Winter travel in San Diego

From traditional holiday parades and festivals to the migration of California gray whales along the Pacific coast, a visit to San Diego during the winter offers a wealth of free, fun and festive experiences. Visitors to the region can escape overcast skies and the wintry cold for San Diego’s brilliant sunshine and temperate climate and enjoy diverse wintertime experiences, with a Southern California twist.

The following suggestions for free activities and events are sure to capture the imagination and lift the spirits of visitors to San Diego during the upcoming winter months.

Check out these terrific free ideas for the whole family!

1. Join the festivities during Balboa Park December Nights, a two-day holiday celebration of food, entertainment and fun on December 4 – 5.
The sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season fill the air, as the museums and cultural institutions in Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park, open their doors free of charge. Festivities include carolers, live music, light displays, theater and dance performances and delicious foods from around the world. www.balboapark.org/decembernights

2. Witness a tradition that began as a gift to the children of San Diego in 1947 – the Annual Mother Goose Parade on November 22 in the East County city of El Cajon.
One of the biggest parades of its kind in the country and the largest single-day event in San Diego County, the parade features floats, clowns, Santa Claus, marching bands, equestrian teams and celebrity appearances. www.mothergooseparade.org

3. Whale watch from the shores and cliffs of Point Loma, as California gray whales migrate south to the warm water breeding grounds off the coast of Baja, California.
Spectators can catch a spectacular show during December through March when these majestic mammals pass through the waters off San Diego’s coastline. www.nps.gov/cabr/whales

4. Listen to live blues, rock and R&B music during the Blue Christmas in the Gaslamp Quarter on December 10 in downtown San Diego’s historic neighborhood.
Live musical performances take place at 10 venues in Gaslamp Quarter, and admission is free. www.gaslamp.org

5. Enjoy free organ concerts at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park beginning at 2 p.m. each Sunday.
The Organ Pavilion features the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ, a San Diego landmark for over 90 years, where organists resound holiday favorites, waltzes and show tunes from the organ’s monstrous 32-foot lead alloy pipes. www.sosorgan.com

6. See Old Town State Park decked out for the holidays during Fiesta Navidad on December 12 –15.
Guests can learn how residents celebrated the holidays in the 1800s while enjoying candlelight tours, holiday singers, live performances and complimentary refreshments. www.oldtownsandiegoguide.com/events

7. Take a walk around Balboa Park and discover its beautiful architecture.
Take advantage of the park’s variety of free offerings, including free admission to select museums on Tuesdays and tours of the park and its spectacular gardens. Be sure not to miss the “Whoville” decorations in the plaza outside The Old Globe theatre, which are on display November 21 through December 27 to coincide with the theatre’s annual holiday production of Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” www.balboapark.org

8. Head over to Seaport Village for the festive Surfing Santa at Seaport Village event on November 28.
Hang-ten with Santa and enjoy a lively parade along the Seaport Village boardwalk, live music, stilt walkers, kid’s crafts and photo opportunities of your family and friends surfing with Santa. www.seaportvillage.com/holidays

9. Spread some holiday cheer at the La Jolla Christmas Parade and Holiday Festival on December 6 in downtown La Jolla.
The event includes marching bands, floats, equestrian units, vintage automobiles and an appearance by Santa Claus. http://ljparade.com

10. Drive to the mountain town of Julian for a warm mug of hot apple cider and a delicious piece of Julian’s legendary homemade apple pie.
On Saturdays, stroll through the quaint neighborhood streets and enjoy the sounds of wandering Christmas carolers and a living nativity scene. www.julianca.com

11. Explore the tide pools in Point Loma when the tide is low to see some of the magnificent creatures of the sea.
Point Loma tide pools are located just south of the tip of Cabrillo Point. www.nps.gov/cabr

12. Take a walk along one of San Diego’s 70 miles of beaches, all free and open to the public.
Collect seashells for decorating special holiday gifts or just enjoy the magnificent Pacific Ocean. www.sandiego.org/beachguide

13. Watch the season sail by at the Oceanside Parade of Lights on December 12.
The popular parade circles the harbor and features a wide variety of boats, brightly decorated for the holiday season. www.visitoceanside.org

