So what should one look for in the right personal casing solution? Most aspects are specific to the type of journey, but some are applicable to just about any trip you may be planning. Here is an overview of some of the primary things to consider when choosing your luggage and ensuring that your travel experience is as convenience optimized as possible.

Weight
Weight is likely the single most important factor when choosing luggage for your personal travel requirements. If your luggage is heavy, it is going to be more of a burden to carry. This can not be overstated. It is an extremely important consideration for your own physical happiness and the happiness of those handling your luggage. While heavy luggage is occasionally unavoidable and to be expected, it should only be what is inside that makes it heavy if anything. While potentially expensive metal luggage may look really nice, make sure you can also afford to pay someone accordingly to carry it. Otherwise you may be wishing you had gotten something much lighter and saved the extra money.

Size
While the size of much of the luggage available today may vary, all of the sizes available at most stores are generally acceptable as check-in baggage at most airlines. A large bag is fine if you don’t mind checking your luggage. The possibility of the airline temporarily delaying a checked bag’s arrival is much less likely than it used to be, but if you arrive at the counter late it can potentially be a concern. If at all possible it is best to use a carry-on for your luggage needs.

Wheels
Two wheel or four wheel? That is the question. 2 big wheels will get you up a flight of stairs easier than 4 small wheels, but 4 small wheels is a breeze over long and smooth distances. Although, if you have cobbled streets to walk for long then 2 big wheels is likely your best bet.

Organizer
Organizational pockets in luggage vary and the offerings seem to be getting better every year. A filing folder accordion organizer system used in more and more luggage today is excellent for keeping everything in place. It certainly helps things stay neat and efficient. Find something that fits your needs and tell the store clerks if you are looking for something better suited to your purpose.

The internet is a great place to shop for the widest array of luggage available and many stores online will display the inside in addition to the outside. Happy travels!

The Mango:

The mango is a delicacy to be lavishly indulged in whenever the season is ripe. It is a wonderful island treat that will vibrantly dazzle the taste buds with orange nectar. There are different kinds of mango and, like many things; different people seem to have their own favorites. Most people seem to agree that the variety known as the “Hayden” is quite delectable. While some varieties are smaller and have a stringy consistency, the Hayden is usually a larger fruit and isn’t stringy inside which means it is very easy to eat. It is also generally sweet rather than some tangier varieties when ripe. Do be careful not to drench your clothes in mango juice as you dive mouth-first into its sweet and tangy goodness.

The Apple Banana:

While most people have likely eaten a banana at some point, they are less likely to have eaten an “Apple Banana”. The more common banana is generally referred to as a “Williams” in Hawaii and is definitely not the most popular choice. The reason is that the Apple Banana is so ridiculously delicious that no one really bothers with the standard banana unless it’s more conveniently available. The “Apple Banana” is a smaller variety of banana and may be conceptualized as concentrating the taste of 4 standard bananas into one small and tasty banana package. Smoothies are, of course, amazing with these small wonders and it is highly recommended to enjoy at least one while in Hawaii.　

The Papaya:

Papayas abound in Hawaii and it is no wonder that the local people have been planting them all over the place for so long. If you are looking for a yummy breakfast, then a papaya with a slice of lemon or lime is a wonderful way to start the day in Hawaii. The “Strawberry Papaya” is especially a favorite local variety. You may even get to pick one from the tree yourself if you happen upon any during your stay in Hawaii. As a note, the seeds can really add some spice to a salad dressing, and some enjoy eating a few with the papaya itself for an interesting taste combination.

These are just a few of the most common fruits you will encounter in Hawaii, but it should be enough to inspire an adventure to local fruit stands or farmers’ markets when you are in Hawaii. There are lots of both all around the islands and if you are driving around you will likely see many along the way. Enjoy a tasty stay in Hawaii!

First, skip the solo mission unless you can find a really easy “beach break” where there are lots of tourist children learning in a surfing class, and even then do consider at least taking an introductory lesson. The “beach break” is generally preferably to start with as the bottom is sand and often waste deep or deeper, depending on the height of the participant. This is generally better than a reef a foot or so below the board, which is how many of the more advanced surfing locations sometimes are. It generally feels nice to know that sand is under you and it is certainly nicer to walk on with bare feet.

The general equipment you will likely be using is as follows:
1. Leash – Cord with a strap for your ankle which connects to the board.
2. Wax – Rubbed on the top of the board to make you stick to the top of the board.
3. Surfboard – Yes, this come in handy for surfing.
4. Wetsuit – Optional and certainly not essential for Hawaii in general.

