Minnesota Train Trips

• Minnesota has a long railroad history, and this is celebrated by the tours operating in the state. Vintage steam trains and early 20th-century rolling stock are available to take passengers a step back in time. The Minnesota landscape adds further delight to some of the scenic railroad route tours.

North Shore Scenic Railroad

• The North Shore Scenic Railroad operates a number of vintage trains. steam train image by BlueMiniu from Fotolia.com

  The North Shore Scenic Railroad operates a number of regular Minnesota rail tours through the summer months. Vintage trains and carriages from the Lake Superior Railroad Museum are used for the tours. All trains depart from the historic Union Street Depot in Duluth. Fully narrated tours covering the town and surrounds of Duluth leave the Union Street Depot several times daily. Further excursions offered for the 2010 season include murder mystery tours, Dinner Train, Pumpkin Patch Train, the annual Fall Colors excursions and the festive Polar Express; running through November and December. Many of these excursions feature a six-hour steam train journey along the Lakefront Line to Two Harbors. The North Shore Scenic Railroad offers party packages and private charters.

Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad

• The Lake Superior and Mississippi Railroad offers regular 90-minute, narrated rail tours from downtown Duluth. The railroad uses early 20th-century railroad stock and follows a scenic stretch of the old Northern Pacific Railroad along the St Louis River Estuary, Spirit Lake and Mud Lake. Private charter excursions are available by negotiation.

Osceola & St. Croix Railway

• The Minnesota Transportation Museum operates the Osceola and St. Croix Valley Ride. The Osceola and St. Croix Valley Railway provides a range of diesel-powered train excursions and special events. Regular trains leave Osceola in Wisconsin and travel the St. Croix Valley route to Marine on the St. Croix, Minnesota. Tours are available for 20 people or more and booking is advisable. Private charter train rides are available on request.

Airport Parking in Pittsburgh

With all of the stress associated with flying, finding a parking spot should be the least of your worries. Pittsburgh International Airport has plenty of parking options, which should help you have a stress free trip.

Short-term Parking

• If you are dropping someone off or picking someone up, short-term parking is the logical choice. Short-term parking is the first available parking sector located north of the Landside Terminal; it is easily identifiable, because it is the only parking garage available. It gives guests access to the Landside Terminal.

Long-Term Parking

• For those going on short trips with just carry-on luggage--or for those picking up friends or family members--long-term parking, north of the short-term parking, offers rates of $12 per day for self parking and $22.95 for covered parking with a valet, as of October 2010.

Extended Parking

• For those traveling on long trips, as of 2010, extended parking offers the best rates available of $8 per day. Located north of the long-term parking, travelers receive free shuttle bus service to Landside Terminal. For added security, all three parking areas offer 24-hour security from Allegheny County Police.

Charlie Brown's Airport Parking

• A privately owned company, Charlie Brown's Airport Parking, is an inexpensive alternative to the standard parking at Pittsburgh Airport. Drive-up rates are $6, while reserved parking saves you a dollar. 24-hour shuttle bus service is available, along with luggage assistance.

Family Train Trips

• Steam engines are restored to their previous glory for train trips. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

  Once the main mode of transportation, trains have long been replaced by personal cars and jet planes. However, many railroads are running full steam with train trips available for family excursions. Experience the thrill of riding aboard the popular Thomas the Tank Engine or spending the afternoon sharing tea with other American Girl doll enthusiasts. The holidays become magical when Santa Claus steps on board the train, greeting your family with Christmas spirit.

Green Mountain Railroad

• Tour the scenic Connecticut and Williams rivers through the countryside of Vermont aboard a vintage diesel locomotive with the Green Mountain Railroad. View the Brockway Mills Gorge and see two historic covered bridges along the way. The Green Mountain Flyer train departs from the Bellows Falls Union Station with its restored ticket office and waiting room designed in the 1940s. Train trips last about two hours; family events, as well as holiday activities, are scheduled throughout the year. Younger girls travel on the American Girl-themed train ride with their American Girl doll as they participate in arts, crafts and reading about the dolls.

Day Out With Thomas

• Children of all ages will be delighted to take a train ride during the holiday season with the storybook and television character, Thomas the Tank Engine. The train is a full-sized steam locomotive pulled by Thomas and travels all across the world for children to get the opportunity to spend the day with this popular train character. Thomas the Tank Engine departs from the Salsburg Railroad in Salsburg, Pennsylvania, every half-hour from Nov. 19-21, 2010, on Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Greet Sir Topham Hatt along the tour and participate in train-themed games and activities back at the station.

