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Don’t let the name, Balboa Park fool you. This urban cultural center is far more than beautifully manicured landscaping and centuries old trees. Located in the international tourist destination of San Diego, CA, this is the nation’s largest urban cultural park. There are 15 major museums in Balboa Park, along with famous performing arts venues, botanical gardens and the San Diego Zoo. The park is so expansive in the experience it offers that people new to its grounds should start by stopping at the Visitor’s Center where you will be informed of all the things to see, as well as offered a free guided walking tour of Balboa Park.

With this concentration of attractions you can be sure that the museums in Balboa Park offer great programs and events throughout the year, beyond their tours and exhibits. Here is just a smattering of the kinds of things you can experience at the park.

Murder for Two

This off-Broadway show is playing from January 24th through March 1st at the The Old Globe theater. It is the story of a Great American novelist who gets murdered at his own birthday party by one of his guests. This musical is full of laughs and wit, and is a simple 90-minute double act starring Joe Kinosian and Ian Lowe. As the tagline goes, this production puts “the laughter in manslaughter.” Don’t miss it!

IMAX Films

At the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center there are always great movies to explore outside its fascinating exhibits. Go to the depths of the ocean, light years into space, or romping around the rain forest with orangutans from the seats of their colossal IMAX theater with a staggering 76-foot wraparound screen. You will be immersed in another world that will take your breath away. The titles now showing are To The Arctic, Humpback Whales, Born To Be Wild, and Hidden Universe - all shows promising to deepen your understanding of the natural world, and humanity’s place in it.

BEERology

If you’re a beer lover, or perhaps just a dedicated foodie, then you definitely want to check out the extended exhibit at the Museum of Man. The exhibit will educate you about the ancient relationship between man and beer, and also has scheduled beer tastings offering diverse insights into the world of beer. The Centennial Beer Tasting will be an opportunity to try new beers and celebrate the Museum of Man’s 100th Anniversary. Or come out for Exotic Ingredients Beer Tasting, Craft Beer and Food Pairing, Hopfest or Craft Beer on the Border, which all promise to be fun, education events.

December Nights

This annual holiday party is the largest event that happens in the park. All the museums in Balboa Park open their doors to the public free of charge, and there is food, drink and entertainment to satisfy everyone for this great weekend festival.

Whether you want to explore the museums in Balboa Park or just its beautiful scenery, you don’t want to miss the epicenter of San Diego’s cultural attractions. If you’re planning a trip to San Diego check out one of these wonderful, affordable vacation rentals throughout the city. These are great places to come home to after a big day at Balboa Park, and many of them are right on the beach.

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If it’s finally time to give in and take your kids on the Disney vacation they’ve been asking for we want you to know that, apart from popular opinion, you can do an affordable trip to Orlando. The city of Orlando, though known for the dream vacation destination of all children, Disney World, actually has many things to offer beyond the park limits. This beautiful city surrounded by lakes and forests, and itself a bustling hub for national and international business is home to many Orlando attractions for kids that will keep the whole family entertained on your visit.

If you’re looking for ways to make an Orlando vacation more affordable than a trip excursively to Disney World you might consider spending a few days at the park, and spending the rest of your time enjoying all the other things the city has to offer. Check out one of these great Orlando vacation rentals, which are a great way to save money on your trip, giving you more space for less money, and the option to cook for yourselves. Many of these properties have private pools, which makes for an additional activity for the kids.

Here are some great Orlando attractions for kids that will keep you busy on your affordable trip to this great city.

1. Blue Spring State Park is home to the largest spring on the St. Johns River, which is a crystal clear pool of water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. In the winter months it is a designated Manatee Refuge. You can call to make riverboat tour reservations, and the park offers a myriad of other boating and fishing options.
2. Orlando Farmer’s Market is a wonderful way to experience downtown, and get a feel for the city’s culture. If you’re staying in a vacation rental this is where you’ll find the best in local meats, produce and other necessities for your stay.
3. Orlando’s Wonderworks is a playground for the curious. This hotspot of edutainment has over 100 hands-on exhibits giving your kids the opportunity to learn and exercise their imaginations. The different exhibits tackle things like natural disasters, light and sound, and space discovery.
4. The Ripley’s Believe it or Not “Odditorium” is full of hundreds of strange, intriguing and downright weird exhibits that will boggle the minds of the whole family. Tour this collection of odd relics cheaper by purchasing your tickets online. 
   
5. For a naturalist’s take on a theme park visit Gatorland, an Orlando institution of old. This wildlife preserve is known as the “Alligator Capital of the World” and is an affordable option for the whole family to marvel at alligators and crocodiles in their natural environment. It will be an exhilaration experience for everyone.

