Special Attractions and Destinations

SOME VACATIONERS seem to prefer returning to the same attractions and destinations year after year. Other folks who simply have a long weekend, or a day off from work, are tempted to become repeaters also, and they end up doing the same things over and over again. While there may be good reasons to return to a particular spot more than just once, it might be a good idea to consider other options as well. Often good leisure experiences are enriched by variety.

A plethora of special attractions and destinations exist in each of our 50 states and around the world. Thousands of parks, tourist-related entities, and commercial recreation enterprises are open for business. And, all are competing for your leisure hours and dollars.

This is not to imply that popular tourist hot-spots are all bad. Quite the contrary is true! For example, if you have never been to Graceland, you need to go. If you've never taken your family to Disney World, the Grand Canyon, or other top-notch places, they probably need to be on your list. However, if you've already "been there and done that" a few times or more, a new destination or a different attraction could be an exciting alternative for you or your family. Any one attraction or destination may begin to get somewhat old and stale - especially if it is the only place of choice over a long period of time.

The amount of time available, the distance to an attraction or destination, and the overall cost must be taken into consideration for any leisure get-a-way. What we are prone to forget, however, is that these three factors can often remain nearly the same when the choice is between a new place and a place we have visited many times before. Picking a new place to go will not necessarily take more time, cost more money, or be more miles to travel.

As suggested earlier, when it comes to making a selection for new and exciting fun spots, the sky is the limit. Just for starters, ponder these - perhaps somewhat lesser-known - attraction and destination possibilities: Kykuit, the Field of Dreams, Fantastic Caverns, Mount Rushmore, the Naval Aviation Museum, the House on the Rock, Muir Woods, South Padre Island, Dollywood, Pike's Peak, or Six Flags.

Whether brand new to us, or familiar and often-visited haunts, the places we think of as special attractions and destinations can fill many hours of leisure and also be a source of adventure, excitement, and enjoyment. When making plans for vacations, weekends, holidays, and other periods of free time, the consideration of places to visit deserves to have high priority.

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-- Cinderella's Castle at Disney World in Orlando, Florida is pictured above.

Finding Great Places to Eat

WHEN HUNGRY, and wanting to go out for a meal or a snack, many folks always head to the chain restaurants or fast-food joints. In their minds, places like Olive Garden, Red Lobster, and Ruby Tuesdays - or McDonald's, Taco Bell, and Subway - are always the automatic choices. But this should not be the case. In every community or area, there are other possibilities which exist. And, often those who venture out to different places - perhaps special spots where "locals" eat - are rewarded with great food, a unique atmosphere, and a wonderful dining experience.

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For some people, finding a new restaurant, cafe, or deli is every bit as enjoyable as the food which is consumed. Furthermore, in many cases, the food at these new places turns out to be better than what the chains offer, and an absolute delight to the taste buds! And, when these places happen to be "off the beaten path," or in out-of-the-way locations, eating-out can become twice as much fun.

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Although eating is a necessity of life, it can also be a very enjoyable leisure activity. Part of what makes consuming food such a pleasurable event is that it satisfies hunger, of course. But, it's more than just that. Getting out of the house or apartment, being with others, laughing and sharing stories, engaging in conversation, and finding great places to eat; all of these things can add up to make eating a pure delight.

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So, the next time you're thinking of going out to eat, consider some new options and make some plans in advance. Ask friends or colleagues at work. Keep an eye on advertisements. Look at the Yellow Pages in the phone book. Check on the Internet. And, when you're out and about, be on the lookout. There's no doubt about it: eating and dining establishments - those without the usual names - are out there just waiting for your business. Keep in mind that oftentimes the mom and pop places, and even some "holes in the wall" may turn out to be among the best kept secrets you've ever discovered.

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May you have good success in all your efforts in finding great places to eat.

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-- Sweet Thyme Deli is pictured above. It is located in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida.