Time To Travel

Settled in 1859, Breckenridge retains the same Victorian-era charm it did during the height of the gold rush. Its down-to-earth and friendly atmosphere has also endured its transformation from a silver and gold mining town to one of the country's most beloved skiing destinations. What's more, Breck - as it's called by locals - is a quick drive from other popular Colorado destinations, including Vail, Which is 40 miles northwest, and Denver, which is 80 miles northeast.

Even by North American Standards, Vancouver is a young city. But what it lacks in history it compensates for in scenery. Surrounded by mountains and beaches, Vancouver is both an urban and a natural playground: its chic atmosphere, high-fashion boutiques and fondness for health-conscious eating have earned it the nickname "Hollywood North." Sitting nearly 1,300 miles north of its nickname namesake, Vancouver and its breathtaking backdrop has been the setting for several popular television shows and major motion pictures, such as "Supernatural" and "The Twilight Saga" so don't be surprised if you recognize landmarks from your favorite scenes.

"There's more to see than can ever be seen, more to do than can ever be done". When musicians Elton John and Tim Rice wrote the opening tune to Disney's "The Lion King," they were describing  the "Circle of Life." But this lyric serves as a fitting description for world-renowned Serengeti National Park. This magnificent game park sprawls across 5,700 square miles of northern Tanzania in East Africa. When American hunter-turned-conservationist Stewart Edward White first set foot in the Serengeti in 1913, he described the journey: "We walked for miles over burnt out country... Then I saw the green trees of the river, walked two miles more and found myself in paradise."

Shangri-La, Arcadia, Utopia and Bali are all synonymous with "Heaven." The only difference between them is that you can actually visit Bali. Many travelers have never been to this Indonesian island. Yet, the world "Bali" conjures daydreams of the most fantastical landscape: towering volcanoes wrapped in a deep green canopy, sandy shores that fade into turquoise waters and curving coastlines crowned with staggered pagodas. And believe it or not, Bali rarely disappoints. You'll be amazed at how many different types of visitors revel in this paradise. The ordinary traveler simply stays at the palatial oceanfront resort and indulges in luxurious spa treatments, decadent cuisine and lazy sunbathing. But the historian will find his or her delights at the island's many temples while the adventurer will discover new paths up an active volcano in Kintamani. Plus, the town of Kuta boasts more riotous pleasures for those inclined to late nights. Bali is a dream come ...

"Grand" doesn't begin to do this canyon justice. Measuring approximately 277 miles in length, up to 18 miles in width and a mile deep, this massive chasm in northern Arizona is truly a natural wonder. For six million years, the Grand Canyon has expanded with the help of the mighty Colorado River, and for centuries, people from all over the globe have traveled to gaze out over its red and orange grandeur. Managed by the National Park Service and officially designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the grand Canyon leaves its approximately 4.5 million visitors per year awestruck. But if you're seeking a secluded escape to Mother Nature, you should be prepared: The grand Canyon can be very crowded. The South Rim - home to the Grand Canyon Village and the well-worn Bright Angel Trail - is particularly popular for sightseers and hikers. It is on this side that you''ll find the most amenities. However, for a true escapist experience, head to the North Rim. This ...

Oahu blends cosmopolitan luxury and breathtaking scenery more than any other Hawaiian island. The state's capital city, Honolulu, showcases the island's urban appeal. Nearby you'll find a host of cultural and historical sites, from the austere USS Arizona Memorial to ornate 'lolani Palace'. In the nearby Waikiki neighborhood, a skyline of high-rises and resort hotels contrasts with sprawling white-sand beaches. For a taste of rural Hawaii, visit the North Shore. Here, you'll find the most brilliant blue waters and meandering hikes. But those three spots aren't all Oahu offers. Its high-class restaurants, showcase this island as a "Gathering Place" of Hawaiian culture.

