Get Away Today

Hotel Spotlight: Anaheim Marriott Suites

Located just minutes from the Disneyland Resort and the Anaheim Convention Center, The Anaheim Marriott Suites offers a variety of conveniences for both the business and leisure travel. Every suite features the "Revive" bedding package, a living room, and a separate bedroom. Guests will appreciate such amenities as a large, well lit desk, two telephones with data ports, high speed internet access, voice messaging, cable with pay-per-view programing, iron & ironing board, coffee/tea maker, mini refrigerator and room service. Guests can work out on state-of-the-art exercise equipment, then relax in the pool and whirlpool. After a long day, you can dine at the SunSpot, an American cuisine restaurant or indulge in the simple luxuries of the Starbucks just off the Lobby.

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Listening to the Get Away Today Travel Show podcast is simple.  There are four different ways to do it: 

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--------------------START OF PODCAST TRANSCRIPT--------------------

Todd Carlson:  (Announcer)
Travel news you can use.  This is the Get Away Today.com Travel Show.  Get Away Today is a top provider of affordable, fun family vacations to Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Hawaii, San Diego, Beaches, and Sandals in the Caribbean. The travel show is heard exclusively on Get Away Today.com.  And now, here's the host of the travel show.

Patrick Wiscombe:  (Get Away Today - Internet Marketing Manager)  Welcome to the Get Away Today travel show podcast.  My name is Patrick Wiscombe. Thank you for tuning us in and taking us along where ever you’re listening today. Coming up in the next five minutes I’m going to put the Get Away Today hotel spotlight on the Anaheim Marriott Suites near the Disneyland® Resort.  I must say it is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a “suite” hotel.  Each January we take the entire Get Away Today reservation staff to Anaheim and San Diego so they can see the hotel properties for themselves. That way, when you call us they can personalize your vacation for you and your family. Now, I want you to think about this for a second; how many travel companies take their reservation staff to the vacation destinations they actually sell?  I’m willing to bet almost none of them do. A quick reminder before we get started, when you book your vacation or buy your attraction tickets on our web site, www.getawaytoday.com, use promotion code’ podcast’ when you check out so we can give you an additional $10.00 of your purchase.  Cathy Dutton, Sales Manager for the Anaheim Marriott Suites, took the entire reservation staff on a guided tour of the property.  Afterwards she sat down with me to talk about the property.

Cathy Dutton  (Anaheim Marriott Suites – Sales Manager) The Anaheim Marriott Suites in located about a mile from the Disneyland® Resort - just a few minutes down from the road.  It does have the Anaheim Resort Transit that picks up and takes people back and forth to Disneyland® on a regular basis. It also has service to the Block at Orange mall which is a new add on feature with the new ART system.

It is a luxury suite product that Marriott has. There are 371 guest rooms. Each one of them has a bed room and a parlor. They all have the new revived Marriott bedding, which is what we’re famous for. Each one of them has a sofa sleeper in the parlor and has all of the amenities of a full service superior hotel.  Sun Spot is the American restaurant they have on-site.  They serve a variety of American fare.  It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and they do offer kids eat free program for breakfast.  For every one adult that has the breakfast buffet, one child, 9 years and younger, eats for free either from the buffet or from the kid’s menu. Of course all of the other amenities that you would find in your suites include the mini fridges, coffee makers, irons, ironing board, hair dryers, alarm clocks, radios; it does have a desk with high-speed internet and the duel telephone lines for voice mail.

Pets are also welcome in this particular hotel. There is a reasonable, one time non refundable fee. It won’t cost you an arm and a leg or your first born male child. Keep in mind that it’s probably more reasonable than kenneling your pet that is coming with you.

The family suites accommodate up to 6 people. There are a lot of restaurants within short walking distance including Joe’s Crab Shack, Red Robin, and Outback Steak House. There is also a Target right across street which is so handy in case you forgot to bring your sun block, your swimsuit, or anything else.  It makes it nice and easy to go across the street to Target and to pick up something.

Patrick Wiscombe:  Well, that was obviously the sit down portion of my interview with Cathy Dutton.  She is now going to take all of us on a guided tour of the property.

Cathy Dutton: We have two sides to this health club. You have a whole weight room on this side; more of a body building or strength training or lifting and resistance training.  On the other side you have all the typical equipment which is brand new with the T.V. monitors and ear phones.  Now we’re going to go back around by the game room. We can stand in the game room and look down because that is the way to the pool access so you don’t have to go through the lobby and slip and slide on the marble floor. If you look down here, down the stairway, you can see they have towels ready for you to take out for the pool.  They also have vending machines to take out to the deck and pool area.

This is a family suite which has two beds and a sofa sleeper. It can fit a roll away bed as well. They will get flat screens throughout the year. They will take the tops off the armoires and then put the granite tops on with the plasma screen TV’s. This is your standard king. These beds are so comfy.  My cousin and his wife just stayed here for almost a week because they were getting hardwood floors put in their home and they just couldn’t live with it. They couldn’t thank me enough, they thought it was so comfortable and when they travel they don’t sleep that well.  They said they had a great time.

This is a pet friendly hotel. There is one floor that is specifically for pets with an exterior exit to take them out to grassy areas for their walks. You pay per pet, smaller pets are welcome, and it’s a fifteen dollar, non refundable fee per night.  When you compare that to a lot of places they’ll charge anywhere from $75-$150.00, non refundable, whether you stay one night or ten. It is a really good price for that.  When you segregate a floor like you won’t have an issue if someone is allergic to animals.

Pattrick Wiscombe: My thanks to Cathy Dutton and her entire staff for taking us, the entire Get Away Today crew on a guided tour of the Anaheim Marriott Suites. Two quick reminders before we wrap up. When you book your vacation or you buy your attraction tickets on our website which is, of course, www.getawaytoday.com use promotion code podcast when you check out so we can give you an additional $10.00 off your purchase. Also, make sure you, your friends and your family members are signed up for our "last minute travel alerts."  You’ll want to do that because it is the best way to save money for your next vacation.

