VACATION IN WYOMING: Every region of Wyoming has its own unique vegetation, wildlife, weather and geologic formations.

Wyoming is a state of great scenic beauty. Grasslands, mountains, forests, deserts, rivers and lakes present tourists with some of the most breathtaking scenery. Panoramic mountain views, rushing trout streams and sky-scraping aspen, spruce and fir trees provide a stunning backdrop at Wyoming's national parks, forests and monuments. Wyoming boasts of having America's first national monument, Devils Tower, which is popular for its hiking and climbing expeditions. It is also home to the country's first national forest, Shoshone National Forest, which is one of the largest forests in the country. Visitors will get to see the better part of Wyoming wildlife in these forests. Yellowstone National Park is the world's first national park. It also happens to be America's second largest. Even though the park is home to hundreds of species of birds, game fish and mammals it is most famous for its black and grizzly bears.

Every region of Wyoming has its own unique vegetation, wildlife, weather and geologic formations. From Old Faithful to Devils Tower, nature has sketched amazing landscapes and geo-thermal features for people to enjoy. Yellowstone National Park and Hot Springs State Park have many geo-thermal attractions. It offers a variety of out door tourist activities like float trip on the Snake River, herding cattle in the Big Horn Mountains, biking in the Snowy Range or climbing the Tetons. Tourists will also find wonderful trail, which allow them to hike, backpack or fly-fish. Wildlife photography or bird watching is also another good way to pass time, as the state is teeming with animal and bird wildlife. For tourists who enjoy physical exercise, Wyoming offers rock climbing, kayaking, snowboarding, parasailing, hang gliding, windsurfing, jet skiing or spelunking. Water sports like Boating, water skiing, fishing and other recreational activities associated with Wyoming's many rivers are also popular. Camping is also popular. It is allowed in both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Some other tourist attractions are horseback riding, golf and game hunting. From the thrill seeker to the nature lover, Wyoming has something to offer everyone.

VACATION IN WISCONSIN: Three Great Things to Do During a Vacation to Wisconsin

When it comes to vacation destinations, not many people view the state of Wisconsin as the place they've always dreamed about going to. The truth is thought that there are a great many fun things to do while visiting there. Here is a look at just three of the very entertaining things to do on a visit to Wisconsin.

Professional Sporting Events

Wisconsin is blessed with a number of great professional sporting events that are available to visitors looking for an exciting thing to do. Baseball fans can take in a Milwaukee Brewers game and watch baseball players compete at the highest level. Fans of basketball also have an option as the Milwaukee Bucks offer a great entertainment option. For those that are football fans, the Green Bay Packers are one of the most historically significant teams in the National Football League. The state also offers a number of minor league options too, including teams in baseball, hockey, and basketball.

The Waterparks of Wisconsin Dells

While not immediately thought of as a destination for those seeking to enjoy the water, Wisconsin offers some of the nices water recreation available in the form of the various waterpark attractions located in and around the community of Wisconsin Dells. Noah's Ark Waterpark was the first to come to the city in 1979, and since then the city has added another 17 water based attractions. Families with children of all ages will find the various waterparks in Wisconsin Dells to be a great reason to go on a vacation there.

Door County Trolley

Located in Sturgeon Bay, the Door County Trolley offers a wonderful experience for visitors heading there. There are a number of tours available to take aboard the trolley, and the guides are very helpful and experienced. The trolley stops at a number of important sites in the Fish Creek area, many rumored to be haunted. A fun time can be had by anyone venturing to take part in a Door County Trolley tour.

A visit to Wisconsin can be a great idea for anyone looking for a fun and exciting vacation experience. There is a great amount to do there and driving to or though the state can be a fun time for anyone.

VACATION IN WISCONSIN: How to Plan Your Next Wisconsin Vacation

You can't wait for your next getaway! You want to have a blast, but you need to get back to work at some point and you'd love to figure in some downtime to your plans. Where do you start planning it all?

