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7 insider tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park
Fox News Travel experts say if you've never been or haven't visited in a while, it's time to go back. But its some 3500 square miles of park land, which crosses through Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, can seem daunting to navigate –even for repeat visitors. |
The famous International Orange color of the Golden Gate Bridge contrasts well against a bright blue sky. Credit: Blane Bachelor.
By Blane Bachelor
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the globe’s most iconic landmarks. With its majestic architecture, bold orange-red color and breathtaking backdrop of mountains and sea, the Golden Gate, as the bridge commonly referred to, is also – not surprisingly — the world’s most-photographed bridge. But with just a little insight and planning, it’s possible for even the most novice shutterbugs to take spectacular, and unique, shots of the bridge for some brag-worthy souvenirs. I’m no Ansel Adams, but here are a few tips I’ve uncovered since moving to San Francisco this July on getting some great Golden Gate bridge pics.
Get away from the crowds. This May, the Golden Gate Bridge will mark its 75th anniversary, which means there will be even more visitors than usual throughout 2012 (“usual” is approximately 10 million tourists per year, according to bridge authorities). But taking the time to walk about 15 minutes away from the masses — down the footpath that leads to nearby Crissy Field, or to Baker Beach on the west side of the bridge (more on that below) — makes for markedly better shots, with less chance of unknowing passersby marring an otherwise winning photo. Another point to keep in mind: the higher the path climbs toward the bridge, the closer the viewing areas, which usually translates to better images, so keep that in mind before staging any big group photos.
Be ready for good weather. The record-breaking dry (and sunny) days of San Francisco’s (non)winter months so far are all but over. So if the bonus of some additional winter sun happens to unfold during your San Francisco vacation, take advantage of it: The light saturates the bridge’s world-famous International Orange color with a darker shade of red, which pops oh-so-nicely in photos, especially against a blue sky.
Check out Fort Point. This circa-1850 military fort at the western foot of the bridge is largely unknown on the tourist circuit, is free and offers excellent, often unimpeded views of the bridge stretching overhead. Fort Point is a respectable walk from often-visited tourist areas along Crissy Field (at least a 20-30 minute walk, depending on location) but it’s well worth it.
Go west. As in, take a hike down the footpaths west of the tollbooths (renovations and upgrades are taking place, but most paths are currently open) down to Baker Beach. Along the winding path down to the beach, there are many fewer tourists as well as striking images of the waves striking against the sand in the foreground, and the bridge looming in the background as the focal point. Shots from the western side of the bridge are much less common than on the eastern side, too.
Get on a boat. Taking a trip on San Francisco’s extensive ferry system (among the main ferry companies: the Golden Gate Ferry and the Blue & Gold Fleet) is not only a great way to get a waterfront perspective of the San Francisco Bay, it also offers a chance to get some spectacular bridge shots. Book a trip during the day, when light is better, be sure to use a fast enough shutter speed to account for the movement of the boat, and snap away for some dramatic overhead shots.
Ask for help. Amateur and professional photographers can be found snapping shots of the bridge almost around the clock: at dusk with tripods, on the beach in the fog, on endlessly sunny days. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation – they’re usually friendly and willing to share their own personal tips on how to get a great shot of this magnificent subject.
Don’t forget about a view from the hotel. With the right lens and light, plus a good eye, why not make a souvenir-worthy snap of the bridge from the balcony or even through the guest room window at any number of San Francisco hotels? The nautical-themed Argonaut Hotel makes up for its touristy location in Pier 39 by boasting great views of San Francisco Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge. Other San Francisco hotels that have better-than-average bridge views: the Mandarin Oriental and the luxurious Fairmont San Francisco — the Nob Hill grand dame that was the San Francisco home base for the most recent season of The Bachelor. Just be sure to specify a bridge view when booking; rooms may cost extra.
Related resources:
Though she sees it on a much more regular basis than she used to, San Francisco-based writer and author Blane Bachelor never gets tired of looking at the Golden Gate Bridge.
So this video is…different! Basically, I take you through my bags (duffle and bathroom) and show you how I do it. I hope you can learn some useful tips and tricks on how to pack/save space. 
Talk to me on Facebook! www.facebook.com Come see my OOTDs! www.chickapproved.com Email: NTsbeautychannel@yahoo.com
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 Independent Online |
Having the time of his life
Independent Online Your favourite restaurant and food during your travels? Bouchon Bakery in New York. It's decadent and amazing. Your favourite place to drink a glass of wine or to have sundowners? As a seasoned traveller and flyer can you share some tips? |
The price is right: New DOT rules provide more up-front details about airline fees and surcharges.
By Mark Chesnut
Beginning Jan. 26, new rules from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) should make it a bit easier when shopping around for the best airfare. Consumer advocates are hailing a new consumer rule, designed to enhance protections for air travelers, that will require all government taxes and fees to be included in every advertised fare.