Santa Express

• Travel with Tioga Central Railroad on board the Santa Express locomotive to get in the spirit of the holidays. Children and adults alike will be thrilled to take a train ride to the fictitious North Pole where they will pick up Santa Claus who comes bearing gifts for a trip to Wellsboro, Pennsylvania. Children are invited to bring their blankets and teddy bears, and encouraged to wear their fuzzy pajamas. Sip on hot chocolate as you watch the holiday light displays pass by. The Santa Express tour lasts about one hour and is operated from Nov. 20 through Dec. 12, 2010. Space is limited and reservations are recommended for this train trip.

How to Monitor a House Phone While on Vacation

Vacations are meant to be relaxing, and the last thing you want to worry about is missing an important phone call while you are away. Call forwarding makes it possible to remotely monitor your home phone by redirecting your calls to another phone, such as your cell or vacation house phone.

• 1

  .Dial *72 on your home phone to activate call forwarding. For a rotary phone, dial 1172.

• 2

  Enter the 10-digit number, including area code, of the phone where you want your home phone calls to be forwarded (ex. 1-305-555-5555). When the called phone is answered, call forwarding is activated.

• 3

  Repeat steps 2 and 3 if the called phone cannot be answered or the called phone is busy. Wait to hear a confirmation tone. Your calls will now be forwarded.

• 4

  Deactivate call forwarding when you return home by dialing *73. For a rotary phone dial 1173. Wait to hear a tone confirming your home phone calls will no longer be forwarded.

The Advantages of Low-Cost Airlines

• Low-cost airlines fly to many of the same airports as traditional airlines. Bernhard Lang/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Low-cost airlines are becoming more prevalent, due to the need of traveling on a tight budget. Low-cost airlines are located all over the world and have changed the way that consumers view air travel. As the air travel industry has evolved, the way people view travel has changed also.

  People are traveling more, spending less and visiting new locations. However, low-cost airlines do not always offer the same services or amenities as traditional airlines. Services that were once free such as checking bags and ordering drinks may cost extra on low-cost airlines.

Price

• The main advantage of low-cost airlines is the price of tickets. Low-cost airlines may not have all of the amenities that other airlines have, but their tickets are reduced by a considerable percentage. In the United States, low-cost airlines can save $100 or more per flight.

  Major hubs often have one-way flights from $50. In Europe, low-cost airlines have rates as low as $20 one-way. If your budget is the main consideration, low-cost airlines provide the best deals.

Locations

• Low-cost airlines fly to many locations in the world. In the United States, they go to most major cities and some smaller ones. Flights are often less expensive out of major hubs such as Los Angeles and New York.

  Europe has a few well-known low-cost airlines that offer flights all over the continent. The larger European cities such as Paris and Madrid provide flights to more locations than the smaller cities. Additionally, flying is faster than taking the railway system that goes to many of the same locations.

  Low-cost airlines also exist in India, Jamaica, New Zealand and many other countries.

Promoting Travel

• People will travel more often when they can save money. They go to locations that they might not have gone to otherwise because they can afford the airfare. This means that more people are able to travel the world than ever before.

  Airline travel used to be for the elite, but with low-cost airlines, it is becoming an option for more people. Travel packages that include low-cost airlines often encourage travel to certain destinations and may include both airfare and hotel in the price.

How to Sleep in a Jeep Cherokee in 20 Degree Weather

Jeep designed its Cherokee as a survival sport utility vehicle with luxury components intended for long trips. These same comforts make it the ideal SUV for sleeping in during camping trips. Cold weather makes long nights more difficult; however, your Jeep Cherokee can help ensure sleep is undisturbed even in 20-degree weather. Staying warm has to be your first concern, but your Jeep Cherokee has some advantages to help make this possible.

• 1

  Check the vehicle's battery level and ensure the gas tank is full. Throughout the night you will turn on your Jeep to run the heater; this requires gas. You will not want to find your vehicle without gas in the morning. Your battery will support some necessities throughout the night and must have enough energy to start the vehicle in the morning.

• 2

  Leave your Jeep idling throughout the night with the heater running. The Jeep Cherokee is designed to handle this kind of work and you need the heat within your vehicle. This uses gas but your health must be your highest concern.

• 3

  Bring food that does not require cooking. The Jeep Cherokee provides ample inside-space for storage and this ensures you can avoid exiting the vehicle for cooking and eating. Utilize the rear space in your Cherokee for trash bags and storage.

• 4

  Roll up your windows as you settle down for the evening. Plug in electric blankets into your cigarette-lighter sockets or use thick survival blankets. Lock all doors. Turn off excess electronics. These things unnecessarily drain your battery.

• 5

  Stretch out on the rear seats. These seats have pull-down arm rests in the Cherokee, allowing you to lie down if you leave the arm rests in the up position. If you are still cold, lie close to another passenger. Body heat warms you both -- especially with a thick blanket over the two of you.

