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When you’re ready to stay in a hotel near San Francisco, you’re going to find that you’re going to have a lot to choose from.  So, what happens if you want to be on the beach, or near the ocean?  Upon research, you’re going to find that your choices are rather limited, but there are some that are either on the water, or within feet of the beach.

I wanted to showcase 5 highly rated hotels that are located either on the water with views, or those that are steps away from beaches.

#1 Fairmont Hertiage Place: If you have the money, you’re going to find out that a place like this is absolutely worth it.  If you really want to experience the city and have a great location, this is the place to stay at.  It’s high quality and close to a ton of restaurants.

#2 Argonaut Hotel: Helpful staff, very comfortable beds and the views that you get from your hotel room are spectacular compared to most around the San Fran area.  It’s very close to the Fisherman’s Wharf, as well as parks and restaurants.

#3 Hotel Vitale: Another place that has a high price tag, but you’re going to find that the value is just unbeatable.  The rooms are large, the location is superb, and the best thing about it is that you’re right across the street from the ocean.

#4 Harbor Court Hotel: This hotel is right across the street from the ocean and not only are you going to get great views, you’re going to be in a quieter part of the town.  Has high reviews online, as well as a fantastic location.  Another great hotel for it’s money.

#5 Courtyard by Marriott: Generally these hotel chains don’t have the best locations in the world, as they are off the beaten path.  Don’t be mistaken with this Marriott chain, because you’re going to find that this is located in the best location of all of San Fran.  Comfortable rooms, a great staff, and even free wi-fi!

Again, these 5 hotels aren’t necessarily on the water, but have either ocean views, or are very, very close to the ocean.  The best way to spot where this hotel is located is by searching online through map services such as Google Maps.

If you find yourself in San Francisco, California, you’re going to want to take a trip on over to the Exploratorium.  If you’re unfamiliar with it, it’s basically an awesome ongoing exploration of everything science, as well as a collection of activities, unique events, and more.

It’s located in the heart of San Francisco and is a fantastic option for both parents with children, as well as couples that are interested in anything science.  Upon looking at reviews online, you’re going to find that this destination always pops up in the top 50 for attractions in San Fran.

The Exploratorium has over 200 exhibits and you’re going to find that the people that get the most out of it are those that are in the Middle and High School range.  Don’t worry parents, because you’re going to find attractions and exhibits that entertain you as well.

How long does it take to check everything out?

You’re going to need a good 3 to 5 hours if you really want to check out all the exhibits throughout the day.  The best time to go is generally when children are in school during the day.  If you want to take your children, take them on a weekday morning.  When you get there early, you’re going to be able to beat the rush.

Where can I find coupons and discounts?

The museum is always having deals that you can take advantage of.  For example, they will have weekends where you can get into the museum for free with no strings attached!  The best place to check for events such as these are right on their events calendar that is located here.  You will also find that you can get discounts if you’re going to take your students on a field trip, or if you’re an educator.

If you’re looking to see how things work and you want a few hours to burn on a rainy afternoon, or a colder day, this is a place to take just about anybody.  You’re going to find that the admission is well worth it and by reading reviews online, you won’t be disappointed with your trip!

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When you plan a vacation to the Dominican Republic, there are a few things that you’re going to want to look out for when you’re ready to make a trip.  While going to a foreign country can be a fun experience, you’re going to want to make sure that you know what you’re doing, as well as where the safe areas are.

While it’s a relatively safe area, I complied a few tips that you can use when you’re ready to plan your trip.  Listed below are 7 tips that you can use to ensure that you’re having a fun time.

You will need a passport - Make sure that you get your passport when you’re ready to travel.  You’re going to need one when you fly here and if you don’t have one, you’re not going to be able to make it.  AmericanPassport online is a great place to start to get your VISA and Passport.

You can use the U.S. dollar - If you don’t want to convert your money to the Dominican peso, you really don’t have to, as you’re going to find that many street merchants accept the U.S. dollar.  Be sure to carry smaller bills, as it isn’t the safest thing to carry around $100 bills.

Don’t drink the water - Like Mexico, the water isn’t the greatest thing in the world and you will want to avoid the tap water 100%.  When you want to drink water, make sure that you just drink a bottled water, instead of straight from the tap.  Also, at restaurants, get no ice in your drink.

Dress light - The Dominican Republic is a hot and humid place.  This isn’t a place where you want to bring sweat pants and a sweater.  Instead, try and pack as light as possible.  Bring shorts, as well as some beachwear to enjoy the ocean.

Know a little Spanish - Most merchants, as well as those in restaurants won’t speak the best English.  If you have an Android or iPhone, you may want to get a conversion application that can help you convert English to Spanish.

Bring the necessities – You will find that most hotels in the Dominican Republic will have things such as toothbrushes and more, but you don’t want to purchase them here.  Why?  You’re going to be paying an arm and leg for items that you can bring from home.

