Top Spot Travel

April 26, 2018 by Jeremy

Cruise Fever, What You Can Expect On-Board a Cruise Ship

Whenever I speak to people about cruises it never ceases to amaze me just what people who have never cruised, actually think about this type of vacation, and how wrong they usually are. One of the most common questions which I am asked about cruise vacations, is what life is like on-board the ship, and whether or not it can become boring. In light of that I wanted to write a post about what life is like aboard the cruise ship and what you can expect during your time away.

As I write this I am on a Seabourn cruises ship, so I can assure you that the information is most definitely up to date.

Accommodation

I have stayed in almost all levels of accommodation on many a cruise ship and I have always found it to be spacious, very comfortable and most definitely well serviced. The choices available for accommodation ranges from those above deck, below deck, luxury suites and budget cabins, and all of which are of an excellent standard.

Entertainment

There are many days on the cruise that you may have to find ways to fill in your time, as you will be at sea all day, this will not be a problem when you take a cruise however. The reason for this is because cruise ships are absolutely packed to the rafters with entertainment for you to enjoy as you pass your time at sea. Some ships offer theaters and cinemas, multiple swimming pools with jacuzzis and wave machines, kid’s clubs, tennis courts, live performers and even spa centers. Cruise companies understand your needs and they make sure that they do all that they can on-board to meet them.

Food and Drink

Another fear which many have is that there will be a lack of food options for them on-board, and that they will be stuck with the same old food each day and night. This could not be farther from the truth and in fact you can depend on sampling some of the most exquisite food and a wide range of eating options. Most cruise liners offer a variety of high class restaurants, snack bars and eating establishments which will be more than enough for whatever tastes that you have.

Service

The service on-board a cruise ship is some of the finest and most hospitable that I have ever experienced and you can guarantee that your time on the ship will be made better because of it. If you have a problem you can expect it to be solved quickly, the staff are always on hand for whatever you need and the level of personal care is absolutely phenomenal. On the vessel you will find a huge number of staff who deal with customer relations, catering, cooking, cleaning and entertaining and you won’t have to look far to find someone to attend to your every need.

The destinations which you can head to on a cruise ship are truly wonderful, and so too will your time be aboard the ship.

April 25, 2018 by Jeremy

The Top 12 Tourist Destinations in Beverly Hills

All of you 90’s kids out there will remember the television series, “Beverly Hills, 90210”. This television series inspired people from all corners of the globe to set off on glamorous getaways to the city in Los Angeles County, California. If you didn’t catch an episode, let us inspire you to indulge in one of LA’s most affluent spots.

Fun Facts About Beverly Hills

The city of Beverly Hills was incorporated in 1914 and the area ZIP code is the wealthiest per-capita location in the nation. Don’t expect to see any billboards plastering the buildings like you might see in other US cities. Home to famous faces like Jack Nicholson, Beverly Hills boasts a manicured police station and a police department that will respond in under a minute.

The world’s first Cheesecake Factory sits on North Beverly Drive and if you stroll around, you’re sure to find the facade of many buildings quite familiar. This is because Beverly Hills has been the setting for a colossal amount of TV shows and movies, including the 1984 hit movie “Beverly Hills Cop”.