One of the first things to consider when planning your vacation is where to stay. This could be a luxury stay at a resort, a back-to-basics camping trip with an open fire under the stars, or maybe you just want a place to sleep for cheap while you are playing elsewhere all day and into the night.

Plan for the season! Wisconsin Dells has activities for you all year long. There are indoor waterparks and ski hills in the winter. There are campgrounds and outdoor activities all summer. Depending on when you visit, you may need to either bring a coat or your sunscreen (or both).

Wisconsin Dells is THE place to come for fun, so you will need to plan some activities during your trip. The most popular thing to do in the Wisconsin Dells is to enjoy our water parks. If you want something more adrenaline pumping, there are extreme outdoor sports and parks to double your heart rate. If you prefer to limit your heart rate, we have several golf courses, tons of shops and arcades, and some shows that never splash water at you.

If you are planning to drive out, be sure to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic before you leave home. Proper tire pressure and a tuned car will help ensure that you don't spend your trip waiting for a tow and it saves you in fuel costs.

Meals are another thing to consider. You may prefer a cookout at your campsite or room, or you may go all-out at one of our finer establishments. Wisconsin Dells has several specialty restaurants and buffets. Caribbean, Japanese, Cajun, Seafood, Mexican, BBQ, and Steak Houses are all ready to tempt your tastebuds and stick to your ribs.

In order to sift through they myriad of choices waiting for you, search Google for a Wisconsin Dells Vacation Planner. This is an online tool that helps narrow down your favorite choices and keeps track of your plans. When using a Vacation Planner, it is easy to find just what you were looking for, and easy to remember what it was once you get here!

VACATION IN WASHINGTON: 5 Ways to Have a Cheap Family Vacation in Washington, DC

When you go on vacation, it's easy to spend money on museums, water parks, theme parks and food. The secret to a cheap family vacation is to figure out where you can cut expenses yet still have a fabulous time.

Well, Washington, DC provides numerous free activities for you and the kids. I'll share 5 of them with you here:

1. Museums: Most of the museums in Washington, DC are free. Some of the best ones are conveniently located near each other on the National Mall, and some are particularly kid friendly. The Air and Space museum, Museum of Natural History and even the US Post Office museum are particular kid favorites. The National Building Museum, which may not sound exciting at first, offers a play area on the second floor with blocks, toy tools, and more to teach about building.

2. Parks: One of the best-kept secrets in the Washington area is Gravelly Point Park located close to the end of the Regan National Airport runway. It's located off the northbound George Washington Parkway in Arlington, VA. You'll get a beautiful view of the Washington skyline across the Potomac River, and you can often have an up-close view of the airplanes landing at the airport. Entire families visit the park to picnic and to watch the planes land.

3. Markets: Visit the outdoor Eastern Market for an outdoor shopping experience. You can sample fresh and homemade food and see what local artists offer in the way of photographs, paintings, and jewelry.

4. Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center: Free concerts and performances are offered every day of the year at the Kennedy Center. For restless children, there's room to stand and move around in the back.

5. Memorials: Washington, as you may know, is full of memorials. The back steps of the Lincoln Memorial offer a good view of the bridge that leads to Arlington National cemetery, and the front steps offer a view of the George Washington Memorial. The Vietnam War Memorial and the World War II memorial are close by, so this is an outing in which you can see a lot in a short time. You can also save on transportation since you won't have to take a taxi or use a rental car. Bring your lunch and you can eat on one of the many benches by the reflecting pool and feed the ducks.

VACATION IN WEST VIRGINIA: Whether you are looking to cuddle next a fire for Valentine's Day or for a fun family vacation, West Virginia has everything you're looking for

West Virginia is all about winter in February and the snow sparkles as far as the eye can see. Whether you are looking to cuddle next a fire for Valentine's Day or for a fun family vacation, West Virginia has everything you're looking for. The Canaan Valley is an excellent place if you are looking for scenic beauty, winter sports and a warm fireplace. The Allegheny Mountains are breathtaking and you will find many resorts that will keep you warm between trips to the slopes. The valley is also nestled in the Monogahela National Forest and 6000 acres of parkland. You will find 37 slopes and a dozen cabins and cottages.