Exchange money at a chartered bank – Never ever exchange money with someone on the street.  99% of the time, these people are scam artists.  Instead, you’re going to want to make sure that you exchange money at a legit bank.

By following these tips, you should be able to have a fun time in the Dominican Republic.  DebbiesDominicanTravel also has a great tips article located here to give you even more tips.

When you’re ready to plan a trip to St Croix, you’re probably wondering where the best vacation rentals are going to be situated.  Since the Internet is a fantastic place to check out, I wanted to give you what I thought were the top five places to look into.

St Croix is loaded with vacation rentals and while there are a lot of good ones, there are going to be bad ones as well.  To find great vacation rentals, I always recommend HomeAway.

Listed below are 5 rentals you may want to look into:

#1 The Palms at Pelican Cove

If you’re looking for a place that makes you feel like family, this is the place to be.  Rated one of the best resorts on St Croix islands, you’re going to get entertainment ideas, great food, as well as drinks.  If you want a great experience that keeps you coming back, make this the #1 on your list.

#2 The Buccaneer in St Croix

This resort has fantastic ocean views from a majority of their rooms.  You get large rooms, bathrooms, as well as a great beach.  The thing that most travelers like as well is that you’re located in a great location.  Fish on the dock, relax on the beach, or have a drink poolside.

#3 Hibiscus Beach Resort

The Hibiscus has some of the lower rates compared to most of the hotels on the list.  When attending an island like St Croix, you don’t want to be too cheap with your room, because you may find that you get what you pay for, or you may end up in a bad area.  The Hibiscus has a fantastic, clean beach, as well as a great experience great for the whole family.

#4 Club Comanche

If you want a resort that is close to just about everything, this is the place to be.  You’re going to be able to explore most of the town without even having to rent a car.  You’re on the waterfront and the rooms are some of the best hotel rooms that you will ever stay in.

#5 Divi Carina Resort

If you want a great hotel with great views at a very cheap price, this may be the one for you.  They have great restaurants attached, as well as a clean beach and great location.  This resort in particular has some great views as well to take advantage of.

There are a lot of resorts online, but if you check out sites such as Trip Advisor, you’re going to find that you can view other reviews as well.  Compare amenities, location, as well the price tag.  By doing so, you should be able to find a place that works for you.

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November is that time of month where the weather is starting to cool down and while some of us live in those colder climates, you’re probably already sick of the cold and it just started!

While I think November through March is the best time to go somewhere warm, you’re probably pondering on some places that you should visit.  Well, I’m assuming that you’re going to want to beat the cold and go somewhere warm.  If you already live in a warmer climate like Florida or Arizona, then I have no idea on if you want to get to a cooler destination or a hotter one!

Listed below are 10 ideas that you can consider for this upcoming November:

#1 Phoenix, Arizona: This is when the state starts to cool down.  Enjoy 80 degree temperatures.  It’s a dry heat, but you will love it!  Shop outdoors, hit up some local parks, or even just enjoy a drink at a local outdoor restaurant.

#2 Disney World, Florida: This is when Disney World starts to slow down.  Many kids are going to go back to school and many experts will tell you that this is the time to go.  It’s getting cooler and you can find some killer ideas online for Orlando Condos.

#3 Disney Land, California: If you’d rather go to California, Disneyland tends to have the same weather all year around.  Find a local condo with shuttle transportation and you can have a grand time.

#4 Las Vegas, Nevada: Like Arizona, this is when it cools down in Vegas as well.  You can walk the strip without passing out and you will find that the summer crowds will die down as well.

#5 Any Hawaii Island: Let’s face it.  Is there ever a bad time to visit Hawaii?  Take advantage of the beautiful 80 degree weather and head to any of the Hawaiian islands.  Each island is going to do something different for you.

#6 New York City: If you don’t mind sticking around in the cooler temperatures, NYC isn’t that bad when you want the city life.  Sure, the temperatures won’t be around 80, but you will find the tourists will die down a little in this month.

#7 Washington DC: This is a great time to go to Washington DC.  The kids are back in school and the weather isn’t the bad in November.  You will be pleasantly surprised.

#8 The Midwest: I know I’m vague here but if you want to take a road trip, head through the Midwest.  This is time when the leaves are changing and if you love the Fall scenery, maybe pick a warmer destination, but head through the states that are changing colors.

#9 Niagra Falls: This is an amazing place to visit in the Fall time.  The changing of the leaves, as well as the waterfall make everything look amazing.  Again, the area is going to die down a little bit, since many tourists avoid the falls in cooler weather.

#10 Tennessee: If you want mild weather, Tennessee is amazing.  You can hike in the mountains, enjoy a riverboat ride, or enjoy a drink on your patio.  This is the time when the weather is perfect.

As you can see, I could go on and on.  Hopefully these ideas will give you an impression on where you may want to go.  Each state has it’s own thing going through November, so be sure to do your homework and see what works for you!