Are You Brave Enough to Face the Mothman?

Did you see the Mothman Prophecies (2002) with Richard Gere and Debra Messing? If you did, you may remember that the city mentioned in the movie was Point Pleasant, West Virginia. This is a very small community and shares a border with Ohio. Perhaps, one of the most notable events was the collapse of the Silver Bridge in 1967, which killed 46 people. The bridge spanned the Ohio River between Point Pleasant and Kanaugua, Ohio.

The Silver Bridge disaster is somewhat connected to the Mothman because all over the world people have reported seeing Mothman before a great tragedy struck. However, Point Pleasant is the supposed origins due to the fact it was supposed to live in the area of an old World War II TNT plant.

Every year, there is the Mothman festival where everything has to do with the famous Mothman. For those fascinated with possible strange creatures and the eerie feeling that this creature brings about, the festival can be a lot of fun. I’ve been there and so have many of my friends since we live within two hours of the Point Pleasant area.

Nevertheless, this town has a lot of history that goes outside of the winged monster. For instance, the Battle of Point Pleasant occurred in 1774 and is where Colonel Andrew Lewis defeated Chief Cornstalk, a Shawnee Indian Chief, in a battle. This was actually the first battle of the American Revolution and a monument has been erected in honor of this fact. Fort Randolph was where Point Pleasant sits now, so a replica of the fort has been built close by.

But despite this nice historical aspect, everything goes back to the Mothman. This seems to be the main attraction and for good reason. Towns usually have beautiful statutes and monuments, but in Point Pleasant you have the statue of a monster that started scaring couples in cars and eating the dogs of farmers in 1966. Witnesses described the monster to be 7 feet tall with a shriek that was excruciating to the ears. The most prominent feature when seen in the dark was the glowing red eyes. Over 100 locals said they saw this monster over a one year period.

There have been many theories surrounding origins of the beast. Some believe it is the result of a curse by Chief Cornstalk, while others blame chemical dumps. No matter the reason for this alleged existence, it has sparked much interest in the Point Pleasant area. However after the Silver Bridge collapsed, the Mothman sightings stopped. Some believe a sonic boom from its wings caused the collapse, while others believe the Mothman’s presence was to warn the people of Point Pleasant of imminent danger, especially since Mothman sightings around the world have always been prior to a tragedy. No matter what, a mark has forever been placed on the area.

If you want to check it out, you can make a day trip out of it if you live close. However, individuals from around the world flock to the area to see the place where the Mothman terrorized citizens for over a year. For lodging, there are bed and breakfasts and small hotels. There are also a number of local restaurants in the area. And yes, you can buy souvenirs at various places, such as gas stations, and in the downtown area. 

What Better Place for a Honeymoon than A Place Made for Honeymoons?

Honeymoon Island is one of Florida’s State Parks and can be the ideal honeymoon spot for a couple that loves nature. Located in Dunedin, Florida, you can stay at a hotel that is within your budget, such as the Red Roof Inn that is a little more inland or the Best Western that is right on the beach, and lounge on the beaches or hike trails.

Honeymoon Island has a very interesting history. It was once called “Hog Island,” but a developer from New York decided to build 50 bungalows specifically for honeymooners. This is another reason why this is a prime location for honeymooning. So if you don’t want to stay at a nearby hotel like I did, you can stay in one of the bungalows. Of course, they are based upon availability. However, early reservations can help secure your bungalow. You should also know that to enter the park area, there is a $5 fee for your vehicle before entering the main beach area.

As for the activities, there are many that a couple can engage in together. They include kayaking and canoeing, fishing, hiking, picnicking, surfing, and wildlife viewing. And if you’re not married when you visit Honeymoon Island, you can get married while you’re there. As a matter of fact, you simply call the folks at Café Honeymoon to make your reservations and tell them that you want to get married as well. They will help you put together the wedding of your dreams.

After the wedding, you can dine at a number of restaurants. If you want to keep the expenses within a particular budget, there are concessions that offer food and beverages. You can also shop at these locations for umbrellas, kayaks, souvenirs, beach chairs, and anything else that you may need. Many of the larger items are for rent so that you can enjoy them without having to pay a lot of money.

What I really enjoyed was the beach because you have four miles to work with and there are designated swimming areas to cool off. If you have pets and you want to take them with you, you can. The pet area is great for finding seashells while you walk your furry friend. If you keep walking toward the north end of the beach, it eventually turns into a sandspit, which is very interesting. You feel as if you’re walking on a land bridge into the ocean because you technically are. It is very neat being surrounded by water in such a way.