Fenton Art Glass Company and Gift Shop in Williamstown features handcrafted American glass. They offer free factory tours, a gift shop, factory outlet, and museum. The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences of West Virginia is located in Charleston. They feature performing arts, visual arts and sciences. The Avampato Discovery Museum is located in Charleston. This museum features many interactive exhibits, an art gallery and a theater that presents planetarium shows. The Arts Centre in Martinsburg holds a Mardi Gras festival with great food and Cajun music.

The Shade Tree Prickin' & Grinnin' Concert Series is an annual event in Salem. The concert is held at the historic Salem Depot Park. They feature acoustic music with local players who get together and just have fun playing their music. The event takes place outside, weather permitting, under the new pavilion at the park. Many of the local merchants stay open late for more shopping hours during the music.

The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum is located in Wheeling. The museum is an excellent place to relive your childhood. Enjoy exhibits of toys and trains from many generations. They also have a scale model of downtown Wheeling. The museum is located in a restored Victorian-era schoolhouse. There are guided and self-guided tours as well as interactive displays, O and HO gauge train layouts, a gift shop, a room dedicated to the history and culture of the Ohio River Valley and a restored railroad caboose.

VACATION IN WASHINGTON: Your Luxurious Vacation In Washington DC

Washington D.C is best known for being the home of the White House and it is also known for its beautiful and sometimes stunning architecture. When you take a vacation in Washington you know you can easily pay a bit more for staying in the hotels than you would if you stayed elsewhere but this isn't always a bad thing particularly if you are looking to have a vacation that consists of nothing but pure luxury and indulgence.

You can choose to stay at The Ritz-Carlton hotel, this magnificent hotel has three hundred guest rooms and you can choose from a Deluxe guest room or a Club Deluxe room, in addition to this the hotel also has two Presidential suites among many other luxury suites to choose from. Not only will you have a luxurious room but the hotel has an extremely modern fitness facility that covers an incredible one hundred thousand square feet and comes complete with some very highly trained and experienced instructors. The facility also offers you the chance to get in shape using the gym or perhaps the basketball or squash courts to name but a few of the sporting activities you can partake in during your stay.

If you want to get out an about in Washington and enjoy the architecture and perhaps even a trip to the White House then you are free to do so, but if at the end of the day you don't feel like hitting the gym in your luxurious hotel then you can always relax and unwind in one of the many high-class restaurants and bars that are common in this part of the United States.

The Jockey Club is well-known in Washington D.C and since its recent restoration it has somehow heightened the level of sophistication and elegance that it always had and is perhaps best known for. The Jockey Club is a restaurant that Presidents and their First Ladies have frequented and is proud to boast that eight Presidents have dined here; and what is good enough for the President of the United States is good enough for you. You may even spot some Hollywood superstars while you dine in the luxurious yet charming surroundings of this restaurant that has been famous for Forty years. The food here is unbelievably delicious and every dish is expertly prepared and presented; there's no doubt about it that you will be dining in style.

VACATION IN WASHINGTON: Getaway to Washington DC? Ideas and Weekend Deals Here

Washington DC is the place to go if you want to have fun yet you don't want to put your mind on idle the whole trip. Or if you want your kids to learn something, not just ride roller coasters and eat cotton candy. And you don't want to max out all your credit cards to do it.

Best Time to Go

If your schedule permits, the best time to visit Washington is either the spring or the fall. Springtime is especially inviting as you may get to experience the annual Cherry Blossom Festival an April tradition which draws thousands of happy tourists in often beautiful weather.

Things to Do

From the Capitol to the White House to the Supreme Court to the Smithsonian there's all kinds of ways to stimulate your mind and help your kids learn things the could never learn in a classroom. From the National Zoo to the International Spy Museum there are more fun things for both adults and children to do than it seems possible to pack into just one city.

First stop, the National Mall. You won't find a Gap or an overpriced cookie store in this Mall. This is where all of Washington's famous monuments reside such The Washington Monument, The Lincoln Memorial and The Vietnam Veteran's Memorial.