Todd Carlson:  (Announcer)
You can book your Get Away Today vacation package right now by going to Get Away Today.com or calling one of our friendly reservation agents at          (866) FUN-TRIP       .  This has been the Get Away Today Travel Show podcast heard exclusively on Get Away Today.com

--------------------END OF PODCAST TRANSCRIPT--------------------

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Top 10 Travel Tips: San Diego

San Diego is a beautiful city.  Here are some Get Away Today insider tips, that will make your vacation to San Diego even more spectacular: 

1.  San Diego is known for SeaWorld®, LegoLand® and the World Famous San Diego Zoo®.  The Wild Animal Park® is a great place to see animals in large enclosures where they roam with other animals.  If you can get there in the morning the animals are more active than later in the day when they tend to rest.

2.  Drive across the Coronado Bridge to beautiful Coronado Island.  The view from the bridge is spectacular; at night the lights of San Diego are fantastic.  Coronado Island is 7.4 square miles of award-winning beach, unique shops and many fun restaurants.  While you are there, don’t miss a stroll through the historical Hotel Del Coronado, also known as San Diego’s Crown Jewel.

3.  Balboa Park is not only home to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, but also 15 major museums.  As you wind your way through this beautiful park there are amazing gardens and restaurants.  You may want to catch a play at the Old Globe.  If you are there on a Sunday, you can enjoy a free organ concert at the Spreckels Outdoor Organ Pavilion.  Some of the museums even offer free admission on a rotating basis on Tuesdays throughout the month.

4.  La Jolla is a place you should not miss.  This unique beach town not only has great weather and a majestic coastline, but also lots of shopping.  You can visit the Children’s Pool and see seals and sea lions lounging on the sand and playing on Seal Rock. A favorite is the Shell Shop at La Jolla Cove.  For $1.00 you can go down into a cave to get an interesting view of the ocean.

5.  If you are up for a beautiful drive you can begin a 59-Mile Scenic Drive at the foot of Broadway.  This three-hour drive along the coast has road signs with a seagull on a yellow and blue background to direct you along the way.

6.  San Diego’s Gaslamp District experienced a major redevelopment in 1982 and now offers a vibrant atmosphere.  There are more than 100 restaurants and night clubs.  The Horton Plaza shopping mall is close by and offers over 190 stores and 23 restaurants.

7.  Old Town San Diego is considered the “birthplace” of California.  All of the museums are free to the public.  The Whaley House was named the #1 most haunted house in the United States by the Travel Channel.  You can also visit the first public school house in San Diego.  There is plenty of fun shopping and loads of good Mexican restaurants to choose from.  Old Town has a Saturday Market from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

8.  For sport lovers, San Diego has two professional teams to root for.  The San Diego Padres play baseball games at the new Petco Park.  It is a great location with breathtaking views of San Diego.  If you are a football fan, you might want to catch a San Diego Chargers game.  The Chargers play at Qualcomm Stadium when they are in town.

9.  If you like to shop and are looking for a good deal, I highly recommend the Carlsbad Premium Outlets.  They have over 90 stores and offer many leading designers. 

If you are traveling between March and May, one of the most beautiful sights is “The Flower Fields” in Carlsbad.  They are located just off of I-5 at Palomar Airport Road.  There are 50 acres of Giant Ranunculus blooms in spectacular colors.  These fields produce 6 to 8 million bulbs per year.  For a fee, you can take a tour.

10.  San Diego offers nearly 50 miles of light-rail trolley lines that circle downtown San Diego and connect East County, Old Town, South Bay, Mission Valley, Qualcomm Stadium, and the Mexican Border.  These trolleys are bright red and easy to spot.  There are 29 bus routes covering 635 miles, so you can easily get anywhere you’d like to go.

© 2007 Get Away Today Vacations

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Hotel Spotlight: The Disneyland Hotel

Today we put the Get Away Today hotel spotlight on the Disneyland Hotel. We’ve featured the Disneyland Hotel before, but never like this. I’ve mentioned in previous podcasts that we just got back from a business trip to the Anaheim area. While we were in southern California, we were invited to take a guided tour of the Disneyland Hotel. What you’re going to listen to during the next 12 minutes is an in-depth tour of the hotel from the one person who knows the Disneyland Hotel the best. You won’t hear this content anywhere on the web.

WE MAKE IT EASY TO LISTEN: 

Listening to the Get Away Today Travel Show podcast is simple.  There are four different ways to do it: 

1. Just press the PLAY button.  (14:33)

2.  If you have iTunes installed on your computer, click the small iTunes logo right here in this paragraph to connect to the Get Away Today Travel Show podcast inside the iTunes store. Once you're there, click the 'SUBSCRIBE' button.  If you don't have iTunes installed on your computer, click here to download the software.  It's FREE!

3.  Download the audio.  To download, right-click on this MP3 File link.  Select the 'Save Target As' option to download the file.

4.  You can also visit our the Get Away Today podcast page and listen to all of the travel features we've produced for you.

--------------------START OF PODCAST TRANSCRIPT--------------------

Todd Carlson:  (Announcer)
Travel news you can use.  This is the Get Away Today.com Travel Show.  Get Away Today is a top provider of affordable, fun family vacations to Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Hawaii, San Diego, Beaches, and Sandals in the Caribbean. The Travel Show is heard exclusively on Get Away Today.com.  And now, here's the host of the Travel Show.

Patrick Wiscombe:  (Get Away Today - Internet Marketing Manager)
Welcome to the Get Away Today Travel Show podcast.  My name is Patrick Wiscombe.  It’s Wednesday, January 16, 2008.  Thank you as always for tuning us in and taking us along wherever you’re listening today.  Coming up in the next few minutes, I’m going to put the Get Away Today Hotel spotlight on the Disneyland® Hotel.  Now we’ve featured the Disneyland® Hotel before, but never quite like this.  I’ve mentioned in previous podcasts that we’ve just gotten back from a business trip to the Anaheim area. While we were down there we were invited to take a guided tour of the Disneyland® Hotel.  Dave Lay, Senior Program Director for all of the Disneyland® Hotels, was our tour guide.  What you are going to listen to right now is a 12 minute in-depth tour of the hotel from the one person who knows the Disneyland® Hotel the best.

