BloggersBase - Lifestyle - Travel

Singapore tour package offers awe inspiring attraction places

ramashankar — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 05:38:36 GMT

A time comes when everyone plans for vacations so that one can spend some beautiful moments with family and friends and it happens in everyone’s life. Well if you are pissed off with your hectic life schedule and looking for world’s best destination then look no further than Singapore undoubtedly one of the finest places to explore. A small country on a small island, Singapore is a country in Southeast Asia fascinates tourists from across the world all the year round. Whatever are you looking in your vacations it perfectly knows how to make it possible in this country. People from different parts of the world visit this country for different holidaying purpose.

Tourism has been introduced there in 1819 when it is British Trading Colony, since then it has become one of world’s most prosperous countries and boasts the world’s busiest port. Home to the breathtaking attractions and moderate climatic conditions, this country is considered an ideal place for all kind of visitors, be it honeymooners, adventure-lovers or even business tour. Once you visit to this country you will find so many reasons that why anyone should visit this country at least once in a lifetime span.

Tropical greenery, great beaches, wildlife parks, refreshing hills and ranges of floras and faunas are the few attractions that make Singapore a finest place among nature-lovers. At the same time or apart from natural attractions you can also experience there the perfect blend of metropolis life. World-renowned as the shopper’s paradise, this stunning country is also considered an ideal place for shopping. The heaviest shopping mall concentration is in Orchard Road, while towering skyscrapers are clustered around Singapore river which is every popular in this country.

Singapore is bestowed with innumerable amazing attractions or it has everything to offer to every kind of visitors. apart from its innumerable awe-inspiring attractions and great shopping there are so many things that brings this country into lime light and enhance the popularity of Singapore Tourism such as its well-cultured people, exotic resorts, excellent hotels and its unique culture, shows the perfect blend of different culture. Though Singapore is called secular country but here one can find the people with different regions and religions such as Chinese, Muslims, Christian and Hindu too.

No doubt that this country is filled with innumerable attractions and amazing places, all are amazing and worth to explore because of their distinctive features but a trip to this country would not be completed unless you do not go for Singapore Night Safari, the world’s first nocturnal zoo and undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions in this country. As sun sets, the day has just started for over 1,000 nocturnal animals. Be here with your family and grab the wonderful opportunity to explore several species of birds and animals.

There are so many attractions in this country such as Singapore River, China Town, Jurong Bird Park, Sultan Mosque, Arab Street and many others but considering your limited availability of time we would suggest you to visit Sentosa island an essential part of Singapore tour package. If you are beach lover and wish to spend your vacations away from hustle and bustle of life then must visit to this stunning island destination.

In order to know more about the Singapore Tour Package , Singapore Underwater World and Sentosa Island you can browse through http://www.singaporetourism.org.in/.

Kerala Hotels Havens in the land of enchanting beauty

ramashankar — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 05:33:19 GMT

Kerala is an enchanting land with one of the more romantic landscapes of the world. Nature is eternally fresh here and is a sightseer’s dream com e true. This overwhelmingly green land is a prime tourism destination and attracts scores of tourists. It is situated in Malabar Coast of southwestern India. Seduced by the attractions like long charming shorelines, silken realms of backwaters, mist veiled hill stations, lush jungles, enchanting wildlife, verdant landscape and spectacular art forms millions throng Kerala.

Catering to this inflow, there are many hotels and resorts functioning in Kerala. They are mostly concentrated around the prime tourist destinations. There are also hotels in other places which are strategically situated in locations via transit.

Kerala hotels offer excellent accommodation facilities and quality service round the clock. The rooms provided are opulent, spacious and of elegant design. Having the advantage of educated workforce available, the staff of Kerala hotels provides exemplary service. They listen to guests politely and attentively. Their passionate care is there to be seen. The demands of guests are met the maximum possible way. There is also multi cuisine restaurants adjoined to these hotels. Delicious food is provided of various styles ranging from Chinese to Continental.