Airfare Code Explanations

You are happy with your advance purchase airline ticket till you find that the passenger seated next to you paid substantially less. You may wonder how two passengers traveling in the same class, seated on the same row even, could have paid different fares. Look at the airfare code for an explanation.

What Are Airfare Codes

• Airfare codes comprise a string of letters and numbers printed on an e-ticket or a paper ticket. The first letter is the class of travel. The rest of the string gives information on restrictions and upgrades.

Class of Travel

• The standard used to be three classes of travel: first, business and economy. Many airlines have now added a fourth class: premium economy or economy plus.

First and Business Class Codes

• The following letters are used for first class: F for unrestricted first, A and P for restricted, discounted tickets. C and J are unrestricted business class codes, D stands for a discounted ticket.

Economy Codes

• Full fare economy is coded Y. Standard economy is M or B and economy codes with many restrictions have many different letter designates.

Significance

• The code tells the whole story: fare paid, date booked, restricted or not, eligible for upgrade, rank on a waiting list. Some fare codes do not allow miles rewarded, others give a bonus of miles. This short string of letters provides so much information.

Fun Places to Travel to in the U.S.

• The United States is a land of wide open spaces Morey Milbradt/Photodisc/Getty Images

  The United States has a wealth of family attractions, cultural institutions and natural splendor. City attractions compete with the scenery within many national parks and several landmarks are recognizable all over the world. Americans are noted for their hospitality and the U.S. is a favorite destination. It would take numerous trips to do justice to all the country has to offer.

Florida

• Florida lives up to its popular image of sunshine and pristine beaches. It's one of the most popular family destinations for Americans and Europeans. The beach lifestyle offers surfing and other water sports. The state is also famous for year-round golfing facilities. The highlight attractions include Miami's art deco district with its pastel-colored buildings and the space memorabilia at the Kennedy Space Center at Cocoa Beach. Florida has four major theme parks in Walt Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal in Orlando and Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay.

Rocky Mountains

• To explore America's great outdoors, the Rocky Mountains is the ideal destination. The Rocky Mountain National Park is 416 square miles of scenic wilderness containing mountains over 12,000 feet. The park supports many animals including moose and elk and there are 280 known bird species. It's a family destination with lots of campgrounds available. Activities include hiking, fishing, mountain biking, climbing, and horseback riding.

Hollywood

• The famous Hollywood sign has welcomed tourists since the Los Angeles suburb became capital of the movie world. The most popular tourist activities are to visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame and to take a studio tour of Paramount Pictures. There are also bus tours that drive past movie stars' homes or movie locations. Away from the movie world, visitors can hunt for souvenirs in Venice Beach, explore Chinatown or check out the Observatory at Griffith Park. Baseball fans can get tickets for the LA Dodgers.

New York City

• So many iconic buildings await the visitor to New York City, including the Empire State Building and the Flat Iron Building. Visitors can take one of the tours of TV and movie locations or catch a show on Broadway. Central Park is the place to go jogging or rollerblading. The city has world-class museums and art galleries too, one of the most feted being the Museum of Modern Art. Sports teams are an important part of New Yorkers' identity and visitors can choose from the New York Knicks basketball team, the New York Giants football team or the baseball rivals, the Mets and the Yankees.

Kenora Snowmobile Trails

• Northwestern Ontario, Canada offers thousands of miles of pristine snowmobile trails. Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images

  The small city of Kenora, originally strangely named Rat Portage, is located on the picturesque Lake of the Woods in Northwestern Ontario, Canada, near the Manitoba border and approximately 125 miles east of Winnipeg. The city offers hundreds of miles of well-groomed snowmobile trails, open November through February, and maintained by the Sunset Trail Riders Snowmobiling Club. Be sure to purchase your permit before you go, either online on the Sunset Trail Riders website or at a participating Kenora retailer.

The A West Trail

• Located at Junction L102 and L103 in Kenora, the A West Trail is a scenic 50-mile snowmobile trail that meanders past Granite Lake and Clearwater Bay, finally ending up at Falcon Lake. The Enns Brothers trail shelter is located along the route at Rush Bay, 38 miles from Kenora, and approximately 24 miles from Falcon Lake. Gas, food and lodging are all available at Falcon Lake. The trail is generally open from November through the end of February and is managed by the Sunset Trail Riders. Check their website for all trail conditions prior to setting out.

The A East Trail

• The 70-mile-long A East Trail traverses from Kenora to Stewart Lake Lodge, via picturesque Andy Lake. Also managed and groomed by the Sunset Trail Riders, the trail features a Sunset Trail Riders Shelter at the approximate halfway point in Witch Bay. Lodging, gas and food are available at Stewart Lake Lodge, and accommodations and food at the nearby Willard Lake Resort. Snowmobile permits are available either online on the Sunset Trail Riders website or in a local Kenora store, such as A and W Restaurant or Wharf Power Products. Be sure to check trail conditions online prior to venturing out.

Trail L103

• This mammoth 90-mile-long snowmobile trail begins at Junction L102 and L103 in Kenora and crosses into Nopiming, Manitoba. The trail is suitable for beginners and experts alike and provides a shelter at Snook Lake, 38 miles from its origination point. Be aware that no gas stations operate at Junction L102 and L103, so make sure you fill up your gas tank beforehand. However, gas, food and lodging are available at the end of the trail at Nopiming Lodge and Restaurant in Bird Lake, Manitoba. Make sure to dress warmly, and follow all snowmobile trail safety rules.

Australian Emigration Requirements

• Before deciding to immigrate to Australia, determine if you meet their immigration requirements. Bob Stefko/Photodisc/Getty Images

  According to the Australian Visa Bureau, one person immigrates to Australia every two seconds. In August 2010, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that Australia's unemployment rate was 5.1 percent and slowly was continuing to decline, providing many opportunities for immigrants moving to the land down under. Before moving to Australia, check to determine if you meet all of its immigration requirements.

Visas and Other Permits

• All people wishing to immigrate to Australia must obtain a visa or permit before arriving in the country. Anyone without one will be denied entry.

  The student visa allows students to study at an accredited Australian university while living in Australia. Students are required to remain enrolled full-time at a university or other higher-education institution throughout the length of their course work.

  The standard business sponsorship visa allows businesses to sponsor a skilled immigrant in a certain position for a predetermined amount of time.

  The working holiday visa allows visitors under the age of 30 to partake in a working holiday for up to one year. During the working holiday, visa applicants are able to find part-time employment. This visa subclass stipulates that travelers can only work for the same employer for a period of six months.

  The retirement visa allows people over the age of 55 to relocate to Australia for their retirement years. This visa is valid for a period of 10 years and also allows applicants to work, study and reenter Australia at any given time.

Family Immigration

• Family members can qualify for immigration into Australia if they are dependent children or partners of Australian citizens or permanent resident holders. Each family member is required to complete a partner or child visa application. Family members can be granted a visa that is valid for up to two years, before qualifying for permanent resident status.

  Other categories of family member visas include aged dependent relatives and remaining relatives and carers of Australian citizens and permanent residents.

Employment Sponsorships

• Those immigrating for work must find a company to sponsor them and their families. The Australian Skill Matching Database can help match skilled workers with job vacancies within the country. Before an immigrant may add his name to the database, he must apply for a visa in the subclasses of independent migrant, sponsored migrant, independent residence or sponsored residence.

Refugee Status

• Australia operates a Humanitarian program that protects refugees. The offshore resettlement visa enables immigrants to escape persecution in their home country, while the onshore protection visa allows visitors to remain in Australia for protection from persecution.

Australian Values Statement

• When immigrating to Australia, each person over the age of 18 is required to sign and agree to an Australian values statement. The statement requires signers to follow and obey all Australian laws and respect the country's way of life. The values include respect for equal worth, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and secular government, equality of opportunity and peacefulness and tolerance.

  The Life of Australia Book is given to immigrants to read before signing the values statement. The book discusses and teaches readers Australian values, history, laws, culture and society.

Winter Coach Tours

Most people like to escape the snow and head for sunny destinations in winter time. For those who are brave enough to face the elements, however, some of the world's most exceptional winter scenery is accessible by coach tours.

Yellowstone Special Snow-Coach

• During Winter, Yellowstone National Park's roads go unpaved, and the only way to explore the park is on a "Snow Coach," a specially modified vehicle with treads instead of wheels. The snow coaches run to Old Faithful from mid-December to March.

The Italian Alps

• Travel 55 offers an Italian Alps winter package to take advantage of the beauty of winter in the Dolomite Mountains. The nine-day coach tour stops for a few days in Fondo, where guests enjoy local tours and free local wine and beer every evening. This tour departs from the United Kingdom.

Harbin Winter Festival

• On the Go touring company has "A Chinese New Years" coach tour that operates over Christmastime (December 23 to January 2) during the Western New Year, not the traditional Chinese New Year. This tour includes New Years Eve and Day at the Harbin Ice Festival, home to massive snow and ice sculptures.

Handheld Water Purifiers That Use Light

• UV light can kill many waterborne bacteria. Jaunty Junto/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Diseases acquired from dirty water pose a major health risk, making a water purification system a necessity if traveling away from reliable water supplies. Some of these systems use filters while others add iodine, chlorine or other chemicals to the water. Strange-tasting and chemical-laden water often results. To avoid this, water can be purified with ultraviolet (UV) light. Although only one company, Steripen, makes handheld UV filters, they make several models to suit different travelers.

