Timeshare Information

Bluegreen Corporation, a leading provider of "Colorful Places to Live and Play," announced today that the 12th Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament, held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will be held near Bluegreen resorts MountainLoft and Laurel Crest, in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, respectively. This year the festival dates are Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3, 2011.

Authorities working with the 12th Annual Smoky Trout Tournament have stocked the river with approximately 10,000 trout for the competition, varying in size from small to large. Cash prizes will be awarded to those who catch the largest and the smallest fish. Non-cash prizes will be awarded to the second and third place competitors as well. Competitors are divided into two groups, Locals versus Tourists, each with a subgroup for children and adults.

Victor Berrios, General Manager of MountainLoft in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, explains, “MountainLoft is a great location to stay during the Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament. It is a short distance from the competition, nestled amid the beauty of the Smoky Mountain landscape.”

“We have guests who return to our resort each year,” explains fellow Bluegreen associate, Dick Coyle, General Manager of Laurel Crest, in Pigeon Forge. He added, “Bluegreen owners love it here because of the Smoky Mountain Landscape, as well as its close proximity to all the events of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. We are excited to welcome guests who wish to attend the 12th Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament.”

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation is the leader in providing Colorful Places to Live and Play through its vacation ownership resort and residential real estate business segments. More than 3,500 employees are passionate about delivering extraordinary experiences for owners and guests. Since 1996, Bluegreen has managed, marketed and sold a flexible vacation ownership plan with more than 222,600 owners, over 54 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Timeshare rentals at the MountainLoft resort start at just $59/night. If you can't make this year's Trout Tournament, make plans to rent a timeshare next year. It's a great way to welcome Spring, especially when you consider that the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is also widely known as the Wildflower National Park, carpeted as it is in bright springtime blooms.

(Photo credit - adayinthesmokies.wordpress.com)

Hawaii is generally looked at as a single destination, so the last of our 6-part series on walking tours will look at walking tours that are offered around the islands. Rent a timeshare just about anywhere in Hawaii, and you'll find many walking tours to enjoy.

1. Honolulu, Oahu
   Ohana Walking Tours will bring Hawaii's wonderful history and culture to life for you on its tour of Hawaii's capital city, Honolulu. Expert tour guides are eager to impart their graduate level knowledge of Hawaii's past and current issues. This tour includes several of Honolulu's premier landmarks and attractions.
   
   You'll discover 1842 Kawaiahao Church, called the "Westminster of the Pacific," built from coral reef rocks that were hand carried from the ocean. The Mission House is a National Historic Landmark and has been turned into an interpretive museum. And, no Honolulu tour would be complete without a visit to Iolani Palance (see photo), another National Historic Landmark, where two monarchs, King Kalakaua and Queen Lili'uokalani, governed.


2. Lahaina, Maui
   A walking tour of this historic town is conducted by Maui Nei tours. A knowledgeable guide will take you into hidden areas and tell you little-known stories about Lahaina's remarkable past. You'll visit the Brick Palace of King Kamehameha I and explore Luakini Street where the immigrant plantation workers lived. And this tour has a little surprise for you - the hospitality of Pastor Laki, who will guide you through his garden of native plants and serve you fresh fruit and banana bread in his hale (thatched house).
   
   This tour also gives you the opportunity to visit Moku'ula, the home and final resting place of Hawaii's royalty. A Hawaiian character out of the past will explain the significance of this revered site. "Maui Nei" is a cultural tourism company in partnership with the "Friends of Moku'ula," a nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration of Moku'ula.


3. The Big Island
   Here you can enjoy a big walking tour just like you'd expect on this big island. Hawaiian Walkways Tours offers a hike called the "Waipio Waterfall Adventure." With exclusive access to a private trail, this tour company will take you through lush, exotic forests and past sparkling waterfalls. After learning the history of the trail, and hearing stories that the forest tells, you're rewarded with a majestic view of Wai'po Valley - the ocean and the valley floor are 1000 feet below.
   
   It's an enjoyable hike as you pass through rain forests and fields, cross streams on foot bridges, and the real treat is - you'll be able to stop and enjoy the many waterfalls and pools, so be sure to bring your swim suit and towel!

Walking Tours – Part 1: New York City
Walking Tours – Part 2: San Francisco
Walking Tours – Part 3: San Diego
Walking Tours – Part 4: Miami
Walking Tours – Part 5: New Orleans

(Photo credit: hawaiiforvisitors.com)

Many adjectives are used to describe New Orleans, from magical to mysterious. There's no doubt that this grand lady of dark bayous, filigreed garden courtyards, and voodoo is one city where a walking tour is a must if you want to really know her. Rent a timeshare and choose from the New Orleans walking tours listed in Part 5 of our 6-Part series on walking tours and timeshare vacations.

1. Le Monde Creole Tours. There are many different tours of the French Quarter (see photo), but this one has a twist. It's based on the diaries kept by Laura Locoul a Creole woman and plantation mistress who wrote a journal of her family's life in the old French Quarter. Amid the tangled beauty of inner courtyards you'll learn about the remarkable lives of five generations of this Louisiana dynasty, including its European and African branches.
   
   On this French Quarter tour, which National Geographic Traveler called the best tour in New Orleans, you'll see where Locoul family members lived, from grand townhouses to slave quarters, learn about medicinal courtyard gardens, and even visit Laura Locoul's tomb.