So let’s get to the beach and have some fun on our little surfing safari. It is likely that you will be spending a lot of time on the beach practicing on your board before going out into the water. This is wise. You want to get a feel for lying on your belly on a large and potentially rather hard floatation device. While many introductory classes and rental shops may provide a padded board, surfboards are usually rather hard and may take some getting used to. Things to practice on the beach often include:

1. Paddling – If you think surfing is about standing up and riding a wave, you may be in for a surprise. Paddling is the actual primary activity involved in surfing. Surfing works a unique muscle group in the back and many surfers spend a lot of time paddling from place to place just to stay in good shape for when truly “epic” waves roll into their favorite spot.

2. Standing – This is where you essentially “pop up” from laying on your belly into a standing pose where you are riding the wave. You essentially thrust yourself up into a standing position with your hands, which are grasping the “rails” (side edges of the surfboard). This is actually kind of fun to practice on the beach and you may enjoy just posing on different areas of the board.

Once comfortable on the beach, perhaps a dip in the water is at hand. Something that many people may not realize is how important weight distribution is in the art of surfing. To stand, lay, or sit too far forward or back will send a surfer off either end of the board rather easily. Thankfully water is soft to fall into. The real issue is that it is less soft when it falls on something, like waves do when they crash. You should be on a beach with really small waves, so it shouldn’t be a real issue.

Once in the water and having found your balance laying and sitting on the board, then it’s time to paddle your way out past those small waves. You will likely want to face the nose of your board toward the beach after you get out past where the waves are breaking. The key to catching one of these waves is your speed. You want to paddle with alternating arms until you are at just about the speed of the wave and then give a couple of thrusting paddles with both arms simultaneously to get you onto the wave itself. Once you are on and feel that your board is being carried forward by it, then it is time to pop up into your standing posture. It’s likely you have seen this dozens of times in movies and on television. At the end of the ride, you either jump into the water or lie back on your board and paddle back out.

Hope this has clarified some of the basics of your first day of surfing. Remember to have fun!

Is outdoor camping your idea of heaven? Or, if the embrace of nature leaves something to be desired for you, you might prefer a Colorado bed and breakfast, mountain cabin, or even a luxurious inn. Maybe you feel like being spoiled in a 5-star hotel. Whether you want luxury or to “rough it” in the wilderness, you can find a Colorado honeymoon vacation package that will give you exactly what you want.

There are few other places in the world that can match the varied topography of Colorado. There are jagged mountain peaks and deep canyons to explore, and raging rivers and desert plains can all be found in the same state. Whether you want one adventure or many, Colorado offers the locale that can make it happen.

There’s world class fly fishing along the Platte river, if you and your partner enjoy taking part in this activity. You can also choose Nordic cross country skiing or test your courage and daring on Olympic class ski trails.

For a romantic and elegant honeymoon or anniversary, consider the 1892 Victoria’s Keep. Located in the heart of Colorado, you’ll enjoy Jacuzzi tubs built for two and lounging in front of the fireplace as you take in the beautiful architecture of this luxury inn. Best of all, you can enjoy the beautiful Colorado scenery from your own private balcony when you stay here.

Victoria’s Keep is located near Colorado Springs, at the foot of Pikes Peak. From here, you can hike, bike, go hot air ballooning or white water rafting, climb on a horse, or step out onto the links. Other things to see in Colorado Springs include the Garden of the Gods, the Royal Gorge, Miramont Castle, the Cave of the Winds, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, and the US Air Force Academy. You can make even more memories at the Dinosaur National Monument, the Olympic Training Center, Rocky Mountain National Park, or by visiting the cities of Denver, Pueblo, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, Aurora, Lakewood and Durango.

Because Colorado is so varied in terms of topography, you can travel the state and see all kinds of environments. There are soaring mountains and desolate plateaus, alongside icy glacial rivers and slow meandering streams. All of these locales provide opportunities for different kinds of adventures, but fortunately, the overall climate is mild and dry, making it a comfortable honeymoon destination most of the year.

Why not start off with breakfast at The Egg and I in Broomfield? Or, if you’re in the mood for something less fancy, check out the Boulder Inn or even IHOP – two of the more popular breakfast destinations for Boulder locals.

Once you’re fueled for our day, head out to see the Leaning Tree Museum, just a few minutes away in Gunbarrel. This town is home to the popular Leaning Tree greeting cards, and if you want to see Western art, the Gunbarrel Museum is the place to go.