Dubai and Las Vegas have a lot in common. Both cities share a love for the fantastical, with skylines that shine like beacons against barren desert backdrops. People from all over the world flock to these shimmering oases with the same goal: to play hard. But as a vacation spot, Dubai easily trumps ol' Sin City thanks to its gorgeous cream-colored Persian Gulf shoreline, international culinary scene and larger-than-life attractions. And the city's still growing; plans are underway for something bigger and better. It's estimated that a quarter of the world's construction cranes can be found here. If that's any sign, even the sky may not be able to limit Dubai's growth.

Cool, cosmopolitan, crowded, constantly evolving ... the Big Apple blends big city splendor with small-town charm. Amid Gotham's iconic landmarks and towering skyscrapers, you'll experience a vibrant culture permeating each of the city's distinctive neighborhoods and boroughs. Follow trendsetters to the East Village and Brooklyn to check out indie boutiques, iconic bakeries and trendy coffee shops lining Fifth Avenue, admire the cutting-edge art collections at the MoMa and the Met, catch a memorable show on Broadway or sit down for a meal at the latest "it" restaurant. As the most populous city in the U.S. -set at the forefront of food, fashion, and the arts - NYC requires stamina.

First launched in 2002 (and refurbished in 2011), the 2,600-passenger Star Princess offers the modern amenities of larger Princess ships - including a 300 - square - foot poolside theater and The Sanctuary adults - only retreat - without sacrificing personalized service. The ship's diverse dining options, which include two specialty venues, three main dining room and six laid-back eateries were a hit among previous cruisers, who rave about the cuisine.

There's no doubt Guadeloupe possesses a certain je ne sais quoi - a spark that separates its sun-washed coasts from other Caribbean getaways. Sparkling white - and black-sand beaches extend into calm, cerulean waters, and verdant forests border the imposing  La Soufrière  volcano. And just a few miles south, quaint villages welcome visitors to centuries - old distilleries and remote sugar plantations. Put simply, Guadeloupe features and unspoiled natural setting with rustic charms. But that's not all this picturesque cluster of islands has to offer. Where else can you savor the sweet aroma of sugar and rum wafting through the air, taste tantalizing French Creole flavors, and lay your towel down along untouched stretches of sandy bliss?

In many ways, Madrid is similar to many other international metropolises - it's Spain's largest city, has the largest population, is the capital and is the center for international business. But, before you jump to conclusions, hush .... if you listen carefully, you can hear the gentle melodies of the Spanish guitar, the swish of a flamenco dancer's skirt, and the happy laughter from a midday meal infused with to many glasses of sangria. Yes, Madrid is for travelers interested in famous paintings and stunning architecture, but it's also, and maybe more so, for those looking for an unhurried good time.

One look at the Amalfi Coast and you may believe that you've found heaven on earth. That's the kind of spellbinding effect this stretch of Italian coastline tends to have on the 5 million annual visitors who cross its mesmerizing paths. Located in the Campania region of Italy, this UNESCO World Heritage site covers 34 miles of majestic terrain; sky-high costal cliffs display vibrant vegetation and multicolored towns live side by side with the disarming turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, creating a scene that has the power to stop even most seasoned of travelers dead in their tracks.

A massive volcanic eruption around 1650 B.C. forced the center of what was then a single island to implode and succumb to the sea. Some say that this was the original home of the lost city of Atlantis, which long ago disappeared into the ocean's depth. Whatever remains of this mythological metropolis is now guarded by beautiful beaches and stately whitewashed homes. Today, Santorini consists of two inhabited islands and several islets. Most visitors spend their time on Thira ( the archipelago's largest island), which is home to Santorini's major towns, including Fira and Oia. Sleepy Thirassia makes for a relaxing daytrip too. And don't count out the quieter islands: Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni are worth exploring.