Kumarakom is a small hamlet which is blessed with all the bounties of a backwater village. Millions throng to Kumarakom, to savor the exquisite setting that is backwaters, making it a prime tourism destination. Kumarakom Hotels cater to this inflow of tourists. Most of hotels in Kumarakom are situated by the banks of backwaters letting one be in the beautiful surrounding throughout the stay. The accommodation facilities and quality of service provided are excellent. The food provided in the restaurants is of various varieties. But the prominent attraction of them is menu that is of indigenous variety with local fish included. There is a bird sanctuary in Kumarakom which is frequented by migratory birds including Siberian Crane. A visit to this sanctuary can be arranged by Kumarakom resorts. They also offer opportunities for boating, yachting and fishing for tourists. Cruises in houseboats are also provided by Kumarakom hotels.

Kovalam is an idyllic beach location situated in southern part of Kerala. It is formed by three crescent shaped beaches. The seas are safe for swimming and conducive weather adds to the safety. White sandy beaches are inviting for sunbathing and only few can resist the temptation. There are attractive coral reefs near to the shore and tourists can go snorkeling for an underwater view. A ride in catamarans rowed by local fishermen can be termed little adventurous. Scores of tourists swarm to Kovalam because of these attractions and Kovalam Hotels cater to them. The accommodation facilities and quality of service offered are above par. Most of the hotels are situated in the precincts of beaches letting you be in the ambience throughout the sojourn.

Munnar is a mist shrouded hill station with salubrious climate. It is blessed with rolling verdant hills and green expanse of tea gardens. Millions frequent Munnar to savor the magic touch that is refreshing, soothing and gentle. Magnificent views on offer makes Munnar ideal for trekking and mountain biking. There are also many interesting sightseeing spots nearby Munnar. The hotels offer excellent accommodation facilities and high quality service. Cheap hotels in Munnar cater to tourists who basically travel on a shoe string budget.

In order to know more about the Cheap Hotels in Kerala , Cheap Hotels in Munnar and Cochin Hotels you can browse through http://www.keralahotels.org/.

Munnar The Business Center for Tourism

ramashankar — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:33:05 GMT

Kerala is well considered to be one of the perfect nature blissful land of God’s own country. This beautiful land is often said to be the tropical paradise of waving palms decorated along the winding vast backwater and the narrow strips of coastal territory. It is a vast stretch of land on the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats with an area of about 38, 8630 sq km. The bewitching wonderful unique and characteristic by nature makes it one of the best sites to relax in peace and serenity away from the noise and chaos of the world. Thus it is one of the favorite tourist destinations for leisure escape.

This picturesque heavenly like estate gives you stimulating sense of love with the glossy greenery. The tranquility and loveliness of the hill estates and the scintillating backwater couple with the beaches and its unending activities and facilities offered in it makes it irresistible attraction for the tourist visitors from worldwide.

Munnar, Wayanad, Vagamon, Idukki and Pakklad are said to be nature gifted sites f Kerala. Among them Munnar is the top listed tourist fascinating destination which is fondly called as the green paradise of the south. It has now become a famous commercial alley because of its increasing tourist attraction to it and the state is also one of the main tea producing centers of India where trade and commerce began since time immemorial. But at not only the business of tea but also the business tourist resorts and hotels has become one of the main attentions for every units of Kerala. There are many excellent best rated hotels and resorts are available sprawling in different corners of the town. Hotels in Munnar are well known for its unbeatable tourist delightful services rendered in it. They are mostly of cheaper rate with comfortable cozy small inns which has become a top rated resort for honeymoon escapers in it.

After a long exhilarating uninterrupted tour many people wish to take a break in the Munnar Hotels for its stimulating mesmerizing stay which is meant for relaxation and rejuvenation. Thus its popularity flourish and now it has become a home for every visitor to take a break in this cool climate of breathtaking tea estate. If you are planning for the most exciting and enjoyable tours stay in Munnar make sure to follow according to the instruction of the tourist guide with tour packages. Thus tour packages are nothing but they are meant for you to have a successful trip by making them easy for tour access.