14. Enjoy the Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade on December 13 in downtown San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Owners and their dressed-up pets march down the decorated streets of the neighborhood, ending at a Pet Expo featuring an award-ceremony for best-dressed pups. www.gaslamp.org

15. Enjoy the twinkling waters of San Diego Bay and more than 100 private boats decorated with holiday lights for the 38th Annual Port of San Diego Parade of Lights on December 13 and 20. G
reat views are available on dry land from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Marina Park and Coronado’s Ferry Landing. www.sdparadeoflights.org

16. Take a drive to the top of Mt. Soledad in La Jolla for a panoramic view of the city all spruced up in holiday finery.
Along the way, take a peek at the beautifully decorated homes in this exclusive community. www.soledadmemorial.com

17. Drive to the 600,00-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to marvel at wildlife and a kaleidoscope of colorful flowers amidst the desert warmth.
Anza-Borrego is located just two hours from San Diego via Highway 78 and Interstate 8. www.parks.ca.gov

18. Gaze up at the massive balloons during the Big Bay Balloon Parade, the country's largest balloon parade, on December 30.
Floats, balloons and marching bands are just some of the offerings in this colorful holiday parade along San Diego Bay in downtown San Diego. www.holidaybowl.com

19. How about a parade?!
Get in the holiday spirit with Chula Vista’s 47th Annual Starlight Parade on December 5, featuring carolers, holiday cheer, floats, drill teams, marching bands, classic cars, children’s event and a visit from Santa. www.thirdavenuevillage.com

20. Watch runners compete in San Diego's oldest marathon during the scenic Carlsbad Marathon & Half-Marathon on January 24 along the Pacific Coast.
www.carlsbadmarathon.com

21. Experience a white Christmas in San Diego when you make the scenic, one-hour drive to the top of Mount Laguna.
Sled down mountain slopes, build snowmen and have snowball fights (weather conditions permitting).

22. Delight in the festive gatherings along the Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights on December 13.
Over 100 brightly illuminated powerboats and sailboats parade along Mission Bay; the parade ends with a fantastic firework show at 9 p.m. above SeaWorld San Diego. www.missionbayparadeoflights.org

23. Enjoy complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides in downtown Escondido during an array of holiday celebrations and events.
Carriage rides run between Grand Avenue and Juniper Street during 5- 9 p.m. on December 5, 12 and 19. www.downtownescondido.com/holidays

24. Celebrate holiday cheer with Christmas in the Park – Poway.
The event features a tree lighting ceremony, visits from Santa, train rides, live music, theatre performances, food, treats, crafts and more. www.powaymidlandrr.org/christmas.htm

25. Rock out at the Poinsettia Bowl Battle of the Bands in the Gaslamp Quarter on December 21.
Kicking off two days prior to the annual Poinsettia Bowl, which is played in San Diego’s Qualcomm Stadium, bands representing the two Bowl football teams line up at opposite ends of Fifth Avenue in downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter and face-off in an old fashion battle of the bands. www.gaslamp.org.

For more information on San Diego offerings, click here!

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Traveling in a rundown taxi and exhausted at Jesus' feet

Beyond the white-sand beaches and vestiges of colonial legacy left by the Portuguese, Dili boasts few places of interest for those traveling to Timor Leste.

The country has a long history of colonization and war, with the Portuguese ruling over the barren territory for 450 years until Indonesia assumed control in 1974.

The former port city is bordered by a mountain range to the east, south and west and the sea to the north. Many of the old colonial buildings, including the old government offices and the post office, still retain their original architectural design. Like many old buildings in the city, particularly around the beachfront, most remain in use and cannot be visited by tourists.

The government complex boasts vast gardens and roads with wide, well-paved walkways. The breezy Dili beaches are a favorite hangout for residents who love to relax under the shady banyan trees sipping locally harvested Arabica coffee or drinking coconut water.

The most renowned is Pantai Pasir Putih (white sand beach), situated about four kilometers east of Dili. As the name suggests, this lazy getaway charms visitors with its white sand and clear, calm water. With just a few minor ripples in the sea, the location is ideal for children.