Another nice attraction is the nearby Caladesi Island State Park. You buy tickets and travel to the island by ferry. The ferry will take you back later in the day. This area is absolutely beautiful. It is like being on a tropical island because you sort of are. It is one of the very few natural islands that reside along the Gulf Coast. There is also a three mile kayak trail that dissects the island and tons of wildlife to be seen along the way.

If you love beauty, Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Island State Park is where you will find it.

History and Skyscrapers Make for the Ideal Vacation

If you like history, baseball, and skyscrapers, you’re going to love a visit to Boston. Some don’t think of Boston as a quality vacation destination, especially a place for a family vacation, but it really is. A lot of our country’s history is highlighted in this grand city. It was founded in 1630 and became the center of major events during the American Revolution. These events include the Boston Tea Party and the Boston Massacre. And although it is hard to see now, battles that include the Siege of Boston and the Battle of Bunker Hill took place in Boston.

I have been to Boston once and it was a great time. I never thought that there was so much to see, although I read about it many times in my American History books in school. It is this history that over 20 million people come through Boston every year. It is home to the first public school and even housed the first subway system in the late 1800s.

There are walking tours through the historical district of the city. This is where some of the oldest buildings can be seen. I thought it was rather neat to see actual gargoyles on skyscrapers.

Anyway, there are many historic parks and museums. There is a lot to see, so it is a must to make this trip an actual vacation if you want to see everything. Fortunately, along the way there are plenty of places to eat that fit within any budget. There are also plenty of places to stay that will fit virtually any budget.

Here is a rundown of some of the sites that you will see: In Copley Square, you can see the Gibson House, which was built in 1859 and gives visitors a look at how a financially well off family of that era lived. In Beacon Hill, the Nichols House Museum shows old furniture and decorative arts. The Harrison Gray Otis House at Beacon Hill is another historic site and is on the National Register of Buildings.

There are also a lot of monuments throughout the city. The Boston National Historic Park contains the Bunker Hill Monument and the downtown area features the birthplace of Ben Franklin. Historical figures were born here and many others passed through the city for one reason or another.

One area that I really enjoyed was Faneuil Hall where I did some shopping and got to see the Old City Hall, King’s Chapel and Burying Ground, and the Freedom Trail. I very much loved the Freedom Trail. It is 3 miles long, starting at Boston Common. The walkway is constructed of red brick and allows walkers to see 16 historic sites.

And there is much more than this to see, including the famous Fenway Park, which is home to the famous Boston Red Sox.

If you want, there are tours that you can sign up for that are more organized or you can simply walk around and take in the sights on your own. Many prefer to grab a map and take off on their own, which is what I prefer to do. That allows me to spend as much time as I want at a single location.

Another Florida Spring Break Location You’ll Love

There may not be any loud concerts, heavy drinking, and wet n’ wild games happening on this beach during spring break, but there is a lot of fun to be had. Fort Myers, Florida is a quieter place for spring break. It is the type of place where you may run into your favorite college professor basking in the sun. However, not every college student likes to be in the middle of a drunken mosh pit, but rather relaxing on the beach with a good book or good company.

Also in the Fort Myers area is Sanibel Beach. This is where you can find the Sanibel Lighthouse, which is a very beautiful sight on a beautiful beach. In a way, it reminds you of being on a tropical island somewhere rather than on a beach in Florida.

Some may say that this is a beach that is for those with a sophisticated taste. Although this may be true, you can count on the area being very clean. It was quite clean when I visited the area and I liked the fact that I didn’t feel as if people were trying to run me over. Although there were ample visitors in the area, everyone was very nice and I was quite comfortable.

As for lodging I went with a group of people and we rented one of the many beach houses that are available. These are VERY nice beach houses. We found one right along the canal, so our pool was right next to it. We could sit on our back deck and view the canal. It was a beautiful sight and very relaxing. This resulted in us spending a lot of time at our beach house.

While on the beach, however, I was amazed at how boats could come very close to the swimmers. This didn’t bother me at all. There were people in the water and seeing the boats so close was rather neat. None of them bothered the swimmers, so this made it all the more fascinating.