Tour packages offers certain sought out side with hotels and sites to visit in advance by making a clear study of the categories which can be blended to impress the tourist and delight them with wonderful planning. The only think you have to do is to book them and select resorts and hotels where your target lies and the rest of the work will be fulfill by the tourism of Kerala. There are different units sprawling with business among them you should have the skill to choice. There are different types of hotels with different units and target of destination but the best thing you can straight away do the booking is the budget hotels in Munnar which is known to be one of the best types of hotels to select.

In order to know more about the Kumarakom Hotels , Kovalam Hotels and Cochin Hotels you can browse through http://www.keralahotels.org/.

5 Vacation Spots that have lowered their cost.

SISTERZ — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:47:31 GMT

Greece

What does Greece's recent economic turmoil mean for travelers? As of publication, there are no warnings issued by the U.S. Department of State against travel to Greece, and this year could, in fact, be an excellent time to go, as Greece travel deals are popping up like olive trees. TripAdvisor reports that hotel rates in popular Greece destinations have fallen by as much as 20 percent in the past year. The influx of bargains is a win-win for both locals and visitors, as a healthy tourism industry could help Greece revive its economy. According to Catharine Hamm of the Los Angeles Times, "Greece needs tourist dollars now more than ever to find its way out from under lest it default on its loans. Tourism is one of its leading industries, and that means you are apt to find bargains."

Japan

The tourism industry in Japan took a major hit after the catastrophic earthquake that struck almost a year ago, and it continues to lag. To bounce back, Japanese hotels and other travel providers have been offering deep savings on accommodations, attractions, and more in an attempt to lure international visitors. (Experts agree it's now safe to travel to most of Japan, including the greater Tokyo area.) "Japan is still expensive, primarily because the yen is high against the dollar," Chris Gray Faust, of Chris Around The World, told us in an email. "But hotels have been offering value-added specials to entice tourists back to the country. In Kyoto, for example, the Hyatt Regency Kyoto has been offering deals where if you buy one night, you get the second one for 50 percent, or a third night free with two nights paid," she said. Moreover, spending money on a Japan vacation is a great way to support a nation that has endured a terrible tragedy and is still in the process of rebuilding.

New York City

New York is the most expensive U.S. city to spend the night in, with average nightly hotel rates reaching $190.46 in 2011, according to data gathered from Hotels.com. But high hotel rates can couple with a wealth of free activities to strike an affordable balance for travelers to the Big Apple. City parks, music shows, galleries, breweries, famous stores, monuments, and museums that charge zilch abound in the city—you need only know where to look. We recommend browsing through the regularly updated listings on Time Out New York or reading this list of 40 free New York attractions from Lonely Planet. If you're looking for even more savings, beat those notorious New York hotel rates by booking alternative accommodations on sites like Airbnb and Flipkey. We found one-bedroom apartment rentals in Manhattan listed on Airbnb for as little as $100 per night for high-season summer stays.

Hawaii

It's shaping up to be a good year for Hawaii, as more and more travelers are heading to the lush locale. (Can you blame them?) The Wall Street Journal reports that Hawaii tourism rates are at their highest levels since 2007, thanks in part to large advertising campaigns put forth by the local tourism board. As a consequence, one might expect prices for travel to this already-expensive destination to rise. Yet there are ways to try big-wave surfing, explore underwater lava caves, or dance the hula on the cheap this year. One cost-cutting tactic is to buy your big-ticket Hawaii flight from a discount airline; very soon, you'll be able to do this. Hawaiian Airlines and JetBlue recently entered into a partnership agreement that will open up new routes to the Aloha State (this will also bring about the only nonstop flight connecting New York to Hawaii). United's adding a new nonstop from Washington, D.C., as well. New routes usually amount to greater competition, which could work to push down fares to Hawaii in the coming year.

