Explore the USA

photo credit: saxyjorge

There’s no doubt that Las Vegas is famous. Bright lights, beautiful women, endless alternatives for entertainment and the promise of the big payout: Las Vegas delivers. A little scandal makes everything more intriguing. In a city where bigger is better and brand-new is best, some of the best-known hotels on the Strip are famous for being survivors.

Flamingo Las Vegas

Visit the Flamingo if only to walk in the fabled steps of gangster Bugsy Siegel and his moll, Virginia Hill. One legend has it that the hotel was named after Hill and her long, skinny – and presumably dangerous – legs. The Flamingo was built in stages over the last 65 years, but what it lacks in architectural finesse it makes up for in history. “Viva Las Vegas” was filmed here as were scenes from the original “Ocean’s 11.” The hotel was also the site of some of Hunter Thompson’s numerous and famous fever dreams.

Caesars Palace

Built in 1962, Caesars is old in Strip years. Featured in numerous films, the fountains alone are famous. Continual renovations have kept this resort hip, hot and happening. In 1992, the addition of the Forum Shops – one of the first luxury malls in Vegas – marked once such renaissance. The Coliseum was another. A 4,296-seat auditorium built in the early 2000s to showcase the talents of songstress Celine Dion, the venue continues to host sold-out shows by A-list performers including Bette Midler, Elton John and Cher.

The Mirage

If the Flamingo started it and Caesars keeps on ticking, the Mirage Las Vegas is the one responsible for the rejuvenation of Vegas and the building boom of over-the-top themed hotels. The Mirage opened in 1989 and with its palm trees and “volcano” Steve Wynn’s resort made Vegas into the glittering showplace it is today. Even now, visitors line the sidewalks to watch the “eruption” in front of the casino and journey inside to see the white tigers in the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.

Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

Las Vegas pioneered the concept of being famous simply for being famous. As the latest hotel to open on the Strip, the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has old hands and first-time visitors alike buzzing with adrenaline. The resort is composed of two high-rise towers and includes 100,000 square feet of gaming and brand-new luxury amenities. All the Cosmo needs to become truly famous is a little history. Maybe you’ll be the one to make it.

Sam Clark is a travel writer from the Las Vegas hotel reviews site Las Vegas Travel

The United States is such a large country with so many things to see and do. Visitors with limited time should concentrate on seeing sights in a specific geographic region to make the most of their trip. Because the country is so vast, once they leave metropolitan areas, visitors may want to consider car hire USA to get around.

1. New York City is the No. 1 choice for international visitors. The city is filled with high quality museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art; strong ethnic neighborhoods; Times Square, which is the place to be on New Year’s Eve; the Statue of liberty, which welcomes immigrants to these shores, and, of course, a vibrant theatre scene both on and off Broadway.

2. Washington, D.C., is another top tourist draw as capitals of nations are. Allow plenty of time to explore the Smithsonian museums – it’s not unusual for visitors to spend a day in each one. Explore the Capitol Building, see the Hall of Statues featuring famous Americans, and sit in on a session of Congress.

3. Yellowstone National Park is the world’s oldest national park, having been created in 1872. Old Faithful, a geyser which erupts like clockwork, is a top draw here, as is the wildlife. While you can’t get up close and personal with the animals, it is a wonderful opportunity to view elk, deer, antelope, bison and grizzly bears in their native habitat.

4. Many people leave their hearts in San Francisco, and you’ll find out why on your visit. Indulge in a hot fudge sundae for breakfast at Ghirardelli Square, walk across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, or ride the cable car from downtown to Fishermen’s Wharf, snacking on a shrimp cocktail as you walk along. The Napa Valley, just north of San Francisco, is famous for its wines the world over.

5. Las Vegas, also known as Sin City, is a major entertainment center, with big-name celebrities performing every night. The casinos on The Strip are mind-boggling, each one more luxurious than the last one. Even if you don’t gamble, be sure to take time to walk through a few of them. Rent a car for a day trip to the Grand Canyon, which is probably the second most popular park in the United States.

Post by Andy for Florida car hire experts Alamo. Be sure to check out Alamo car hire for your USA adventures!

If you are looking for the perfect romantic getaway, there are dozens to choose from. Whether your idea of romance is the lights of a big city, or a cozy country setting, you will find what you are searching for.

The Smoky Mountains is a wonderful place for a breathtaking view from a cozy cabin, no matter what the season. Secluded and private, this can make for an extremely romantic setting. Enjoy a cabin with a fireplace, heart shaped hot tub, and total privacy. Check out www.mountainlaurelchalets.com to find the perfect one for you.

New England is known for its quaint bed and breakfasts, and is ideal for couples. Year round activities are available, from lounging at a beautiful beach, to snowboarding and skiing in the winter. Be pampered and spoiled while you relax in one of the many beautiful inns. Choose the perfect spot at www.distinctiveinns.com.

The California wine country can be very intimate and romantic. The Wine Country Inn and Gardens, in Napa Valley, California, will let you stroll among breathtaking vineyards. Enjoy complimentary full breakfast, afternoon wine and appetizers, and a shuttle to local restaurants, all free. www.winecountryinn.com is the place to go to plan your getaway.

The US Virgin Islands has many pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, and snorkeling with starfish and seahorses. See a fantastic sunset or take twilight cruises, or just lounge on the beach and sip a cocktail. The sea breezes and fragrant tropical flowers will add to your passion. www.thebuccaneer.com is a great place to start.

Niagara Falls, NY, remains one of the most popular romantic getaways in the US. Get up close and personal with the falls on the Maid of the Mist, then snuggle by a fireplace in your suite. Take the Cave of the Winds walk where you will see and hear the power of the Falls up close. And the night time viewing of the lighted Falls is the most romantic of all. There are hundreds of places to walk to for shopping, dining or just relaxing. The Red Coach Inn is a great place for romance. Visit www.redcoach.com for your romantic holiday.

There is romance in the air no matter where you plan your holiday, as long as you plan it together.

Some of the most popular winter destinations in the northeast are in Vermont and New Hampshire. These destinations are on the top of the list because of their family friendly activities and an abundance of snow during the winter season.

Smugglers notch near Burlington Vermont is on the top of the list for some very good reasons. First of all, they make the hefty claim that if you take your family to Smugglers Notch, it will be the most fun your kids will have ever had. They guarantee it. ask anyone who’s taken their family there and chances are that they won’t deny that claim. There is something at Smugglers Notch for everyone in your family, regardless of age, that includes both indoor and outdoor activities. For more information on what they offer, here is their official site: http://www.smuggs.com/

The Mount Washington Hotel In New Hampshire is also a premiere destination for families and you will be in awe of this hotel and the grounds if you have never been here before. The hotel itself is breathtaking in both size and stature, and it sits on nearly 800,000 acres of federally reserved land. This is more than enough room for all the outdoor activities which this hotel has to offer for every member of your family. Here is a link to their official site: http://brettonwoods.com/