Now, we did find this nice little restaurant that served cocktails, called the “Bubble Room.” They serve lunch and dinner (I thought it was the best food I had the entire trip), as well as great drinks that you can relax with. There are a number of quaint restaurants and bars such as this. The colors and styles of some of the buildings made me feel like I was in a Mexican village. And if you’re on Estero Blvd, there is an Irish Pub in which you can write on a $1 bill and staple it to the ceiling. The ceiling is covered with $1 bills and each time a person stables their $1 to the ceiling, the entire pub cheers.

Now, if you do want some good spring break action, you can go to the Lani Kai to see what’s going on. It is still rather tame compared to some of the happenings at places like Panama City Beach. It just depends on what your particular taste is.

Do You Love Dirt Track Racing? Then you’re in for a Treat

Dirt track racing is a love that many people have. Race enthusiasts, however, tend to not care what kind of race it is as long as it’s a race. At the Eldora Speedway in New Weston, Ohio, some of the most exciting races happen, especially in September when the World 100 takes place.

Purchased by NASCAR superstar Tony Stewart several years ago, Eldora offers a number of racing events throughout the summer months. As for why I’m talking about this now, it’s because tickets are on sale and it is best to nab them as soon as possible. That’s what my husband, father-in-law, and brother-in-law do each year, which is why I’m telling you about it. They have attended the World 100 every year since 1987, sitting in the same seats every time, conversing with the same folks every year. The race can be a getaway for the guys or a family affair. And yes, even the ladies enjoy seeing the racers win some major cash prizes.

The events for 2011 are scheduled and ready to roll with the 17^th Annual Dirt Late Model Dream happening June 10^th at 6:00 PM. On July 15^th at 7:30 PM is the 28^th Annual Knight Before The Kings Royal, which is a sprint car race that features the World of Outlaw Sprint Cars vying for a $50,000 cash prize. On July 16^th is the actual Kings Royal, beginning at 7:30 PM. On September 9 at 7:00 PM is the famous World 100. This will be the 41^st year for this late model race, offering a very high cash prize. Racers from all over the world come to compete.

Although I am not a major racing fan, I am fascinated with my husband’s stories. I would go if it was not a male bonding period for the guys, but I do get plenty of phone calls while he is at the track. I also get to see video of the dust flying. This is one time that my husband doesn’t mind getting too dirty.

As for lodging, my family stays at a Holiday Inn. However, some of the spectators take advantage of the camp grounds and make a camping trip out of their race adventure. There is a cost for reserved camping spaces, which is $35 with a $2 processing fee. In regards to tickets, they do vary. Early summer events have ticket prices starting at $25, while the World 100 has ticket prices starting at $40. Of course, the better the seat the higher the price.

If you love racing, though, Eldora Speedway is a fun and relaxing event. If you find yourself going every year, you will notice the same individuals go as well. This is a great way to meet new people and make lifelong friends with.

Virginia is for Lovers!!

My mother and father-in-law did it, I’ve had friends do it, my mother almost did it, and I decided it wasn’t for me.

Are you scratching your head in wonder?

Well, what I’m talking about is getting married in Wise County, Virginia. This is an area where couples take their last minute wedding plans and they get hitched. Sometimes, young people run off and do it without telling their families, while others wish to get married in a romantic location without the hustle and bustle of a dress, flowers, invitations, and all that goes into a wedding.

So if I didn’t get married in Wise County, what did I do? Well, I settled with the hustle and bustle of the dress, the flower-laden ceremony, the invitations, and the lengthy photo session before the overcrowded reception. I enjoyed it, however. Nevertheless, I have visited Wise and love the natural romance it radiates, as well as the fact that people I love have gotten married there. I have heard wonderful things from my eloping friends and family, so I want to share those things.

First, the scenery is amazing. This is one of the features that draw people to Wise County. The mountains are breathtaking and it is very easy to get married on a budget. Saving money is the second feature that brings couples to Wise. There are wedding venues all throughout the county. What’s more is that a couple doesn’t have to choose a venue. Instead, the couple can get married by a lake or anywhere they want. There are plenty of ordained ministers and wedding commissioners that can legally marry a couple at the location of their choice.

There are also many lodging options that do include cabins in the mountains. Wise County is a large place full of natural wonders, so most visitors like to make sure they can see them from where they are staying. It is also an area where a lot of mountaintop removal happens. Due to the strip mining, there are some manmade lakes. These may not be suitable for swimming, but they do make for fantastic views if taking a nature walk.