Guest Name: Dave Lay (Disneyland® Hotel – Senior Program Director)
Even though it is the very first Disney Hotel, it did open in 1955 the same year the Disneyland® Park opened.  Disneyland® Park opened in July, the hotel opened in October.  Walt basically used all of his money to open Disneyland® Park so he approached a good friend of his named Jack Rather. They met in the television industry because Jack also created family friendly television. He did The Lone Ranger, Lassie, and Sergeant Prestons of the Yukon.  Since they were in the same line of business they became good friends.  Walt said, “Hey, Jack, I got the land but just don’t have money to do the hotel.  I will lease you the land for 100 years and I will also lease you the Disneyland® name if you build and operate the hotel.”  And that is exactly what happened.  Then in the early 80’s, after Jack and his wife had passed away, the company was being run by other people and there were some concerns about the up-keep of the Hotel.  Disney went in and said, “We’re going to buy the entire Rather Corporation simply to gain ownership of this property.” We bought the Rather Corporation and secured this hotel as our own, and then we’ve sold off the all the remaining parts of the Rather Corporation that were of no interest to us. So from 1986 to current this Hotel has truly been ours.

So this is the main lobby and the main check in.  Over here is the Steak House 55 which is one of our fine dining.  It has primarily steak and a little bit of sea food. Hook’s point, also a fine dining restaurant, is heavier on the seafood and less on the steak.  Then this is Goofy’s Kitchen.  This is the premier character dining experience on the property.  Goofy’s Kitchen is very difficult to get into especially now that we do the 60 day out priority dining where guests can call 60 days out and book all of our dining arrangements. Ever since we started doing that, walk-ups are almost non-existent.  If you try to do a walk-up you will probably wait anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours to get in.  Please recommend to your guests that they take advantage of the 60 day Disney dining hot-line.  It’ll make a world of difference for them.

We are now kind of sandwiched between the two pool areas here at the Disneyland® Hotel.  To my right we have the Neverland Pool complex which is, unofficially, the family pool area.  That is where most families and the kids just choose to hang out. We have the area all themed to Neverland from the movie Peter Pan.  They can go up into the top of the misty mountains - that is where they catch the waterslide. The waterslide wraps through the misty mountains and dumps down into the lagoon. Captain Hook’s pirate ship is over there.  Ticktock the crocodile is over there. We have a little jet spa area that is themed to Mermaid Lagoon from the movie. It is highly themed, a lot of fun and the guests love it.

Bruce Stratford: (Get Away today – CFO)
On the pool facilities from the three hotels, do you have to stay at the hotel to use that pool?

Dave Lay: (Disneyland® Hotel – Senior Program Director)
There is no pool hoping at all.  You are limited to use the pool of the hotel you are staying at. The only time that changes is, let’s say for instance, you are staying at Disney’s Paradise Pier® Hotel and they are performing maintenance on their pool for some reason.  We would then make a determination about it and cut the guest’s key in such a way where they could go to a different hotel property and utilize their pool.  In normal, everyday usage, however, you have to use the pool that is at the hotel where you are staying and that is it.

Then on this side we have what is known as a “Coe-Four area.”  This is where we have a sandy beach, volley ball court, pool and jet spa. This is actually, kind of unofficially, the adult pool area. Kids can go over there and hang out if they want, but it really hasn’t evolved into that. Most of the adults just hang out over there.  It’s a little more quiet and relaxing.  Also in that green structure over there is where the Team Mickey workout facility is.  The guest laundry facility is located over there as well.  The QSR, or the Quick Service Restaurant, for this hotel is Crocks, Bits and Bites.

  I really like this hotel.  Considering that it is 53 years old, I think it is in really good condition and because of the year the hotel was built the hospitality industry standard room size was much, much larger than it is today so they have really good sized rooms. The Imaginears, when we gained ownership of this hotel, decided to really give it a true Disney identity.  Because it was named after the Disneyland® Park we thought it should be a natural extension to your Disneyland® Park experience. One of the easiest ways to do that is imagery of what you would normally see inside the park.  So for the art work we have copies of the original conceptual drawings that were done by the Imaginears for the various theme park attractions that you find inside Disneyland® Park. On the bed spread we have images of the attraction facades themselves; Main Street train station, the Haunted Mansion, the Mark Twain, the interior scene of Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Tea Cups are all here. The Imaginears also loved to pay special attention to the details.  The details are what really sets us a part as a company because this hotel is named after Walt Disney’s very first theme park and is really the only park in which he encountered or had anything to do with. It is very special to the history of our company.

Since this park is located in California the Imaginears wanted to acknowledge that. So here on the bed spread, intentionally designed into the image of the bed spread, are these flowers. Now these flowers are poppy flowers and they are the state flower of California.  So these are California poppies intentionally incorporated into the design of the bed spread because of the significance of California to the history of our company. Pay attention to the images that you see on the head board as well as the furniture piece you see over there. Those are very significant to the history of our company because these are images of the two conceptual drawings that were taken to the bankers by Roy Disney, Walt’s brother.  These two images are what sold the concept of Disneyland® Park and what was able to allow us to get funding for this property. The one that you see here is the image of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.  It’s a very good example of how many times the conceptual drawing and the final product will look very similar, if not identical, to each other. The drawing over there is a good example of how many times the final product doesn’t look like the conceptual drawing when it’s finished. If you were to look closely at that drawing you would notice that the Castle in Fantasy Land is designed and set up very differently. Also, Adventure Land is located on the right side of the street as opposed to the left side of the street.  That’s originally how we were going to build the park, but when we started doing site preparation this whole area was encompassed by orange groves and walnut groves. In the walnut and orange groves, the grove operators would plant these huge rows of eucalyptus trees and fichus trees to serve as wind breaks from the severe Santa Ana winds to protect the fruit and the crops. As we were doing site excavation we noticed that there were very mature, developed row of eucalyptus trees and fichus trees and Walt Disney said not to tear them down. Walt said, “Let’s make some changes and flip-flop Adventure Land to the other side and use all those trees right there to be incorporated to be used in the Jungle attraction. That will instantly give the Jungle Cruise attraction a since of maturity and permanence like it’s been there for a long time.”  That is exactly what happened. If you go into Disneyland® Park today and you stand in Town Square and look back behind City Hall you will still see those same eucalyptus and fichus trees.  They have not been removed and they’re still strong and healthy and have been growing all of these years later.  There is just a little bit of Disney trivia for you.