From here, you’re only a mile away from the plant where they make Celestial Seasonings tea. Be sure to take time for the tour so that you can see their artwork, sample all of their teas, and have a complete tour of the plant. You’ll be amazed at the size of the bundles of herbs used in making these teas, and be sure to stop by the peppermint room. The smell here is truly amazing – you’ll be breathing more clearly than ever when you leave this room.

And if all of those wonderful smells have you in the mood for some lunch, consider checking out the lamb at Flagstaff House. But buyer beware, this option isn’t cheap. Or, if you’re a more adventurous traveler, you may want to try the buffalo or elk at The Fort in Morrison. The view of Denver from this restaurant is wonderful, as is the Teriyaki grilled quail. The truly adventurous may even sample the Rocky Mountain oysters – although most people choose to pass.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a little easier on the food budget, you can choose from over 100 kinds of beer at Old Chicago Pizza on the Pearl Street Mall. Or, if you’re not in the mood for pizza, why not try a Reuben sandwich from The Hungry Toad? Murphy’s Bar and Grill is another great sports bar and destination, with excellent food and a collection of Murphy’s Law slogans that’s sure to entertain and delight.

If you’re looking for food that’s a little more refined, you can get your pasta fix at Carabbas, a great restaurant and the best chain Italian food in town, or head down the street to Via Toscano where you can get excellent food at really great prices. If you feel like exploring, the Blue Parrot is a long time institution in nearby Louisville, and it’s well worth the short drive. Finally, for some real comfort food, check out the Guinness meatloaf sandwiches at the Old Louisville Inn.

But hopefully you have more time to spend in Boulder, because we’ve hardly even begun to scratch the surface of what this amazing city has to offer. There’s shopping on Pearl Street and plenty of cultural attractions and exhibits to be seen at the University of Colorado.

But however you decide to spend your day, you’re sure to have a blast spending it in Boulder, Colorado.

Now, only the remnants of these towns are left and some are ripe for a tourist to visit. Some are accessible only by off-road vehicles and are only for the hardiest of travelers. Others are more easily accessible to anyone and make a great day trip as a complement to visiting better known destinations. Many of these ghost towns are on or near main roads, and are actually experiencing a bit of rebirth from the tourist trade.

Conversely, there are hundreds of others that are devoid of people and filled with unoccupied buildings that better convey the true sense of abandonment that comes to mind when you think of ghost towns. If you’re a true gold rush history buff, you won’t want to miss these extinct boomtowns.

One great boomtown to check out is the town of Animas Forks, located deep in the San Juan Mountains, which is only accessible in the summer and only by a good four wheel drive vehicle. You’re in the high country here, make no mistake about it. You can get there by going through Silverton or taking the harder path over either Engineer Pass or Cinnamon Pass. Getting there is a bit of a challenge, but the sights are definitely worth the effort.

In addition, check out the gold town called Ohio City which was formed in the 1860s and abandoned as the gold began to run out. However, Ohio City is unique in that it had a bit of a second life when silver was discovered there in 1879. But that, too, played out and the town was abandoned again. The gold mine was again reopened just before 1900, but by 1915, the mine was closed and the town was again left to the ghosts.

As you might expect, it was marble – not gold – that brought the people to the town of Marble, Colorado. Strictly speaking, this is still an occupied town, although many of the 19th century buildings are still standing and ready to be visited.

Next up, the short life of Independence, Colorado has left us with a great ghost town to visit. Just be warned – the summers are short and the winters are long and cold – the same factors that doomed this mining town in the first place. Still, it makes a wonderful place to visit if you’ll be in Colorado in the summer.

Finally, another victim of the harsh Colorado winters was the ghost town of Carson. The town lies almost right on the Continental Divide. At an elevation of almost 12,000 feet, the miners were subjected to some brutal conditions, but today, there are several empty buildings that are only accessible by 4X4. But despite the challenge involved, this town is – like most of the Colorado ghost towns – well worth the trip for true history buffs.

Nestled in the dry expanse of the Eastern plains of Colorado is an oasis – North Sterling State Park. Containing one of the largest bodies of water in the region, the park is an aquatic playground, covering more than 3,000 acres. In addition, there are 141 camp sites to choose from if you feel like sleeping under a night sky, filed with stars like you’ve never seen them before. You can ski, fish and boat along the park’s many coves, and if you want to hike, you’ll hit your stride on one of the park’s six miles of hiking trails – all of which are well maintained and boast beautiful views of the Eastern plains and reservoir.

Next up is Castlewood Canyon State Park, located in the Denver area, which is home to wildlife and wildflowers alike. This 2,300 acre park boasts round rock faces that clearly demonstrate how water shapes the land. The remains of Castlewood Dam can also be found on a two-mile hike on the Inner Canyon Trail. This dam was built to hold back the waters of Cherry Creek, but it failed in 1933. If you like rock climbing, this is the park for you – regardless of your skill level. You’ll have such fun here that you’ll never want to leave, but alas, the park is for day use only and you can’t camp here. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to stay in nearby Castle Rock.

And for drama, you can’t beat the triple waterfall that you’ll find in Rifle Falls State Park. It’s only a short hike to the top of the waterfalls and on your way; you can enjoy the naturally formed caves and their intricate limestone formations. The scenery here is so unique that photographers come from around the world just to take photographs. There are campsites in this park – 7 for walk-ins and 12 for drive-ins – so that you can be lulled to sleep by the amazing rhythmic sound of the triple water fall. You can also find a place to stay in the nearby town or Rifle if camping isn’t your thing.

When you think of Scuba diving, Colorado probably doesn’t readily spring to mind. That’s a shame, because you might miss out on the wonderful diving to be had in the 1,000 acres of water in Ridgway State Park. Need something water-related? The marina is sure to have it. In addition, people with disabilities will find Ridgway State Park very welcoming and accommodating. For a unique experience, you might want to rent a yurt through the local park system. Much like a teepee, the yurt has a wooden floor, a door, and bunk beds – think of it as “roughing it” – lite.

Finally, when you have a name like Panorama Point, you have a lot to live up to. Fortunately, the views of Golden Gate Canyon State Park from Panorama Point make the grade. Whether you want to bike, hike, fish, ride horses, or camp, you’ll enjoy the dense forest of this 12,000 acre state park. For the best experience, visit in September, when the aspen trees turn golden and the views are simply stunning.

Of course, the city is well represented by the national chain hotels, but there are a few specifics that can pique your interest. One of the best ways to break them down is to think about where specifically in the city you’ll be visiting.

If you’re planning your trip around the west of the city, you’ll be near some of the best gambling casinos in the U.S. Be sure to try the accommodations in Cripple Creek, especially the Imperial Casino Hotel or the Midnight Rose Hotel and Casino. These hotel-casino combinations are ideal for the high roller at heart. But don’t worry if that’s not your cup of tea – this section of town has more accommodations than any other, due to a concentration of attractions lining Highway 24, including the Garden of the Gods, the Cave of the Winds, and the world famous Pikes Peak.

On the other hand, if your trip takes you to mid-town, you’ll be staying in heart of many fine restaurants and shops. But know that you’ll be paying for the convenience, as you will in most major metropolitan areas. Be sure to make reservations as early as possible to get the best rates on the accommodations you want. The Residence Inn Colorado Springs Central and the Our Hearts Inn are standouts for the traveler seeking a downtown stay.

One of the biggest attractions in the whole city of Colorado Springs is located in the northern part of the city – the U.S. Air Force Academy. While cadets have a fine place to stay, those who are lucky enough to visit should try the luxurious Wyndham Colorado Springs, one of the highest hotels in America, coming in at an elevation of more than 6,000 feet. For those with more modest budget requirements, choose from the Ramada Inn North or the Best Western Palmer House.

Conversely, the east of town is all business, and the hotels reflect this, as they’re geared for the professional traveler. Here the benefits are the moderate rates and the closeness to the Colorado Springs Airport. For the traditional business traveler, there are the old standards of the Comfort Inn and the Days Inn. But if you need an apartment-style accommodation with an attached working office, the Apollo Park Executive Suites are ready and willing to meet your needs.

Finally, if luxury is what you require, the southern part of Colorado Springs will likely be your preferred destination. Opulence is the rule here, so begin at the top with your accommodations search with the Broadmoor, a sprawling complex of lavish décor with a private lake and Mediterranean fixtures in the main resort. It’s easily the finest accommodation to be found in Colorado Springs and is well worth the extra cost to the discerning traveler.

Whether you want a perfectly groomed Nordic trail, or plan to forge your own path through some rugged back country, you can find the cross country skiing you’re looking for in Colorado’s national forests. You can’t beat the price – most forest trails are free and fees for the Nordic centers are less than $15 a day per person. With money as no object, you can go wherever your desire and skills can take you. Of course, do be aware that if you choose to go into the back country, avalanche is a danger, particularly in the spring.