For those looking for activities, there are such places as the Jefferson National Forest, which is full of hiking, climbing, and other nature activities. There is also the Southwest Virginia Museum, which tells about the lifestyle of the early pioneers. For those that love history, this is a great place to visit since Virginia was amongst the original Thirteen Colonies.

So if you are wondering where you should go to get married and you don’t want to go to a beach or a little chapel nearby, Wise County, Virginia is a great place to go. You can enjoy much of what nature has to offer, while doing so as affordably as you need it to be. You also get to get married in the midst of an historical place and make great memories that will last a lifetime.  

A Must Visit Aquarium for Animal Lovers

Kentucky is full of surprises and one of those is in Newport, Kentucky. A million gallons of water and animals from all over the world gives plenty to do and plenty to see. This makes for a great experience for families looking for something to do.

There are a total of 14 galleries and over 70 exhibits. There are also a total of 5 acrylic tunnels that total more than 200 feet in length. This allows individuals to see the aquatic life as if they are in the tank themselves.

In addition to the tunnels, there are exhibits that show the aquatic life from different areas of the world. For instance, you can see those that reside in the Amazon Rainforest, Florida swamps, and many species that reside in the oceans. You also get to hang out with the penguins.

One exhibit that amazes me is being able to see below the surface of the Ohio River. I have lived along the river my entire life, but never knew what it was like below the surface. Not many outside of professional divers inspecting the integrity of bridge columns really know. At the Newport Aquarium, I was able to stand behind an acrylic wall and see what it’s like. I was surprised at the plants, shrubbery, and the several species of fish that could be seen. What amazed me more was seeing that the fish didn’t have three eyes like we tend to joke about in the Ohio Valley due to the pollution that does exist in the river.

There is also a theater in which dive shows take place in the shark tank. Theater goers are able to communicate with the divers and learn more about the species of shark swimming around them. There are also a number of seasonal programs that take place in the theater.

I also had a good time with the shark tank because I was actually able to touch a shark. Although I loved touching the Sting Rays at Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach, touching a shark without losing an arm is a rather exhilarating experience.

I also loved seeing the baby turtles. I have seen baby turtles before, but they’re so cute that you simply can’t get enough of them. And yes, the penguins were super neat. I am personally a penguin nut because they fascinate me.  The way they walk and their overall appearance is fascinating. They are comforting, which is a feeling that you continue to feel as you explore the Frog Bog. You get to see 20 different species of frogs and kids are able to make large frog replicas and learn about the environmental issues that are affecting these small creatures.

There is so much to do and see that it is worth a stop in Newport to see what they have to offer. I was quite impressed, as this is one of the better aquariums that I have visited and will definitely be visiting again in the near future.

Looking for a Fun Spring Break Destination?

Spring break is going to be here before we all know it. For college students looking for a fun destination, Panama City, Florida has a lot to offer. It has been one of the Spring Break hot spots for quite some time.

Even if you aren’t able to go this year, there is always next year. Knowing what to expect when there is something that can help plan the trip. For instance, you do need a place to stay. Even if you plan the trip late, there are still plenty of hotels to handle practically any budget.

So what can you expect when visiting Panama City during spring break? You can expect a lot. For instance, there are TV shoots, parties, and contests. You can expect it to be quite crowded, but the crowds are flocking to practically every Atlantic and Golf Coast beach, such as Myrtle, Daytona, Miami, and so many more.

As for what there is to enjoy, there are superclubs and hotels that bring in some major entertainment, celebrity appearances, rap stars, rock stars, and concerts. Some of these concerts are even free. And it’s not out of the question to mingle with a celebrity. Celebrities that have visited Panama City Beach in the past include Ryan Reynolds, Tara Reid, and Steve-O.

But it doesn’t stop there. Just like any spring break destination, there is a lot of alcohol going around. Everyone is just asked to be responsible. Being responsible means having a good time and also being coherent enough to see some of the wild and crazy contests that take place. In the past, there have been contests such as salsa wrestling in which the winner won $1,000. Of course, there are bikini contests and such. Why are some people so willing to jump into these contests? It’s because there are cash prizes to be won.

But let’s get more into the lodging options. You have plenty of high rise hotels to choose from. Of course, you want to be as close to the heart of the party as possible. Then again, there are some that like to be a little further away so that they can enjoy some quiet time. The beach is large enough that it is rather easy to get away from the crowds.