Few cities rival Athens when it comes to historical importance. As the sun rises over the smooth marble monuments of the Acropolis and fills the cobblestone streets along its base, the people of Athens emerge from their homes and head to local markets or sidewalk games of chess. Life moves more slowly, as if the entire city is reveling in blissful retirement from its glory days as a political and cultural powerhouse. But as the sun sets, Athens' contradictions come to light: The air thickens with the aroma of spiced lamb and music from a nearby taverna, dance clubs blast rock music amidst ancient columns, and the bright lights of Omonia Square mirror the glistening columns of the Parthenon, illuminated for all to see.

Don't believe everything you hear about Amsterdam. Yes, this Netherlands city takes a lax look at women beckoning business in the Red Light District and "coffee shops" selling an unorthodox type of herb to a toking clientele, but these descriptions only scratch the surface. At some point, during an excellent Indonesian meal, a twilight canal-side rambling or a shopping excursion through the boutiques of Nine Little Streets, you'll realize - as many travelers have before you - that there's much more to Amsterdam than you might've thought.

Barcelona contains both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From the scenic trails of the colorful Park Guell to the the romantic narrow alleys of Barri Gotic, from the beachside nightclubs to the city's dozens of sacred churches and architectural marvels, this city by the sea seems to attract all types: the adventurer, the couple, the partier, the culture lover - and more - with an almost overwhelming variety of things to do. You could stay for a few days, but chances are you'll need a whole week to explore.

Venice is enchanting. Yes, that may be cliche to say, but once you see the city on the water for yourself, you'll surely agree. Step off of the Santa Lucia train station and the breathtaking Grand Canal will soon greet you. You'll see water taxis coast along, passing underneath the Ponte degli Scalzi ( Bridge of the Barefoot) and might hear the faintest hint of a serenading violin, or is that your imagination? It might not be all in  your head. Romantic, gondolas carrying smitten couples glide through the web of the city's many waterways, and gondola drives are known to sing when the moment feel right. On land, narrow passageways twist past Old World storefronts and residences, and over bridges. You should note that maps aren't all that helpful here and getting lost is the norm - embrace the disorientation.

A prosperous and bustling city, Prague now attracts more tourists than ever. But its picturesque downtown veils both a dark legacy and a resilient past. Dating back to about A.D. 870, Prague has withstood numerous overthrows, invasions, fires and floods. It's this reputation for survival and perseverance that has made the Czech capital so fascinating. Today, its storied churches, narrow streets, daunting hilltop castle and statue-lined bridges create the scene of an urban fairy tale. Even the most jaded traveler would have trouble resisting this city's charms.

Porto has long been a hot destination for wine lovers - it's the go-to place to find the best of that sweet, tasty port wine. But this city by the sea has more to offer than vinho. Porto (or Oporto, as it's sometimes called) is an attractive European mini-metropolis on Portugal's northwestern coast where travelers can get their fill of culture and the outdoors. Travelers can visit the city's wealth of museums, admire its varied architecture and, of course, hit the beach.

The English writer Samuel Johnson famously said, "You find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford." More than two centuries have passed since Johnson's era, but his words still ring true. Life in London is nothing short of invigorating, and travelers find that one visit isn't enough to experience everything this two-millennia-old city has to offer.

The city of light draws millions of visitors every year with its unforgettable ambiance. Of course, the divine cuisine and vast art collections deserve some of the credit as well. The gentle River Seine rambles through the city, flanked by stately museums, centuries-old churches, and blocks of Rococo and Neoclassic-design architecture, further enhanced by cascading trees and glowing streetlamps.

Rome, the city of seven hills, enjoyed a mythic beginning. Romulus and Remus-twin brothers who were nursed by a she-wolf and fathered by a war god-reportedly founded the Eternal City. And although historians are a little skeptical about this epic entry into the world, most travelers are absolutely certain that there is something magical about Rome. Whether it's the mystery of nearby Vatican City or the ghosts of the Colosseum, an afternoon caffe on Piazza Navona or a piled-high plate of pasta at a trattoria, Roma is sure to enchant.