2. New Orleans Music Tour. On this walking tour you'll get to explore "the world’s richest musical city," starting with the Legends Park statues of Louis Armstrong, Pete Fountain, and Fats Domino. Along the way you'll visit Congo Square, considered the "well spring" of New Orleans music. This historic site of African slave gatherings is the only place in North America where pure West African religious ritual and musical traditions were performed that wove themselves into iconic New Orleans jazz. Your tour guide is happy to give you advice on where to catch the greatest musical talent in New Orleans.


3. New Orleans Oyster Crawl. Among the many culinary tours available in New Orleans, this walking tour is one of the most popular, offered through New Orleans Culinary History Tours.You'll visit historic restaurants including Antoine's, where the world-famous dish, Oysters Rockefeller, was created. Samplings at other restaurants include Oysters Bienville, Oysters Thermidor, oysters on the half shell, and of course oyster po'boy and barbecued oysters.


4. Ghosts, Haunts, Voodoo Tour. No list of walking tours of New Orleans would be complete without a ghost tour. One of the best is offered by Magic Tours, who put it this way, "Since its founding, New Orleans has suffered more disease, disasters, destruction, and death than any other American city. Spirits are taken for granted here!" Priding itself on presenting accurate historical information, Magic Tours gives an in-depth look at some of the most well-known hauntings in New Orleans, including St. Louis Cemetery, "home" of New Orleans' most famous Voodoo Queen.

Walking Tours – Part 1: New York City
Walking Tours – Part 2: San Francisco
Walking Tours – Part 3: San Diego
Walking Tours – Part 4: Miami
Walking Tours - Part 6: Hawaii

(hoto credit: roomstoraveabout.wordpress.com)

The walking tours of Miami are as wonderful and varied as is this jewel of a city. Rent a timeshare, and learn how to explore the fun aspects of Miami in Part 4 of our 6-part series on city walking tours.

1. Miami Beach Art Deco Walking Tour. A local historian is your guide on this tour of Miami's renowned Art Deco District (see photo). Also known as South Beach, this fun area is a national historic district, and a prime example of "how Art Nouveu fused with early twentieth century industrial modernism."
   You'll see the magnificent architecture and colorful buildings inside and out, and learn about the many Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Miami modernist styles that make up the Miami Beach Architectural Historic District.


2. Miami Celebrity Tour. It's always fun to get to see how the rich and famous live, and they certainly know how to do it up right in Miami. This tour was developed by Kevin Doran, a long-time Miami resident, certified heritage tour guide and president of the Professional Tour Guide Association of Florida.
   
   Your guide will take you along Ocean Blvd where you'll be introduced to the cafes and shops that can find celebrities rubbing elbows with tourists, and learn about the many locations in this area that served as backdrops for TV shows, movies, music videos, photo shoots and fashion magazines.


3. Miami Culinary Tour. There's no doubt about it that Miami is a melting pot of nationalities, and this tour gives you the chance to not only taste the cuisine of different countries, but learn about each culture at the same time. You'll hear the story behind the dishes and be introduced to the people who make them.
   
   Try Cuban Mojitos and Peruvian Ceviche, American Lobster Chili and French Cognac Crepes. Your tour works its way through delightful food offerings like a progressive dinner on a grand scale.


4. GoCar GPS-Guided Tours®. Okay, this isn't technically a walking tour, but it's so fun it had to be included on the list. Touted as The Original Storytelling Car, these cute, bright yellow two-seater GoCars allow you to take a "self-guided" tour, with a guide. The on-board GPS directs you to lots of fun and exciting things to see and do, while a talking voice gives you interesting bits of information about each place. You can do this tour at your own pace, stopping and re-starting whenever you like.

Multi-national Miami dances to its own lively beat, and a Miami timeshare rental will put you in the middle of the party with walking tours to take you just about anywhere in the city you want to go.

Walking Tours – Part 1: New York City
Walking Tours – Part 2: San Francisco
Walking Tours – Part 3: San Diego
Walking Tours - Part 5: New Orleans
Walking Tours - Part 6: Hawaii

(Photo credit flickr.com)

Orlando is a many-faceted vacation destination. Known primarily for its big Theme Parks, this Florida city has other great "themes" to its vacation personality as well. Rent a timeshare and have fun with the third "theme" we're exploring in our 3-part series - Dinner Theaters.

1. Arabian Nights
   At this award-winning dinner show you enter the world of Scheherazade, a young girl who dreams of becoming a princess (see photo). Two magical genies take her - and you - on a thrilling romantic adventure filled with music, lights and daring acts. You'll encounter everything from dancers on horseback to racing chariots to flying gypsies.
   
   This is a large-scale production and features riders and acrobats performing on over 60 horses. The entire Arabian Nights performance and dinner show is hosted inside the Palace of Horses, the world’s largest indoor equestrian arena for a permanent show, where more than 14 different breeds of horses are trained.
   
   Along with this exciting show, you'll also eat well. The dinner menu includes everything from sirloin steak to a kid's menu of chicken tenders and macaroni and cheese. And try the Oreo brownie for dessert.


2. Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show
   This is true theater as you watch a mystery play performed right in front of you. And you never know - you might get to mingle with the outrageous characters yourself if you're chosen for a cameo role.
   
   Thirteen different stories are rotated through the schedule. Each show is 2 1/2 hours of scripted mystery, improvisation and audience participation. Bring your investigative skills and watch for anything suspicious, interrogate some of the suspects and help solve the crime. You'll be on the edge of your seat, if you're not rolling in the aisles with laughter.
   