Not to mention the nearby Smithsonian Institute. You could spend weeks just browsing through it's various museums. I almost forgot the best part. Most of this stuff you can see for free. Gratis. No charge. Complimentary. In other words, you ain't gotta pay nothing.

For after dark fun you can see a show at the Kennedy Center, check out some basketball, hockey, or music at the MCI Center, or dance the night away at one or more of Washington's many sizzling nightspots.

VACATION IN WASHINGTON: Exciting And Calming, Interesting And Intriguing, That's Washington, DC For You

Apart from encompassing loads of antiquity, this city, nonetheless, offers some very exciting and action-packed experiences. Basically, Washington, DC is more than milling to accommodate every possible desire, fancy and need, courtesy the several diverse attractions that it plays home to. Being a significant tourist destination as well as an important center for international business and commerce, the city is connected by all major airlines worth their weight. Just stop by at any of the online air travel portals and you'll be inundated with cheap flights to Washington, DC galore.

Apart from being a beautiful collection of awe-inspiring landscapes, the city is pretty rich and affluent when it comes to art, culture and heritage. Soak up some of the same through a visit to its splendid museums, ornate art galleries and innovative public exhibitions, several points of ethnic interest, cultural and heritage centers and more. Look out for those discounted tour deals and single-ticket entry to the city's many sightseeing places, you'll stumble upon quite a many. Also, no matter what time of the year you come to the city, find some of the most attractive discounts on cheap hotel rooms, guesthouses, youth hostels, bed and breakfasts and motels. Now, this explains why budget travelers love it here so much. An affordable vacation in Washington, DC is easy to realize.

Exploring the nooks and crannies of a place so dynamic and vibrant is not without its share of intriguing moments and encounters. Let the morning begin with a trip to the White House, spend an afternoon at the Ford's Theater catching up on some avant-garde theatrical production, soak up the serenity of the Fort Casey State Park in the evening and finally head out for an entertaining nightlife. From cheap hotels to luxurious ones, fancy restaurants to local eateries, neighborhood pubs to the all-shiny and glimmering bars, flashy discotheques to the more humble party places, Washington, DC has got them all.

Washington, DC is a place where you can enjoy both a quick trip as well as an extended stay. The warm and hospitable locals always make you feel welcomed and assist you whenever need be, the many spas and wellness centers beckon you for that round of refreshment and relaxation that you so desire, and above all, the basic ambience of the city instills a sense of satisfaction in most tourists, knowing well that the city has presented its best foot forward.

VACATION IN VIRGINIA: Must See Virginia Beach Attractions

Planning a vacation to Virginia will not mean trying to find enough things to do. Instead, planning the trip will mean trying fit as many of the city's numerous attractions into your short stay as possible. Virginia Beach attractions are so various in style and type that there is sure to be so much to do that you will stay busy for your whole vacation.

What kinds of attractions are available in Virginia? There are truly too many to list here, but below you will find some of the most exciting and popular categories of fun that you will have in the vacation-worthy city.

Of course, there are the beaches. From the laid back and relaxed Chesapeake Bay area to the bustling and exciting resort area, there are beaches that are sure to please any traveler. Whether you just want to soak up the sun or you wish to paddle a kayak, you will have plenty of waterfront options.

Virginia attractions also include museums and historic homes. Since the area is part of the oldest settled in the country, there are plenty of historic attractions that you could enjoy. One of these attractions, which is just a short drive from the city, is the Jamestown settlement, which was the first settled town in the United States.

Do you enjoy the lighthearted fun that can only be found at seasonal festivals? Virginia attractions include numerous festivals throughout the year. If you in town at the right time, you can enjoy one of these events. If you are vacationing on Memorial Day weekend, you may be interested in the Pungo Strawberry Festival.

For something a little different, if you are in the city on the right Saturday in May, you could take part in the Virginia Wine Festival. For a taste of culture, the yearly Latin Fest may peak your interest. There is certainly no shortage of festivals to attend while you are vacationing.