Tourists at Pasir Putih beach near DiliTourists at Pasir Putih beach near Dili

Famous as a family picnic spot, visitors to Pantai Pasir Putih can enjoy the gorgeous view of tall, arid hills and the beach itself. During the working week, the spot is very quiet.

Nightlife is virtually non-existent, so don't come expecting a discotheque or movie theater. There are red-light districts disguised as massage parlors, which locals claim cater mainly to expatriates.

With tourist facilities still very rudimentary, Dili has a long way to go before it will attract global travelers seeking out a classy holiday.

At Hotel Lus Clarita, just a stones throw from the post office, expatriates hold parties regularly on Friday and Saturday nights.

Los Palos, at the eastern tip of Timor Island, is becoming a more popular spot for tourists. Around six hours by car from Dili through bumpy roads and seemingly endless hills, the area features some fantastic beaches and a glimpse into local culture.

Timor Leste is acclaimed for its indigenous woven cloth that can be easily found in major shops or being sold on Dili's roadsides, most likely by the villagers who made it.

Jesus Christ the KingJesus Christ the King

A trip to Dili without visiting the Jesus Christ the King statue is like going to Italy without dropping by the Vatican. Or at least that is what my local friends say.

Visiting the giant religious landmark, built by the Indonesian administration during its occupation, is truly worth the exhausting trek through scrub areas and along the ridges of barren hills.

Along the one kilometer paved pathway leading to the statue are small grottos depicting the Via Dolorosa. Beginning with Jesus being condemned to death at the lowest grotto, the frieze finishes toward the top of the path with Jesus being resurrected from the dead. It's a shame the many of the grottos have been vandalized.

If and when you decide to go to the monument, don't forget to double your portions of breakfast that morning and take along extra water. All vehicles have to park by the beach at the foot of the hill, so you must continue by foot. On a hot day, you would be advised to take an umbrella or wide-brimmed hat to avoid sunburn.

People relax under the shade of an old banyan tree by the Dili beach.People relax under the shade of an old banyan tree by the Dili beach.

The tall bronze statue perches on top of a limestone cliff, which majestically overlooks Dili and the still, clear beaches. The capital's main buildings and mooring ships at the port can be made out in the distance, beyond the wide ocean.

Every Easter, around 5,000 people gather for mass in the large open area surrounding the statue. One final push is needed to actually reach the base of the monument, but it is certainly worth it. The breathtaking view of the blue sea in all directions quickly overcomes feelings of exhaustion.

The gargantuan statue was built in 1996 by the Indonesian colonial administration as an effort to win over the people of Timor Leste.

Transportation is a major headache for visitors, with taxis virtually the only option. Minibuses are available, but learning the routes, switching buses and waiting for long periods is a hassle.

Even though taxi drivers are generally very friendly, some provide terribly poor service. The cars are mostly run-down with no air conditioners or meters. Officially, the fare is supposed to US$1 per in-city trip, but the driver may charge you up to $5 on the pretext that your destination appears to be "farther than he thinks".

Our driver charged us an additional $10 for each hour he waited without telling us beforehand. Another interesting thing about the taxi service in Dili is that they become extremely picky after sunset. Although the streets may be empty, drivers will sometimes flatly refuse to take you, without providing a reason. Later, I learned that they avoid certain areas notorious for crime. Pointing at his broken windshield, a driver said he had had it pelted with stones by drunken youths.

When and if you travel to Timor Leste, bring your sense of humor. It's a lovely country.

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Win a luxurious city break by rail to Lyon

Lyon, France’s second largest city has a reputation for fantastic local cuisine, French gastronomy and great shopping – just what’s needed to give yourself a little luxury. For the culture vulture in you, Lyon is also a fascinating cultural and historic centre and one of just a few urban centres on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The lucky winner and a travel companion will enjoy a 4-night break at a 4* hotel in the beautiful historic town of Lyon including a private tour of Lyon by Citroen 2CV. Travelling there first class in complete comfort on a high-speed TGV on France’s modern rail network is a dream compared with flying. You will arrive at the Lyon Part Dieu station in the city centre within just 5-51/2 hours of departing the UK, relaxed and ready to explore this great city.