Anyway, if you are going to be going on spring break with a number of friends, you can rent a beach house. Many of these houses have pools right on the beach. When a group of friends go everyone is able to split the cost to make the trip more affordable.

I have been to Panama City Beach, but not during spring break. As a matter of fact, I always stayed home due to being a cash strapped college student. However, many of my college friends, as well as some of my current friends still in college, come back to tell me of the wild and crazy things they have seen, as well as the people they meet. I tend to feel a tinge of jealousy and wish I could turn back the clock ten years. Unfortunately, I haven’t invented that time machine yet.

Two Great Weekend Getaway Ideas

Weekend getaways are good for two things: Giving a couple time away from home to enjoy a romantic atmosphere or to simply get away from the hustle and bustle of life for a couple of days. Many of times, both come into play. That is why it is good to have an arsenal of weekend getaway ideas for when the urge hits.

My husband and I love weekend getaways because we’re able to go somewhere that is far enough away to feel far from home, yet not too far to where we feel as if we’re spending most of our trip driving. One such place is Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Now, you may be wondering how Ann Arbor can qualify as a romantic getaway. Well, there are a number of very nice hotels. One such place is Oasis. They actually have rooms that are open to the outdoors, but there are indoor rooms as well. Which you choose depends on the time of year, but my husband and I like indoors regardless because, despite the privacy of all rooms, closed in feels more private.

Oasis is higher priced compared to my usual bargain hotel choices, but even in the winter you are given a tropical feel with the tropical décor. Dinner can be had at the Palm Palace, which serves Middle Eastern food.

Another area we enjoy is Boone, North Carolina. This is another moderately priced destination. If you love log cabins, then you can rent a log cabin. You know that you are going to be spending anywhere between $100 and $250 per night for a cabin. This is a great place if you enjoy hiking.

The mountain views are amazing. You have the Blue Ridge Parkway and Julian Price Park. Both offer some amazing views. When I was there, I was so immersed in the scenery that I believe I took more mental pictures than actual pictures, although the area offers many great photo opportunities. I sometimes get distracted like that, but I know I’m somewhere great when I become very involved with it.

And when there you have to eat at Murphy’s because their cheese fries are all the rage. The food is absolutely amazing no matter what, but those fries are amazing. That’s why when traveling elsewhere my husband and I will make a point to stop at Murphy’s if it is on the way.

So if you live within a reasonable distance from Ann Arbor or Boone (I’m lucky enough to live somewhere in between them), you have to check them out as weekend getaways. The great thing about getting away for the weekend is that you feel amazingly refreshed when it’s all said and done. A good recharge is worth the investment.

Rekindle The Romance At Vero Beach

Vero Beach is a gorgeous Central Florida city that can make for a nice getaway for couples. Although there are activities for families, it is a prime vacation spot for adults. There is a lot to do or little to do, depending on how much time you want to spend on activities. Many individuals just like to relax on the beach, especially since this is amongst Florida’s least crowded beaches.

When I visited, Vero Beach reminded me of an island because it does seem that way when looking at it as a whole. The way the Indian River Lagoon passes through the city, it is like being surrounded by water everywhere and it is fascinating.

This was one trip where I was not sticking to any particular budget (other than what I knew I could afford). For once, I was not looking for the cheapest hotel possible, but wanted to have a beachfront hotel that was romantic and was luxurious. My choice was the Costa d’ Este. I loved it. The room was spacious and beautiful. It was very contemporary.

Our Oceanfront King room was approximately $230 per night. To heat up the romance even more, there are add-ons that include champagne or red or white wine. You can also choose to have chocolate strawberries delivered to your room. Yes, I am going to keep this at a G rating, but this is some of what you get. Plus, you can add a spa package if you wish. We also got to enjoy amazing Cuban cuisine in the hotel’s Oriente restaurant.

Of course, you don’t have to stay at the Costa d’ Este. There are plenty of hotels that will fit a budget and/or satisfy the degree of romance a couple wishes to incorporate into their trip. If one of you wants to enjoy a spa and the other wants to spend a day on a golf course, those options are available.

If you’re a couple that likes to do activities rather than just lounging on the beach or in the room all day, there are boat tours, shopping opportunities, many places to dine, shops, nature reserves, boat tours, surfing, diving and snorkeling, fishing, and so much more to do. There are also a number of fascinating museums. I am one who likes to do and see as much as possible, so, of course, I did as much as I could possibly do and was quite satisfied with the experience.