Alaska

Alaska is enormous—it's two times the size of Texas. And crossing hundreds or thousands of miles by plane, train, or automobile isn't cheap. The solution? Set sail. Cruising is the most popular way to tour Alaska—and it may be the cheapest, too. The destination has been drawing more and more ships (Disney Cruise Line began its inaugural Alaska season in 2011) since the state's government decreased head taxes on cruise-ship passengers. For an amazingly economical Alaska vacation, book a cruise during shoulder season. As of this publication, we spotted weeklong spring and fall Alaska cruises on our sister site Cruise Critic's deals page on sale for as little as $569 per person.

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New Orleans Travel Tips

SISTERZ — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 15:58:23 GMT

The New York Times recently listed New Orleans as one of only three US destinations for winter getaways that are suitable for all ages.
The article was featured in the Sunday Travel section on January 29th, 2012 in the New York edition as well as on the New York Times website.
“The awards and recognition keep rolling in for New Orleans as its tourism industry continues to grow and thrive,” said Mark Romig, President and CEO of the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation. “Michelle Higgin’s article helps us emphasize that we have something to offer to all ages in New Orleans and it goes without saying that this endorsement is very powerful in attracting visitors to our city.”
The article cites hotels, restaurants, and attractions for both adults and kids. Recommended for kids are street car rides, cemetery tours, beignets and king cake as well as Mardi Gras parades during carnival season. Adults are steered toward creole cuisine, zydeco-blaring bars, live jazz and plantation tours.
“Tourism is big business for New Orleans, drawing more than 8 million visitors per year, sustaining 74,000 jobs and generating $5 billion annually for the local economy. The New York Times report adds to our amazing first quarter of 2012, which will go down in history as one of the best times ever for New Orleans’ tourism industry, thanks to Mardi Gras, the BCS National Championship, Allstate Sugar Bowl, the Saints and the Hornets, SEC Men’s Basketball Championship, NCAA Men’s Final Four and dozens of festivals, meetings, and conventions,” said Stephen Perry, President and CEO of the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Burea

Some of the great attraction in New Orleans.

American Italian Cultural Center
Description: The American Italian Cultural Center in the heart of downtown New Orleans is a repository of priceless information and memorabilia celebrating the contributions of the sons and daughters of Italy to the city’s cultural life.

Amistad Research Center
Description: Located on the beautiful campus of Tulane University in uptown New Orleans, the Amistad Research Center houses the country’s largest collection of manuscripts about African Americans, race relations and civil rights. This center is the focal point of research by historians, nonfiction authors, novelists and those pursuing information about their family’s history.

Armstrong Park
Description: Louis Armstrong Park, located steps from the French Quarter, was created to honor New Orleans’ favorite son, the great Louis Armstrong, and to preserve the site of Congo Square. Preserving the historic meeting space of slaves in the 1800s and celebrating the undeniably rich jazz history of New Orleans, Armstrong Park is a site of cultural reflection and a commitment to continuing the community spirit.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Description: Looming large against the Mississippi River is the extraordinary Audubon Aquarium of the Americas which houses 15,000 sea life creatures, representing nearly 600 species, living happily in a state-of-the-art facility.

Carousel Gardens Amusement Park

Description: There was a time not so long ago that carousels (or merry-go-rounds) were a common feature of the American urban landscape. Today there are not that many left, one of which is in New Orleans’ City Park. Since 1906 little kids and kids at heart have enjoyed the “flying horses” of City Park’s antique carousel, one of only about 100 antique wooden carousels in the country and the last one in Louisiana. Elsewhere in the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are other rides to keep your kids twisting, turning, whirling and twirling, including the Rockin’ Tug, Bumper Cars, Red Baron Mini-plane, Scrambler, Tilt-A-Whirl, 40-foot fun slide, Umbrella Cars, Ferris Wheel, Construction Zone and Live Oak Lady Bug roller coaster.