Dreaming of a tropical getaway spent lounging on idyllic islands, trekking through verdant rainforests, hiking around jaw-dropping rock formations and spotting unique wildlife? Then set your sights on Madagascar. Located in the Indian Ocean, about 743 miles east of Mozambique, this African paradise is the fourth largest island in the world. Approximately 12,000 to 14,000 types of plants can be found in the country's 42 national parks and reserves, but its one-of-a-kind animals are the main draw for nature lovers. All of the world's 97 lemur species call this island nation home, as do 340-plus kinds of chameleons and a variety of birds.

Known as the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City), this glimmering Brazilian metropolis has certainly earned its title. Resting at the mouth of a bay harbor, the city is lined with white-sand beaches, lush rainforests and surrounded by staggered green mountains. Rio de Janeiro boasts dramatic view from nearly every angle. From the slopes of Corcovado Mountain, you'll admire the striking 125 foot-tall Christ the Redeemer, who overlooks Rio's pristine beaches. And from the shores of Copacabana and Ipanema, you'll admire the picture perfect backdrop that has attracted Cariocas (native Brazilians born in Rio de Janeiro) and visitors alike for more than 500 years.

Sydney is both a laid-back beachside town and a thriving metropolis that boasts some of the Southern Hemisphere's best surf, landmarks and activities.Wether you're looking to watch a show at the iconic Opera House, take to the waves at Bondi Beach or explore trendy areas like The Rocks and Darling Harbour, Sydney features something for everyone.Even Sydney siders have an ideal mix of both worlds: Fashion-forward attire and British-style sarcasm combine with a "no worries" attitude and relaxed coastal vibe.It's no wonder this vibrant city down under is a natural choice for first-time Aussie visitors.

Can't get tickets to "Hamilton" or "Dear Evan Hansen"? Check the showtimes for the dates you'll be visiting, and wait for the cast members to exit at the stage doors after the show. Stage managers for each theater can provide helpful information about where to wait, and cast members will often offer signatures. Visiting NYC regularly? Get an Audience Extras membership. For an annual $85 fee, you can get access to last-minute, free tickets for annual for local shows and concerts that have empty seats to fill. Alternatively, waiting in line for lottery tickets to your favorite show is a quintessential New York experience that's worth doing at leasts once.

Don't forget that the Staten Island Ferry is free, and on its usual route, it takes a scenic tour around the Statue of Liberty. You won't be able to exit the ferry to walk around the statue or tour it, but you can get great photos from the deck for free. The ferry operates every day of the year. For current schedules, consult the NYC Department of Transportation's website at NYC.gov.

Purchase a New York City Explorer Pass from Go City Card before your trip. Passes can help you save up to 50 percent on top city attractions and enable you to bypass entry lines and large tourist masses. You can choose from 63 New York City attractions, including the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building. Make sure to either print your passes or download the onto your phone before leaving home.

Did you know you can ride your bike across the Brooklyn Bridge, before loading it onto a New York City water taxi for a lift back to Manhattan? You can even enjoy an extra day of sightseeing by water taxi for an additional $5 with the 2-Day Access Pass. If you ride the Hudson River Greenway and then bike across the Brooklyn Bridge, there's no need to cycle back. Or, if you would rather skip renting a bike altogether (and battling thick crowds along the bridge), you can simply take a water taxi ride. Water taxis operate in the fall from approximately 10 a.m to 6 p.m. (check the online boat schedule for up-to-date details), and all-access, hop-on, hop-off tickets cost $35 for adults and $21 for kids.

Enjoy the changing seasons, crisp autumn air and reduced prices without throngs of tourists by your side. Dodge tourist crowds and embrace the big apple for less in autumn. Fall is a great time to visit New York City. After all, in autumn you can dodge swarms of tourists and experience the best of the Big Apple like a local. Plus, you can take advantage of shorter attraction lines and reduced prices. Even better, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures in the 60s and 70s, crips air, changing colors and vibrant fall events and festivals.