I recommend guests staying in this hotel because as I said before, when these towers were built the hospitality industry standard room size was just much larger than it is today. Now days when someone builds a hotel you try to get as many rooms in as possible.  Back then the rooms were just bigger. Typically families want to stay on this property. This is really the property that caters to the families with kids running around and you need more space.  This is really the hotel that is great for accommodations for our families because the space is there. This hotel and the Disney’s Paradise Pier® Hotel do not have the third option, which is the queen bunk bed option. That is the only hotel, over there [Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel® & Spa], that has it. Both the other two hotels just have the queen-queen and the king with a pull out sofa.

Do you know about the pixie dust in the room? If you notice, you see Tinker Bell is right over here and her pixie dust trail goes around the perimeter of the room. Depending on how long you have your room lights on or depending on how much sunshine is coming into the space during the day, this pixie dust receives a charge and then at night when you shut off the lights it glows. If it received a good charge during the day it’ll glow approximately 45 minutes before it fades out so it is a perfect way for the kids to go to sleep.  All the rooms were converted over to this room design mostly in 2000 and some in 2001 just before we opened Disney’s California Adventure® Park.  These rooms are basically going on close to seven or eight years.  It has been eight years we are now looking at what the next design going to be because we like to switch our designs out and refresh our rooms about every eight to nine years.

In front of each bank of elevators we have what is referred to as a “welcome rug.” In this “welcome rug” we have incorporated classic Disney design. When you first step out you will notice there is the cursive Disney D. In the four corners we have our Disney characters. Right here is Goofy: here is his eye and this is his nose and the black ball on his nose this is his hat and then this is his big ear.  Here is Pluto right here, facing me. This is the top of his head; this is his nose and his ear coming down. Donald should be around here somewhere.  Yep, here’s Donald.  I was just standing on him.   Here is his face, his up-top beak, his bottom beak, his hat, and the feather that comes off the top of the hat. Down here we have Minnie Mouse.  Minnie is facing you.  Here is her nose, her face, her ear, and her bow on the top of her head. Right here is Mickey: head, nose and his two ears.

This is our view.  It is a great place to watch fireworks and is also a good place when the storm moves out and when it clears you’ll be able to see our mountains covered in snow and they’ll be beautiful.  Everyone will want to go up and go skiing; it’s just a great place. If you look directly out to the Tower of Terror and just to the left of the Tower of Terror you will see kind of the red spike coming up, that is the red of the red “A” at Angle stadium. Then to the left, if you look through those power poles you kind of see a pink and green building with a big white roof. That’s the Honda Center, formally known as the Arrow Head Pond, which is home of the Mighty Ducks.

Patrick Wiscombe:  That’s Dave Lay the Senior Program Director for the Disneyland® Resort hotel. You’ll be able to hear more from Dave here in the next few days. Two quick reminders before we begin to wrap up: when you book your vacation or buy your attraction tickets on our web site, which is of course getawaytoday.com, use promotion code "podcast" when you check out so we can give you an additional $10.00 off your purchase.  Also, make sure you, your friends, and your family members are signed up for our free, last minute travel alerts.  All you need to do is go to getawaytoday.com and look for the last minute travel alerts sign-up box at the very top of the home page.  It’s really is the best way to save money and get great vacation deals for your next vacation.

Todd Carlson:  (Announcer)
You can book your Get Away Today vacation package right now by going to Get Away Today.com or calling one of our friendly reservation agents at (866) FUN-TRIP.  This has been the Get Away Today Travel Show Podcast heard exclusively on Get Away Today.com

--------------------END OF PODCAST TRANSCRIPT--------------------

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Top Ten Things to Do in Las Vegas!

Las Vegas, Nevada is one of the most exciting vacation destinations on the planet.  Whether you looking for a fun filled vacation, or just a place to pit stop when driving to Disneyland or San Diego. The city is full of hip night clubs, posh hotels, and enormous casinos, but with so many things to do many people don’t know where to start. These ten tips are a brief overview of what you should do during your visit to Las Vegas:

1. Win Big! – Join the millions of visitors every year that come to Las Vegas for its most popular pastime: gaming. The Las Vegas strip alone has over 2.6 million square feet of gambling space and over 40,000 gaming machines! Some popular casinos include Caesars Palace and New York- New York for the fun atmosphere and unique themes. Visit the Orleans off the strip for of its lower-limit table games, and the Bellagio and Monte Carlo for more extravagant gaming.

2. Explore the Strip – The best way for a Vegas first-timer to experience Las Vegas is to hit “The Strip,” the most famous resort area of Las Vegas Blvd. Walking from one end to the other is the least expensive and most adventurous way, but you’ll need good walking shoes. To save on time and avoid tired legs,  you can ride the Deuce, Las Vegas’s version of the double-decker bus, or the Las Vegas Monorail. These transportation options travel the entire length of the strip.

3. Desert Rose Resort – Stay at the beautiful Desert Rose Resort!  The Desert Rose Resort is a unique all-suite, non gaming property located just steps away from the famous "strip".  The hotel is within walking distance to the Tropicana, MGM Grand, and Luxor Hotels.  Each of the Spacious Suites offer a separate bedroom and living room with fully equipped kitchen including refrigerator, range, microwave and coffee maker.  Their suite's also include a hairdryer, iron and ironing board, data ports, wireless services, voicemail and private patio or balcony.  It is the perfect place to stay when traveling with the whole family! 

4. Catch a Show – Ever since its beginnings, Las Vegas has been known for spectacular shows. Producers spend millions every year bringing the best of the best to Las Vegas. If you are a Broadway connoisseur, check out the hilarious Monty Python’s Spamalot at the Wynn, or the famed Mamma Mia! at Mandalay Bay. If you enjoy enormous extravaganzas, attend one of the breathtaking Cirque du Soleil productions or see a Blue Man Group concert. Whatever your pleasure, be sure to check one of the same-day ticket booths for half-price admission to some of the hottest shows on the Strip! To view all of the productions in Las Vegas, visit Vegas.com/Shows.

