We are well into Fall! And with it comes the last opportunities to appreciate the outdoors before it gets too cold. Road trips to marvel at the fall foliage, apple picking and pumpkin picking are fun family activities that are popular this time of year.

These and other family friendly activities can be found in Pennsylvania in Dutch Country, where the Amish live. Much curiosity surrounds Amish culture. While some view their lifestyle as old-fashioned, some admire the Amish family structure. In the Amish culture, family is of the utmost importance. Visitors can learn about the ways of the Amish lifestyle through various tours offered. It also seems that participating in these family friendly activities is a way to adopt some Amish ways of life.

Apple and pumpkin picking are certainly activities that kids will love and adults will appreciate. Imagine this year’s Thanksgiving pies made with fresh hand-picked ingredients.

Apple Castle, which is in the heart of Western Pennsylvania’s Amish Country offers a variety of apples, including Golden Delicious, McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Rome, and so many more. It is described as a “fifth generation family farm.” More information about where they’re located and the other fruits they offer can be found on their website: www.applecastle.com.

Allaboutapples.com offers a variety of recipes that apples can be used for. While some seem traditional, like creamy apple n cherry cobbler, others are a bit more interesting, apple brownies, apple hazelnut muffins, and apple fritters.

Country Barn Land Farm in Lancaster, Pennsylvania offers a hayride to a 15-acre pumpkin patch. Even if pumpkin is not a favorite among the kids, the joy of picking their own will certainly improve their overall idea of it. One would even hope that the experience would encourage them to give it try this Thanksgiving. If the traditional dishes like pumpkin pie don’t do the trick, some more creative recipes like chocolate pumpkin pudding may be more enticing. Pumpkinrecipes.org offers a variety of pumpkin recipes that could get the family’s attention this fall season.

Whether its pumpkin picking, a hayride or a fall foliage road trip, there are certainly a number of ways to appreciate this season.

by Danielle Fontus

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It is now a time when more and more women are tackling the business world. One of the most invaluable things to a businesswoman is time. As businesswoman and author of The Time Value of Life Tisa Silver recently shared in her BOSS chat twitter interview with the BOSS network “Once you spend a dollar, you have a chance to make it back. Once you spend a minute, it is gone forever.”

Travel can certainly be rewarding when it comes to business, as it can open up a number of opportunities. However, as rewarding as travel can be, the time involved is a necessary evil that many would prefer to do without. Because teleportation is not yet an option, it is useful to incorporate time saving habits into one’s travel routine:

-  Doing online check-in at home saves the time on check-in lines, which can not only be time consuming but also frustrating.

-  Carry on only, if possible. As opposed to the hour before flight necessary for checked baggage, arrival 30 minutes before flight is sufficient when no bags are checked.  (Although it is always wise to arrive earlier to allot time for security). It also saves the time spent waiting at baggage claim which can sometimes add more than an hour to travel time.

- Well organized bags that are specifically designed for business travelers, like those made by Samsonite,  have specific spaces for everything. Having boarding pass and ID in places where they can be easily accessed and taken in and out for various security check points saves the time of shuffling through bag. Bags with slots specifically to house laptops make it easier to take it out at security. Instead of fumbling to fit laptop back into the bag as it was originally packed, it can slip right back into its cozy place and you can smoothly continue on to gate.

-  Now that you’ve saved so much time, you probably have extra time before flight. And you deserve a reward. Some airlines have salons, like XpresSpa, that offer speedy manicures, pedicures, massages and wax treatments for those last minute details that did not fit into the schedule before. Waiting for boarding can be relaxing and productive all at once.

It is no doubt that each moment is precious and it is certainly important to make sure that each is well spent.

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Once upon a time, there was a little girl named Eloise, who lived at The Plaza. With bravery beyond her 6 years of age and the adventurous spirit that comes with her youth, she dared to explore Paris and Moscow in a way that only she could.

In 1955, Kay Thompson and Hilary Knight dedicated many a night at The Plaza to the project that would soon be published as Eloise: A book for precocious grownups, the first of the series. The series revealed an extraordinary little girl and her many adventures at The Plaza and beyond. To learn more about the Eloise series, visit eloisewebsite.com.

