Trevor's Travels

Hawaii is rated one of the most popular vacation destination for American travelers by Ask Doc Travel. This destination is also popular with American Express Vacations. But why? What makes this destination so wonderful? For those of us who have traveled to Hawaii, there are so many reasons to visit that we become muddled, answering only “What do you mean what’s so great about Hawaii?” Well, here is some things to keep in mind when you speak of the many wonders which make Hawaii such a popular destination.

Hawaii is comprised of eight islands. These islands are natural wonders that were created in the middle of the ocean by underwater volcanoes. As the magma from these volcanoes cooled, they hardened into rocks. These rock formations became the Hawaiian Islands. The volcanic phenomenon created Hawaii’s famous black sand beaches and the rich soil from which springs the islands lush vegetation. These main islands are Niihau, Kauai , Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii. The island Hawaii is the largest, and is sometimes called the “Big Island” or “Big Isle”. This phenomenon created Hawaii’s famous black sand beaches and the rich soil from which springs the islands lush vegetation.

The climate of Hawaii is one more reason why these islands remain a popular vacation destination. The weather is more moderate than typical tropical areas because of the cooling effect of the surrounding ocean. In layman’s terms, this means that temperatures and humidity tend to be less extreme than places such as the Caribbean or Mexico. In the tourist high season, summer, the high temperatures reaching the upper 80s °F, rarely going into the 90s°F . During the tourist low season of winter, temperatures at the lowest elevation average in the mid-60s. One more reason that Hawaii is preferred is because hurricanes are a rare occurrence compared to Mexico and the Caribbean.

Compared to other tropical paradises, Hawaii is monitored by American safety and health regulations. Yes, it’s ok to drink the tap water! Also, you still have all the rights and protections of a United States citizen. If you or someone you are traveling with should suddenly need medical attention, you have access to regulated and state of the art care. Hawaii can be a real home away from home.

When people think of Hawaii, they think of the aquamarine water and clean sandy beaches. But what else should one experience in Hawaii? Besides the amazingly pristine beach activities, Hawaii offers deluxe shopping that is reminiscent of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, including couture boutiques such as Coach, Gucci, Tiffany’s and more. The islands are also rich in culture and history. One way to experience the beauty of Hawaiian culture is to attend an old fashioned luau. One of the best traditional Luaus is Famous Germaine’s Luau in Kapolei Oahu. Take in some American History by visiting the infamous Pearl Harbor. With so much to see and do, you’ll never get bored.

There is one snag in this otherwise amazing destination: cost. Because Hawaii is an isolated island chain, everything is more expensive. And because Hawaii is the 50th American state, there is no lower currency exchange like in the Caribbean. Thankfully, there are a number of hotel and travel providers who offer different packages and accommodations. Although hotels and air flights can be on sale and are widely available, consumer products like food, souvenirs and sundries are expensive. Food for one person could cost between $50 to $100! One way to avoid expenses is by making sure you pack all the sundries you can think of, such as sunblock, ChapStick, sunglasses and such.

However, when all is said and done, Hawaii is a top destination for a number of good reasons. There is no better place to go for a tropical vacation.

Just as you have many different options when selecting where to travel and what to do when you get there, you also have a variety of choices when selecting the travel agency that will help you to design your perfect vacation. When you are looking for the perfect travel agency to help you with all of your travel needs, it is first important that you understand the basic types of travel agencies from which to choose and significant differences in terms of the services they provide to a vacationer.

Before looking at different niches of travel agencies, one large distinction exists. Do you want to work with an online-based travel agency, or a locally-based travel agency? Depending on how either type of travel agency is run, you can have a vastly different experience. With an online-based travel agency, you can often receive service 24/7 and book your travel at any time that is most convenient to you. You will be able to retrieve information from many online-based travel agencies “on demand,” or exactly when you request it.

With a locally-based travel agency, you can often form relationships with particular travel agents who will also be your main point of contact for any future travel that you plan. In addition, the agents in your locally-based agency will be able to maintain information specific to your desires to help them to provide suggestions for future vacations. These are only a few of the distinctions between online and local travel agencies.

One recent innovation great for the customer is the emergence of travel agencies who provide both of the above – the personal service of a local, walk-in office with the 24/7 and technological convenience of online access to all your itineraries, account information and options for self-service booking when you want it. Look for a national brand with a history of providing reliable service and customer satisfaction; these companies are most likely to provide you with the best of both worlds in travel agency services.

Once you have determined whether you will use an online or a local travel agency, there are additional options from which to choose. The first option to consider is the level of service an agency will provide. Travel agencies can run the gamut from full service to self service. Especially with online travel agencies, information may simply be provided to aid in your travel decisions while leaving much of the leg work to you. If you prefer a travel planning experience that allows you to seek out all of your own information and make all of your decisions and reservations independently, a self service travel agency will be your best bet.

