The Aloha state would like to share their islands with you.  Hawaii is made up of 8 islands with natural scenery, a warm tropical climate and an abundance of beaches making it the perfect destination for your next vacation all year round.

Every vacation requires a little bit of research and elbow grease, but with the variety of hotel deals online finding accommodations is easier than ever.  The first key to visiting Hawaii is deciding what part of the islands you would like to visit.  Each area offers outstanding scenery and access to a variety of outdoor activities, so you’ll be sure to find the island that suits you.

Honolulu is Hawaii’s most populous city and home to some of the major tourist attractions, such as Waikiki beach, Diamond Head and the International marketplace.  As the state capital, Honolulu is on the busier side of the island.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, check out Lahaina and Kihei.  These two beach towns are part of the island of Maui.  Lahaina still boasts history and serenity.  This quiet historical town is perfect for whale watching and participating in a seaside luau.  Finding hotels in Lahaina is simple with the Westin, Sheraton and Aston providing some world renowned accommodations.

Kihei is a beach combing territory known for its six miles of beaches.  This little town is perfect for the ocean lover.  Visitors enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and surfing on the southwest shores of Maui.

Hawaii is the perfect beach vacation spot, with so many islands to choose from each popularized for a certain natural geographic, surf break, or cultural experience.  Hawaii is the perfect place for friends, loved ones and family members alike.

The United States is home to a variety of culture, natural beauty, history and some of the most amazing cities in the world.  Here is our list of 5 cities you must visit in the United States.

New York City – The epitome of city life with the hustle and bustle of busy streets, scurrying people and flashy lights it is truly the city that never sleeps.  For the weary traveler finding a cheap New York City hotel is easier than you think, there are a variety of deals on the internet and you can be sure that these hotels are within walking distance from some amazing sights.  When visiting New York must sees are the Statue of Liberty, ground zero, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Chicago, Illinois – Chi-Town or the Windy City is the perfect place to take in the culture of a city.  Home to a variety of cuisine influenced strongly by the Italian traditions such as the deep dish pizza, a plethora of parks hosting sporting events like Wrigley Field and arts and entertainment. Chicago is home to Harpo Studios, Orpah Winfrey’s headquarters.  Must sees; Chicago water tower, Millennium park, the first Ferris wheel, and the Blackstone Renaissance hotel.

Seattle, Washington – A major seaport city, Seattle is known for its coffee, seafood and climate, a cooler city with so much to see and do.  There are so many landmarks that you must visit like the Space Needle, Smith Tower, Columbia Center, Pike Place Market, and the home of the first Starbucks Coffee.  There are a variety of gorgeous neighborhoods to visit in Seattle and you can even find discount hotels in these areas.

Phoenix, Arizona – A desert wonderland.  Phoenix is a beautiful place to visit especially the Desert Botanical Garden home to the world’s finest collection of desert plants.  This is the place for a true nature lover.  Climb Piestewa Peak or Camelback Mountain and take in the scenery from above. Drive the Apache trail where you’ll pass Goldfield Ghost town, Saguaro Lake and much more.

Houston, Texas – This is cowboy country.  First things first, meat lovers must enjoy a Texas steak at the Strip House, voted best steaks in town.  Things to see in Houston; Johnson Space Center, Houston Aquarium, Kemah Boardwalk and the various museums and markets around the city.

The United States is built up of a variety of cultures, races, ethnicities and religions with citizens from various parts of the world.  These major metropolitan cities are a hub for some of the best historical backgrounds, cuisines, and sights in the country. Take a visit today!

Vacation vs. Stay-cation: We Weigh the Pros and Cons

We understand the need for time off, whether it’s getting away from a ringing telephone and e-mails or actually traveling to a destination, relaxing is the ultimate goal.

We’ve put together a list of pros and cons for Vacations and Stay-cations.

Vacations Pros:

• Relaxing in cheap hotels with a variety of amenities and luxuries
• Improve your quality of life and mental health
• Revamp relationships with others and yourself
• Gain the self confidence you need
• Find inspiration and inner peace
• Feel refreshed and come back with a more productive  mindset

Vacation Cons:

• Expenses
• Planning and budgeting
• Increment weather
• Putting your business or employment on hold
• Anxiety of travel and transportation
• Traveler’s Depression

Stay-Cation Pros:

• Inexpensive and can fit most budgets
• Discount hotels in local areas are available
• Doesn’t take much time to plan, can be last minute
• An opportunity to experience aspects of your city you may not have seen
• A variety of Things to Do for Free
• Accessibility to friends and family
• Travel is no more than a day

Stay-Cation Cons:

• Possibility of Boredom
• Still close enough for work to consume an individual
• May be more costly because you feel more inclined to spend since you’ve saved money on lodging
• May not relax and actually do tasks around the house

Although it is important to relax, unwind and get away from work and the stresses of everyday life it is also important to weigh the pros and cons of any vacation or stay-cation.  Remember that even though you find cheap Honolulu hotels there are still aspects to think about, even in paradise.  Whether you choose to travel far and wide or stay a little closer to home take our tips into consideration when you’re planning how to spend your much needed time off.