Your journey will start from London, Ebbsfleet or Ashford International station on board a Eurostar. You will travel first class with a meal at your seat and your choice of wine or champagne with lunch or dinner. Once in France you will connect with a high speed TGV – Europe’s fastest European train service - in either Lille or Paris to continue your smooth journey onto Lyon. Lille is a simple platform change and total journey times are around just 5 hours.

Also included in the prize is a 90-minute private tour of Lyon in your very own Citroen 2CV. Discover the city in a truly original and customised manner. Let your chauffeur and guide do the talking and point out the sights of interest, so you can take in scenes of some of the highlights including Place Bellecour, the Gallo-Roman theatres and Le Theatre des Celestins.

The prize includes: • First class train travel to Paris and onwards first class rail travel to Lyon • 4 nights accommodation in a 4* hotel in Lyon • A 90 minute private Lyon tour by Citroen 2CV • The prize is for 2 people

For your chance to win, answer the question below

What is the name of the fastest European train service?

Submit your answer here

Rail Europe is the UK's leading provider of European train tickets and rail passes. Whether you're looking to take a train between the UK and the continent, travel onwards to France, Spain, Italy or Germany on a high speed or overnight train, Rail Europe can get you there. As well as offering a stress free way to travel, carrying passengers from city centre to city centre, rail travel is also the greener alternative. Rail travel emits just 5.7g of carbon per person per kilometre, compared to 180g of carbon per person per kilometre emitted by planes.

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Picture-perfect sailing in Croatia and Montenegro

Forget yachts; the best way to see the Dalmatian Coast is by tall ship, and Ginny McGrath knows just the one

Rhea anchored in a quiet Croatian bay, for a spot of lunch, swimming and watersports

I had my photo taken regularly in Montenegro and Croatia – by locals, by tourists, even by policemen, and while I’d like to say it was my snappy dress sense that attracted them, I can’t take the credit. It was Rhea they wanted – her tall frame and smooth curves turned heads in every port.

She eclipsed every fibreglass yacht and shiny gin palace we moored next to, and even outshone the helicopter-topped super yacht owned by Roman Abramovich, which we inadvertently tailed around the Dalmatian Coast; but more on him later.

Rhea attracts the crowds for her unusual looks – a vast Baltic trader built in 1900 and constructed of pine, teak and oak, she has a topsail schooner rig (square sails) and two masts – she’s every inch the pirate ship.

It had been ten years since I’d been on Rhea – my family have great affection for her after years of sailing holidays in Greece and Turkey, so we couldn’t turn down the offer to be her first charter in the Balkans.

Owners David and Penny Ross have lived and sailed in Turkey for 20 years, but brought Rhea to the Balkans this summer because competition among wooden sailing boats is now so fierce. Gulet sailing holidays are two to the dozen in Turkey and the boats are inexpensively produced on a wide scale, which has driven down the cost of sailing holidays and eroded Rhea’s custom.

Being onboard felt wonderfully familiar, as places do when you return again and again – the pine smell mixed with sea salt and the creak of the oak beams as she rolls over the waves. One thing I hadn't remembered though after years of villa holidays, was the dimensions of sail boat living. People accustomed to sailing will know that travelling light and unpacking neatly into cubby-holes is the only way to avoid cluttered cabin fever – the phrase ship-shape has never been more apposite.

That said, you spend little time below-deck. Meals are in the shade of an awning on deck and of the eight family and friends in our party, half of us slept on deck most nights under vast inky skies smattered with twinkling stars. It’s a great feeling waking with the sun warming your body, and open your eyes to the sparkling Adriatic, even if it is 7am.

We began our trip at Kotor in Montenegro, a medieval town with narrow cobbled streets and wide defensive walls that you enter like a secret garden through a small stone arch. The town’s terracotta-tiled roofs are overlooked by the San Giovanni fort and chapel, which have origins in the 9th century. To reach them is a heart-pounding 90-minute walk up steps that wend between cypress trees on the steep slope above the city.