Steripen Classic

• This is the basic model of handheld UV purifier, marketed to outdoors enthusiasts. It uses four AA batteries to power a UV element that fits into a glass or bottle of water. These batteries should provide around 200 treatments before needing replacement, while the UV lamp itself is rated for an 8,000-treatment lifespan. This model, which weighs 5.7 ounces, is also marketed to tourists and emergency workers as the Steripen Traveler and Steripen Emergency, respectively.

Steripen Journey LCD

• The Steripen Journey LCD includes an LCD display that lets the user select how much water to purify. It uses smaller CR-23 batteries that should last for approximately 100 treatments (40 using rechargeable batteries). It is smaller and lighter than the Steripen Classic, weighing in at 4.6 ounces.

Steripen Sidewinder

• The Sidewinder is powered by a crank handle, meaning that no batteries are needed to run the UV light, which is rated for 8,000 treatments. It is a larger and heavier unit, weighing 16.6 ounces including a built-in water bottle.

Steripen Adventurer Opti

• The Adventurer Opti is the smallest handheld purifier in the Steripen line, and includes an optical water-quality sensor that doubles as a flashlight. It uses two CR123 batteries, and weighs 3.6 ounces. It can be purchased with a solar-panel charging cover to extend its battery life.

Steripen Traveler and Traveler Mini

• These models are similar to the Classic and Adventurer Opti, just re-labeled to appeal to tourists rather than outdoors enthusiasts. The only difference is that the Traveler Mini does not include the flashlight or optical sensor that the Adventurer Opti offers.

Steripen Protector and Defender

• These models are repackaged versions of the Steripen Classic and Adventurer Opti marketed to military users. They are the same physical models, but available in military green and sandy colors that allow them to blend in with armed forces colors.

How to Backpack in the Eastern Sierras

The landscape of Eastern Sierras with its forests, mountains and lakes offers an ideal destination for the backpacker. There are different places here you can enjoy, including safe and fun spots for backpacking with kids. Climate in Eastern Sierras is usually stable with mild and dry summers. The summer months, however, may witness cold stormy days, snows at higher altitudes, and rain or thunderstorms at times. You need to prepare accordingly for your backpacking trip. With the right gear, backpacking in the Eastern Sierras can be enjoyable, relaxing, invigorating and memorable.

• 1

  Ready your backpacking gear. In addition to the regular items of food, water, and toiletries, be equipped with insect repellents, especially if you are visiting the Little Lakes Valley. The Eastern Sierras are known for their wilderness and natural landscape of lakes and forests. Preserve the environment by avoiding plastic. Take a biodegradable soap to clean your utensils. The region around Mammoth is host to many backpackers. Be sensitive to their hygienic needs; do not discard trash carelessly and bury your wastes inches deep in the ground.

• 2

  Be aware of the rules and regulations backpackers need to adhere to in the Eastern Sierras. You need to get a wilderness permit from the National Forest Service. You are not allowed to build campfires here. It is mandatory to be equipped with a bear canister, for there are black bears here. You can rent bear canisters at the ranger station (See Reference 4).

• 3

  Visit the Little Lakes Valley if you are considering backpacking with kids. The trail is located between Mammoth lakes and Bishop, accessible from Highway 395. There are a number of scenic lakes along the trail. The Valley is popular for its views, which include wildflowers, green grassy landscape and snow, depending upon the season.

• 4

  Hike the Agnew Meadows to Tuolumne Meadows trail if you are looking for more challenge. This is a 30-mile one-way trail runs through forests, meadows, and passes above the tree lines. The trail terrain keeps changing all through the 30 miles with the first 10 miles featuring a gentle hike, the next 10 offering more strenuous terrain, and finishing with 10 gentle, relatively flat miles.

What Airlines Offer Student Discounts?

• You may be able to get a student discount on your airfare from some airlines. Nicholas Eveleigh/Stockbyte/Getty Images

  If you are a student trying to find an inexpensive flight to where you need to go, you can obtain a cheaper flight fare through a student travel agency or an airline's student discount program. As of October 2010, according to each airline's website offerings, only one major airline in the United States has a student discount on flight fare without a student discount card or a booking through a student travel agency.

American Airlines

• American Airlines is, in 2010, the only airline in the United States that offers a student discount, regardless of any discount programs or travel agency affiliations. American Airlines gives college students currently attending specific schools, such as New York University, up to a 10 percent discount on any airfare, domestic or international. If you book a vacation package through American Airlines, they also offer an additional 5 percent discount to college students on the package, as of October 2010. To get a discount on an American Airlines fare, you have to provide your name, student ID number and the college you attend at the time you book the flight or vacation.