What to Do and See in Beverly Hills

Rodeo Drive – Stretching for two miles, this famous street is the destination for year-round events and seasonal shows. A star-studded street of high-end stores and boutiques, the area can be explored by foot, on a segway tour or on a celebrity-spotting bus tour!
Paley Center for Media (The Museum of Television and Radio) – A memorable day out can be enjoyed at this attraction, which can be found on the corner where North Beverly Drive meets Little Santa Monica Boulevard. Founded back in 1975 by William S. Paley, this striking building houses an expanding collection of content that has been broadcast on television and radio. Contained in its archives is a rehearsal for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella that was previously never seen prior to being shown off at the museum.
Trolley Tour – Hop aboard this open-air trolley and get a glimpse of Beverly Hills from all angles. The 40-minute tour will take you along Rodeo Drive, where you can window shop and search for famous faces. You will also see the city hall, library and other area attractions. Best of all, the vintage trolley is free to ride!
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences – This professional honorary organization that comprises over 8,000 men and women working (and succeeding) in cinema. It is known around the world for hosting the annual Academy Awards, better known as “The Oscars”.
Greystone Mansion – You may have heard of this historical landmark being called the Doheny Mansion. It is perched on a beautifully manicured estate and despite its serene vibe, the setting was once chosen for a murder. Ned Doheny Jr. and Hugh Plunkett were shot dead on the grounds in 1929 and the killer was never caught.
Beverly Gardens Park – Officially opened in 1911, this picturesque public park covers 1.9 miles of land from one fountain to another. It’s well worth enjoying a relaxing stroll along the paved promenade, before sitting on one of the benches to admire the surrounding art sculptures, roses and cacti. Likewise, you can work off that serious case of jetlag with a quick run.
Beverly Wilshire – Known as a landmark of Beverly Hills, this plush building is a Four Seasons Hotel on Rodeo Drive. The year 1928 saw its completion and since this time, it has been chosen as the shooting location for various movies and TV series.
Spadena House – A storybook house positioned on the corner of Carmelita Avenue and Walden Drive, this attraction covers 3,500 square feet. Also known as “The Witch’s House,” it was designed by Harry Oliver with a stucco design and lopsided roof. Once upon a time, an architect named Charles Willard Moore likened it to Hansel and Gretel’s house.
Virginia Robinson Gardens – Frequented by the famous, these gardens are part of the Robinson mansion at Virginia Robinson Estate. The historical landmark was built back in 1911 has a period landscape and Mediterranean Classic Revival Style. Set on six acres of landscaped gardens, the ancient estate is included on the National Register of Historic Places.
Sprinkles ATM – No matter what time of day or night you fancy a sweet treat, this cupcake automat will not disappoint. It is open 24 hours a day to satisfy hunger cravings with red velvet cupcakes and vegan nibbles.
Saban Theatre – Previously known as Fox Wilshire Theater, this timeworn entertainment venue is considered a classic landmark of L.A. The Art Deco style building was one of the first structures to be seen in the city’s eastern segment.
Celebrity Sightings – Paparazzi congregate in various parts of Beverly Hills to capture photographs of celebrities going about their daily business. Celebrity hot spots include Nate ‘n Al Delicatessen and Mastro’s. You may also choose to join a Starline Movie Star Tour to see where the stars live.

Booking a Beverly Hills Hotel

Whether it’s a glamorous and relaxing getaway you are after, or a sightseeing trip on a budget, there’s something in Beverly Hills to suit. You could spend your days sipping champagne at a 5-star luxury resort, such as one of the Beverly Hills Hotels. These iconic hotels are proudly positioned in the most exclusive parts of the city. If you want to stay within the Golden Triangle, the Montage Beverly Hills will surely satisfy.

Alternatively, you might want to book a stay at an affordable, intimate boutique hotels with all of the amenities you could wish for. Sites like Expedia are a great way to find the right Beverly Hills Hotel for your trip. Recommended options include the Hotel del Flores, and Ramada Plaza West Hollywood Hotel and Suites.

What are your favorite destinations in Beverly Hills? Leave us a comment with your best recommendations in the section below.

April 14, 2018 by Jeremy

5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit Kauai At Least Once

Kauai may not be the most popular island in Hawaii, but it certainly is up there in the top three. However, what makes Kauai the most appealing is the island’s abundance of natural beauty. In case you have not visited Kauai or even Hawaii yet for some reason, here are five reasons as to why you need to do so soon.

Hiker’s Paradise

If you are a trekking or hiking enthusiast, you have probably already heard about the Kalalau Trail as one of the most beautiful and challenging hiking trails in Hawaii and it does live up to those expectations. The 11-mile long hike will take you through majestic cliffs, lonely beaches and some natural views of the island at the backdrop of the cliffs and the sea, that are the stuff of dreams for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

The Unique Beauty of the Hanalei Bay

More a beach for the families, what makes Hanalei Bay unique are the green cliffs that surrounds the place, giving it a sense of privacy and seclusion from the rest of the world. It’s also a popular spot for surfers, and while the sunset from the beach is nothing short of stunning, surfers claim that the view from the water is even more grand.

Historical Wonder

It is believed that none of the main islands of the Hawaiian state are older than Kauai and geologists have confirmed that to be a fact. The island is quite literally millions of years old (5 million to be exact) and instead of visiting manmade museums to experience some of the history, you will be able to enter the ancient Makauwahi Cave and see things for yourself, just as nature left it. The cave is a historical and geological wonder where scientists have found bones and remains of extinct animals and plants that died off thousands, if not millions of years ago.