   Your mystery meal offers hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, a choice of entrees that includes prime rib and lasagna, and - a mystery dessert.


3. Pirate Dinner Adventure
   Set aboard an authentic reproduction of an 18th century galleon anchored in an indoor lagoon, this interactive show will "shiver the timbers" of all wanna-be pirates. The action-packed adventure unfolds with a cast of a dozen actors, singers and stunt performers accompanied by cannon blasts, pyrotechnics and plenty of laughs. Every night more than 150 audience members are chosen to play an actual role in the show.
   
   Your pirate's feast includes the Captain's Seafood Medley, Pillager's Pork, and Princess Anita’s Royal Desserts.

An Orlando timeshare rental will put you in the middle of this amazing city - a multi-themed, family-friendly vacation hot-spot.

Explore Orlando’s Many Themes - Part 1: Flying
Explore Orlando’s Many Themes - Part 2: Animals

(Photo credit arabian-nights.com)

Vacations are precious things these days. If you're like so many other Americans, you might feel like you shouldn't even take a vacation. So, when you do take the time, and the money, for a real vacation, you want it to go well. Avoid these 5 common mistakes and you might find yourself enjoying a dream vacation of a lifetime.

• Mistake #1 - Paying the cost of a Hotel
  Hotels are expensive. And these days hotels are jumping on the "extra fee" bandwagon started by the airlines (and many of the extra fees are hidden - see our previous post “Hotels Charging Extra Fees”), so, often your final bill is much higher than you planned on.
  
  Solution: A timeshare rental often offers up to 50% savings over hotel rooms. You'll find it also cheaper on a per person cost, since most hotels require you to pay for more rooms to accommodate more people.


• Mistake #2 - Eating Out for all of your Meals
  Restaurants are expensive. And fast food is not only getting more expensive, it can get tiring. How thrilling is it to spend your vacation eating cold pizza while perched on the edge of a hotel bed?
  
  Solution: Rent a timeshare that comes with a fully equipped kitchen.


• Mistake #3 - Settling for a Cramped Hotel Room
  Solution: Timeshare rentals offer space in which to spread out and relax. You'll have separate bedrooms, a living area, a dining area, a full-sized kitchen, and a balcony or lanai.


• Mistake #4 - Staying at Accommodations with no Amenities
  Many hotels have no amenities at all, and if a hotel does offer anything it's usually one small, crowded pool, for which you may even be charged an extra fee. Bed and Breakfasts and vacation homes also generally leave you high and dry.
  
  Solution: Timeshare rentals are attached to luxury resorts, and most of the resort's amenities will be included in your one-time rental fee. These amenities will almost always include multiple swimming pools (often with waterpark features), hot tubs, kiddie pools, children's playgrounds, and tennis courts. Other offerings might be dance classes, arts and crafts, arcade game rooms, volleyball, miniature golf, and the list goes on.


• Mistake #5 - Returning to the Same Location
  It's easy to fall into the trap of vacationing at the same destination every year, especially if you are on a budget and feel like you should go somewhere you already know you can afford.
  
  Solution: Check out the many listings for budget-friendly timeshare exchanges available not only across the country, but in Mexico, the Caribbean, and around the world. When you choose to vacation with a timeshare rental, your destination options are wide open.

If you are truly serious about wanting to check out real hauntings for your October timeshare rental vacation, the place you must go is, of course, Salem, Massachusetts. So we end our 4-part series of the most haunted cities in America with a look at this iconic witch-filled, ghost-filled town. Many Massachusetts timeshare rentals, in Boston or even on Cape Cod, will put you no more than an hour's drive of Salem.

Popularly known as the "Haunted Witch City," Salem's tragic history easily puts it on the map as a top "haunted destination," both for tourists and for professional paranormal investigators.

The most haunted spot in Salem is now known as Gallows Hill Park. This is the site where the majority of accused "witches" were hung during the witch hysteria that gripped the town in 1692. The original "hanging tree" is long gone, and the pit where the bodies were dumped has turned into itself with the spot now grown over. But many of the tortured souls who were unjustly killed here are still seen in ghostly apparition roaming across the ground and darting among the trees. On some nights screams and sobbing can be distinctly heard.

Salem has been forced to embrace its tragic past, and today has turned its history of witches into its main industry. Police cars are adorned with witch logos, a local public school is known as the Witchcraft Heights Elementary School, and the Salem High School football team is called The Witches.

Thus, Salem is definitely a hot spot for Halloween celebrations. From October 1 through November 1 you can join the Halloween festival in everything from parades to psychic fairs to tours of haunted houses.

Speaking of tours, you can choose from numerous tour companies for your official tour of haunted Salem, including candlelight walking tours, trolley tours, and even a haunted dinner cruise tour.

Don't miss the fascinating museums of Salem. One of the scariest is the Salem Wax Museum where you'll come face to face with eerily life-like figures representing some of Salem's most infamous citizens, including the merciless Witch Trials judge Colonel John Hawthorne, and Tituba, the accused "witch" who helped fuel the 1692 hysteria.

Salem is also known as a modern-day gathering spot for practitioners of Wicca, who comfortably call themselves witches. The Salem Witch Village is where you will "discover the truth and facts surrounding the subject of Witchcraft." Created in conjunction with modern day witches, this is touted as "the only tour in Salem to actually touch upon the true subject of Witchcraft - its history, beliefs, and practices, both ancient and modern."

