Rising gas prices are putting a damper on many of the travel plans for the summer and holidays through out the summer season.  Not only are people concerned about paying the price at the pump, many are also worried about what those rising prices are doing to every day costs (like groceries).

The news reports in print and on the small screen are not helping the concerns.  They regularly report doom and gloom about the things that are still to come.  It is no wonder people are closing up their pocketbooks and turning away from the traditional family vacation.

Some people are just looking for vacation options closer to home.  The idea is that if they can save on the travel expense then they can still afford to enjoy a getaway – although the getaway may not be as far as they originally planned.

The travel industry is scrambling to try and entice people to come their way.  Some locations are offering tax rebate specials to lure vacationers.  Others are just crossing their fingers and hoping for the best.

Concerns will only continue to grow if the prices at the pumps (and the stores) continue to rise.  Those consumers who were planning for shorter vacations or vacations closer to home may decided that costs are just high.  Then again, many will just adjust their plans once again to take into account the fuel costs.

Between the increased warnings and the actual increased prices of gasoline, people are traveling less this season.  How much damage that will cause the travel industry is yet to be seen.  It may be that local “tourists” manage to balance out the equation and in the end the industry is not as damaged as some may suspect.  In the long run, the fuel “crisis” may turn out to be less of a problem than the experts are predicting.

Getting through the security checks at the airport can be a stressful event if you’re not prepared.  As more airports tighten up security measures to ensure all bags and items are checked in appropriately, you may soon find many items you used to take along in your carry on no longer meet the TSA requirements.

Packing only the items you need for your carry-on bag can be a daunting task, but you’ll need to downsize that bag as much as possible to not only get through security, but also make sure it fits easily into the overhead bins or under the seat during the flight.  Here are some of the essentials you need to pack your carry on:

1.    Reading materials. Longer flights may encourage a few hours of quality reading, so pack at least one or two novels, magazines or newspapers to accompany you on the flight.
2.    A Ziploc bag of fluids or liquids.  A Ziploc bag of your miniature-sized hand lotion, contacts solution or other cosmetics is the easiest way to ensure your carry on items will pass through the system.  Pack these well ahead of time to avoid delays.
3.    Personal music player.  Take along the iPod or MP3 player, but make sure you pack it near the top of your bag so you can take it out easily to pass the security checks.
4.    Eye mask.  If you have a long flight ahead of you, take along an eye mask that will help you sleep better.  You’ll be much more refreshed and alert when you arrive at your travel destination.
5.    Travel journal and writing instrument.  Take along your journal or diary to capture some thoughts or ideas from your trip, or in anticipation of your upcoming destination.  Flying gives you some personal time to reflect, relax and capture your experience.

Leaving pets at home while traveling isn’t always practical, and many airlines accommodate for pets by offering carriers and special passenger areas for animals – all at a fee, of course.  Still, as Americans try to balance the budget for regular roundtrip and one-way airfare, many are realizing that pet travel fees are also on the rise.  Major airlines across the country are hiking up pet travel costs in addition to baggage handling fees, the cost of food and even imposing restrictions on ticket purchases.

Fees for traveling with pets can be as much as $100 each way, and while these include baggage handling and food costs, they don’t help the budget-sensitive traveler looking for ways to cut expenses at every opportunity.  Airlines such as JetBlue, Continental Airlines and U.S. Airways are just a few major carriers that are imposing higher fees this summer and Fall, and even charging extra for kennels and other pet carriers.

Still, some airlines are taking the lead on making air travel more pet-friendly with incentive programs and bonuses to help travelers make the most of their trip.  Continental Airlines offers a PetPass Program that allows travelers to earn rewards based on miles traveled with their pets; this can offset some of the fees and costs associated with pet travel, and make it easier to stick with just one airline in order to cash in the rewards at a later date.  Midwest Airlines runs a similar program with its Premier Pet Program, offering free trips for frequent travel and allowing pet owners to rack up travel miles on each trip.

For pet owners that insist on only the best, Virgin Atlantic Airlines offers an exclusive specialty package for all pets; their ‘welcome aboard’ pet package provides a special passport, a Virgin collar tag and even pet toys to keep pets happy and satisfied throughout their trip.  Pet programs may not be the ultimate solution for lowering pet travel costs, but do make it easier for pet owners to enjoy freebies and attractive options for future travel.