Kotor has a fruit and vegetable market on the quay, where jewellery is sold at night, lively nightlife that attracts hoards of glamorously-dressed young Montenegrins, and restaurants that spill onto cobbled squares and bougainvillea-draped terraces.

After Kotor we sailed into Kotor Bay, a steep-sided 16-mile fjord that spills into the Adriatic Sea. We passed two diminutive islands, Gospaod Skrpjela and Sveti Dorde, topped a 17th century church and a tiny museum and monastery respectively, which you can tour with the resident nun for a small fee. We sailed on to cross the border into Croatia at Herceg Novi, which required a not insubstantial effort from skipper David, and the presentation of two Rhea crew t-shirts for the officials.

Our initial plan was to sail to Hvar and Vis, two of the larger islands north of Dubronik, but we found so many beautiful bays and ports along the way that we didn’t make it further north than the island of Korcula. Here the walled old town has a fishbone layout that keeps the streets shaded and cooled by a sea breeze, and the main attraction is the house alleged to be the birthplace of Marco Polo. We had a memorable sun-downer cocktail at Tramonto Cocktail Bar and ate at the restaurant of the same name next door – it was another enjoyable evening where the affable waiters and sunset views made up for the odd disappointing dish.

On the point of restaurants, it is easy to summarise Dalmatian Coast cuisine – every menu we encountered had similar options: grilled meat (the lamb kofta kebab was excellent), grilled fish (scampi usually means crayfish), and various salads, fish soups, and often pasta and pizza, denoting the Italian influence.

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Travel

Mediterranean jaunt

Where else is tradition held in higher regard than in the Mediterranean? Mediterranean food and architecture is of the most identifiable worldwide. But a small Grecian gem, the small village community of Santorini, takes great measures to preserve its traditional festivals, ancient customs, and local music. And be sure to catch locals crush grapes and produce wine -- a romantic tradition still alive and well in sensual Santorini.

Getaway at sea

Discover the luxury of a private cruise. You and your sweetheart will enjoy candlelit dinners for two at sunset and days full of adventuring in the Caribbean aboard your personal fully-staffed yacht. You’ll feel like royalty as you bask in the beauty of the sea and experience the exhilaration of sailing on your private luxury

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Hong Kong’s glitzy Central Business District (CBD)

Living the High Life

Hong Kong’s glitzy Central Business District (CBD) is booming. New hotels are springing up in rapid pace along Hong Kong’s Jingrong Jie (Financial Street). Hong Kong takes pride in its architecture and reserves many of its elite bars and restaurants to top floors of its celebrated high-rises. What could be a more exciting dining experience than sitting atop of one of Hong Kong’s host of skyscrapers overlooking views of the most spectacular cityscape worldwide? And visitors to the CBD never lack choices for after-dinner entertainment. Catch one of Hong Kong’s favorite Canto-pop stars in concert, hang out in swanky hotel lounges for live music of all genres, and be sure to not leave for home without finding a local-favorite karaoke lounge to serenade your sweetheart.

Road trip

Highway One, Route One, Pacific Coast Highway -- whatever you call this breathtaking scenic 90-mile drive along California's Big Sur coast, is definitely worth the time and energy. But the way to really enjoy the scenic stretch that hugs the shoulder of the mountains is to take it slow. Stop and smell the roses -- or the corks -- wine tasting at the many wineries aligning the route is a popular activity on this trip. There are several choices for accommodations, including a number of bed-and-breakfasts, but there are also great camping digs along the way if you’re traveling on budget.

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Top 10 architectural wonders of the world

We know what the natural wonders of the world are (the Grand Canyon, Mount Everest, etc.), but what about the absolute must-see buildings? The ones that will make your jaw drop and will have you asking, "how did they do that!?"

1. Empire State Building, New York City, NY

This art deco skyscraper stood as the world's tallest building for more than forty years (it's now 12th) and offers incredible views of The Big Apple. The initial schematics for the building were drawn up in two weeks by Gregory Johnson and took just over a year to build (astonishing given the tower is 102 storeys and was built in the 30s).