Salem is the perfect spot to rent a timeshare for a spooky Halloween vacation.

Travel to the Most Haunted Cities in America – Part 1 New Orleans
Travel to the Most Haunted Cities in America – Part 2 San Francisco
Travel to the Most Haunted Cities in America – Part 3 Miami

(Photo credit hauntedsalem.com)

In Part 3 of our 4-part series on where you can rent a timeshare and visit the most haunted cities in America during Halloween month, we'll head once again to a beautiful seaside destination. Who would think that the soft sands and warm waters of the Miami Beach area would also have a Haunted side? Rent a Miami Beach timeshare and check these places out!

The area's most famous haunted hotel is the elegant Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables (see photo), originally built as a luxury hotel for the rich and famous. However, during WWII its marble floors were covered with government-issue linoleum, the windows were covered over with concrete, and the hotel was turned into a hospital. After the war it was used by the University of Miami School of Medicine for cadaver studies.

Even though the building was restored to an elegant hotel in the 1980s, there are numerous ghostly sightings of the tortured dead from this period - the 13th floor seems to be particularly active. Also a woman in white is often seen running down the beach or out on the golf course, believed to be a young woman who jumped to her death from the hotel's tower. You can hear these and many other ghost stories told every Thursday evening in the Biltmore lobby.

The Villa Paula Mansion in Miami is active with several spirits. The ghost of Paula, who died there as a young woman, has been seen playing the piano, wandering through the rose garden, and slamming doors. The apparitions of a tall thin man, and of a heavy-set lady in a red dress have also been seen, as well as a maid weeping as she looks for the grave of her illegitimate baby.

The mysterious archeological site known as the Miami Circle, on a coastal spit of land near downtown Miami, is certainly a departure from normal haunted places. Thought to be remnants of an ancient Tequesta Indian village, on dark nights ghostly forms have been seen flitting about the area, along with strange music, mumblings and wailing.

And leave it to South Beach to be on the whacky side of hauntings - besides haunted hotels, here you'll also find haunted night clubs and haunted bars.
As you plan your Halloween timeshare rental vacation, keep Haunted Miami in mind as a very spooky destination.

Travel to the Most Haunted Cities in America – Part 1 New Orleans
Travel to the Most Haunted Cities in America – Part 2 San Francisco

(Photo credit biltmorehotel.com)

October is Halloween month, and that means it's time to get goosebumps and shivers, and give out a shriek or two. And what better way to get really scared than to explore real haunts. Our 4-part series on renting a timeshare and visiting the most haunted cities in America begins - where else? - in New Orleans.

With legends of voodoo curses, bizarre murders, and stories of Revolutionary War pirates, all wrapped in the ghoulish drape of Spanish moss hanging off gnarled old trees, New Orleans is the perfect haunted city.

The charm of this gracious southern lady is undeniable, and in between your encounters with ghosts you'll find plenty to do including rides on vintage street cars, sampling Creole cuisine, and dancing through the night to the jumping music of Bourbon Street.

But, meeting up with ghosts is what you're about on your October vacation, and our suggestion is to join Haunted New Orleans Tours. You'll have a guide that will take you to some of the most haunted places in the city - no guarantees of getting you back out, though. It's said that in Haunted New Orleans, the supernatural becomes the normal, and so strong is the hold of this city that even the dead have a hard time leaving it behind.

New Orleans is full of haunted houses, graveyards and battlefields. On your haunted tour you'll visit Congo Square, where the ghosts of one-time slaves beat the African drum to frenzy. Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is where you could encounter the ghost of Marie Laveau, the most famous Voodoo Queen of New Orleans. Many say they have seen her spirit darting among the tombs, wearing a red and white seven knotted turban, and mumbling a New Orleans Santeria Voodoo curse to trespassers.

Another well known ghost haunt in New Orleans is the Laularie House (see photo), occupied in the 1830s. There are reported incidents of people seeing, feeling and hearing the ghosts of tormented slaves in the LaLaurie home, and there are even reports of the Madame herself being seen there. The spirits of the restless dead are not quiet - many say they have heard loud moans and weeping, and others have seen the ghostly faces of the dead peering from the upper windows.

Ghost cats and dogs are said to prowl the New Orleans haunted cemeteries. And haunted buildings abound throughout the city. Footsteps are heard stomping up and down halls and stairways at night, closet doors open and close, and a rush of air follows as if someone is walking through.

Rent a New Orleans timeshare now and spend a haunted October vacation in one of the most haunted cities in America.

Additional Posts:
Travel to the Most Haunted Cities in America – Part 2 San Francisco

(Photo credit prairieghosts.com)

The sweet smell of apple wood smoke drifting lazily into the crisp fall air. The sweet taste of hot mulled apple cider. The sweet bite of a fresh-baked apple pie. Are you ready to celebrate autumn? There are many places where you can rent a timeshare and indulge in the sweetness of fall, and one of the most family-friendly, fun and unique places is Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia.

All of these scents and tastes can be found in Williamsburg as the rich colors of fall foliage line the historic streets, where George Washington and Thomas Jefferson themselves strolled through the autumn air under some of these very trees. And where piles of dry autumn leaves just begging for a kid to take a flying, whooping leap accumulate on the lawn of the Governor's Mansion.