Student Travel Agencies

• If you want to get a student discount on a flight but can't or won't fly American, try a student travel agency. Although student travel agencies, like STA Travel, do not represent a specific airline, they typically work with a variety of airlines to get the best price they can for student travelers. The student discount on a flight through a student travel agency can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, depending on where you're planning to travel. Student travel agencies usually offer mostly international flights.

Student Discount Cards

• For discounts on a variety of transportation options, a student discount card may provide more long-term savings for your budget. Student discount cards, like the one offered by Student Advantage, feature a wide range of discounts from book stores to travel plans. The Student Advantage discount card offers cardholders a 10 percent discount on travel with American Airlines, $50 off qualifying flights booked through Orbitz, 15 percent off Amtrak rail fares and 20 percent off Greyhound bus walk-up and online fares.

Things for Teens to Do in Chicago

• Finding fun activties for teens to do in Chicago is not a problem. Marcy Maloy/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Teenagers can be picky, moody or hard to understand, but in Chicago, at least they can stay busy. See the views on the top of the Ferris wheel at the Navy Pier, or set out on roller skates to explore the city on foot. For the ghost hunting teenagers, tour Chicago's haunted sites and be on the lookout for ghosts and spirits. Shopping mall enthusiasts will love the eight-story trendy mall at the Water Tower Place.

Water Tower Place Mall

• Teenagers love to parade through shopping malls, whether it be for window shopping, checking out the latest styles or meeting other teenagers. In Chicago, the Water Tower Place mall is an upscale shopping experience with high-end boutiques and trendy stores, such as Abercrombie and Fitch, Godiva, Coach, Oakley and Sephora. Located in a 74-story skyscraper, the mall is 758,000-square foot on eight floors and is home to more than 100 stores. The mall also features a live theater, several restaurants and a glass elevator. Teenagers can visit the mall any day of the week, with hours Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Navy Pier

• The Navy Pier is a lakefront playground and amusement park in Chicago. More than 50 acres is filled with attractions, parks, shops and restaurants, providing plenty of entertainment possibilities for teenagers. At Pier Park on the upper deck of Navy Pier there is a 150-foot tall Ferris wheel, old fashioned swing, carousel and miniature golf course. Bike and Roll Chicago is located at Navy Pier with bikes and skates available for rent, providing teenagers a way to explore Chicago on foot. Navy Pier is open year-round on Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.to 10 p.m.

Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tour

• Teenagers interested in the supernatural will have a blast on a haunted tour through the colorful past of Chicago with Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tour. Events including the Great Chicago Fire of the 19th century and the mobster wars of the gangster era during the 1920's and 1930's provide fodder for ghost stories. Led by seasoned supernatural expert guides, teenagers find themselves scared silly on this credible and provocative tour. Tours are available daily starting at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended for tours, and special events are scheduled throughout the year.

Bike Trails in Black Diamond, Washington

• Black Diamond is a small town in western Washington state. It was a coal mining town in the 1800s and was home to the West Coast's largest coal mining operation at the turn of the century. The modern city of Black Diamond is a growing community at the foothills near Green River Gorge and Flaming Geyser Park. The area has several bike trails.

Black Diamond Coal Mine

• Black Diamond Coal Mine is a mountain biking trail on the edge of Black Diamond. The trail offers 20 total miles of biking with minimal elevation rises and is suited for intermediate and advanced riders. The trail takes about two or three hours for most people to ride. It is also used by hikers with leashed dogs and horseback riders, so be on the lookout and share the trail. The trail winds around a few bodies of water, including Lake Sawyer, Frog Lake and Ravensdale Creek. You will also ride past a forest and see a variety of different trees along the trail. There are lots of turns, and the trail is open all year.

Green River Gorge

• The Green River Gorge area just east of Black Diamond offers a back road trail used by road bikers. Almost 30 total miles of road biking trail is available in this area, with about a 500-foot elevation change throughout the course of the trail. It takes about three hours and is ideal for moderate skill level cyclists. Since it is a road bike trail, you need to watch for cars and trucks, though these back roads are relatively quiet with easy terrain. You will bike past several scenic wooded areas.

Lake Wilderness

• Lake Wilderness is located in Maple Valley, about 10 minutes north of Black Diamond. It is an eight miles looped mountain biking trail, ideal for beginners or people looking for an easy ride. The trail is a flat ride and is popular for families looking to ride together, making it slightly crowded on weekends throughout the year, especially in the summer and fall. Hikers, gods and horses share the trail as well, which is open all year. The trail winds around the east side of Lake Wilderness, though the foliage from the trees in summer and fall often block the views of the lake from the trail. Most of the trail is shaded from the trees, which makes it tolerable during summer heat.