Others of the numerous beach attractions include golf courses, fishing tournaments, nature trails and hiking parks, bowling and gaming, amusement parks, and an aquarium. Between the listed attractions above and the numerous others that can be found in Virginia, there are plenty of options available. There will certainly be attractions to please the whole family and you will find that you are trying to visit as many as possible while on your vacation.

VACATION IN VERMONT: Vermont is an exquisite state and features a variety of winter activities perfect for February.

Vermont is an exquisite state and features a variety of winter activities perfect for February. From arts to skiing and music, Vermont has it all. The Brattleboro Gallery Walk: Celebration of the Arts features over 40 different exhibits in galleries, cafes and other establishments. There are artists' receptions, live music, a dance and other performances as well. The town of Brattleboro is located in Windham County on the shores of the Connecticut River. The town serves as a gateway to Vermont and is a popular area for banking, printing, agriculture, resorts and entertainment. There are several cultural institutions including the Brattleboro Music Center, Brattleboro Museum and Arts Center, and the River Valley Performing Arts Center.

Battleboro is also home to Fort Dummer. The Fort was built in 1724 and was the state's permanent white settlement. Today, the Fort is a Vermont State Park and open for viewing by the public. The Brattleboro Winter Carnival is a celebration that is held annually and in which the entire town comes together. The event features karaoke, ice fishing, a queen's pageant, pancake breakfasts, ice-skating, sleigh rides, a country western jamboree, petting zoos and movies.

The Lake Hortonia Ice Fishing Derby is Vermont's annual ice fishing tournament in Hubbardton, Vermont. The event always takes place the second weekend in February. Elegible fish species include Northern Pike, Bass, Yellow Perch, Crappie and others. Hubbardton is a historic town in Vermont and home to the Hubbardton Monument. This little town is where the Green Mountain Boys flew the first American flag into battle against the British in 1777. It is home to several beautiful lakes that are excellent for fishing including Lake Hortonia, Beebe Pond and Echo Lake. The Hubbardton Battlefield and Monument is located here as well.

The Magic Hat Mardi Gras Parade and Block Party is a Burlington, Vermont annual event. Interesting floats parade Church Street and rock bands and brass orchestras play in the background. There are several authentic Louisiana Moonpies and Lake Champlain Chocolates available as well as beads. The city of Burlington sits on the shores of Lake Champlain. Burlington is the largest city in Vermont and is a port of entry for many industries. Burlington is an old city, as it was settled in 1773, but it is growing strong and fast. It is home to four colleges including the University of Vermont, Burlington College, Trinity College and Champlain College.

VACATION IN UTAH: How To Have A Great Time In Utah

So you're going to visit Utah for the first time, or you are planning a trip to Utah and it's been a while since your last visit.

As a native of this great state, I am going to offer you some tips about how to take advantage of your trip and make sure that you have a lot of fun while creating memorable experiences.

To begin with here are a few things to consider when planning your trip. When are you going? Although our spring weather normally starts to kick in around mid-March it is not uncommon for us to have cold days and maybe even a little bit of snow as late as mid-May. It is also very hot in August and our winter snow can start falling as early as October. The ski resorts are generally open from November-March so if you are planning on skiing then you will have to plan your trip during these months. If you are not a skier or snowboarder and you would like to come and visit Utah during the summer months, June is the best time as it is the coolest during June. Hotels are also generally cheaper during the months of May-September as this is off season and not skier season.

So what can you do in Utah? Here are a few ideas-

Hiking-is very popular in Utah and with our many mountains and canyons we have hikes for all levels of difficulty from athlete marathon runner type hikes to those that even little children can enjoy. Some of the popular ones include: hiking to the top of the snowbird ski resort, which stays open year round and has great views and hotels during the summer months as well as a wide selection of summer activities. Mount Olympus which is beautiful with its peaks as well as rivers and hills. Mount Timpanogos which has a beautiful cave at the top which you can tour and visit the inside. This hike is a bit difficult for children but if you plan for more time it is possible. I first hiked this mountain to the cave when I was only twelve. You can also climb the face of the mountain which is much more difficult and not a good idea for children.

Rock Climbing-this can be done in many of the same places where you can also go hiking. If you are interested more in this activity then I would check with the Utah bureau of tourism for more information.

Water Skiing-is very popular and there are all kinds of lakes where you can go. Some of the more popular ones include Echo reservoir near Ogden and Lake Powell. You can rent a boat and equipment if you do not already have your own.

River Rafting-Utah has some great rivers where you can go rafting. This is pretty much permitted in just about any of the rivers however, you should of course, use common sense and ask for advice if you are uncertain about if it is a good idea in any particular river.

Fishing-you will need a license to do this but there are many great places to fish in Utah as well.

Camping-Along with the hiking comes camping. Many Utahans cannot even imagine going hiking without camping, or camping without hiking. That is because many of our beautiful campgrounds require you to hike at least a little ways in order to get there. In any case, combining a hike with a camping trip at the top of a mountain is a great way to get out and enjoy nature.

National Parks-if you are a bit less sporty or even if you are our national parks in Southern Utah are gorgeous and they are even on the list of the seven natural wonders of the world. You can hike in them, take a tour bus around them, drive through them, ride a horse or donkey through them, and more. You can even stay in a hotel in them as well instead of camping if you feel some inclined.

Last but not least, Utah is full of other national parks and monuments that you can visit. We also have a famous ballet and symphony along with many other arts organizations in our capital city of Salt Lake City. There is never a dull moment in Utah.

VACATION IN TEXAS: Seven Things You Should Do On Your Next Texas Vacation

Being able to take a break from life is something we all look forward to, which means that when it comes to taking a vacation, we really want to be sure to make it count. Earth is a pretty big planet, and while there are a number of places on the globe you could travel to for your next vacation, you might consider Texas vacations to be requisites for your next few getaways.

Texas? Really? Absolutely! Before you begin to scoff at the idea of spending your well-earned time-off in the Lone Star State, you might want to consider what it is that you do on standard vacation. You travel by either land, sea, or air. You make it to your lodging, and more often than not, you might just call your first day a "chill" kind of day. You figure you'll regroup, get refreshed with a good night's sleep, and when the morning comes, vacation mode will be in full-effect. You take in the sights, buy meals out, take in more sights, and then head back to the hotel or vacation rental. You're absolutely tired, and you very quickly begin to think that maybe a "hotel day" would be a good option instead of seeing more sights. Eh.

With a vacation in Texas, you can't help but run into things to do, see, and experience everywhere you go. Moreover, why not make it a really memorable getaway by renting a car & having an epic road-trip through the state? The options are really pretty endless.

But before you get overwhelmed thinking that you wouldn't know where to start, here are seven things that need to be part of your next Texas vacation:

Take a Picture with a "Don't Mess with Texas" Sign- As iconic as they are important, Texas prides itself on maintaining the stunning looks of its land.

Take a Pit-Stop at A Buc-ee's- If you think you've been to a convenience store on a road-trip before, you will be sorely mistaken. Be prepared for an experience.

Cruise on I-35- It's the major thoroughfare in Texas. You can't say you've driven in Texas unless you've hit this highway.

Check Out Historical Markers Along the Way- With as much history as there is in Texas, you'll find countless historical markers everywhere you go.

Visit the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station- Fmr. President Bush is the longest-living president in history, and his decades of service to this country make this destination a must.

Check out an Antique C.W. Parker Carousel in Brenham- Tremendous craftsmanship that is over a century old & is the only example of a C.W. Parker carousel with Herschell-Spillman horses.

Explore Washington-on-the-Brazos- See "Where Texas Became Texas" with the site of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836.

Texas vacations may not seem like they would provide you and your family with much in the way of entertainment and excitement. You figure if you've seen one part of Texas, you've seen pretty much all of Texas. Therein lies the biggest mistake you could make about the Lone Star State. Texas has a rich history and cultural heritage that makes it statehood one of the truly interesting rises to prominence in the country. You owe it to yourself to make Texas a major candidate for your next getaway.