This celebrated town, so pivotal to the history of America during the heady pre-Revolutionary War days, has been completely restored and is open to the public 365 days a year. George Washington actually did sleep here - in the Raleigh Tavern. Take a tour, see the guest rooms, and eat an authentic Colonial dinner in the same room where the Father of our Country dined. Or walk along the road where Thomas Jefferson trudged back and forth while attending William and Mary College and staying in the grand house of his friend and mentor, George Wye.

If you visit during the fall, your experience is heightened by the rich smells of this season - from pungent autumn leaves to simmering stew to sweet wood smoke. Savor all of these while riding in a beautiful horse-drawn carriage along a cobblestone street, or in a rustic team-pulled wagon down a rutted dirt road. As you meet a milkmaid bringing in the cows, a farmer's son with a yoke of oxen, or even flashy British regulars marching past in their distinctive red coats, it's easy to imagine yourself as a colonialist yourself, living in the vibrant capital city of the Virginia Colony of England.

All the while, costumed historic interpreters are eager to tell you what 18th century life was like in Williamsburg. How tallow candles are made, and why the fashion started by a balding French king now keeps wig makers busy. Hear the ring of the blacksmith's hammer striking the anvil amid flying sparks and watch as a hot shoe is put to a horse's hoof.

There is a host of activities designed just for the youngsters through the Kids Club, including marching with the Fifes and Drums band, and joining the colonial militia. To make things even more fun for the kids authentic children's costumes are available for rent.

For a great autumn vacation for the entire family, nothing beats renting a Williamsburg timeshare and taking a wonderful leap back in time.

(Photo credit history.org)

Everyone is intrigued with the way light and color plays on glass. A person who can turn all of that into art is a creative genius. Rent a timeshare in the St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay area in Florida, and give yourself the treat of seeing the extraordinary Chihuly Collection of blown glass art at the Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg.

A permanent collection of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly’s unique artwork is housed now in a magnificent 10,000 square foot setting designed by award-winning architect Albert Alfonso. The Collection is located on the city’s waterfront in downtown St. Petersburg on Beach Drive, in the heart of the most vibrant tourist area in St. Petersburg.

This presentation is unique as it is the first installation of Chihuly art in a building designed specifically for that purpose, so that the art and architecture work together to create a unique visitor experience of Chihuly’s art. The exhibition includes Chihuly’s spectacular large-scale installations, such as "Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier" created specifically for the collection.

A pioneer of the studio glass movement, Chihuly studied glass in Venice on a Fulbright Fellowship, and is credited with transforming the methods of creating glass art. You can enrich your experience further by visiting the Morean Arts Center Glass Studio & Hot Shop where you can watch glassblowers create one-of-a-kind pieces, have your own personal glass blowing experience, and shop for unique glass art created by local and regional artists.

St. Petersburg itself has long been known as a top Florida vacation destination. The city is located on a peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. It is connected to mainland Florida and Tampa by causeways and bridges across Tampa Bay.

While in St. Petersburg the kids will enjoy Great Explorations - The Children's Museum, an interactive museum featuring a Children's Village, water exhibits, and other hands-on fun with science, music and art.

Lots of fun activities on the water are waiting for you in St. Petersburg, as well, including learning to sail in the calm waters of Tampa Bay. Or you can hang out on the many beautiful white sand beaches that are kissed by turquoise Gulf waters, or go fishing - the 244-mile long shore is abundant with great fishing haunts.

With an average of some 360 days of sunshine each year, St. Petersburg is nicknamed "The Sunshine City" - perfect for a Florida timeshare rental vacation this winter!

(Photo credit moreanartscenter.org)

Rent a Disney timeshare in California or an Orlando timeshare now and plan to be part of a great Debut at either Walt Disney World in Florida, or Disneyland Resorts in Anaheim, CA. On October 14, 2010, Duffy the Disney Bear will make his long-anticipated debut at the U.S. Disney Parks.

Never heard of Duffy? Well, he made his first official appearance at Tokyo Disneyland where he's become quite a phenomenon. See, what happened was that when Mickey Mouse was getting ready to go on a trip, Minnie knew he would need a traveling companion, so she got him the perfect one - his own teddy bear! And believe it or not, Duffy has actually gotten to be more popular in Japan than even Mickey!

But there's no denying who Duffy really belongs to. He has a "hidden Mickey" face shape, Mickey's silhouette is on the bottoms of his feet, and he has a very special birth mark on his hip.

In Anaheim Duffy will be introduced at Disney's California Adventure at Paradise Pier. Duffy's debut at WDW will be at a newly created venue inside Epcot across from the Mexico boat ramp. At Epcot the Kidcot program is involved as well. Kidcot Fun Stops are colorful craft stations for preschoolers located in World Showcase at Epcot. On October 14 your youngsters will be able to go to the Kidcot stops and get a unique Duffy that they can take from country to country to color, decorate, and receive country specific Duffy stamps.

In both parks, special activities and events will mark the October 14 celebration. The day will not only introduce the Duffy teddy bear itself, but also other related souvenir items such as key chains, magnets and zip pouches. The launch will also consist of some special treats like Duffy's crispy treat, chocolatey cake, molded dessert cup, a menu placemat with activities, and coming later, Duffy’s very own molded popcorn bucket.

Although Duffy is actually a small toy teddy bear that Mickey carries with him, he will now be inducted into the full-size, walk-around, character family. During his daily visits, he’ll dress for the occasion but he'll also frequently be seen in many of his own outfits, including a sailor outfit and a baseball uniform.