2. Kogod Courtyard, Washington D.C.

Designed by Norman Foster, this elegant glass canopy was built as an addition to the museum and houses part of the Smithsonian's art gallery. It won the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1999. It's over 28,000 square feet of glass and gives the impression of a floating ceiling.

3. Panama Canal, Panama

This man-made canal was, and remains, one of the most difficult (and impressive) engineering feats of our time. Linking the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, it was built as a travel port and has had an enormous impact on shipping between the east and west. Each year over 14,000 vessels pass through its concrete tunneled walls.

4. Red Ribbon, Qinhuangdao, China

Winner of the American Society of Landscape Architects award, this knee-high red steel bench runs half a kilometer around Qinhuangdao City and acts as a viewing place for the area's lush vegetation and diverse species.

5. Hoover Dam, Border of Arizona and Nevada

As one of the world's largest hydro-electric generating stations, Hoover Dam is one of the most jaw-dropping sites in the US. What's so fascinating about this reservoir (linked to Lake Mead) is it was completed ahead of schedule. Construction began in 1931 and finished in 1936.

6. The Channel Tunnel (aka: The Chunnel), Europe

This incredible underwater feat of engineering brought England and France together and took several tries to make. Now, high-speed trains are used to transport over 16 million people between the two countries every year.

7. CN Tower, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The tallest free-standing structure in the Americas, this tower attracts more than two million visitors every year and is a major communications hub for the city of Toronto. It's also considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

8. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA

Arching over the Pacific ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge links San Francisco to Marin County (an area just south of Napa Valley). Pedestrians can walk the bridge to get sprawling views of San Francisco's harbor. Historically, it's also one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

9. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain

Frank Gehry has designed his fair share of buildings, but this Spanish Guggenheim is something special. The circular body is signature to the architect and was built to showcase the museum's pieces in a unique way. It stands alongside Spain's magnificent Nervion River.

10. Buri Dubai, United Arab Emirates

This structure will be the world's tallest building once it's completed. Although the height has been a well-kept secret, experts predict it will be over 2200 feet and tower plans suggest an outdoor swimming pool will be located on the 78th floor and the 124th floor will be an observation deck. It will also, reportedly, contain the world's fastest elevator.

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Visit the red rocks of Sedona, AZ

Can one vacation truly have something for everyone? Yup! Absolutely! Sedona, Arizona not only has the "Wow!" factor, but is also a place where "boredom" is not part of the vocabulary.

Giddy-up!

Strap on your chaps and spurs to see Sedona on horseback the way they did back in the days of the ol' West. Horses are available for rent if you didn't happen to bring your own along. Guided trail rides, cowboy cookouts and hayrides are also available. For the "tenderfoot" not up on proper riding gear... be sure to have closed shoes (no sandals) and long pants.

What else is there to do in Sedona?

If you're still looking for things to do in Sedona, consider...
• Scenic drives
• Golf & Tennis
• Spas/Massage/Facials
• Spiritual and personal enrichment activities
• Wine tasting
• Musical and theatrical performances
• Bird watching
• Skateboarding (Jack Malmgren Skate Park)
• Camping
• Picnicking
• Fishing
• Stargazing
• PHOTOGRAPHY! (You can't be in Sedona without a camera!)

Sedona festivals to catch

• February – The Sedona International Film Festival
• September – Sedona Jazz on the Rocks
• October - Sedona Arts Festival
• Thanksgiving to New Year's - Los Abrigados Resort's Red Rock Fantasy

Nearby?

• Astronomy at the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff
• Sunset Crater and Meteor Crater
• Canoeing/kayaking/rafting
• Skiing
• National & State Parks
• Northern Arizona University
• Wupatki National Monument

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Something for everyone

Can one vacation truly have something for everyone? Yup! Absolutely! Sedona, Arizona not only has the "Wow!" factor, but is also a place where "boredom" is not part of the vocabulary.

Take a bike!

If you have your own – great! If not, then rent one. The terrain can be rugged or easy, but all are amazing and exhilarating. A helmet is a must as is a backpack, and be sure to check your trail map since only certain trails are open to mountain biking. Professional guided mountain bike tours customized to your skill level are available and offer information about the history, geology, and wildlife of the area. Biking enthusiasts and their families come from miles around to enjoy the annual Sedona Century bicycle event and the Sedona Bike Bash.