5. Enjoy World Class Dining – Las Vegas is quite possibly the dining capital of the Western United States. Vegas is known for everything from all-you-can-eat buffets to five star restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a German bratwurst or fresh sushi, Las Vegas has a restaurant for you. Some must-trys include the romantic Picasso at the Bellagio, the famous Eiffel Tower Restaurant at the Paris, and Wolfgang Puck’s star-studded Spago at Caesars Palace.

6. Go Shopping – Las Vegas is one of the greatest cities in the world to shop! Shopping malls here are almost as prominent as casinos. In fact, most of the major resort/casinos have stores built right in! Some of the more famous of these shopping experiences include The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, The Grande Canal Shoppes at the Venetian, and the Miracle Mile shops at Planet Hollywood. These malls tend to have high-end stores that cater to more expensive tastes, but if you’re looking for a bargain, be sure to hit the Las Vegas Premium Outlets north of the Strip.

7. Find Big Thrills! – One of the most famous roller coasters in the world is the Manhattan Express which weaves in and out of skyscrapers atop New York-New York. Not big enough for you? Try the Desperado in Primm, Nevada, just 40 minutes south of the Strip. This wild ride is a former world record-holder for the tallest coaster! If that’s too far, there are more adrenaline pumping rides on the top of the Stratosphere, at the Sahara, and in the Adventuredome Theme Park at the Circus Circus.

8. Relax – The mega-resorts of the Las Vegas strip contain over 75,000 hotel rooms to get your much needed sleep, and have some of the world’s most famous spas. After a day of walking, gaming, and playing, nothing beats unwinding with a Swedish massage or a full-body wrap. If spas aren’t your thing, try golfing! Guests at the Wynn Resort can utilize the Wynn Golf Club, the resort’s very own exclusive 18-hole, par 70 golf course!

9. See the Sights – Las Vegas Blvd. is home to some of the most interesting sights in the United States! Where else can you find a miniature city (the New York-New York Hotel & Casino), an Egyptian Pyramid (the Luxor Las Vegas), and an active volcano (the Mirage Hotel & Casino) on a four mile stretch of road? The beautiful dancing fountains and spectacular Botanical Gardens and Conservatory at Bellagio are a must-see. If you want a bird’s-eye view of the city, head to the top of the Stratosphere tower at the north end of the Strip which offers a view that simply can’t be beat!

10. Experience Fremont Street – The Las Vegas of old is still alive and kicking on Fremont Street! The classic casinos that line this street include the famous Golden Nugget, Binion’s, and Four Queens. It may be historic, but The Fremont Street Experience is also home to Vista Vision – the world’s largest big-screen! Each night, Fremont Street turns into a dazzling music-and-light experience for the whole family!

Las Vegas truly is “America’s playground.” With so much to see and do, you’ll want to make sure you allow yourself plenty of time. There are innumerable ways to be entertained while on vacation in Vegas. With these “Top Ten Things to Do,” you can spend less time planning, and more time playing, just give our friendly reservation agents a call at (866) FUN-TRIP, or our website getawaytoday.com to check availability and to book your fun-filled vacation.

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Top Five Reasons to Book Your Vacation with Get Away Today

In just 18 years, Get Away Today has helped over 2 million people enjoy vacations to Disneyland® and beyond.  Almost like magic, we’ve become one of the world’s leading providers of Disney vacations, family vacations, discount vacation packages, and adventure vacations.  But it’s really not magic.  Here are the top five reasons why you should book your next vacation with Get Away Today.

1.  Customer Service - Here at Get Away Today we pride ourselves on customer service.  Our knowledgeable reservation agents have visited many of the attractions and hotels offered through Get Away Today and are happy to give you personalized recommendations.  If you book your dream vacation, and it does not meet your expectations, call us.  We promise to make it right!  We have a Get Away Today Vacation Guarantee which is:

• Commitment to Low Price – As a family owned and operated company, we work hard to save you money!  More than 2 million satisfied customers trust us for their family vacations.
• Commitment to Customer Care – With over 18 years of experience, we promise to do everything possible to make your vacation magical.
• Commitment to Community – A portion of each vacation purchased is donated back to your community.  Over $1.5 million has been raised to help kids so far. 

With Get Away Today you can book your vacation with CONFIDENCE, because you know that we are looking out for YOU!

2.  Price - Booking with Get Away Today can save you 20% to 50% on your next vacation!  Because we have great relationships with hotels and attractions, we secure the lowest prices possible.  We pass along volume discounts and keep overhead low.  That’s how we save you 20% to 50% per vacation.  We also have specials EXCLUSIVE to Get Away Today customers.  To find out more about these specials, go to our website getawaytoday.com, and on the top of the homepage there is a box labeled “FREE: Last Minute Travel Alerts!”  Simply enter your email address, and we will send you our specials!! 

3.  Great Destinations - Get Away Today provides extensive vacation options!  Our most popular destinations are Disneyland and San Diego, but we offer so much more!  We save you money on vacations to Universal Studios, Hawaii, Orlando, Mexico, Beaches Resorts (for families), Sandals Resorts (for couples), Las Vegas, Arizona, and more.   Get Away Today will help you get anywhere you want to go!  Get Away Today also offers airfare.   Visit getawaytoday.com to check out our great prices!

4.  Payment Plans - Get Away Today is one of the only travel companies that gives you the option of having an interest free payment plan!  This convenient service allows you to pay off your vacation month to month.  You can set this payment plan up as early as one year in advance, and make as many payments as you would like.  This is a great way for families that are on a budget to still be able to afford to go on that vacation of a lifetime!  To get more information about our payment plan call us toll free at (866) FUN-TRIP.      

5.  We Give Money Back - We have raised over $1.5 MILLION so far to help kids!  When you book a vacation, a portion of the package price is donated to local schools, children’s hospitals, and other charities.  With your help we can donate even more! 

There are two ways that you can book your next vacation with Get Away Today, online at getawaytoday.com, or by calling one of our friendly reservation agents at (866) FUN-TRIP.  We look forward to serving you!