Disney plans to position the Duffy the Disney Bear as a direct competitor to the popular "Build-a-Bear" franchise. You'll be able to dress Duffy in a full line of costumes, including Christmas and Easter, and for special occasions such as birthdays and graduation.

Duffy is a bear of magic and great luck and the perfect traveling companion for your family. Take him along on all of your timeshare rental vacations!

(Photo credit blueskydisney.blogspot.com)

It will soon be Halloween time, and that means its Disney Villains time! You'll want to rent a Disney timeshare, an Orlando timeshare, or a California timeshare and join in the Halloween fun. Hear your own "screams" - of delight at meeting your favorite Disney Villain!

Who is your favorite Disney Villain? Have you ever really thought about it? Well, now is the time to do some soul-searching, and then Vote! Following are the campaign crusades from some of the most deliciously evil villains Disney ever produced, straight from Disney's Campaign Headquarters. Each one is "dying" to become your favorite:

Jafar – The all-powerful sorcerer from “Aladdin” is full of wicked magic tricks.

Maleficent – Self-proclaimed “Mistress of All Evil” she lures an innocent maiden to prick her finger on a spindle and fall into everlasting slumber, then transforms into a monstrous, fire-breathing dragon!

Ursula – This dreadful sea witch will sink to any depths to carry out her evil deeds! She torments undersea creatures, steals King Triton’s crown, and captures Princess Ariel’s beautiful voice. Could you “cast” your vote for someone this slippery?

Evil Queen – Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the most jealous of them all? When the Magic Mirror reveals that Snow White is alive and still the “fairest in the land,” the Queen transforms herself into a hag and convinces the innocent princess to take a bite of a poisoned apple.

Captain Hook – This elegant but vengeful villain anchored his ship and crew in the waters of Never Land, to seek revenge upon Peter Pan. Hook locks up Tinker Bell, sends a ticking package to Peter Pan, kidnaps the Lost Boys and forces Wendy to walk the plank, all the while repeatedly attacking Peter Pan and his crew with swords and schemes to exact lasting revenge.

Cruella De Vil – This devilish lady stops at nothing when it comes to satisfying her need for greed. She plots! She steals! She dognaps 101 Dalmatian puppies just to make the perfect fur coat. The only thing perfect about Cruella De Vil is her name. Like the song says, “If she doesn’t scare you, no evil thing will.”

These villains will be battling each other for the title of the baddest villain of them all, now through October 28. Cast your vote at disneyland.com/halloween. Then rent a timeshare for a great Disney Halloween Adventure to meet your favorite Disney Villain!

(Photo credit disneyland.disney.go.com)

The Caribbean will soon be emerging from this year's hurricane season, so now is the time to start planning a fun-in-the-sun timeshare rental vacation to azure seas and powdery-white sandy beaches. One place to head, on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, is Mexico's "Caribbean Jewel" - Cancun.

Cancun is on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, located on the Yucatan Channel (which is actually part of the world's second largest coral reef) that separates Mexico from Cuba and the Greater Antilles. While Cancun's city center is on the mainland, the Hotel Zone, where you'll find many terrific timeshare rentals available at luxury resorts, is an island shaped like a "7," with bridges on each end that connect to the mainland.

The "long," or vertical, side of the "7" faces open sea, and while the current is stronger there, you'll still find it a good place for surfing and snorkeling.
The "short," or horizontal, side of the 7 has calmer water that is perfect for swimming, sailing, and diving. The calm water is due to the sheltering effects of Isla Mujeres, a 5-mile long island about 7 miles off shore.

Isla Mujeres (Women Island) was so named by Spanish explorers because of the large numbers of clay goddess images found there. At that time the island was sacred to the Mayan goddess of childbirth, Ix Chel. Today the island is a popular day trip for tourists staying in Cancun.

Isla Mujeres is easily accessed by a 20-minute ferry ride that departs every 30 minutes during daylight hours from either Puerto Juarez or Puerto Cancun. Considered by many to be "the most idyllic spot in the Caribbean," the island is a world away from busy Cancun, with its peaceful, laid-back lifestyle.

Once on the island you can walk around, or you may choose to rent a golf cart or bicycle, and explore all that this beautiful Caribbean getaway has to offer - including the ruins of the Temple of the Goddess Ix Chel. The best beaches are on the northern most tip of the island and "the pristine sea that surrounds them is as calm as a giant swimming pool."

Parts of the corral reef, teeming with colorful tropical fish, are accessible by snorkeling and scuba diving just off the island's coast. For more experienced certified divers, the reefs of Punta Norte and Manchones to the south, as well as the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks, and the sites of two sunken ships, all offer wonderful undersea exploration.

While there is plenty to do in Cancun, you can see that a day trip to Isla Mujeres is well worth the time, and adds another wonderful dimension to your Cancun timeshare vacation.

(Photo is the Royal Caribbean timeshare)

The number of people who visit the Disney theme parks is staggering - up to 17 million visitors a year per park. If your dream is to join that happy crowd, plan now to rent a timeshare and become one of those Disney visitors! What you may be surprised to know is that Disney security is all around you.

We all know that one of the reasons for Disney's phenomenal, and on-going, success is the company's high standards and attention to detail. So it will come as no surprise that in dealing with those millions of people, the security at the Disney parks is top notch. You've never seen a security officer at a Disney theme park you say? While a few uniformed security personnel are visible, the main thrust of Disney security is hidden so as not to intrude on the magical fantasy that is the Disney experience.

Disney security is equipped with "undercover hosts," security vans, investigators, loss prevention specialists, and communication dispatchers. Local County Sheriff deputies in cruisers are on the property around the clock, and their detectives are in place during park hours.

In order to blend in with the crowds the "undercover hosts" wear typical vacation clothes, and carry a security radio in a "tourist" type bag. Their main area of operation is the gift shops. These security people are trained to recognize shop lifters and work in conjunction with uniformed security personnel. Disney has a no tolerance policy regarding theft, meaning if someone is caught shop lifting even an inexpensive pencil they will be prosecuted by the company.

The unique Haunted Mansion ride has its own security measures. Have you ever been tempted to hop off the slow-moving doom-buggy and creep through the graveyard yourself? Don't try it. In busy seasons and times such as Grad Night Disney security personnel dressed in black are hidden through-out the ride. During other times security depends on pressure-sensitive mats strategically placed along the track which will detect and alert the operators if any non-ghostly form sets foot on them. If a mat detects an unauthorized intrusion the intrusion system responds with a shrill beeping sound and stops the ride system.

Disney security also monitors guests' safety with infrared (IR) cameras in most of the rides. These cameras are generally in plain site, and can be recognized as small pinpoints of purple light. The IR cameras in high security areas, such as gift shops, are monitored by security personnel 24 hours a day. The cameras on the rides are watched by Cast Members whom you can often see sitting in front of video screens in the ride's "tower" or control room.

So take the family on a Disney timeshare vacation, secure in the knowledge that Disney Security is all around you!

Budget-friendly vacations involve several things, not the least of which is the affordable accommodations you get when you rent a timeshare. At your destination there will be plenty of ways to spend your money, but transportation doesn't have to be one of them, either. Using Public Transportation is another great way to have a budget-friendly trip. Although when you're in a strange city using public transportation can seem a little daunting, with these tips by travel journalist Britt Reints, you'll find that that it's a lot easier than you might think.

1. The Lingo. It only sounds complicated because you aren't yet familiar with the system. You'll catch on quickly.


2. Maps. It's helpful to familiarize yourself with the city by looking at maps - either the pamphlet type that you get from a visitor's center, or online such as Google maps. Check where your timeshare is, any restaurants you're interested in, and the tourist attractions you intend to visit. Once you have an idea where different things are located in relation to each other, you're half way there.


3. Routes. Now you can get familiar with the routes of the various means of public transportation available - city bus, subway system, trolleys and cable cars. You can download the routes from the transportation authority web site before you leave on your vacation. Match the routes with the location maps you've already looked at. Be sure to take copies of the routes with you.


4. Navigation. There are navigation apps for iPhone and iPad. If you don't have those electronic gizmos but have access to a computer, Britt suggests using HopStop.com, which offers directions for several major cities, including New York City and San Francisco, and even Paris and London. Type in your current location and your destination, along with what modes of transportation you're willing to take, and you'll receive detailed directions for using the local mass transit system.
   Another navigation option is Google maps - use its "by public transit" option when you click on "get directions."


5. Ask for Instructions. It's okay to admit when you need help - it really won't be long before you get the hang of it. If you’re uncomfortable approaching a stranger, ask the mass transit employees - that's what they're there for.

Although using the public transit system is a great way to keep your timeshare vacation budget-friendly, you'll also find that riding with the locals can give you a taste of the culture, as well as letting you see areas of the city you might otherwise miss.

The kids are back in school and you know what that means… the holidays are fast approaching. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it and then Christmas. If your family lives out of town and will be visiting soon, consider a timeshare rental in your city to help with accommodations. Timeshares are available throughout the United States and the best thing is that they offer all the comforts of home, especially if your home is too small to fit everyone comfortably.

Sure, it would be nice to have the whole family together all day and all night, but, what is ever nicer is giving people their own room and space to spread out and be comfortable. A timeshare rental can do just that. Most timeshares are equipped with sleeper sofas, so, a one-bedroom will usually sleep four people comfortably, a two-bedroom sleeps six and a three-bedroom sleeps eight. With their own living room, kitchen and bathrooms, this can be a great solution for out of town holiday guests.

As the rush of the holiday’s winds down, and relatives needs some downtime, a timeshare will allow your family and guests ample space and privacy. No more worries about trying to squeeze all your kids in one room for a week, making them sleep on the floor so you can make room for visiting grandparents to occupy their room and bed. A timeshare rental is just the answer you’ve been looking for, providing space and privacy for everyone in a comfortable resort setting.

Rent a timeshare this year and make the holidays a little less hectic for everyone. You’ll be amazed what a little more space (and their own bed) will do for keeping those holidays “happy” and allowing everyone to be well rested and energized for the many days of festive family events ahead. It’s not too early to book your timeshare rental now, so, browse the largest online timeshare marketplace for rental options in November and December.

(Photo courtesy of photobucket.com)

When you think of a Hawaiian vacation, most people travel to Oahu or Maui. If you’ve visited those two beautiful islands already and you’re ready to continue exploring all Hawaii has to offer, rent a timeshare on the Garden Island of Kauai. You may hear yourself saying "I can't believe anything is this beautiful!"

Kauai is called the Garden Island for a very good reason, because it is covered in lush tropical vegetation. Visit beautiful rainforests complete with climbing vines and wild orchids; swim out to refreshing waterfalls; and enjoy miles and miles of swaying coconut palms.