When you’ve done your homework for finding the best deals on hotels and flight packages, there are still savings to cash in on from the car rental. Car rental costs can become an outlandish expense if you turn to the wrong company or sign up for a package you don’t really need. Add mileage expenses, too much insurance and other fees, and you may be left with a bill that costs more than your hotel stay. When you’re working with a tight budget – or just want to travel smart – use some of these strategies to save on extra car rental costs:

1. Don’t pick up the car from the airport. Track down an actual office of your preferred car rental provider to avoid hidden surcharges, airport fees and higher-than-average rates. In many cases, you’ll be able to find a car rental company only a few blocks form the airport.
2. Shop online before calling the car rental company. Whether you prefer Hertz or Avis, go online to find discounts and deals from travel websites before you call the rental company. Few rental companies match the fares posted on budget travel sites and search engines, so it’s up to you to locate the best price before you get a quote from the service provider.
3. Fill up the tank before you drop it off. Most car rental companies will charge you an exorbitant mile-per-gallon rate for topping off the tank after the drop off. Head to the nearest gas station before dropping off the car so you can pay the average price of gas, and give the car rental company the receipt.
4. Review insurance coverage options. Most car rental companies offer a set of different types of insurance, but will ‘recommend’ one of the most expensive. If you have homeowner’s insurance, you may be covered for rentals as well. Take the time to consider your options, and avoid overpaying for coverage you don’t really need.
5. Book a package. If you’re using an online flight booking service, take a look at package options where the flight + car or flight + hotel + car options are all rolled into one. This can reduce fees and extra booking charges, and may even help you get a better rate for your trip.

If you’re heading to sunny Orlando for a summer vacation this year, don’t miss out on some new attractions, parades and concerts taking place throughout Disney World. Disney World drums up fresh activities and themed events every season, and summer 2008 calls for exciting events that continue with the Disney’s ‘Year of a Million Dreams’ theme. From Toy Store Mania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios to new sports events at the newly-expanded Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex, here are a few noteworthy activities and attractions to add to your Disney itinerary:

The Wave at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
A new upscale restaurant at the Contemporary Resort, one of Disney’s most popular hotels, is making a grand entrance this summer with American-fusion dishes and a seasonal menu of specialties,. The extensive wine list and signature cocktails are making this a valuable place for food and wine lovers at heart.

Toy Story Mania! Ride at Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios presents the latest Toy Story attraction with a 3-D vehicle ride, the place to play the Toy Story Mania! Game as you shoot down animated targets and navigate through a real life game board. Toy Story characters come to life as you explore each stage of the game and tackle the latest challenge using your target-shooting skills. It’s fun for all ages and skill levels, and is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage!
Another new attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the Playhouse Disney performance, a high energy, interactive stage show with a cast of characters from “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse” and “Little Einstein.” The performance features sing-along activities and is ideal for preschoolers and kindergartners.

New Sports Lineup at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex
The 220-acre Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex has recently been expanded to accommodate even more space for gymnastics events, cheerleading routines, roller hockey and basketball games. This season looks to be one of the best ever, with an increased number of games and performances scheduled for the summer season.

Travel agents can be the best way to get great deals on trips and to get insider tips on vacation destinations. The key is to find the travel agent who will meet your needs and your plans despite your budget. It is a lot like finding the right contractor or doctor. Instead of just picking a name at random from the yellow pages, take some time to look around, ask around and meet with available agents in your area.

1. Talk to family and friends (and even strangers in the grocery store). See who they know or have used in the past. As the travel industry continues to grow, so does the number of individuals that service it. It seems that everyone has a relative or family friend in the industry these days. Get recommendations – but ask for the good, the bad and the ugly on anyone that is suggested.

2. Meet with potential representatives. While it is okay to get leads from others, you need to meet the agents in person. Find out what their experience is and even ask for references. Be sure to ask for references of people who didn’t have the best vacation experience. It is important to see how the travel agent handles problems or difficulties.