VACATION IN TEXAS: The Best Texas Vacations Include These Five Things

Texas vacations are the stuff of legend, at least if you ask a resident of the great Lone Star State. After all, Texas, though thoroughly metropolitan in many areas & very much an international destination, still has wildly diverse landscapes, climates, elevations, and all of the things that lay claim to the notion of the 'Wild West' characteristics that evoke tall tales.

In other words, Texas has a lot to offer, but with so much to offer, there comes a need to really define what a vacation in Texas is all about. What are the absolutely "musts" that are a part of the quintessential Texas getaway?

In the same way that a buffet doesn't count unless you go through the line three times, here are at least five things that any Texas vacation must have to be legit:

1. Driving - If there's one thing that Texas is known for it's that you can drive for hours in just about any direction and still be within its borders. The highways & byways of this great state are, in many respects, the definition of what a road-trip is all about. No matter if it's I-35, I-10, I-45, I-30, or Hwy 6, if you're heading out on vacation, you need to drive just to for the experience.

2. Road-side Gourmet Food - As you hit the road & partake of water & sodas, you're going to need to take a pit-stop. While most people might find this a necessary evil and want to move on ASAP, you might want to take a minute to see what kind of eats are available. Whether it's tacos or barbecue, you're sure to find something amazing.

3. Small-Town Good Eats - On the subject of food and small towns, any Texas vacation wouldn't be complete without discussing the almost "mythically-good" you got out of that one town with the great grub on Main Street, Texas somewhere. A perfect example would be the BBQ in Brenham, TX and throughout Washington County, Texas. It may be small-town 'cue, but it's world-class.

4. Fun in the Sun - No Texas vacation would be complete without hanging out by the pool, or even better, by the lake. Though there are some pretty popular places around the state, these can get very crowded. Try the more relaxed avenues of the Blue Bell Aquatic Center & Lake Somerville State Park and Trailway.

5. A Sense of Adventure - OK, this may seem a little hokey, but when it comes right down to it, taking a vacation in Texas is all about getting the most out of what the state has to offer. Sure, there's a push by many cities to become couture & fashionable, but you can find that anywhere. You need to hit the road and explore what the state has out away from the 'big city'. Be willing to try new things, and don't be afraid of tangent trips as they may form some lasting memories for you and your family.

VACATION IN TEXAS: How To Plan The Best Texas Vacation Ever in 7 Easy Steps

Interested in planning out a summer vacation in Texas? The state of Texas has a lot of something for everyone. It is no wonder that Texas is a hot destination for those planning vacations. For some people who have never visited the state, planning a vacation can seem overwhelming. With some simple planning and basic tips, you can create yourself a nice blueprint for your next vacation. Here are 7 easy steps to plan out a Texas vacation.

1. Make a budget.

The overall point of budgeting is to make the best decisions in the most cost effective way possible. The point of a vacation is to enjoy yourself and that is nearly impossible to do if you are worrying about money the entire trip. Figure out your budget and decide on a location and lodging situation that you can afford. Local travel agents or online vacation planning services can help tremendously.

2. Find a great location.

There are many choices you can make when considering where to spend a vacation. Will you have family or will you be going with a romantic partner? Is it a father son trip or a honeymoon? Deciding on the style of vacation you want to have allows you to pick the best location possible. As the stress of city life increases, many popular vacation spots located close to natural attractions or beautiful country side are gaining in popularity. The Texas Hill Country region offers many small towns to visit full of festivals and various local attractions. Washington County in Texas is known for the Bluebell Creamery and a true country town experience.

3. Reserve a luxury condo or stay at a bed and breakfast.

If you have it in your budget to splurge a bit on higher quality lodging, do it! A luxury condo can provide you with easy check in, great customer service, room service, and close proximity to many fun activities as well as a comfortable and cozy place to call home at the end of a long day of having fun. Bed and breakfasts are a great way to stay in a relaxing lodging while having your needs specifically catered to. They are especially excellent for honeymoons or romantic get-a-ways. Texas' Hill Country has numerous B&B's to stay at either in seclusion or in the heart of the small town of your choice.