Your Disney-plus trip will not only be affordable but a great time for your little ones with all these Orlando attractions for kids. In a comfortable Orlando vacation rental the grownups will have a great time as well, with more freedom than you might find in a hotel, and a looser budget with all the money you’ll save having your own private space.

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The town of Vail, CO was preceded by its counterpart, the Vail Ski Resort, which officially opened in 196, with the town of Vail following four years later. It’s no wonder, then that this beautiful Rocky Mountain town conveniently located off Route 70 is associated mostly with downhill skiing. As the third largest resrot mountain in North America, Vail attracts avid skiers and snowboarders from all over the globe for its world class terrain and facilities. Unbeknownest to most who flock here to shred the powder, there are many additional things on the “what to do in Vail CO” list.  Whether you’re going along for family vacation or just love being in the mountains but not necessarily on them you’ll find plenty of things to do in Vail during the winter season.

1. At the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum in Vail Village visitors can learn about the history of the town and is surrounding area. Galleries, artifacts and narratives cover things like the Winter Olympics, the history of skiing and snowboarding, the Hall of Fame, and most notably the famous 10th Mountain Division who trained at Camp Hale. This infantry group was instrumental in developing skiing techniques and equipment innovation, making the sport what it is today.
2. Shopping opportunities in Vail are ample. Whether you’re just looking to beef up your mountain town gear and casual wear, or shop the latest Italian fashions you won’t have a hard time finding it in the village. One of the newest shops in town is Smartwool, a favorite for socks and light wool layers. Bella Italia carries chic, fashionable clothes from around the world and will have the latest styles. You can hardly go to Vail without at least browsing the latest collection at the Patagonia store.
3. If you’re one for alpine snow activities then head to one of the wilderness areas where you can snowshoe and alpine ski through beautiful forests and surrounded by mountains. Eagles Nest Wilderness Area and Holy Cross Wilderness Area both make for great day trips and will give you a chance to explore the Rocky Mountains a little closer to the valley floor.
4. Another great day trip in the area is to head down-valley to Minturn, CO. This old mining town is a great getaway from the busy resort destination of Vail. Though smaller and quieter, people seek a break from the crowds of Vail, while still enjoying the many cultural attractions offered in this quaint mountain town.
5. Your iTrip Vacation Rental is one more answer to the question: “what to do in Vail CO”. These gorgeous mountain properties are perfect for vacation lounging. Many of them have cozy fireplaces, swimming pools and hot tubs, and all of them have great views. If you’re looking forward to a relaxing vacation in a beautiful destination then one of these dreamy properties will be the perfect accommodation for you.

Once you see this amazing ski village you won’t be left wonder what to do in Vail CO, you’ll be glad just to be there and be surrounded by mountains, friendly locals, and visitors who are just excited about their vacation as you are. We know you’ll love any of the luxurious vacation rentals, which can accommodate any group size you may be traveling with.

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In the coastal Rocky Mountains of Western Canada you’ll find Whistler, the coveted ski vacation destination of downhill enthusiasts worldwide. Home to the 2010 Winter Olympics, and one of the most awarded pedestrian ski villages in North America for its outstanding design, this destination brings you the best of both worlds. By day tackle some of the most diverse terrain in the Rockies, and by night enjoy the lively atmosphere of a dreamy ski bum town made for the young-at-heart, adventurous people who seek it out year after year.

Though it sounds a rather luxurious option for a ski getaway, there are numerous ways to make your stay significantly more affordable while maintaining your ski bunny style. These slope side properties are great vacation rentals that will help you save in many ways. If this is a family or group trip you’re planning you can forego the cost of renting single rooms and go for a condo instead. Not only will this make your stay more homey, but you’ll have a kitchen where you can cook your meals. If you’re coming through Vancouver or Squamish you definitely want to pick up your groceries there, as the prices in Whistler are more expensive, though you’ll be able to find everything you need for last-minute ingredients.

Another huge cost-savings tip from the locals concerns the Whistler lift tickets, whose prices are jaw-dropping to most. Who knew a day at the mountain could cost so much? Well here are some secrets to get you out on the slopes for a fraction of the cost.

Edge Cards
This is Whistler’s way of appreciating its loyal customer and local friends. Residents of Canada and Washington State can buy these money saving cards, which come pre-loaded with either 1, 3, 5 or 10 days for the season. These nifty passes will save you up $37 a day on Whistler lift tickets, and once you’ve shredded up your days you can buy more at the same discounted price.