3. Ask about her personal travel experience. Is her travel all book knowledge, or has she taken the time and money to visit the sites herself. First hand knowledge can be more valuable than all the degrees in the world.

4. Check online or with the Better Business Bureau in your area to see if there have been formal complaints against the travel agent or the company that she represents.

Once you find the travel agent that is best for your needs, make an appointment to sit down and talk with her. Be sure you give her all the information needed to plan the perfect vacation experience for you and your family: budget, interests, special needs or wants, and the importance factor of the different elements (where are you willing to compromise if it is needed).

Be sure that any plans your agent makes are only tentative until your final approval. Even though she is the expert, take a little time and effort to do some research of the suggestions that she makes. In the end, no matter who makes the arrangements, it is your vacation (and money) that is on the line.

Taking an adventure trip is not just for the experienced. As the interest in these sports has continued to expand the opportunities to learn the basics has also expanded. Now you can find a tour that specializes in giving you the experience, training and know-how you need to take you where you want to go.

Up, up and away. If you have always longed to climb the highest mountain, then Pro Guiding Service is at your service. They have put together a great course to help you learn the extreme sport of Rock climbing. Women’s Intro to Rock Climbing will help you learn some of the technical aspects of rock climbing and a lot about yourself that you probably didn’t know. Some of the basic information will be movement on the rocks, top rope set-ups, anchor systems, and lead climbing. You do need to be physically fit, but previous rock climbing experience is not required.

Sailing can take you away to where you always wanted to be. If you’ve never been before then Women traveling is here to help. Their Learning How to Sail in San Diego Adventure will give you hands-on instruction at the J-World Sailing School. You will learn sailing basics so no previous experience is required. The basic boat-handling and terminology will get you flying down the San Diego Bay in no time. The ultimate goal of this experience is to give you a since of competence and confidence when boating.

Snowboarding is new to many of us, but Peak Adventures is opening this world to any one willing to venture into it. The experience includes transportation, rentals, and a lift ticket along with expert instruction. Be sure to bring a snack and a lunch because you will definitely work up an appetite.

Something fishy is in the air at the Annual Fly Fishing School. You will be efficient at light and heavy weight fly rods, hooking, playing and landing your catch before you finish up here. The trip includes the school, lodging, equipment and even a guided fishing tour. If you want to learn to fish for trout and salmon then this is just the place for you.

It is possible to learn something new and have a relaxing time. Many of today’s vacation tours and packages are custom designed to give you an amazing experience and send you home with a new skill. The best part is that you are traveling with other women who want the same learning experience as yourself.

Spring is a time for new life, great color and lots of flowers. It can also be the best time to wander through local and regional gardens. Many flower and garden clubs (and even cities) use the spring to host fairs and festivals that celebrate the wonderful blooms of the season. You can see some of your favorite plants used in new and exciting displays and you may even be able to expand your own collection at a reasonable cost.

1 The American Iris Society hosts a national convention each year (in 2008 it will be held in Austin, Texas). There will be dozens of gardens to see, plenty of irises to purchase, and all the information you could ever want about these amazing spring plants.

2 Macon, Georgia puts on the pink for the annual Macon Georgia International Cherry Blossom Festival. The city is filled with around 300,000 flowering Yoshino cherry trees that have made it the “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World.” The celebration goes on for days and includes air shows, parades, tours and much, much more.

3 The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina is always a wonderful place to see, but during the spring it becomes breathtaking. At the Biltmore Festival of Flowers you will find more than 100,000 bulbs (tulips, daffodils and hyacinths) on display. There are also a number of springtime activities for your enjoyment.

4 Historic Garden Week in Virginia is celebrating 75 years this season. The week opens around 250 of some of the most beautiful gardens and historic homes for public viewing. There will be formal gardens, herb gardens, cottage gardens and almost any other garden that you can imagine. This year it will be held from April 19 to April 27.

5 Gardening Days at Mount Vernon offers some spectacular blooms and displays. There is also a chance to purchase plants propagated from historic cuttings. It’s a great way to take a piece of American heritage home to your own garden.