Fifty-five years later, Betsey Johnson, inspired by her love for Eloise, has brought the storybook heroine to life and added her own extraordinary touch to create the Eloise children’s suite at The Plaza.

With a style similar to that of Eloise, Johnson dressed the suite in pink candy striped walls, zebra print carpet and a signature Plaza chandelier (in pink, of course). In true Eloise fashion, the suite is decked with petticoats, tutus and princess crowns for guests to play dress up. Upon staying in the Eloise suite, guests are gifted with a monogrammed Eloise bathrobe and a copy of one of the classic books, among other little details to enhance the experience and bring each guest closer to Eloise. The Plaza delivers a child’s story book dream come true, with a space available for tea parties and a boutique with paraphernalia and books available as well as an opportunity to watch Eloise movies. Those who have fallen in love with the story Eloise can live in the story and feel closer to her for $995 per night for a priceless experience.

For information about booking the suite, visit The Plaza website: http://www.fairmont.com/theplaza/HotelPackages/Family/Eloise+Suite.htm

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When asked what destinations are recommended to find men, Marian Anderson from the Haute Travels blog replied “they’re everywhere.” That is the truth. Men are everywhere. The more important question becomes “where can you find men that you like?” It is not a good idea to limit it to one “type” of guy. Being open to a variety of options opens up a world of opportunities. However, thinking in terms of categories and highlighting specific characteristics can be helpful ways to find people with similar interests.

Mr. Adventure

As mentioned in a previous article- Manly Getaways, men like fast moving things. To find these men, move quickly to those things. Participate in travel groups like Club Getaway, where you’ll undoubtedly find guys who love a little adventure. With a variety of trips and activities offered, like outdoor ventures and kayaking, you’re bound to find someone who is not afraid of a little danger. If this is something new for you, pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone will only make the experience that much more rewarding. And hey, that may even get you a little more help from the fellas. Reserve your spot in the next Summer Sports & Fun Weekend, where you can sign up for Trapeze School or Scuba classes, as well as a speed dating event.

Mr. Caribbean

Follow Stella’s lead and book a trip to the Caribbean. Not only is the island vibe relaxing, but the hospitality is beyond comforting. Many women attest to the special treatment they’ve received by locals on Caribbean vacations. Island men are just as intrigued by American women as we are by them. Only one hour away from Miami (and 2.5 hours away from New York), according to TurksandCaicosTourism.com, Turks and Caicos is a family of islands worth exploring. With beaches and spas that make any Caribbean vacation appealing, a trip to any of the islands within the cluster will certainly reveal what makes Turks and Caicos stand out from the rest.

Mr. Southern Hospitality

Every girl can become a sucker for Southern charm. Boasting its own beaches and The Intimidator, the state’s newest rollercoaster, South Carolina has a variety of things to offer. While exploring other attractions, from the waterfalls to the state parks, and getting a taste of some real Southern BBQ, there is no doubt that you’ll meet some of the men that give southern guys their reputation.

Mr. Muscles

If buff and tanned is your thing, South Beach is where you need to be. Because of its reputation, people go to extreme lengths to get their bodies South Beach-ready. It is no secret that the South Beach crowd is single and ready to mingle.

As Anderson says, “I was just in three countries and met men in each one of them.” Regardless of the destination, men can be found there. She adds, “but then again, I’m not out searching. I’m just being me.” If you’re having fun, they will be attracted to that and come to you. Also, if you happen to notice him first, go ahead and talk to him. Going on vacation is all about stepping outside of your boundaries, and the same applies for meeting men.

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As frequent traveler Sean Grimes suggests, men are easy to please. Sports, physical activities, and women are a few of the simple pleasures that make most men happy. When elaborate accommodations and minute details are less important, it’s not as complicated to pick a destination.

Is it too soon to endorse LeBron in Miami? Regardless of personal preference, there is no doubt that the American Airlines Arena, home of the Miami Heat, will be a hot-spot when basketball season starts. South Beach holds the treasure that fulfills most men’s Big Pimpin’ fantasy of being surrounded by women. With scooters, Jet Skis, and other fast-moving vehicles to choose from, Miami is certainly a popular destination for the fellas.