Multi-day Packs
If you’re planning a trip, or just want to buy in bulk then check out a site like liftopia where you can guy multi-day passes, saving upwards of 30 percent on your Whistler lift tickets this season.

Kids Ski Free
March is Family Month and also, conveniently, spring break time for many schools. If it works out for the family book your trip during March and you can find great packages to ease the cost of this amazing family vacation opportunity. Some deals even include completely free skiing for the little ones. Many of the restaurants in Whistler Village will feed you kids for free kids throughout the month. Whistler loves to give the young rippers a chance to shine!

If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect ski vacation rest assured that the cost of Whistler lift tickets needn’t keep you from making it happen. Check out these savvy locals’ tricks, book your vacation rentals and pack your layers for the vacation of a lifetime exploring the bowls, chutes and forests of Canada’s most famous Rocky Mountain destination.

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The historic mountain town of Breckenridge, CO is the kind of place that truly dazzles visitors and keeps them coming back year after year, whether for an annual family reunion, or a mid-winter ski getaway. You’ll be met by a quaint gold rush mining town modernized for seasonal guests, with steep peaks reaching out of town and into the clouds. Dense conifer forests cover the landscape with the jagged peaks reaching far above the tree lines baring the slightly ominous quality of these Rocky Mountains. Breckenridge is home to less than 5,000 people, but attracts visitors year round. In the winter the main attraction is the Breckenridge Ski Resort, which is one the world’s most expert mountains spanning five giant peaks.

Though the mountain is home to North America’s highest ski lift, it offers terrain suitable for every experience level, making it the perfect ski destination for everyone. Whether it’s your first time on skis or a snowboard, or you’re going to explore a new-to-you nook of the Rocky Mountains, you will benefit from the various offerings of Breckenridge ski lessons.

For the Kids
Breckenridge ski lessons for the kids are a great way to help them gain the basic skills and the confidence they need on the mountain. Ski school will give your kids an opportunity to have fun with others their age and ski level, and also has the benefit of freeing parents up for a half or whole day to tackle some of the more challenging terrains.

For Adults
No matter your skill level there are Breckenridge ski lessons catered to you. Whether it’s your first time on the mountain, you want to practice your turns, or if you want to learn about handling more expert terrain, Breckenridge’s professional coaches will show you the ropes.

Private Lessons & Guides
For a day of learning designed specifically around your needs try a private Breckenridge ski lesson. An expert coach will help you get your skills exactly where you want them to be. If you’re ready to explore the truly expert corners of the mountain then sign up with a private guide who will not only show you the best backcountry bowls and chutes, but will give you lessons in avalanche safety.

Camps
Breckenridge offers numerous camps that will give participants a chance for in-depth training on the slopes. Among our popular camps are the Women’s Ski Camp, which gives the ladies some time alone to freshen up their skills and have fun. The Breck Steeps Camp is for adults during which they tackle all the expert terrain on the mountain. The Kids Pike and Park Club is a favorite challenge for the all those brave little ones stoked about hitting the big jumps.

If you’re considering a ski trip for this season or next, Breckenridge will keep you and the whole family busy, and their professional ski instructors will get you in shape for the mountain. Consider one of these great vacation rentals for your stay at Breckenridge. Whether you want something slope-side or in town, big or small, you’ll find the perfect spot to stay for your dreamy ski vacation in the Rocky Mountains.

There’s really nothing in the world like a north Myrtle Beach vacation if you’re looking for a spot to relax that’s close to home. Perhaps you’re wondering what the best time is to visit Myrtle Beach so you can be sure to take advantage of the beautiful weather. We took the liberty of checking into the temperatures in the winter and early spring months to help you make the right choice for you.

December 2014

Even during the cold winter months, you’re likely to encounter warmer temperatures than you would expect in South Carolina. You can look forward to temps in the 50s and 60s during the month of December, which makes it the perfect weather for activities like the Nights of a Thousand Candles event or the Rivertown Christmas Celebration.

March 2015

At the beginning of March, you’ll enjoy temperatures in the 70s, so there’s no need to wait until later in the season to visit Myrtle Beach. In fact, you can enjoy the warm weather right along with the locals at the Sixth Annual Taste of the Coast at Barefoot Landing event on March 1. You can also enjoy a local Dance Party, hosted by By the Sea Ballroom and Latin Dance Studio all season long!

No matter what time of year you visit Myrtle Beach, there’s always something fun going on. If you need to make your reservations, please contact us today!

Heading to Sun Valley to see what ski lovers and famous artists adore about this premier resort town? Start shopping for ski gear and get in touch with the Sun Valley Visitor Center before you go, or as soon as you arrive!