Tips for First-Time Visitors to Disney

• Living with the Land is an attraction at Disney World that offers Fast Pass. VisionsofAmerica/Joe Sohm/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Time has come and you have finally made your first Walt Disney World vacation plans. There is so much to see and do at both the resorts and parks, make sure to thoroughly plan ahead and learn some ins and outs about Disney. Below you will find some Disney first-timer tips and advice that can help you have a more enjoyable vacation.

Stay on Disney Property

• When you are making plans to visit Walt Disney World you will probably debate with yourself over whether to stay on Disney property. Believe it or not, there are many more benefits to staying on Disney property than the money you may save by not staying there. Guests who stay at a Disney resort are treated to complimentary transportation to and from the Orlando International Airport and free use of Disney transportation to all theme parks and resorts.

  Guests who stay at a Disney resort also have access to the recreation team's daily activities, including crafts, games and pool parties. You can charge purchases to your room and have them delivered while you enjoy the rest of your day.

Disney Dining Plan

• Now you have made your plans to stay at a Disney resort, which will give you the option to purchase the Disney Dining Plan. Make sure you do so because in the long run it will save you money on food throughout your stay.

  The Disney Dining Plan offers guests a choice of plans which include meals at quick service, table service and character dining experiences. All dining plans include a set number of snacks and drinks throughout the day. The best part about the dining plan is you can choose which plan you want according to what you will eat and what you want to spend.

  If you are going to be dining in one of the Disney table service restaurants make advance dining reservations. This can be done as early as 180 days prior to your vacation dates and the earlier you make the reservations the greater of a chance you have getting the dining time you want.

Fast Pass

• When you visit a theme park, make sure to take advantage of the Disney Fast Pass. This service gives each guest a ticket with a set time to return and enjoy the ride or attraction without having to wait in the long line. Fast Pass is offered at most of the popular attractions, such as Tower of Terror, Space Mountain and Expedition Everest. Head to the attraction you wish to get a Fast Pass for immediately upon entering the park before all passes have been distributed for the day. While you are waiting for your scheduled return time, you will be able to explore the rest of the park's rides and attractions.

Take Your Time

• There is so much to see and do at Walt Disney World that it is nearly impossible to get it all in during one trip. So try not to overdo it. Make plans to see specific attractions but not all of them. You will only find yourself stressed out from rushing and feeling like you are missing something.

  If possible, head back to your resort for an afternoon swim in the pool to help relax. The best time to do this is around 3 p.m. and you only need to spend about an hour. This will get you refreshed and ready to go back to the parks at dinner time.

Tybee Island, Georgia Activities

• Tybee Island, Georgia, is in Chatham County, approximately 15 miles east of Savannah and 270 miles southeast of Atlanta. Visitors to Tybee Island can find a variety of activities to enjoy on the island in addition to spending the day at its public beaches. Among these are visiting local historic attractions and nature centers. The community of Tybee Island has a public park that offers a variety of recreational activities.

Light Station and Museum

• The Tybee Island Light Station and Museum is on Meddin Avenue, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The site has served as home to a lighthouse since 1736 with the present station built following the Civil War. A museum recounts the history of the town as well as its lighthouse. Those who wish to make the climb up its 187 stairs can also tour the lighthouse for a view of the community and ocean.

  Open Wednesday through Monday, the attraction closes every Tuesday as well as on St. Patrick's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. General admission was $7 as of October 2010. Senior citizens, children and active U.S. servicemembers receive admission rate discounts. On-site parking is available.

Marine Science Center

• The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is at the corner of Stand Avenue and 14th Street in downtown Tybee Island. The center is accessible from the adjacent public beach. A variety of permanent exhibits educate visitors about local marine life and ocean habitats. An aquarium is on-site as well as a touch pool, where children can pet sea creatures.

  The center regularly organizes special programs and activities and leads beach discovery walks, a guided experience that includes wildlife watching as well as lessons in local ecology. The center is open daily, year-round and is free though some special events and activities may carry a fee. Reservations are recommended for programs like the discovery walks. The nearest parking is along the street in metered spaces.

Campground and Park

• The River's End Campground and Park is at the intersection of Fort Avenue and Polk Street in Downtown Tybee Island. The City of Tybee Island oversees and maintains the public park and visitors can camp in an RV or tent at one of the 95 campsites at the park. Open year-round, the facility has a public swimming pool and a picnic area available. Potluck dinners, movie and game nights occur weekly for guests.

  Two special programs leave from the park, the Surf to Turf Interpretive Walks last for one and one-half hours and include lessons about local wildlife habitats delivered by a local naturalist and science teacher. The guide also offers a night-time hiking program called Starry, Starry Night Hikes. These excursions also last one and one-half hours. Guided walks and tours carry a fee and need a minimum number of participants.