How is Kauai so different? This island offers many opportunities for spectacular scenery not seen on any of the other Hawaiian islands. Waimea Canyon (see photo) is one of those sites that you must see. Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, you’ll be in awe of its deep chasms and lush, colorful, tropical foliage.

Get dirty and have fun at the Mud Bug tour. Starting out in the village of Poipu, where you can visit the endangered Monk seals, your tour will take you past an old sugarcane factory, through a tunnel and all the way up to a waterfall and pool near the town of Wailua. It’s the dirt roads you’ll travel on that can make the adventure a little muddy, since Hawaii often gets quick rain showers throughout the day.

A visit to Spouting Horn will show you ocean water shooting high up through an ancient lava tube. Take a boat tour up the Wailua River, or, go kayaking to the Fern Grotto. Ha'ena State Park offers many dry and wet caves or visit the historic Kilauea Lighthouse (see photo), a symbol of the town; and the one the island's best loved places.

A Kauai timeshare rental will give you a center point to set out on your daily adventures around the island. Relax and spread out in your spacious timeshare resort and take in the beauty that the islands have to offer.

(Photos courtesy of gohawaii.com and kilauealighthouse.org)

When going on vacation, beaches and mountain towns are great, but, don’t forget about a trip to the city! Rent a timeshare in the city and enjoy great museums, fine dining and local attractions.

Because city timeshare rentals are typically not attached to large resorts, they may not be able to offer as many amenities, like kids clubs and on site activities, but with the excitement of the bustling city around you, you won’t need it. Plus, the buildings the timeshare resides are often beautiful and historic with a quaint style and charm you won’t see at a Hotel chain. Here are a few suggestions for top timeshares in 3 different big cities.

New York City
Whether you come to the Big Apple to go to the theater, to museums, to Lincoln Center, to Carnegie Hall, - it's all convenient to your Manhattan timeshare rental. Enjoy fine dining, premiere shopping or visit the well known Central Park. Stay at The Manhattan Club in the heart of downtown New York for a spacious timeshare unit. Guests often comment on the beauty of the elegant lobby and rave about the state-of-the-art Fitness Center, all in the middle of one of the world's most exciting cities. See all New York City timeshares.

San Francisco
The Nob Hill District in San Francisco is a very upscale neighborhood close to Union Square shopping, Chinatown, and of course, the famous cable cars. Top it off with the stunning Grace Cathedral (see photo) and a gorgeous view and you’ll want to rent a timeshare at the Nob Hill Inn. Originally built in 1907 as a private home, it was owned over the years by railroad tycoons and gold speculators. A stay in this timeshare will make you feel as if you have been transported back to the elegance of San Francisco's Golden Era. See all San Francisco timeshares.

New Orleans
Stroll Bourbon Street, or shop Canal Street and the Riverwalk Marketplace. When you stay at the Wyndham New Orleans at La Belle Maison all these famous sites are close by, including the famed French Quarter (see photo). Wyndham New Orleans is a modern resort inside a 100 year old historic building that once was the Franklin Printing Company. It has been meticulously restored to include traditional décor and a beautiful 8-story atrium adorned with skylights and wrought- iron railings. See all New Orleans timeshares.

Are you looking for some ideas on where and how to spend Labor Day Weekend 2010? A great suggestion is to rent a timeshare in southern California, where you'll find this final summer holiday fairly hopping with things to do.

Catch a Labor Day Parade that is based on the historical reason for Labor Day - to honor the working classes of America. On Monday, September 6, the LA/Long Beach Labor Coalition, along with celebrities who belong to the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, and the Screen Actors Guild, will march in a grand parade through the town of Wilmington, to Banning Park where a rally will include speakers, music, and free hot dogs.

Saturday, September 4th, is when the annual KJAZZ Blues Bash lets loose at Cal State Long Beach's Carpenter Center. Not only will you enjoy great jazz, but there will be a free street festival with more music outside the Center.

Everyone is up for a great County Fair, so come on out to the Los Angeles County Fair which starts its month-long run on Labor Day Weekend. A great kid-friendly event, highlights include pirate activities, dog agility competitions, livestock shows, cow and goat milking, animal petting, horse racing, and even a circus with performing elephants.

If you want to stick close to the beach, Fiesta Hermosa is for you. Held over the entire 3-day Labor Day Weekend on Hermosa Beach Pier, this exciting arts and crafts festival also has live music and even a kiddie carnival.

Getting a jump on Labor Day Weekend, the Taste of Beverly Hills starts on Thursday, September 2nd, and goes through Saturday, September 4th. This is without a doubt a high-end way to celebrate the end of summer, with sample tastings from top Beverly Hills and L.A. restaurant chefs, along with a Wine Festival. Each session will have a different agenda of cooking demonstrations and competitions, and all of it is accompanied by music - both D.J. and live entertainment.

The Orange International Street Fair held in the City of Orange starts Friday, September 4th and goes through Sunday, September 6th, with a wonderful variety of cultural entertainment. Nine stages include an Irish Stage, a Greek Stage, and a Polynesian Stage, as well as a Children's stage with fun activities for all of the younger set. Samplings of food from the many different international cultures will also be available. This is a great kid-friendly event during the day, but it's best to keep the little ones away at night.

All of these events are within easy driving distances of most southern California timeshare rentals. The hardest thing will be choosing what to do!