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Universal Studios: Ten Things You've Always Wanted To Know

From the very beginning, Universal Studios Hollywood has always been a great place for family fun. Here are ten things you can do that will help your family as you make the journey to Universal Studio Hollywood:

1. See your favorite stars at Universal Studios.  The TV audience booth at Universal Studios Hollywood is the place to get tickets for the day’s network show tapings. The shows are free with your admission ticket but you need to get to the studios early because of the limited availability.  Remember, some shows tape each day, but you can call ahead to see when your favorite show will be filmed.  Tickets to The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, which tapes almost every day, are available for free at the Hollywood Ticket Outlet near the Blues Brothers Stage. The VIP Experience admission ticket is another great way to be a part of movie-making action. It includes an in-depth tour of the studios and you never know who or what you might see.

2. Experience the magic of the celebrated Studio Tour.  One of the most famous and entertaining features of Universal Studio Hollywood is their renowned behind the scenes studio tour.  This tour takes you into the actual sets of some of your favorite flicks such as Jaws, Back to the Future, and Jurassic Park. Because it has such an outstanding reputation, the earlier you go on the studio tour, the better. The studio tour tram gets more crowded as the day goes on. Another thing to be aware of is the tour closes before the rest of the park and you don’t want to miss it!

3. You don’t have to just watch the shows, you can be a part of the action.  Participating in Fear Factor-Live! is the best way to join in on all the fun. If you are interested in grossing out your friends and family, head over to the casting office at the beginning of your day at the park and sign up. Also, watch for opportunities for the crowd to get involved -Universal Studios is always watching for the next big star!

4. Universal Studios offers free kennel service.  Few people know this, but Universal Studios Hollywood actually has a free kennel service! Just drop off your cat or dog at the guest services window in front of the entrance and have fun knowing that your family’s best friend is in good hands. Universal does ask that you bring a carrier for your cat, but there are no other restrictions. Just be sure to choose a hotel that will allow Fido or Felix to come along!

5. Make the most of your time in the park.  Since many of the park’s attractions are shows, be sure to check out the show schedule right when you arrive, or online before you go. This will save you a lot of time planning your day. Also, the earlier you arrive, the shorter the lines, so be sure to arrive a little bit before the park opens for the best wait times. The Front of the Line ticket is an excellent option, especially during summer months and weekends, which allows you to take advantage of reserved seating at all of the shows and walk to the front of the line on all of the attractions.

6. Universal Studios Hollywood is the perfect place for a family vacation.  Universal Studios prides itself on being a great place for the whole family and is full of attractions that will appeal to audiences of all ages. The Nickelodeon Blast Zone® and the great Shrek 4-DTM attractions, are great for the wee ones, while Jurrassic Park the Ride® and  Revenge of the Mummy® - The Ride are thrilling for those older kids and kids-at-heart.

7. Take advantage of the Package Delivery Service.  At most theme parks, when you buy a souvenir you have to carry it around with you all day. However, as you buy souvenirs at Universal Studios Hollywood,  simply tell your cashier that you want to use their free Package Delivery Service. You’ll be able to pick up your purchases on your way out of the park at Universal Film Co. near the exit. It couldn’t be easier than that!

8. The “Child Switch” option is a great feature available on most rides.  While traveling with young children, look for rides marked “Child Switch” throughout the park. On these rides you can have one adult wait with your child, then switch when the ride is over so that no one in your family has to miss a minute of the fun! The best part is you can take advantage of Child Switching all day long!

9. Meet your favorite characters at Universal Studios Hollywood!  At Universal Studios many of your favorite characters, including Spongebob Squarepants, Shrek, Spiderman and Marilyn Monroe go around the park greeting guests. That means no waiting in line to see your favorite character, and you don’t have to waste valuable attraction time to “star gaze.”

10. Satisfy your appetite with appealing food found all around the park.  Universal Studios has some great options for dining. Restaurants range anywhere from corndog stands to sit down dinners. Many popular chain restaurants like El Pollo Loco and Panda Express are located throughout the park. If your family members are big eaters, consider buying an All You Can Eat Pass which allows you to eat as many times as you wish at three participating restaurants in the park! You can also dine at one of the many restaurants at Universal City Walk which has over 25 options including the Wolfgang Puck Café and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

From the moment you enter the park in the morning to journeying back home, your trip to Universal Studios Hollywood can be a magical, memorable experience for the whole family. Universal Studios Hollywood is the best way to get a true Hollywood experience while visiting southern California.  Here at Get Away Today we have some discounted Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets you can purchase by going to our website getawaytoday.com, or by calling one of our friendly resevation agents at (866) FUN-TRIP!

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Ten Ways To Travel With Your Family - And Still Have Fun!

Are you feeling anxious about going on vacation with your family?  Follow these simple steps and you'll know exactly what to do to book a fun family vacation through Get Away Today.  Preparing beforehand can take the stress out of traveling and give you and your family more time for creating memories that will last a lifetime!  The pictures in this post are of families that have booked with Get Away Today that have sent us pictures of their magical vacations!

1.  Fly, don't drive! Long car rides make everyone irritable.  Flying is always an adventure and can ease frazzled nerves.  Travel Monday through Thursday, if possible, for the best rates. Also, if possible, be flexible. Normally the more flexible you are, the better fares you'll get. Make sure to check FAA regulations at www.faa.gov before going.  Get Away Today now offers airfare!  Visit our website getawaytoday.com to get a price quote.

2.  Don't expect, just dream! Don't go expecting your trip to turn out perfect; it will just make you frustrated when your plans don't work out as you envisioned.  Dream. You should have an idea of what you want your trip to be.  Begin your planning with your dreams in mind.

3.  Choose a hotel with a complimentary breakfast.  This allows everyone in the family to sleep-in and still get a good morning meal, plus it saves you money! Be sure to clarify what your breakfast includes before booking your hotel.  Some hotels such as the Embassy Suites include a full buffet with cook-to-order stations, while other hotels may just offer juice and pastries. Everyone is happier when they've been fed.  f you need some suggestions of hotels that offes a complimentary breakfast, call Get Away Today so we can give you some ideas.  Our phone number is (866) FUN-TRIP.