Up, up, and away!

What better way to see the red rocks of Sedona than from the air! You'll be mesmerized as you float silently in a hot air balloon over the serene rock formations below. Do you need something more thrilling for the daredevil in you? Then, you may want to consider a helicopter or bi-plane tour. You'll soar over rock formations and through canyons as your guide shares the history and geology of the area.

Jeeps of all colors!

Your own four-wheel drive vehicle will take you to places a basic car won't dare to go. If, however, you'd like to be a little more adventuresome, then sign on with one of the many back road Jeep or Hummer tours. These Jeeps come in pink, red, and yellow depending on which company you sign on with. Hold on to your bonnet and your bottom, 'cause they'll have you bouncing through some hefty terrain as you see and learn about places you'd never get to otherwise. Jeep tours offer many packages including special Indian ruin, vortex and sunset rides.

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isit the red rocks of Sedona, AZ

Can one vacation truly have something for everyone? Yup! Absolutely! Sedona, Arizona not only has the "Wow!" factor, but is also a place where "boredom" is not part of the vocabulary.

Take a walk-about

Stroll around town to the many wonderful shops offering local crafts, jewelry and clothing. Especially enjoyable is meandering through the stores of Tlaquepaque with its traditional Mexican village style.

You'll also find tempting opportunities for homemade fudge, an ice cream cone, candied apples and espresso…in addition to healthier foods, of course.

Hop a trolley!

Catch an overview of the town on the Sedona Trolley. Two separate narrated tours acquaint you with the town and are a great way to begin your vacation.

Take a hike!

Amazing red rock hiking trails abound in Sedona. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your hiking stick and camera and…go! You can take a leisurely stroll, strenuous climb, or something in between. Explore hidden canyons and enjoy captivating views from all levels of difficulty. Some trails will have you crossing multiple streams; all trails will take your breath away. Be sure to carry plenty of water!

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Explore these great summer destinations

Nothing is quite like traveling in the summer. Everything seems brighter. People are nicer. And sometimes, cities just seem to come alive. So this year, if you have the opportunity, check out one of these hotspot summer destinations. They're guaranteed to relax and thrill even the most finicky traveler.

1. Cote d'Azur, France

This glamorous destination, stretching from St. Tropez to Monaco, is home to the rich and famous, and is one of the most expensive locales in the world.
What to do: From taking in the sun to enjoying long nights at the casino or disco, something's available for everyone. Be sure to check out the area's amazing restaurants (especially for seafood).
Look out for: Inflated prices. Everything gets marked up in the summer -- even water.

2. London, United Kingdom

London is at its best in the summer when sunny, dry days overtake the dank, gloomy days of spring.
What to do: Shop Chiswick or Notting Hill. Stop by one of the city's many art and music festivals. Walk the city and take in the sites. Or have a traditional pint on a pub patio.
Look out for: Tourist traps. If you want to experience London, get off the beaten path.

3. Greek Islands, Greece

From Crete to Santorini, a trip to the Greek Islands is at its best in summer.
What to do: Luxuriate outside. Sit in the sun. Pick olives from trees. Have a few glasses of wine. Hop on a sailboat. Swim. Cliff-jump.
Look out for: Hot temperatures and the scorching sun. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

4. Zambia, Africa

This up-and-coming safari destination is best visited in the summer (when the weather is hot but dry, and tourist numbers are low).
What to do: Go on a safari. Sleep under the stars. Check out Victoria Falls. Canoe down Zambezi River.
Look out for: Mosquitoes. Talk to your doctor about anti-malaria medication before you go.

5. Trans-Siberian Rail

When the sun is bright and the weather is warm, this train journey is the best way to explore three mythical countries at once: Japan, China and Russia.
What to do: Hop on the train, sit back and watch the countryside pass by. Enjoy stopovers in small cities. Take day trips to big cities like Moscow or Beijing.
Look out for: Cramped quarters. Upgrade to a private room on the train.

Next...5 more international summer destinations

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