4. Go for wine tours.

In cultures that heavily consume wine, the prevalence of heart disease is significantly lower. Not only is wine delicious but in moderation it is excellent for your health. Why not treat yourself to some wine tasting while on vacation? Texas has many wineries that allow for wine tasting and tours of the vineyards. Windy Winery and Saddle Horn Winery near Brenham, Texas are producing some amazing award winning wines. Plan for a day of delicious wine tasting and relax exploring and tasting the land of Texas.

5. Find out the fine dining options.

If you have any dietary restrictions it is wise to research your food options before hand. Texas is known for amazing barbecue and a profound love for a meat and potatoes diet. However, if meat is not your thing or you have a particular diet, there are many styles of restaurants happy to meet your specific needs. Do some online searches and find restaurants that suit you beforehand so there are no issues or conflicts after your vacation begins. Also, fine dining is a must while on vacation. Dumas Pepper and Pie has some high quality country cooking near Brenham, Texas.

6. Explore.

You can do some pre-planning before you head out to your vacation destination using the internet. Research some of the fun things to do that utilize the countryside and the extra large character of Texas. Or, simply arrive and dive into all the fun things that Texas has to offer. With wine tasting, hiking, horseback riding, camping, rafting, shopping, and dining at your disposal, there is no excuse to be bored.

7. Go with the flow and enjoy.

Now that you've planned out and arrived to begin your destination, enjoy yourself! Texas is known for a strong work ethic, but Texans also enjoy work hard and play hard. Spend some time exploring the small towns of Washington County or Hill Country and allow yourself to slow down and enjoy the simpler things in life.

With these 7 easy steps you can plan out the best vacation for your needs.

VACATION IN TENNESSEE: What should you do when it comes to taking your Tennessee vacation?

What should you do when it comes to taking your Tennessee vacation? Every time I go to Tennessee, I am amazed at how many things there are to see and places there are to go. When you take your Tennessee vacation, there are definitely certain things you should try to do or see. Tennessee is a great place to take your family vacation or to sneak in a great romantic getaway, either way, here are some tips for you on where to go and what to do when you put together your next Tennessee vacation.

First of all, your Tennessee vacation really should involve the mountains in some way. The Smoky Mountains are a big part of the culture and the tourism of Tennessee. They are beautiful Appalachian Mountains that get their name from the fog that often wraps itself around the peaks and through the valleys of the mountains. On your Tennessee vacation you should consider a trip to Smoky Mountain National Park. The Park is a preserve around the mountains that offers you a great opportunity to see the beauty of both the native fauna and flora. With any luck, including a trip to the National Park in your Tennessee vacation will get you a glimpse of a black bear, bobcat, or even a wandering porcupine. So consider making a trip the park part of your Tennessee vacation plans.

Near the park is the town of Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg is a great destination to include in any Tennessee vacation. It is a tourist town that offers fantastic souvenir shopping, food, and entertainment. You should even think about finding a hotel or chalet in the Gatlinburg area so that you can spend a portion of your Tennessee vacation around the town. A similar town located nearby is Pigeon Forge, which is also home to a Dollywood amusement park as well as shows and restaurants. You can actually spend a few days of your Tennessee vacation in the area of these two fun tourist towns and never get bored of any of it. While there, catch a show, do some indoor skydiving, walk the town, and generally enjoy the views and atmosphere of the best Appalachia has to offer. You will be glad that Gatlinburg became part of your Tennessee vacation.

When you plan your Tennessee vacation there is a lot to consider because the state has so much to offer. Make sure you definitely include a trip into Smoky Mountain National Park if not a few days of camping or staying in a shelter there. Then, consider a stop for a few days in Gatlinburg, Tennessee which is in the same general area. You will enjoy the shopping, food, and entertainment as well. However, there is still so much you can do on a Tennessee vacation. Take some time, do some research, and put together a trip that will properly entertain your family or partner and you will be happy you visited Tennessee.