Although there are many more activities about an hour outside of Vero Beach, I didn’t find any reason why we needed to leave the city. We found so much to do in the five days we spent there. But if you are someone who wants to explore outside of the city, places like the Andretti Thrill Park and Kennedy Space Center are only an hour away.

The Most Haunted Nightclub In America

If you like a good scare, you have to travel to Wilder, Kentucky, which is only 10 minutes from downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. So what’s in Wilder? Bobby Mackey’s is what is in Wilder and is considered the most haunted nightclub in America.

There are a number of books written about the “Terror” at Bobby Mackey’s Music World. It all began when country music singer Bobby Mackey opened the club in 1978. His wife, Janet, also pregnant at the time, didn’t care much for the move and sensed something strange when she saw the building. When they walked inside the building, lights began flashing on and off and voices were heard.

Shortly after club renovation, Janet was attacked by a ladder that had mysteriously moved toward her all on its own. Luckily, she was pulled out of the way. The new owners then learned that in the 1930s a woman had committed suicide in the building because of the murder of her lover. Author Doug Hensley found a link between Bobby Mackey and the woman who killed herself. It is said that the ghost roams the building, mourning for her slain lover. In the meantime, she is hostile as a result of her own sadness.

Many strange happenings have occurred throughout the years. Mackey didn’t want negative publicity surrounding the club, but it didn’t take long for the happenings within the building to get out. This later led to the Friday and Saturday night tours of the haunted basement ($5.00 admission). It turns out that the shady history draws visitors from all over the country rather than repels them. This is despite the 29 sworn affidavits that state paranormal acts have been witnessed on numerous occasions. The activities that these individuals have witnessed within the building have triggered documentaries to be made and books to be written.

But for those not into seriously investigating the paranormal, Bobby Mackey’s is a great nightclub. There is live music, a full service bar, and bull riding. There are even bull riding competitions that take place, which is great entertainment all in itself. For those that love playing pool, there is a pool room and a dance floor for those that love to get their boogey on.

So did I do the basement tour? Yes, I did. I must admit that you feel quite uneasy when in the basement. There is the old well, the stairs to nowhere, and the board of numbers, as well as a number of other things that really fascinate you in an eerie way. Then there are those things that make you wonder if your mind is tricking you or if some supernatural force is tricking your mind. Only you can be the judge of that.

Combining Nature, Education, and Fun Into One Package

The Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, located in Homosassa, Florida is a great park for the family to enjoy. Not only does everyone have a lot of fun, but they also learn a lot from the exhibits at the park.

The site does have an interesting history. It was a tourist stop in the early 1900s. Trains would stop to allow passengers to take a break by the spring. The land has exchanged hands a lot over time, but was eventually purchased by the Citrus County Commission in order to protect it. It is obvious when visiting that it is a very environmentally sensitive area.

I love a good zoo, if you want to consider Homosassa Springs such a thing. Yes, you do get to see bobcats, black bears, white-tailed deer, American crocodiles and alligators, river otters, and much more. There are bird watching activities, a nature study, and an underwater observatory that gives visitors a good look at West Indian Manatees. The wildlife that is seen is native to the state of Florida.

Wildlife viewing is not all that there is, however. There are boat tours, which do showcase wildlife that is identified along the way. There are also hiking opportunities, a picnic area in the beautiful Garden of the Springs, and the Wildside Café that offers some great food from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

I was excited to find out that Homosassa Springs will be offering a lot of new activities for 2011. There is something new every year. This year, it’s Lu The Hippo’s 51^st birthday. You should imagine my mom’s surprise when I told her that there is a Hippo in Florida only 7 years younger than she is.

There are also a number of other activities, such as bird walks that will be taking place. Also, the holidays bring about a number of surprises. And for the kids there are daily educational programs. These programs occur at different times during the day, so it is good to review those schedules when planning a trip since they can change from year-to-year.

As for places to stay, there are plenty of options. There are log cabins, lodges, and camping opportunities. There are more places to eat in the area than just the café, especially since it closes in the late afternoon.

And it should be noted that swimming opportunities are definitely not plentiful unless swimming takes place in a pool. There are “no swimming” signs posted everywhere because there are alligators in the water. Unless frantically swimming away from alligators is on the agenda, it’s best to refrain. As for everything else, this is a great family get away with both education and nature thrown in.