and camp under the stars while soaking in the warm soothing water during the day. Hot Springs Arkansas is a great example. This is somewhere in between true &quotroughing it” camping and the comforts of a hotel w/ hot bath!

Cheap Vacation 6: Europe on a budget!

Two things come to mind when making a Cheap Vacation to Europe: Hostels and Eurorail. Hostels can be found in most major European cities and offer a warm nights stay for little to no money. With a Eurorail pass, you can travel around to many different cities for a very affordable price.

Cheap Vacation 7: Cruise Vacation

If you choose an interior cabin on a 4-day cruise from most major ports you can find deals as low as a few hundred buck including all meals! Check the various travel agencies and shop around, these deals are hard to miss and can be a great way to vacation in the sun on a tight budget.

Cheap Vacation 8: Bus Across America

Greyhound bus lines offers cheap travel alternatives clear across the United States. You can plan out your trip and choose some cities to stay overnight in, book a cheap motel and see the country on a tight budget!

Cheap Vacation 9: Cancun on a Budget?

Cancun is easily one of the most beautiful places on earth. Believe it or not there are a tremendous amount of package deals that can be found on the cheap for a Cancun vacation. One to look at is Dreams resort. You and your loved one can have a three night/four day getaway on the pristine white sand beaches of Cancun for less than $1000!

Cheap Vacation 10: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the most affordable island getaways in the Caribbean sea. Hotel rates are extremely reasonable compared to it’s neighboring islands. Most of your food and other expenses are relatively cheap. Punta Cana is one of the most beautiful vacation destinations and believe it or not, it can be a cheap vacation as well!

Underground London: Travels beneath the City Streets. Stephen Smith. Little, Brown. [pounds sterling]17.99. ix + 390 pages. ISBN 0-316-86134-0. The author of this travel book cum popular history of London looks at the capital and its people from the inside out. His concern is with the unseen world and he begins with an exploration of the sewers. He moves on to tunnels (used and unused), discarded Underground stations, rivers such as the Fleet and Tyburn which have been covered over for years, archaeological sites and underground structures, such as the secret location of the Cabinet War Rooms. One of the most interesting chapters is based on a tour of the Mount Pleasant sorting office and contains a discussion of the underground railway system created by the G.P.O. in the 1860s to carry post round London. Another deals with the Thames Barrier and the unending problem which London’s engineers face when dealing with water. He reminds readers that the Thames was at one stage three times its present width. He points out that ‘in the end, it came down to water, to water and clay. That’s what London was made of’. He uses his journalist’s training to good effect and gives a vibrant account not just of physical structures but of the men who maintain them. (T.P.M.)

The Golf Widow Travels Scotland

Karen Howe

Golf Widow Travels

13123 Palatine Avenue North, Seattle WA 98133

0974382205 $15.95 http://golfwidowtravels.com

The Golf Widow Travels Scotland is a guide to enjoying one’s travel experience in Scotland, especially if one is an avid golfer or in the company of a golfer. From dealing with unwieldy luggage to must-see sites across the whole of Scotland to hours and directions for out-of-the-way places and much more, The Golf Widow Travels Scotland offers a homestyle perspective from a woman with 35 years of solo travel experience. Much more personal than an ordinary travel guide, The Golf Widow Travels Scotland is written with humor, flair, and uncanny insight into how to truly spend quality time in another nation.

Florence Nightingale’s European Travels

Lynn McDonald, editor

Wilfrid Laurier University Press

Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, N2L 3C5

0889204519 $100.00 wlupress.wlu.ca

Volume 7 of the Collected Works of Florence Nightingale, Florence Nightingale’s European Travels is a compilation of the famous nurse’s correspondence and a few short published articles from the European travels of her youth. From visiting nations as a teenager with her family, to observing political changes in Italy and France, to her first nursing experience, her travels set the stage for her often brilliant letters that fully reveal her courage, faith, professionalism and ideals. Many of the writings in the Collected Works of Florence Nightingale series have never before been published; now, for the first time they are available to any and all interested in researching the perspective, experiences, and character of a legend. Highly recommended for libraries and reference or biography shelves.

Last year I completed a charitable bicycle trip that followed a course across America, then Africa, where I logged more than 7,000 miles from Cairo, Egypt, to Cape Town, South Africa. I gathered many fascinating stories–funny, bittersweet, poignant, all entertaining. Except one.

While in Lilongwe, Malawi, some of the other bike riders, who were White, could not wait to see my reaction when they told me they had learned about a store named Niggers that was in the region. Initially I thought it was a bad joke, but I had to see for myself.

What I found was a store selling what the owner called hip-hop-style clothing. The shop was manned by two gentlemen, one of whom was asleep. I asked the other clerk about the store name. On hearing my obvious non-Malawian accent and figuring out that I was American, the man thumped his chest proudly and said, “P. Diddy New York City! We are the niggers!”

My first inclination was to laugh, because many things in isolation can be humorous. But I then realized that this wasn’t funny at all. It was pathetic. I had traveled on these bicycle trips across the United States and through the Motherland in honor of my good friend, mentor and fellow African-American, Kevin Bowser, who died on 9/11. Here I was, riding “home” to honor a Black man who had been a moral compass to me and so many others. I had committed 175 days to spread his spirit of friendship, generosity and love, and what did I encounter? Some Africans calling themselves niggers. They were so proud of the designation that they even put it on their storefront.

CLARA’S GRAND TOUR: Travels with a Rhinoceros in Eighteenth-Century Europe GLYNIS RIDLEY

For nearly 20 years in the mid-1700s, a 3-ton Indian rhino named Clara traveled Europe–from Rotterdam to Breslau, Naples, Marseilles, and many places in between. Making this an even more amazing achievement is that it happened before railways and modern roads existed. Clara, orphaned when she was only months old, was hand raised by a Dutch merchant in Assam, India. When she was 3 years old, a Dutch sea captain brought her to Europe. There, she became a sensation. In one of the first marketing campaigns of all time, her owner promoted Clara’s appearances to peasants and royalty alike. Both came to see her. There were Clara product tie-ins galore: poems, songs, fashions, portraits, etchings, and bronze figurines. Her image adorned everything from tin coins to fine porcelain, and a fortune for the Dutch captain. Ridley, a first-time author, is a professor of 18th-century studies, and as such discusses not just Clara’s travels but also diverse subjects including early publishing and the long-term effects of Hannibal’s invasion of Italy. This book should please anyone interested in the history of the 18th century or of marketing. Atlantic Monthly Press, 2005, 224 p., b&w illus., hardcover, $21.00.