The goal is to make it easier for travelers to see “hidden” airfare fees from the start, thereby preventing sticker shock at the time of purchase. Taxes and surcharges will be more clearly visible, and baggage fees also need to be more clearly disclosed. In addition, passengers have a 24-hour window to hold and cancel reservations without having to pay, for reservations made at least a week in advance. Price increases after a ticket has been purchased are not allowed.
DOT rules already required that any advertising with a price for air transportation to state the full amount to be paid by the consumer, including all carrier-imposed surcharges. The only exceptions allowed are government-imposed taxes and fees that are assessed on a per-passenger basis, such as passenger facility charges, which may be stated separately from the advertised fare but must be clearly disclosed in the advertisement so that passengers can easily determine the full price they must pay.
Internet fare listings may disclose these separate taxes and fees through what the DOT describes as a “prominent” link next to the fare, stating that government taxes and fees are extra, and the link must take the viewer directly to information where the type and amount of taxes and fees are displayed. The rules apply to both U.S. and foreign-based airlines as well as ticket agents.
Related resources
Mark Chesnut is a travel writer, editor and publisher of LatinFlyer.com, which covers travel to Latin America. He once slept overnight on a Buffalo sidewalk to get a 29¢ fare to New York City.
 Canadian National Newspaper |
Top Ten Travel Tips for March Break
Canadian National Newspaper Whether travelling by air or car, you should: 1. Confirm well in advance if any inoculations or medications are needed before visiting the destination; 2. Check for government issued travel advisories for the country or region you are planning to visit … |
Run for your life (and some cash): The Punta Cana half-marathon is slotted for April 1 at the Punta Cana Resort & Club.
By Jennifer Olvera
Mid-winter where it’s familiar and mid-winter in Punta Cana? That may be mean different things entirely. And while it’s not like anyone needs arm-twisting to plan a Dominican Republic stay this time of year, the upcoming Punta Cana half-marathon and 10K might provide boost you need to make it through the snowy months that follow. Besides, it’s a solid excuse to lounge post-run at Punta Cana hotels.
Registration for the event is now open, and festivities take place bright and early — think 6 a.m. — at the Punta Cana Resort & Club on April 1. Naturally, it’s no ordinary run: it’ll journey along scenic paths, intersect tropical landscapes and fringe turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Sound like a lot of hard work? Maybe it is, but there’s other fun to be had as well — namely a pasta party, during which participants can carb up before the big event. Afterward, a hard-earned, celebratory festival with live music will take place on Playa Blanca.
Awards will be given to males and females in eight age brackets, starting with 16-24. Those who fall into the 60-plus category, need not fear: custom-engraved metals will be awarded three-deep in that division, too. What’s more, cash-winnings are at stake. The first place male and female in the half-marathon each win 0; 10K prize money follows suit.
Related resources
Jennifer Olvera is a Chicago-based author, editor and food enthusiast, who travels often – usually in search of her next great meal.
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8 China travel tips from a veteran hotel CEO
CNNGo.com By Tracy You 26 January, 2012 Few people in China are in a better position to give tips on the country's rapidly developing tourism market than those who run hotels. An estimated three million new hotel rooms will be opened in China by 2016, … |
History in the making: Circa 1886 restaurant, at the Wentworth Mansion in Charleston.
By Mark Chesnut
The cities of Charleston, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia are tourism magnets, thanks to their Southern hospitality and beautifully maintained historic attractions. But they can also be great places to hold a business meeting, as many of their most attractive landmarks are also available for private events. And that includes hotels in both cities, where Southern charm and stunning settings combine to create unique venues for a variety of gatherings.
Charleston hotels
The Wentworth Mansion, built in the 1880s as a private residence, is today a magnificently restored 21-room hotel where guests just might feel like they’ve stepped back in time. A small boardroom and lovely restaurant, set in the former carriage house, provide memorable spaces for group events, as does the Grand Mansion Suite, which can host 20 people for private receptions. In Charleston, even the mid-priced hotels are historic — including the Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District, which is set in a former railroad warehouse, and the Embassy Suites Charleston, housed in a castle-like former military college.
Savannah hotels
The chic Mansion on Forsyth Park combines historic 19th-century architecture with trendy décor; guests can make use of a ballroom that has 15-foot ceilings and a marble garden courtyard that’s perfect for private events. Or check into the Planters Inn, a 60-room, 200-year-old boutique hotel on historic Reynolds Square, or the lovely Hamilton Turner Inn, a former private home that dates to 1873.
Wherever guests stay in the historic districts of these two southern gems, they’re never more than a short walk — or a horse-drawn carriage ride — from other noteworthy event venues, including museums, markets and restaurants.
Mark Chesnut is a freelance writer, editor and publisher of LatinFlyer.com, which focuses on travel to Latin America. He became addicted to shrimp and grits in Charleston.
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