Cruises From Hawaii to New Zealand

• Relax on the top deck or lay by the outdoor swimming pools as you cruise to New Zealand. Buena Vista Images/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Hawaii is the main cruise port for liners that explore South Pacific waters and countries such as New Zealand and Australia. Both the Royal Caribbean and Princess cruise lines offer frequent packages that allow their guests to relax from anywhere between 14 and 28 days while traveling to the country of New Zealand and the surrounding islands.

Royal Caribbean Rhapsody of the Seas

• The Rhapsody of the Seas is bound for New Zealand while offering guests panoramic vistas of French Polynesian countries and waters. This 14-day cruise departs from Honolulu, Hawaii and winds its way through the tropical paradises of Papeete, Moorea and Bora Bora. The cruise is all-inclusive; however, guests are responsible for some alcoholic beverages and meals in specialty stores. The ship contains amenities and services that include an indoor/outdoor swimming pool with a sliding roof, six whirlpools, a rock climbing wall and themed bars and lounges. During the cruise, passengers can try their luck in the Casino Royale, relax in the day spa and fitness center or party in one of the eight onboard dance clubs and bars.

Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas

• The Radiance of the Seas offers a 17-night cruise that travels to Auckland, New Zealand via countries including Papeete, Moorea and Bora Bora. Upon arrival in Auckland, passengers are encouraged to explore the city before continuing to the Bay of Islands and Sydney, Australia. Throughout the cruise, guests can enjoy complimentary meals in restaurants including Chop's Grille, Portofino Italian Restaurant and the Seaview Café. Guests can participate in a variety of onboard activities like rock climbing, dancing and swimming; or view breathtaking panoramas of the ocean in the 10-story glass-constructed Centrum, with elevators facing the waters. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy playing a round of golf in the ship's indoor and outdoor country club that uses golfing simulators. Although this cruise is all-inclusive, guests are responsible for some alcoholic beverages.

The Ocean Princess Cruise Line

• For cruise enthusiasts who enjoy traveling for longer periods of time, the Ocean Princess cruise ship offers a 28-day cruise that departs from Hawaii and meanders through the Hawaiian Islands, Bora Bora, Papeete, Pago Pago, Fiji, Auckland and arrives in Sydney, Australia. This Ocean Princess features a grand plaza atrium with glass elevators, floating staircases and stained-glass and ocean-view windows. Passengers can indulge themselves with on-board amenities that include four outdoor-heated swimming pools, a day spa and fitness center and a large variety of dining and entertainment venues.

10 Fair Trade Products

• Coffee farming is one of the industries most affected by the Fair Trade movement. picturegarden/Digital Vision/Getty Images

  In the enormous world of consumer products, it is easy to get lost in the maze of nutritional values, organic products and prices. Adding socially conscious movements like Fair Trade, in which farmers in underdeveloped nations are guaranteed a fair price by their distributors, can cause additional anxiety. Fortunately, finding Fair Trade products is simply a matter of knowing where to look.

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream

• Known for their lowing cows and wide assortment of flavors, Ben & Jerry's also goes the extra mile in providing Fair Trade Certified products. You can eat any of their vanilla, chocolate or coffee flavored ice cream products knowing that the farmers who produced those products are being treated fairly.

Seattle's Best Coffee

• Famous for their coffee stands and fresh-brewed pots, Seattle's Best also provides a Fair Trade and Organically certified French Roast blend. Ask for it the next time you get a chance.

Starbuck's

• The juggernaut of the North American coffee world is getting in on the Fair Trade game as well. Next time you walk to your neighborhood Starbuck's, tell the barista to serve you their special "Café Estima."

Costco

• If you are fortunate enough to live near one of these bulk suppliers, you can comfort yourself with the fact that the Kirkland Signature FTC Coffee is doing good for producers in disadvantaged communities around the world.

Target

• If you are looking for a little wine to go with the romantic meal you have planned tonight, you can stop by Target pick up some Wandering Grape Fair Trade Certified wines. While you are there, you might as well stock up on Archer Farms Fair Trade Certified coffee, too.

Wal-Mart

• Wal-mart offers a couple of Fair Trade Certified products. Their coffee is Fair Trade Certified as well as Peterson Farms chocolate-covered dried cherries.

Whole Foods Market

• If there were prizes given out to large chains stores for largest quantity of Fair Trade products then Whole Foods would take the cake. They offer Fair Trade coffee, rice, tea, flowers, chocolate, wine, skin care products, energy bars and sugar.

Safeway

• Stores that carry the Safeway brand support the Fair Trade movement through the coffee, tea and sugar that they offer. Be sure that these products clearly show the Fair Trade label on them.

Einstein Bros. Bagels

• If you like Einstein's , choose the Global Village Fair Trade Blend to accompany your next breakfast bagel.

Tully's Coffee

• Finally, to wrap things up, head down to Tully's Coffee and ask for any hot or iced espresso. After reading through all of these suggestions, you might just need one.