green living, smart spending
We all know what outsourcing and moving manufacturing overseas has done to the US economy. Shop instead with these small businesses which sell only Made in USA holiday ornaments, decorations and other items for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa. Help the US economy, especially small businesses, and do something special for your family by buying
Read more
Now that we are traveling again, an important part of every trip is taking photos, especially at gatherings with family and friends. World Photography Day is August 19, a good time to remind ecoXplorer followers about these photo tips from professional photographers I know personally and have traveled with. These tips and tactics apply whether
Read more
The Fourth of July and fireworks displays go together like hot dogs and mustard, kids and ice cream. Here are four of the best places in the United States for Fourth of July celebrations: New York City — The biggest and best, of course, is the annual Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks display, the nation’s
Read more
Everybody agrees that the two top places to ring in a new year are Times Square in New York City and anywhere in Las Vegas. But there are some other interesting, free, even quirky New Year’s Eve celebrations in the USA, from a cheese party in Wisconsin to a pickle party in Mount Olive, North
Read more
The AAA estimates more than 92 million Americans will be on the road during the holiday period between December 23rd and January 2nd, 3.1% more than last year. There is a mind-boggling selection of iPhone, iPad, Android and Blackberry apps to download that will help make your driving and travel less stressful and perhaps even
Read more
We’re all in a hurry at the holidays. But driving fast is not the answer, and it most certainly is not safe driving. Speed-related deaths kill approximately 13,500 Americans each year, according to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association. And thousands more drivers, passengers and pedestrians are injured by speeding. Here are five reasons you should
Read more
In the spirit of the holiday season, it’s time to acknowledge airlines and hotels for how they support the underprivileged and give back to the community. American Airlines brought more than 1,300 children and spouses of fallen military personnel to the Dallas/Ft. Worth area on December 9th, four four days of all-expense-paid holiday activities, including
Read more
Airlines, hotels and tourism boards are giving away free vacations. Some current travel contests, sweepstakes and promotions often involve little more than signing up to the company’s Facebook page. Now that I have your attention — Grand Velas Riviera Maya — the prize is a two night all-inclusive vacation for two adults and two children
Read more
On Veterans Day 2010, let’s salute our active and retired U.S. military personnel. Let’s also salute the travel industry for the ways it supports American soldiers, sailors and Marines in 2010. The travel industry gets lots of headlines for cruise ships that have to be towed into port, delayed flights and lost baggage. Today, I’m
Read more
Leave those scarves and mittens at home. Escape the winter by heading south. Despite the upcoming holidays, the Caribbean is on sale right now, with fourth night free and other travel discounts. Here are some Tuesday Travel bargains for family travel or romantic getaways without the kids: Curacao — Book before January 8, 2011 and
Read more