The Visitor Center—which itself features gorgeous mid-century architecture and shouldn’t be missed—offers Sun Valley tourists and locals a convenient source for information about getting around the area and enjoying your stay.

Start things off at the Visitors Center for helpful information:

• Upcoming special events
• Local transportation around Ketchum and Sun Valley
• Recreation activities
• Skiing advice to make sure you have all the equipment you need for the right time of year
• Advice for getting the most out of your vacation in Sun Valley

The city’s Visitor Center connects you with information about all the great shopping and dining in Sun Valley, and can help you plan your trip around major events like film festivals, concerts, symphonies, and the wonderful skiing season that lasts much of the year.

Learn from the locals and you’ll enjoy your Sun Valley vacation even more. If this is your first trip to Sun Valley, or you’ve been going there for years, you can always find out about the latest events and current news directly from the local experts.

For help finding the perfect lodge rental in Sun Valley, talk to iTrip.net today.

Sun Valley, Idaho conjures up images of beautiful ski slopes and celebrity sightings at the lodges, but there’s a lot more to this historic, irresistible resort town!

Here are 3 fun facts about Sun Valley:

What’s Up with the Name?

Think it sounds funny that a skiing town is named Sun Valley? The name was actually given to the town by a New York PR man in the 1930s, but it fits like a glove. Sun Valley basks in sunshine most of half the year—over 250 days.

Enjoy the snow on the slopes, and enjoy an amazingly comfy climate in the valley!

Feels Like You’re On the Moon?

When astronaut Jim Irwin set foot on the moon during the Apollo 15 mission in 1971, he remarked at the time that the surface felt like he was on Sun Valley!

Of course, most of us will never visit the moon… so why not ski Sun Valley to know what it’s like?

Lucy Loved Sun Valley

Legendary comedienne Lucille Ball considered Sun Valley among her favorite vacation spots. So much so, in fact, that she brought the cast from “I Love Lucy” to film a comedy special at Bald Mountain in 1958.

Ball was one of many Hollywood stars who not only vacationed there but brought work with them—and filming continues frequently today.

Book accommodations with iTrip.net and discover the real Sun Valley experience for yourself!

Home to artists and celebrities since the 1930s, Sun Valley features a year-round arts community that brings a unique and cultured vibe to the resort town.

In the skiing town where Ernest Hemingway lived and worked for more than twenty years and countless Hollywood actors have made their favorite vacation spot, today you can find an active arts scene from museums and galleries to live events featuring literature, film, and more.

Art lovers can relax during a Sun Valley vacation with downtime away from the slopes. Some of the ongoing arts events include:

• Theatrical performances of plays, ballet, and more from several local theater houses
• Live music at the Sun Valley Pavilion featuring the free Summer Symphony and major touring acts
• Literary readings and lectures at the Sun Valley Center for the Arts
• Museums and more than 20 art galleries, with everything from traditional to post-modern masterpieces
• Movie screenings at the charming local theaters, plus sightseeing of famous filming locations
• Historical tours of artistic significance, such as the room where Hemingway completed For Whom the Bell Tolls

When you’re planning a Sun Valley vacation, be sure to check out the calendars of local arts venues for upcoming events! In all seasons, this artistic community supports incredible events and showcases for every artistic pursuit.

Check out available listings in Sun Valley to book a room for an upcoming getaway!

Myrtle Beach is definitely a paradise for beach lovers with more than 60 miles of glittering golden sand, sparkling azure waters and glorious warm sunshine. This would explain why north Myrtle Beach vacations are always top on holiday makers’ list.

If you intend enjoying a Myrtle Beach vacation, we at iTrip.net feel there are two places that families should make it a point to enjoy.

Brookgreen-Gardens

Located between Murrell’s Inlet and Pawley’s Island, Brookgreen Gardens is the perfect addition to memorable north Myrtle Beach vacations. The Gardens are designated National-Historic-Landmark and have one of the most amazing displays of figurative-sculptures you will ever see. In addition, the wildlife and domestic farm animals are a treat for children who are able to see them in their natural habitat.

Brookgreen-Gardens is the only zoo along coastal Carolina to have earned accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. You can take a guided tour of the Gardens to get mesmerized by the beautiful flowers, birds and animals and also enjoy the awe-inspiring archeological sites.

Family-Kingdom-Amusement-Park

North Myrtle Beach vacations can turn into cherished family vacations if you just take your kids to this laughter-filled amusement park. Spend time on a 100-foot Ferris wheel and wooden rollercoaster, or you can take in the water flumes and slides at the water park.