4.  Eat good, healthy meals.  Do you ever feel like you have gained ten pounds on vacation or feel sick from eating unhealthy foods? Pack plenty of healthy snacks in case you get hungry.  This way you won't be tempted to buy all the sugary and fattening snacks. Granola bars, dried fruit, and nuts all make great options. Getting a room with a kitchenette is a viable option that allows you to cook your own healthy meals and save your family money.

5.  Give your teen(s) some space.  When choosing a hotel, consider booking a separate or connecting room for teens. They will feel more independent and the extra space will make it feel more like a get away for them as well.

6.  Choose a destination that has something for everyone.  Disneyland is a great place to go because it has activities for all ages.  Mexico or Hawaii are other great destinations.  All ages love to play on the beach, and older kids can go snorkeling.

7.  Travel during the week. Weekdays generally aren't as busy for tourist destinations, so you'll be more likely to fit in everything that everyone in the family wants to do. 

8.  Never enough money when traveling with the family? Book early to get the best rate on a hotel room. Paying for your trip before you go allows you to save up for souvenirs and other fun stuff while waiting for your trip.

9.  Everyone loves to swim! Choose a hotel with a luxurious pool and hot tub. It provides easy entertainment for the whole family. 

10.  Last, but not least, relax!  Have a blast and leave all your worries and cares at home! Remember, this is your vacation and that's always an opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Get Away Today really believes fun family vacations!  If you follow these easy steps, your entire family will have a truly great vacation.

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Disneyland® Resort: Ten Things You Didn’t Know

The Disneyland® Resort is known as the “Happiest Place on Earth” and can transport both the young and young at heart into a world of dreams and imagination. The abundant activities and attention to detail offered by the resort is astonishing, and it can take days to see everything. Here are ten suggestions and tips you might not have known that will help you maximize your time in the parks.

1. Visit www.disneyland.com before your trip for invaluable scheduling information. Pre-made park itinerary recommendations based on your children’s ages and interests make planning a breeze. Each attraction is listed with a brief description, height requirement, and whether or not Disney's FASTPASS® service is available. Calendars list park hours, as well as scheduled shows, events, and attraction closures. Keep in mind these are subject to change, but are oftentimes very accurate.

2. Take advantage of the child swap option at rides with height restrictions. Families with small children can stand in line together as one parent waits with the little ones not meeting the height requirement. The other rides with the older children and when the ride is over, the parents simply switch off. This useful option ensures everyone will be able to experience the attraction thrills and excitement!

3. Save time with Disney's FASTPASS®!  This convenient extra, included on all Disney tickets, allows you to bypass the time-consuming wait for your ride and return at a designated time when you can virtually walk to the front of the line. By inserting your park ticket into the FASTPASS® machine you will receive a special FASTPASS® ticket which you must turn in before boarding the ride. Be sure to print enough tickets for everyone in your party who wishes to ride. Your current FASTPASS® will tell you when you can obtain your next FASTPASS® ticket.

4. Capture precious memories with Disney’s PhotoPass®! Professional photographers positioned throughout the park can photograph unforgettable moments as your family interacts with characters and lives the magic of the Disneyland® Resort. To view your photos go online at www.disneyphotopass.com or visit any participating photo center throughout the park. This amazing service is free and guarantees priceless photos. Plus, you can email friends and family pictures of your adventures for 30 days after your vacation! For a fee you can order high-quality prints and a CD of your chosen shots. As an added bonus, when you book online through Get Away Today Vacations at getawaytoday.com, you will receive a FREE 5x7 print of your favorite photo!

5. Baby Care Centers are located in the park! If you are traveling with an infant, check your resort map to find these essential stations. In addition to providing clean, quiet changing and feeding facilities, there are baby necessities available for purchase including, diapers, pacifiers, bottles, formula and other crucial supplies. Also helpful for parents are the stroller rental centers located in the front of both Disneyland® Park and Disney’s California Adventure® Park which provide a name tag for your stroller for easy identification, and will give you a transfer pass for hopping between the two parks.

6. You can check your purchases! Gone are the days of toting along bag loads of stuffed Mickeys and hooded sweatshirts as you roam the park. Disney’s Package Check Service can save you the hassle of juggling souvenirs by holding your purchases for you until you are ready to leave. Check the Disney website for up-to-date participating park stores. If you are staying at a Disneyland® Resort property you can have your packages sent directly back to your hotel.

7.  The Disneyland® Railroad makes a full circle around the park! This is welcome news for aching feet and exhausted families. Bypass the throngs winding their way back to the main entrance at day’s end by catching an old fashioned train at any of the four convenient stations. Hopping aboard these steam locomotives also gives you a great view of the park, and is convenient for traveling between different “lands.” You will also catch a glimpse of Disney nostalgia as you make your way through the Grand Canyon and the Primeval World.

8. Experience the excitement of Character Dining! Five breakfast options (Goofy’s Kitchen in the Disneyland® Hotel, the Minnie & Friends Breakfast in the Park, the Lilo and Stitch Aloha Breakfast at Disney’s PCH Grill, the Chip ‘n Dale Critter Breakfast at the Storyteller’s Café, and Ariel’s Princess Celebration at Ariel’s Grotto in Disney’s California Adventure® Park ) all offer enticing fare with a classic Disney twist. Goofy’s Kitchen also offers delectable lunch and dinner buffets, and Ariel’s Princess Celebration lunch and dinner is the perfect chance for young princesses to come face to face with Disney’s royal line-up. These dining experiences provide a wonderful opportunity for children’s dreams to come true with personal one-on-one time with their favorite characters.

9. Celebrate your birthday at the Disneyland® Resort! City Hall on Main Street will supply you with a complimentary birthday sticker that can attract special attention from cast members. Head to the Plaza Inn where you can participate in “My Disneyland Birthday Party,” decorate a personal-sized cake under the direction of Pat E. Cake, and enjoy a surprise visit from Mickey and Minnie! Cakes and party bags can be purchased for your Character Dining reservations, and special gift buckets are available at Disney’s full-service restaurants for an added touch of magic (Call (714) 781-DINE for more information). And, in the tradition of Alice in Wonderland, these festivities don’t require you to celebrate on your exact date of birth!