“Daddy said we should move back to Cape Cod”…It’s About to Hit the Fan

Vicky the Northern Chicky — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:55:26 GMT

“Daddy said we should move back to Cape Cod,” my eight year old announced as I got home from shopping on Monday night. Apparently my exasperated sigh was a lot louder than I thought it would be, and I could feel ten eyes on me as I concentrated on lugging in the bags. They all knew what was about to hit the fan.

For years now, this man begged, pleaded, cajoled and tried to guilt me into moving someplace warm – “for the good of the family”. I resisted…after all, I moved back to upstate New York from my beloved Cape Cod to be with my parents. Being an only child, I depended on them to guide and support me. I was not going to abandon them now! However, my conscience started to eat away at me, and after years of soul-searching – and my mother’s blessing – I was FINALLY able to make peace with my decision and move forward and move all those hours away to where everyone was begging me to move to. And NOW, out of the blue – I get hit with Cape Cod.

I have no problems with moving back to the Cape, in fact, I have the most incredible memories of living there and I truly would be happy to return to my sleepy little Chatham. But, we have decided on moving somewhere warm and at this point the girls and I have our hearts set on “tropical” Myrtle Beach.

In the meantime, I have been beginning to pack. I found a few empty boxes and a stack of old newspapers. The first thing I have packed up are a bunch – ok, pretty extensive collection – of stuffed frogs and statues of frogs. They are products of a running joke around here. When I did my very first jewelry show, I made the mistake of aiming more to keep up with what was trendy than what I had a passion for making. I was afraid to think out of the box and it showed in my work, it was the same as everyone else and lacked my personal style.

“That is absolutely the cutest frog I have ever seen. How much is he?” a customer would predictably stop and ask about one of the props Randi had been in charge of buying.

(Nervous laughter from me) “He’s NOT for sale. He’s just a display. Although, if you like that frog, I think you will really like this!” (at this time I would point to ANY piece of green jewelry on my table).

“Are you willing to sell the frog?” (maybe I didn’t say the above words out loud??)

“Well, no…he’s actually my good luck charm.” (I tried to muster my best “I’m selling A LOT of jewelry here” smile.)

“Well…good luck then!” Later Randi would admonish me for NOT selling the frogs, at least then I would have made SOME money. A few weeks later at Christmas, I got A LOT of frogs and it’s been that way ever since, I always get a frog (or two or three) on special occasions.

My heart beat really fast as I put the green smiling little guys into the box that would be their home for, well - a few weeks at the VERY least. It’s my first tangible baby step toward yet another exciting adventure in our lives. Thank you, little froggies for teaching me to expand my visions and not be afraid to try all sorts of new things. Thank you for showing me that if I do what I love, success will follow.

I never did say anything about Cape Cod that evening. I decided to let fate decide for us where we will ultimately end up. Quite frankly, the thought of strolling down Main Street, past all my old haunts, is quite tempting. And a studio overlooking the “true Atlantic” in all her glory – violent Nor’easters and all – does sound VERY appealing. Though, not sure it can compete with warmth in January. So, for the moment, we are packing, and allowing chance to dictate our destiny.

My Top Ten Romantic Getaways

SISTERZ — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:35:25 GMT

On my vision board I have pictures of My Top Ten Romantic Getaways.

Paris, Ile-de-France, France
From its picturesque bridges to its outdoor cafes, no other city says romance like Paris. Stroll along the river Seine, picnic amid the flowers of the 61-acre Luxembourg Garden or toast the sunset from atop Montmartre as the City of Light sparkles below. Paris – c’est magnifique!

Puerto Vallarta, Pacific Coast, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta has the ideal setting for a luscious romantic escape. Banderas Bay, the site of Elizabeth Taylor’s and Richard Burton’s big romance, offers fabulous beaches, some of the country’s best restaurants, proximity to Old Mexico and boat rides to the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan.

Venice, Veneto, Italy
With its stunning architecture and mysterious passageways, Venice is the perfect hideaway for lovers. Glide down one of its many canals in a gondola, dine by candlelight on northern Italian dishes, and take a moonlit stroll through Piazza San Marco. Romance is guaranteed.

Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, United States
Honolulu is the perfect base for enjoying everything Hawaii has to offer. Stroll or sunbathe on white-and beaches, climb a volcanic crater, surf the best waves, hold hands and watch the sun dip below the horizon or enjoy romantic candlelit dining and live entertainment.

Aruba, Caribbean
Aruba offers a delightful mix of daytime activities, nightlife and world-class dining to attract couples to its scenic shores. Indulge yourselves in romantic sunset walks on warm, sandy beaches and private coves, or explore the natural beauty or cultural attractions that make Aruba a popular honeymoon destination.

Bora Bora, Society Islands, French Polynesia
Considered by many to be the ultimate honeymoon destination, tropical Bora Bora cannot help being one of the most romantic spots in the world. Glide over the clear-blue waters in a glass-bottom boat, share a midnight dinner on the beach with someone special and fall captive to this magical Polynesian island.

Nice, French Riviera – Cote d’Azur, Provence, France
With its cosmopolitan Riviera air, fabulously fashionable stores and restaurants and azure Mediterranean backdrop, Nice is the perfect location for love. Cours Saleya flower market and the inspiring Matisse Museum add color to romantic rambles round the city, and the plethora of marinas, galleries and Roman ruins add further interest.

St. Maarten/St. Martin, Caribbean
A spicy marriage of European and Caribbean cultures, St. Maarten/St. Martin boasts lavish elegance and secluded beaches on the cosmopolitan French side and a bustling center in Dutch-hued St. Maarten. Zouk, calypso, reggae and jazz soundtrack thrilling romantic dining experiences at some of the region’s best restaurants.

Barbados, Caribbean
Romance is in the air on this lush West Indian island in the Caribbean. Your getaway to Barbados can include a lazy day on the beach, afternoon tea-British style, listening to the pulsating sounds of reggae or calypso, sipping rum and chilling out under a star-studded Bajan sky.

St. Lucia, Caribbean
Lovers adore the intriguing island of St. Lucia, with its intoxicating melee of beaches and activities. Sparkling waters contrast with palm-fringed beaches, elegant former plantation homes thrill with the aromas of spicy flavors of cooking and waterfalls tumble through forest rich with rare parrots and magnificent flashes of color.

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Explore Dubai and Its Awe-Inspiring Charm

sonuseo — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:37:01 GMT

Holidays have always been the best part in human’s life as it is the perfect way to spend some good and quality time with family and friends. There are many destinations world-wide having their distinctive features but if you are looking for world’s best attractions and greatest architecture by man, then look no further than Dubai the most sought after tour and travel destination tempts its tourists from every nook and corner of the world, all the year round. A country in Middle East it is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. Relatively new tourist destination, tourism is got popular here in recent years until the global economic crash of 2009.

Home to world’s best attractions including Burj Al Arab, it is essentially a desert city with superb infrastructure, liberal policies that became popular for its excellent tourist amenities. Just away 5 hours from Europe and 3 hour from most parts of the Middle East and the subcontinent of India, Dubai makes a great short break for shopping, partying, sun-bathing, fine-dining, sporting, events and many more. Whatever you are looking in your vacations it perfectly knows how to make it possible in Dubai.

Besides, there are so many things that enhance its popularity and bring Dubai tourism into international recognition such as its friendly people, fascinating culture and excellent accommodations and seven star hotels gives world class amenities to the visitors and make them feel special. It is a place of superlatives, for the fastest, biggest tallest, modern trendy, largest and highest. Every year from every nook and corner of the world people visits this country in the hordes. This amazing country is gifted with so many attractions and destinations having their distinctive features. Among numerous attraction places we are presenting few of them which are as listed below.

Dubai Marina

It is one of the newly and more popular areas in Modern Dubai with both national and international visitors. If offers innumerable and incomparable attractions with distinctive features such as a phenomenal skyline, world class hotels, a fabulous beach, a mall and 2 different walkways (The Walk and Marina Walk) with coffee shops, restaurants and shops.