6 The Festival of Houses and Gardens is held in Charleston, South Carolina. Tours offer visitors a chance to see the interiors and amazing gardens of around 150 historic private homes throughout the city. It is held during the peak of the city’s blooming season so the colors and the atmosphere of the time is one you won’t soon forget.

Spring offers a great time to get out and enjoy the fresh colors, fresh air and amazing festivals and tours that are held around the country.

Christmas
Colonial Williamsburg has been drawing visitors to its Christmas celebrations since 1936.  Today the town fills with elaborate decorations (hand made from fruits, vegetables and evergreens), special events, and fireworks.  It all starts on the first Sunday in December when the officially Grand Illumination takes place.  Although most of the activities are not historically accurate (colonial Americans didn’t celebrate Christmas), it is still a wonderful time for the whole family.

Thanksgiving
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an icon of the turkey holiday.  In 1934 Macy’s and Walt Disney Productions introduced the first Mickey Mouse balloon.  Live broadcast of the much loved event started in 1979.  Over 2.5 million people line the streets and brave the weather to see the amazing spectacle.  It takes more than 4000 volunteers and even more performers to bring it to life.  And at home, cooking Thanksgiving meals, more than 44 million viewers use this parade to kick off their holiday season.

4^th of July
What better place to celebrate America’s birthday than in the city of its birthplace.  Philadelphia does not take its place in history lightly.  The birthday celebration lasts for over a week and ends with a fireworks display that will leave you talking for the rest of the year.  There is something for everyone (and every age) for you to find.

Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras)
It may not be the first and it may not be the wildest in the world, but Mardi Gras season in New Orleans is certainly a site to behold.  All the lavish costumes of the parade revelers are enough to keep your draw dropping on their own.  Add in the party atmosphere of the city and you can’t help but scream for beads.  The best way to experience the full effect of the extravagance is to attend a Mardi Gras ball.  Most societies only offer tickets to members, so it helps if you have someone on the inside.

New Year’s
In 1886 the Valley Hunt Club began the tradition that would be come known as the Tournament of Roses Parade.  It was designed to be a celebration of the amazing contrast between the ripening oranges in California and the piles of snow in the north east - it was a way to proclaim this paradise to the world.  It has now become America’s New Year Celebration as well.

The United States is filled with holiday magic.  No matter which holiday you want to celebrate, you can find a city that specializes in that event.

Times have seriously changed. Not only do people dress their dogs, but they take them on vacation. And to really give you an idea of how much the times have changed, vacation destinations are working hard to win over the dog owners by providing great perks for pets as well as the owners.

The historic Sofia Hotel in San Diego, California goes to great lengths to make your four-footed friend feel at home. The Pampered Paws Package offers a gift bad filled with special treats and other doggy essentials, bowls for food and water, a deluxe pet bed, and even a doggy date - one hour off leash group god adventure. You can rest assured that your best friend will rest easy.

Moving up the state, the La Quinta Inn, Livermore offers a great Pet-Friendly Package that gives you ample opportunity to explore the Northern California region. You get spacious accommodations, plenty of pet treats, and lots of green space to run and play.

If the country is more your style then The Paw House Inn is the perfect getaway for you and your pet. This historic farmhouse located in Vermont offers an amazing, two-course breakfast (for the human guests) and lots of amenities designed specifically with the four-legged guests in mind.

The woof guide is another great site for locating the perfect vacation for a dog and his owner. It features a Pampered Pet Break that features a five star cottage, toys for the beach, and food for the pet. It’s a trip tailor made for the pet of the family.

The Loews Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida takes luxury seriously - and that includes luxury for the pets (all four-legged friends are welcomed). There is pet room service (with a veterinarian designed menu to guarantee the best nutrition for your pet), a bowl and special treat, special beds, plenty of treats and a note from the hotel manager listing all the local pet services.

The Best Western Carlton Plaza Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia is another hotel that welcomes four-legged pets of both kinds. They pamper the feline as well as the pooch.

Traveling doesn’t have to pull you away from your family, not even the four-legged members. Today, many hotels and other accommodations welcome the furry guest and its owners. Some of them take the stay to the next level by offering special treats and amenities just for the family pet.

For more amazing pet friendly accommodations (that pamper the owner as well), check out Stephanie’s Top Ten List.