When planning your cross country ski trip in Colorado, be sure to check out some of the following national forests:

Grand Mesa National Forest is the largest flat top mesa in the world, covering 700,000 acres, and is located about 40 miles east of Grand Junction, Colorado. Here, you’ll find groomed trails, marked but ungroomed trails, and plenty of untried back country for the skilled and adventurous cross country skier.

Next up, Pine National Forest is home to Saylor Park. The park is fairly remote, but wonderful for show-shoeing or cross country skiing – if you can get there. Rampart Range Road and Mount Herman Road are often blocked by snow, so the park is usually only accessible in the warmest of temperatures.

If you visit Rainbow Gulch, leave your car at the gate and strap on your skis. There’s a one mile stretch down the Rainbow Gulch Trail for beginning skier, and a 13-mile route around the reservoir that intermediate to advanced skiers will enjoy.

You should also check out Mueller State Park – with over 12,000 acres, it’s got something for everyone. And with over 80 miles of trails, there’s plenty of room for beginners and intermediate skiers to find a trail that’s just right for them.

More back country skiing can be found at The Centennial Trail when there’s sufficient snow, The Crags, and at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. Again, conditions vary at these locations depending on the amount of snow that has fallen.

If skiing in the backcountry is a bit more than you want to tackle, there are many Nordic centers with groomed trails, onsite ski rentals and everything else you need to get started. Some of the best Nordic centers include Crested Butte, Beaver Meadows, Fairplay Nordic Center, Breckenridge Nordic Ski Center, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort, Copper Mountain, Frisco Nordic Ski Center, and Grand Lake Touring Center.

Other National Forests in Colorado where you can find back country skiing and Nordic Centers include Arapaho National Forest, Grand Mesa National Forest, Gunnison National Forest (Crested Butte), Rio Grande National Forest, Roosevelt National Forest, Routt National Forest, San Isabel National Forest, San Juan National Forest, Uncampaghre National Forest (Telluride), and White River National Forest (Aspen). Whatever your cross country skiing desires, you’ll find something that meets your needs and your skill level in Colorado.

First, check out Balboa Park, which features flowering gardens, neo-classical Spanish architecture, intriguing museums, and a gorgeous clock tower. Balboa Park is also home to the San Diego Zoo – arguably the best in North America. With more than 100 acres of animals to see, you’ll need to plan a full day at the zoo to see all there is to see! And if animals are your passion, be sure to make the 30 mile drive up to Escondido to see the San Diego Zoo’s 1800 acre sister park, The Wild Animal Park. And, of course, no mention of animals in San Diego would be complete with including Shamuu, SeaWorld San Diego’s most famous resident.

The other aquatic residents of San Diego are harbor seals, which can be found at the Children’s Cove in the La Jolla area. The Birch Aquarium – another sight worth seeing – includes a massive kelp tank, as well as oceanography exhibits to interest the whole family. You can explore secluded beaches and ocean coves on your own or, if you’re less adventurous, try exploring the local restaurants, coffee shops, and high end shopping outlets.

Perhaps ghosts are more your speed? Then be sure to include a visit to Old Town’s Whaley House, which is said to be haunted. The Old Town historic district is filled with living history performances, 19th century cannons and preserved buildings and icons of the Old West and the city’s Spanish heritage.

But if your ghostly experience in Old Town leaves you in need of comfort, you might enjoy visiting the oldest mission in California, the Mission San Diego de Alcala, in Mission Valley.

Or, if you want to watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, there’s no better place to do it than the Cabrillo National Monument and Point Loma Lighthouse. From here, you can see the Naval Air Station and the Coronado Bridge, and even the mountains in the distant. The Cabrillo National Monument is also a wonderful place to watch for migrating California gray whales in February.

The military has a strong history in San Diego, and you can explore it at the San Diego Maritime Museum. Here you can see 19th century sailing ships and the Star of India – the oldest, still-active sailing ship in the world. Next, head to the USS Midway Museum and tour the former US Navy aircraft carrier. While you’re downtown, you’ll also find plenty of shopping, fine dining, and night life to keep you entertained.

When it comes to activities in San Diego, the sky’s the limit. Swim, surf, sail, or just relax on the beach. You can even relax au naturale at Black’s Beach, a clothing optional beach in La Jolla. Keep your clothing on, though, if you’re heading out to scuba dive – this is cold water diving, and while the visibility may not be the best, swimming with the sea lions is certainly enough fun to make up for it.

When you’re organizing your visit to San Diego, plan to get a Go San Diego Card. This card gives you free admission to many attractions. Or, if the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego, and Universal Studios Hollywood are on your agenda, check out the Southern California CityPass which will help save you money on your San Diego vacation.