It is no secret that guys love the ladies. Even if it’s just eye candy, men cannot resist the temptation of girls, girls, girls everywhere. If one considers gambling a sport, and adventure rides (like those atop the Stratosphere Hotel) physical activities, then Las Vegas is a perfect spot for a manly trip.

For a little more adventure, one might venture off the beaten path to Laughlin, Nevada. Complete with its own casinos, Laughlin certainly caters to the daring dudes. In the midst of the Colorado River Valley, the Grand Canyon, and the Hoover Dam, Laughlin presents many opportunities for thrill seekers, which include jet skiing and kayaking.

For the lone soldier looking for some manly fun, travel groups like Club Getaway are a great way to be surrounded by those with similar interests. Club Getaway boasts a wide selection of activities to choose from, including mountain-biking, zip-lining, and canoeing, just to name a few. And yes, women also participate in Club Getaway, so a friendly battle of the sexes seems appropriate. For more information, you can visit clubgetaway.com

Keeping it simple and action-packed is how the guys like to do it. Whether it is for the sports, the ladies, or the activities, a manly vacation is sure to be fun.

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According to Encarta, jetsetters are “wealthy people who travel internationally on a regular basis, especially in pursuit of pleasure.” However, it should go without saying that being a true “travelista” is more about style and attitude than it is about personal wealth. It is no secret that the Guts. Glam. Grace. girl loves to travel, and traveling in style is the only way to do it.

As amorous and exciting as traveling can be, the physical logistics of getting from one place to another can be difficult and taxing, physically as well as mentally. To minimize the stress of the commute, cute and comfy is the way to go when it comes to travel attire.

With a Victoria’s Secret terry suit, a travel girl can look great and feel comfortable on the plane. Wear a tank top underneath, and it will be easy for you to adjust to warmer weather and still have a hoodie on just in case the plane ride gets chilly.

Rompers are also an easy, breezy way to go. Again, in the cute and comfy category, rompers are easy-to-pack garments that can be appropriate for a variety of occasions once you land, whether it’s for the beach, a hot date, or a late-night dinner.

With a jetsetter like Kimora Lee behind the Baby Phat brand, one can trust that Baby Phat sandals and sunglasses will be a perfect touch to the ensemble. And with the added bonus of a few e.l.f cosmetics for fresh-faced fierceness, the look is almost complete.

When it comes to travel, the bag is even more important than it is on a regular day. How can you have a bag that is big enough to hold carry-on essentials but still compact enough to not be burdensome? Betseyville has the answer. Utilizing her eccentric personality, Betsey Johnson creates bags that are guaranteed to stand out and make a statement, complete with the cute feminine touches that only a woman can truly appreciate. Thankfully, one has the, as they say, “shopportunity” to find some Betseyville bags at Marshall’s, which can help save some funds to put towards the trip.

No look is complete without the attitude. Pack that confidence right along with everything else in your carry-on bag. There’s a saying that divas never rush because the world is on her time. While this may apply to other scenarios, this is not recommended for traveling at the risk of missing a flight. In these situations, running confidently seems more appropriate.

With confidence glowing from within and the style that makes a statement, everyone will want to know where that Guts. Glam. Grace. girl is going.

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A group of your best girlfriends can make a trip to any place amazing. The question is: Which place do you want to conquer first?

Although it’s a girls-only trip, sometimes it’s the boys that make it fun. Having the temporary temptation can make the trip a little more interesting. Rumor has it that Texas is a great place to meet guys because of a favorable male to female ratio.

For those ladies interested in international indulgences, Brazil is a great place to go. Because of their own cultural diversity, Brazilians not only represent a rainbow of skin tones but also appreciate the various shades that lovely ladies come in. If you’re ready to take it a step above the clubs in Miami and New York City, Brazil’s Carnival should be on your to-do list. One of the world’s largest celebrations, Brazil’s Carnival is sure to deliver an unmatchable experience.

A common mission for most girlfriend getaways is relaxation, which a number of spas in Arizona can deliver. Beaches also offer much-needed relaxation. If you’ve already conquered the beaches of Miami and California, try an island escape, like to the Bahamas. With rum punches, warm island breezes, massaging sand, and soothing beach water, the island vibe will get you kicking back and enjoying yourself in no time. It is no myth that island boys love American girls and will certainly cater to your every need.