10. Visiting Mickey’s House in Toontown guarantees a visit with Mickey! No visit to the Disneyland® Resort is complete without meeting Mickey Mouse himself! Character appearances throughout the park are a bit unpredictable, and can yield long lines without the promise of meeting the celebrated character you waited to see. In Toontown, you can explore Mickey’s humble abode, visit one of his cartoon sets, plus have the assurance of getting your picture taken with the world’s most famous mouse!

With a little planning and these tips, your trip to the Disneyland® Resort will run smoothly and allow you to leave your worries behind so you can embrace the excitement of stepping into a world of imagination and enchantment!

© Darcy Yung, Get Away Today Vacations

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Top Ten Reasons to Visit Oahu

Oahu’s magnificent scenery, exhilarating activities, and rich history make it one of the world’s top vacation destinations. Narrowing the activity options down to fit your schedule can be a bit daunting. Below are the top sites you don’t want to miss! Whatever your tastes, the diverse array of experiences Oahu holds for you will create vacation memories to last a lifetime.

1. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Polynesian Cultural Center! Learn the culture of Polynesia firsthand at Hawaii’s #1 paid tourist attraction. Enjoy the excitement of the long-canoe pageant, the tantalizing buffet dinners, and the beauty of the Horizons night show which culminates in the Samoan fire-knife dance!

2. Explore the excitement of world famous Waikiki Beach! Splash in the warm waters and sink your toes into the soft sand of this two-mile stretch of paradise! Rent a surfboard, bodyboard, or canoe for an adventure-filled afternoon. World class shopping and dining are just footsteps away!

3. Grab your mask and snorkel in Hanauma Bay! Dazzling exotic fish, mysterious eels, and spectacular coral surround you as you explore the wonder of underwater Hawaii! Shark’s Cove on the North Shore also offers an excellent snorkeling environment. Turtles frequent this area which can only be accessed during calm weather.

4. Pay respect to America’s fallen sailors at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. Step back in time as you feel the hushed reverence of this significant monument where World War II began for the United States. Minutes away is the USS Missouri noted for being the place where WWII came to an end.

5. Experience the breathtaking views atop Diamond Head, the world’s most famous volcanic crater! Once you have completed the short hike to the crater’s rim, the view of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean is unparalleled.

6. Meander through the tropical gardens of the stunning Byodo-In Temple at the Valley of the Temples. This replica of the Byodo-In Temple in Japan is situated against the gorgeous green cliffs of the Koolau Mountains and is one of the most peaceful places on the island. Koi ponds dot the gardens and the rich sound of the peace bell can be heard resonating throughout the grounds.

7. Discover the vibrant history of Honolulu. Hawaii’s past comes alive at Iolani Palace, the only royal residence in the United States. After touring the historic palace, catch a glimpse of the beautiful architecture of Ali'iolani Hale where Hawaii’s Supreme Court congregates and see the famed gold-plated King Kamehameha Statue.

8. Escape to the north shore and experience the laid back atmosphere of Haleiwa. This quiet surf town is home to a variety of fun shops, art galleries, and the North Shore Cultural and Surf Museum. Be sure to grab a shave ice with ice cream and azuki beans at Matsumotos, unanimously voted the best shave ice on the island .

9. Make your way up to the Dole Pineapple Plantation. Here you will learn how pineapples are grown and harvested, and have a chance to wander through the world’s largest maze. Cool down in the extensive gift shop, and be sure to savor the famous “pineapple whips.”

10. Challenge yourself to a round of golf at Turtle Bay. This renowned resort houses both the Arnold Palmer Course and the George Fazio Course. Each is encircled with tropical gardens and boast spectacular ocean views.

© Darcy Yung, Get Away Today Vacations

What You Need To Know Before You Go On Vacation!

Traveling can be adventurous and exciting for families, but without careful planning, your trip can become stressful.  Here are some tips to help make your pre-trip organization more effective:

Weather

Before you go on any vacation, be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination. There’s nothing worse than not being prepared for the weather on your trip. Also, whatever time of year you travel, be sure to pack a jacket. Even the nicer days can turn into cooler nights.

Outstanding Organization

You can never be too prepared for your vacation. To keep your home safe while you’re away call the post office to have your mail stopped, contact your paper-boy to hold your newspaper, and put some lights at your home on timers. When you leave, be sure to grab all the paperwork that you’ll need. Make sure you have all of your confirmation slips, ticket vouchers, maps, and ID’s so your vacation can go as smoothly as possible. Also, if you’re traveling with children under two on your lap, airlines require the child’s birth certificate to prove his or her age. When you get to the airport, be sure to write down where you parked so yours isn’t one of the many sad families who lose their car!

Perfect Packing

Make your packing list and check it twice, and when you’re finished packing, check it again. You don’t want to leave things behind. If you’re traveling by air, pack all of your medications and essentials in your carry-on in case your bags don’t follow you to your destination. Be sure to pack clothing that is appropriate for the weather, and don’t forget your toothbrush!

Remember Regulations

Strict air travel regulations mean more time at the airport. Because of long security lines, arriving at the airport two hours before your flight is highly recommended. Remember, the TSA enforces strict rules regarding what you can bring onto the aircraft. Know what you can and can’t bring aboard. Stay up-to-date on the latest regulations by visiting www.tsa.gov before your trip.

Charming Children

The more you can do to keep your children entertained on the way to your destination, the better. If you’re driving, consider using a portable DVD player, playing travel games, or singing songs. (Watch Disney Movies to get your children Excited) DVD players, MP3 players and other electronic devices are also great on long flights. Don’t forget books! You can find children’s books at your local library or bookstore that teach your kids about your destination and keep them entertained on the way.

Familiarize

While traveling to a new place can be an adventure, you want to be fairly familiar with the area to avoid driving in circles. Reading travel books, looking at area websites, and mapping out your locations will keep stress levels low. To save on dead time, call restaurants before you leave to make reservations. Many restaurants take reservations a couple of weeks in advance or more, and some even let you make your reservation online.

Explore, Experience, Excite!

Finally, when you’ve booked your vacation and you’re ready to tell the whole family, do something fun to get them excited! Explore the area through pictures, cook your family regional cuisine from the area, or have the kids do a fun art project. Anything you can do to make the experience even better for your family will enhance your trip!

© 2007 Nathan Alexander, Get Away Today Vacations

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