Away from hustle and bustle of life it is considered the best place to visit located just off the coast of Dubai; a major urban development to add a significant amount of upscale beachfront property of the area. There are so many islands and each island is shaped like a palm leaf, with a trunk and fronds. Burj al-Arab Hotel

World’s fourth tallest hotel, Burj Al Arab is one of the major attractions in Dubai gathers large number of visitors from every nook and corner of the world. Offers all the world best facilities, the shape of the structure are designed to mimic the sail of a ship. Apart from there are many other attractions of tourists interest to explore all of them you can contact to Dubai travel agents. Apart from its attractions you can experience here its thrilling desert safari while experiencing the performances of local artists.

Well if you have decided to visit Dubai and looking for its exclusive holiday packages then you can contact with Dubai Tour Operators serves you with best and relevant information.

Sonu writes about various beautiful tours and travel destinations of the world. He is providing valuable information on Dubai tourism map and Dubai tourist places etc. For more information visit to http://www.dubaitourism.org.in.

“Daddy said we should move back to Cape Cod”…It’s About to Hit the Fan

Vicky the Northern Chicky — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:12:55 GMT

"Daddy said we should move back to Cape Cod," my eight year old announced as I got home from shopping on Monday night. Apparently my exasperated sigh was a lot louder than I thought it would be, and I could feel ten eyes on me as I concentrated on lugging in the bags. They all knew what was about to hit the fan.

For years now, this man begged, pleaded, cajoled and tried to guilt me into moving someplace warm - "for the good of the family". I resisted...after all, I moved back to upstate New York from my beloved Cape Cod to be with my parents. Being an only child, I depended on them to guide and support me. I was not going to abandon them now! However, my conscience started to eat away at me, and after years of soul-searching - and my mother's blessing - I was FINALLY able to make peace with my decision and move forward and move all those hours away to where everyone was begging me to move to. And NOW, out of the blue - I get hit with Cape Cod.

In the meantime, I have been beginning to pack. I found a few empty boxes and a stack of old newspapers. The first thing I have packed up are a bunch - ok, pretty extensive collection - of stuffed frogs and statues of frogs. They are products of a running joke around here. When I did my very first jewelry show, I made the mistake of aiming more to keep up with what was trendy than what I had a passion for making. I was afraid to think out of the box and it showed in my work, it was the same as everyone else and lacked my personal style.

"That is absolutely the cutest frog I have ever seen. How much is he?" a customer would predictably stop and ask about one of the props Randi had been in charge of buying.

(Nervous laughter from me) "He's NOT for sale. He's just a display. Although, if you like that frog, I think you will really like this!" (at this time I would point to ANY piece of green jewelry on my table).

"Are you willing to sell the frog?" (maybe I didn't say the above words out loud??)

"Well, no...he's actually my good luck charm." (I tried to muster my best "I'm selling A LOT of jewelry here" smile.)

"Well...good luck then!" Later Randi would admonish me for NOT selling the frogs, at least then I would have made SOME money. A few weeks later at Christmas, I got A LOT of frogs and it's been that way ever since, I always get a frog (or two or three) on special occasions.

My heart beat really fast as I put the green smiling little guys into the box that would be their home for, well - a few weeks at the VERY least. It's my first tangible baby step toward yet another exciting adventure in our lives. Thank you, little froggies for teaching me to expand my visions and not be afraid to try all sorts of new things. Thank you for showing me that if I do what I love, success will follow.

I never did say anything about Cape Cod that evening. I decided to let fate decide for us where we will ultimately end up. Quite frankly, the thought of strolling down Main Street, past all my old haunts, is quite tempting. And a studio overlooking the "true Atlantic" in all her glory - violent Nor'easters and all - does sound VERY appealing. Though, not sure it can compete with warmth in January. So, for the moment, we are packing, and allowing chance to dictate our destiny.

You may also keep up with the exploits pertaining to Vicky moving to Myrtle Beach by visiting VickytheNorthernChicky.com. It is going to be quite an experience!