If the adventure of Las Vegas is just not enough, perhaps an international venture would be more satisfying. Voluntourism, the combination of travel and service, presents a formula that proves to be the most rewarding. While enjoying the experience of a new place and culture, your group of girlfriends can also leave your mark. Organizations like Hands Up Holidays (and others found on VolunTourism.org) deliver the most fulfilling experiences.

Tips for a great girlfriend getaway:

1. Even if you plan on traveling together, everyone should have all the necessary information prior to departure, just in case of any last-minute mishaps.

2. Everyone should communicate their expectations for the trip beforehand so that each person’s desire can be incorporated in some way into the vacation schedule.

3. It is great to have a loose structure and a tentative agenda, but it’s so much more fun to go with the flow. Go with little expectations and simply be open to whatever happens.

4. Please be open to new things and allow yourself to experience something you have never tried before.

5. Talk to everybody who piques your interest. You don’t know what treasure of information they could hold.

6. It is sometimes wiser for bigger groups to separate into smaller groups to accomplish different activities when desires conflict.

7. Solo exploration can be especially rewarding. However, put your safety first.

8. Rotate camera duty so that everyone is captured.

9. Once you’ve communicated with those back home that you’ve reached your destination safely, cease all communication with the outside world and set yourself free to thoroughly enjoy your experience.

Whether you’re a gutsy group seeking an adventure, the glamour girls looking for some hot spots to party, or graceful gals set on finding a place to relax, it really is less about the location and more about having your favorite girls by your side.

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1. Exotic African Getaways
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From deserts to diamonds, many things come to mind when thinking of Africa. With more countries than there are united states, there is no doubt that Africa holds a great variety of places to explore. Despite all the images that have been shared through the media, there is no way any form of media could truly capture all that Africa has to offer. Africa is surely a place to visit and experience firsthand.

Morocco

Although said to have taken place in Abu Dhabi, Sex and the City 2 was actually filmed in Morocco. The film grants a glimpse of Morocco’s beauty, with the images of the seemingly endless sand dunes and vast shopping opportunities in the souks.

Morocco.com boasts the country’s proudest attractions, which include Boulaouane Kasbah Fortress, overlooking the Wadi Oum er-Rbia River, and the El Bahia Palace in Marrakesh. Among the many things to do is the opportunity to observe animal-shaped rock carvings near Ouka’meden as well as camel-trekking, windsurfing in Agadir and Essaouira, and the city square festival Djemaa el Fna in Marrakesh, where musicians, snake charmers, acrobats, and story tellers show off to earn some dirham.

Egypt

With a history richer than the Nile River is long, Egypt promises the awe-inspiring sights of the pyramids and larger-than-life monuments that tell the story of the land. Egypt.travel showcases the variety of things to do, including embracing the healing qualities of New Valley, where hot springs and sand bathing provide therapeutic experiences. Whether one is interested in discovering the desert, marveling at the monuments, or catching the Nile River cruise, Egypt is sure to deliver a rich experience.

Kenya

With mountains, coastal beaches, cities, and reserves, Kenya offers a little bit of everything, which reflects its culture, a result of many combined influences from nomadic tribes and surrounding areas.

Known as an adventurer’s paradise, Kenya offers a number of activities. In addition to camel trekking, mountain climbing, and horseback riding, diving, kite surfing, white water rafting, and skydiving are also options.

MagicalKenya.com shares insights with those curious about Kenya. Those planning a trip to Kenya may feel a bit more prepared after learning the common Swahili greeting “Jambo” from the website’s welcome page. The Kisite Mpunguti National Park and Reserve, which grants views of coral and allows snorkeling, and the Masai Mara Game Reserve, where one can spot gazelles and zebras, are only a few of the opportunities visitors have to enjoy the Kenyan wildlife, whether it be by walking, camel, or hot air balloon.

The history books and television programs only provide a small glimpse into the true beauty that Africa holds. Beyond the escape that comes from most travel destinations, Africa is sure to open visitors up to a whole new world filled with so much culture and history of its own. A trip to Africa would certainly prove to be a rewarding experience.

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Most women have imagined their wedding day at some point in their lives. Elaborate wedding scenes in movies and the pictorial spreads in bride magazines have greatly enhanced a woman’s vision of her dream wedding.