Full service travel agencies, whether online-based or locally-based, offer the exact opposite scenario. They pair an agent with you to provide all of the information you need, when you need it, and to be on hand to help you with all of the travel decisions that you make. In addition, they will handle all of your bookings and payments and logistics, sparing you the need to do so on your own. In between self service and full service agencies are other options that offer a combination of do-it-yourself plans and planning that involves the step-by-step guidance of a travel professional.

The second option is the type of travel an agency may designate as their specialty. Some travel agencies work only with domestic travel planning. They can assist you with any need you may have related to travel within the United States and its possessions. Other travel agencies work specifically to aid travelers in planning overseas travel. A further narrowing of this niche can occur when a travel agency focuses only on one particular area of the world for the travel services they provide, such as Europe or the Caribbean. You can also choose travel agencies that focus only on one particular type of travel, such as cruises or multi-segmented trips. It can be very important for you to decide whether you would like to partner with a niche travel agency, or a travel agency that is more broad-based.

The third option is the type of traveler an agency may specialize in assisting. Some travel agencies only work with a specific demographic of travel. For instance, you may choose a travel agency that caters to single travelers. This type of agency may work to put together travel packages and tours specifically geared towards singles instead of couples or families. Other travel agencies may work with just that – couples or families. Whether they focus on providing romantic destination options for two, or kid-friendly destinations for the whole family, this can be a popular niche for travel agencies. Finally, a travel agency may choose to focus exclusively on business travelers instead of leisure travelers. They may have options available to offer that are particularly suited to travelers who need different amenities and more flexibility in scheduling.

In conclusion there are many services a travel agency provides to make your life easier when planning a vacation or business travel. Most importantly, the agent offers years of expertise and knowledge of other travelers’ experiences from which you can benefit.

Cumberland Maryland, nestled in the “Narrows” of the Western Maryland mountainside, is an up and coming travel destination for those looking for exciting dining, shopping, sightseeing, arts, theatre and outdoor activities. A quaint and historic city, Cumberland, also known as the “Queen City”, has a rich history stretching back to early American history; at one time a stronghold for Union forces during the American Civil War and later evolving into a major industrial and transportation hub. Once the second largest city in Maryland (after Baltimore), Cumberland went into a period of decline as industries closed, jobs were lost and the city had to reinvent itself. Now, Cumberland is a vibrant urban center enjoying a renaissance in part due to a growing arts, theatre and tourism community. In addition, Cumberland has become a destination for outdoor enthusiasts anchored by a the cities geographical position at the center the Great Allegheny Passage biking and hiking trails which connects Washington, DC to Pittsburgh, PA. The growing popularity of biking on the trail has seen a niche support industry born in the area catering to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts looking for tours, hiking and biking equipment as well as related supplies. Beyond tourism, which is arguably becoming Cumberland’s next major industry, the region is also a growing hub for medical care, is the seat of the Allegany County Government and is home to many regional businesses based in the downtown and surrounding area. Cumberland Maryland Things to Do Cumberland Maryland is rich in options that can suit any taste, budget or lifecycle. The Cumberland region offers all the amenities including first class hotels, spas, golf courses, outdoor adventures, shopping, dining and culture. Spend a day or stay a week just to try and explore it all.

Visit an Art Gallery or Museum. In addition to traditional Art Museums, Cumberland now offers first class art galleries displaying works from local, regional and national artists. At last count more than 20 galleries displaying visual art call the Cumberland region their home. Baltimore Street in Downtown Cumberland is the hub of the local art scene but galleries can also be found along its side streets, at Canal Place and in the nearby college town of Frostburg. The Saville Gallery, operated by the Allegany Arts Council, is located in downtown Cumberland and displays a wide variety of artwork including photography, painting, ceramics and more. Call 301-777-2787 for more information and schedules. Buy tickets and enjoy an evening of theatre. Don’t be surprised if you see some Broadway type shows such as Fiddler on the Roof or a Neil Simon comedy stop in town. Of the three traditional marquee front type venues in downtown alone, the Cumberland Theatre hosts professional casts performing drama, comedies and musicals scheduled June through December. Call 301-759-4990 for more information. Also check out what is playing at the Palace Theatre or the New Embassy Theatre as well as at the area’s half dozen or more performing arts arenas. During the summer months many outdoor performing arts events are presented downtown and at Canal Place. Go on a history kick. History abounds at every turn and alleyway as you explore Cumberland Maryland. For the history buff at heart, visit the single log cabin that was George Washington’s headquarters located on Greene Street a short walk from downtown. There are many museums to choose from, themselves hosted in historic buildings and former grand residences, offering an abundance of views into Cumberland’s past. Recently relocated to Baltimore Street in downtown Cumberland is the Allegany County Museum. Explore the many exhibits highlighting Cumberland’s past industrial, transportation and cultural history. Canal Place is a good starting point to get oriented and offers historical markers and information throughout the complex. The National Park’s Visitor Center, located on the 1st floor of the Western Maryland Railway Station at Canal Place, offers maps, brochures and additional information about sites in the area. Bike the C&O Canal and Great Allegany Passage. People from all over now come to the Cumberland region to enjoy the hundreds of miles of biking trails and paths. The most popular trail is the Great Allegheny Passage which marks the transition from the C&O Canal tow path to the rail trail section of the passage. Experience the beauty and sights riding through the Narrows, Helmstetter’s Curve, Bone Cave and Brush Tunnel as you make your way between Cumberland and Frostburg. Many local businesses offer tours, guides and bike rentals. Shop until you drop. Whether its window shopping or you’re on a mission to buy out the town, Cumberland Maryland will not disappoint. Antiques, keepsakes and collectables are almost a natural resource in this region and as a result you can find an antique or collectables store at almost every corner. Explore the side streets off Baltimore Street in downtown Cumberland as well as the main drag in Frostburg. If you’re looking for more modern items; art stores, souvenirs and clothing boutiques abound. Country Club Mall in La Vale serves up the national chain names to round off your shopping excursion. Visit explorecumberland.com/shop to view a list of local businesses and shops.