For those brides whose imaginations have gone beyond the borders of their hometowns, a destination wedding is a great way to turn that dream wedding into a reality. Whether it is an international destination or an exotic city within the United States, there is no shortage of options for the gutsy, the glamorous, and the graceful brides-to-be to say, “I do.”

For the gutsy bride-to-be who will not be satisfied with simply walking down the aisle bouquet in hand, strutting up the Sydney Harbor Bridge and saying “I do” at the “top of the world” seems more appropriate. Taking the first steps as husband and wife on The Wedding Climb, which offers sweeping views of the Sydney Opera House and other breathtaking sights of the city, will certainly bring the kind of excitement this bride craves for on her wedding day.

A gutsy bride-to-be may also wish to prove that she is ready to “take the plunge,” and is prepared to stay through both the highs and lows of married life with a Vegas Extreme Skydiving wedding or an underwater wedding with Pro Dive USA in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Any of these options will certainly be a spectacular way to start an exciting life together.

The glamorous bride-to-be who has been taking notes from David Tutera all her life in an effort to plan her own platinum wedding will certainly fall in love with the Villa Visconti just outside of Florence, Italy. The Villa Visconti brings the glam, not only with deluxe suits made for couples and guests but also with a terrace that provides a panoramic view of the beautiful city surrounding the villa. A New York venue, like the Tribeca Rooftop, would also be ideal for a glamorous wedding. This is the perfect opportunity to get a little carried away.

For the graceful bride-to-be who has envisioned herself gliding down the aisle on a beach at sunset, Abigail Zephyr of Fete Event Production and Design recommends the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort and Spa, where one of her clients will be saying “I do” in the near future. Taking advantage of the coastline location, the Grand Palladium offers several options for beach weddings. This bride-to-be can also grace the sands of any of California’s beaches listed on BeachCalifornia.com. A beach wedding will undoubtedly create the perfect scenery for this bride’s picture-perfect day.

Planning a destination wedding can present unique situations that a traditional wedding does not. However, as with any wedding, one can conquer the overwhelming details with adequate time and planning. DestinationWeddings.com, a simple go-to guide for all destination wedding needs, is a great place to start.

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1. Make a Vacation Out of Your Wedding

In addition to the excitement of finding your one true love, you are probably also excited about the three travel opportunities a wedding presents.

A bachelorette party is the perfect opportunity for a girlfriend getaway. Whether it’s to a popular city like New York City, Vegas, Atlanta, or Los Angeles or for a mini getaway right in your hometown, there are a few ingredients that can spice up your time with your girls.

Enjoy a night on the town with VIP treatment, a component of many bachelorette packages. Bring the spa to you with mobile spa companies like SPArties, which cater to clients living in New York City, New Jersey, and Florida. Get sexy for your hubby-to-be with pole dancing classes like those offered at S. Factor, which is located in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Houston.

A destination wedding is another great opportunity to travel with the most important people in your life. The added bonus of a vacation can only make one of the most important days of your life that much more special. Using the destination as a location for both the wedding and honeymoon is a great way to take advantage of the travel opportunity.

Instead of catering to a large group of people (who you may have invited only out of obligation or courtesy), you can enjoy an intimate wedding in the company of truly dedicated friends and family who will make the extra effort to share in your special day.

Tips to planning your destination wedding:

1. Check with the airline and hotel for group rates.

2. The off-season may offer more cost-effective options.

3. It would be a nice gesture to let invited guests know that their presence is worth more than a gift (if you so choose).

4. Abigail Zephyr of Fete Event Production and Design recommends picking a destination that you and your fiancé already love to ensure the best experience. You can always travel to a new location for the honeymoon.

If you want an island vacation for your honeymoon, any one of the Couples Resorts in Jamaica would love to cater to your needs. If you’re in love with the idea of a romantic getaway, Italy’s Hotel Villa Cipriani, which was at the top of WeddingChannel.com’s list of “Romantic/Fantasy Honeymoons in Europe,” would be the perfect place to celebrate your love. If an adventurous trip tickles your fancy, the Togabezi Lodge, which is in the vicinity of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, is sure to provide an amazing experience to start your new life.

It is such a beautiful thing that you’ve found your true love. Why not spread your love around the world?

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