Dine Al Fresco on Baltimore Street. Whether it is Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner, dining outdoors on Baltimore Street and watching people walk by is the entire rave. The Baltimore Street pedestrian walkway creates a pedestrian friendly corridor on what was once the town’s busy main street. Enjoy the landscaping, water fountains and regularly scheduled entertainment and events as you dine at the popular Manhattan, City Lights or Oxford House restaurants just to name a few of the many options. Beyond Baltimore Street many dining options from casual, national chains, fast food and pub fare are also available. Visit explorecumberland.com/eat to view a list of restaurants in the Cumberland area.

Take the Western Maryland Railroad to Frostburg. Make it a round trip or bring your bike onboard and return on your own wheels on an exciting downhill bike ride back to Cumberland via the Great Allegany Passage. As soon as you enter the restored terminal you will be brought back in time to when the train travel was the backbone of the nation’s transportation system. The Western Maryland Railroad brings you back to the day of steam engines and its role on moving people west and beyond. Enjoy the scenic mountain beauty of winding and weaving through the Narrows up to Frostburg. Choose from many different packages and options including First Class car Lunch or Dinner, Rail to Trail packages and Murder Mysteries. Enjoy lunch and shopping in Frostburg and then watch the train spin around a large rotating platter to prepare for its return trip to Cumberland. Take a day trip. Cumberland Maryland is an excellent launching point to plan trips to sites and cities not too far away . Make a day of it to drive to Washington, DC, Baltimore, MD or Pittsburgh, PA, all within 130 miles and only 2.5 hours away! Checkout the college town of Frostburg, offering a quaint downtown area lined with shops, restaurants and art galleries. Head out to Deep Creek Lake, the areas playground, and enjoy boating and water sports in the warm months or skiing in the winter. Civil war buffs visit the Antieum Battlegrounds or check out the attractions just over the border on Pennsylvania such as the coral caves, nemacolin and many other national parks. Go Camping. Pitch a tent, hike the trails and enjoy the great outdoors. Only miles from the urban yet quaint hustle and bustle of downtown Cumberland exists the natural beauty of state parks, lakes, rivers and campgrounds. Green Ridge State Forest in Flintstone, MD is just a few exits from Cumberland yet a world away. The public park offers biking trails, hiking, canoeing and kayaking on the Potomac River. The nearby Hidden Springs Campgrounds offer full hookups and many amenities. Other parks and camping s
ites nearby include Rocky Gap State Park, Allegany Fairgrounds and Little Orleans Campground and Park Area. Become a local. See a High School football game, eat a hot dog, and bring a lawn chair to downtown Cumberland’s popular Friday’s After Five festivities. There is nothing better when visiting a new destination then to experience it as a local. Cumberland loves its local sports scene, visit in the fall and attend a High School Football game to watch Fort Hill High School take on cross town rival Allegany High School. Eat where the locals eat? Visit Curtis’s Coney Island Wieners on North Centre Street in downtown for a hot dog with a secret meat sauce to die for. Check out D’Atris Restaurant in La Vale and order a cheese steak sub, like no sub you will find anywhere else. Every Friday in the summer starting at five, bring your lawn chair and find a good spot to take in the scene while enjoying musical performances, outdoor vendors, food and, most important, cold beer that can be bought at the event.

Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, soaking up the art scene, becoming a local for the day or just enjoying a relaxing dinner, Cumberland Maryland offers something for everyone’s taste and budget. Visit ExploreCumberland.com where you can plan and even book your next trip to Cumberland Maryland online.