The Famous Na Pali Coast

Being one of the most popular attractions, the Na Pali coastline probably needs no introduction, but for those who are not familiar with the place or what it offers, know that the coastline here is almost cinematically beautiful and the view from any of the beaches or cliffs is a stunning amalgamation of colors. Helicopter tours are available and kayaking is both allowed and recommended.

The Waterfalls of Mount Waialeale

Admittedly, waterfalls are a common site on most Hawaiian Islands, but it’s different on Mount Waialeale because of the sheer number of waterfalls that roar down from top of the cliff and go down into the Blue Hole canyon that’s hundreds of feet deep and has steep 3,000-feet tall cliffs surrounding it. You can even trek down into the Blue Hole if you want and that’s an adventure by itself.

As Kauai is a tourist hotspot, it is advisable to book your flight tickets and hotel in advance from Panda Online. It will ensure that you don’t waste any of your valuable vacation time hunting for hotels after reaching the island, as well as saving you some money on the flight tickets. After all, there’s just so much to see on Kauai and most people hardly have enough time to see things properly.

March 31, 2018 by Jeremy

Set Sail on Travel Fun

Has it been a while now since you were last on a trip? If so, is it time to change that moving forward?

Traveling can be one of the great adventures in life.

Not only does a trip allow you to return to a favorite haunt or see something new, but it can be a stress reliever too.

So, are you ready to set sail on travel fun?

Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays

One of the most important aspects to a trip is making sure you plan ahead. There is nothing worse than flights or hotels are unavailable because you waited.

With that in mind, be sure to do your planning as far out as possible.

Even when you are only going to do a day trip, don’t wait until the last minute to get those plans in order.

Are you thinking about a California whale watching adventure? If so, expect to have the time of your life.

Seeing these incredible mammals up close can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Your best bet is to go online and check out companies offering whale watching tours. Once you find the right one for you, book the trip and set sail for fun and learning at the same time.

In the event you are thinking about a longer trip, what about a weekend getaway or a week or more?

Many will not only hit the beach for weekend or longer trips, but the mountains. Some like city trips to learn about history.

Flights and Accommodations

If you plan to do a trip that involves airlines and hotels, be sure to get on those reservations as soon as possible.

With the airlines, you usually have to book flights at least 14 days before your departure date. You tend to save more money when you book much earlier in advance. Keep your eyes and ears open for deals that crop up at times. If flying during non-peak times, you can save more money.

An example of this would be going somewhere right at the start of the New Year. Avoid booking flights for big destinations in the heart of summer or major holidays.

When it comes to your hotel needs, you want to also not wait until the last minute.

Keep in mind where you are going and when you are going are two key factors with hotel reservations

If traveling during spring break to a popular area of the country, don’t wait a couple of weeks before to book a hotel. Chances are they will sell out or have limited options.

Last, always shop around online for the best deals.

You can book many airline and hotel needs through travel companies. As such, you can score better deals through them than if you went on a specific airline or hotel website.

Once you have all your reservations taken care of, sit back and think about all the fun you are going to have.

When you set sail on travel fun, know that you’ve earned this time away.

March 22, 2018 by Jeremy

Eat up the Fun at Disney World

Have you never been to Disney World or has it been a long time since your last visit? Either way, does a trip there sound like fun?

For many of those who’ve been to Disney World in Florida, they came back with memories galore.

From many rides to different shows and more, Disney can leave you smiling whether you are an adult or a child.

So, is it time to check out this theme park and start planning your visit to one of the world’s most famous attractions?

Are You Going with Children?

If you are taking children on your trip to Disney, be sure to go online and research all there is to do for kids. You also want to make sure that your child will be the appropriate age for specific rides you may want to take them on.

It is also important to get your tickets as soon as possible.

Although you can buy tickets at the gate, why not have these ahead of time? Doing the latter means one less thing you have to worry about as you head out for fun.

The time of year you go to Disney World should also factor into your plans.

Yes, central Florida can get a tad on the hot and humid side when summertime rolls around. That said don’t let the weather stop you from heading off to what can be a great vacation experience. Your best bet is to check what the yearly weather is. See if the average temps a specific time of year will be alright with you.

With the weather decision behind you, you also want to think about when the crowds might be at their peak.

Don’t Sweat Any Crowds

If you go to Disney or any theme park for that matter in the summer, the crowds can be a little larger given the time of year. Once again, that should not stop you if summer is your best time of the year to travel. When you have kids, traveling in the summertime can be a necessity due to their school schedules.

Last, is your child a bit of a picky eater? In fact, might you be too and do not want to admit it.

That said you should do some online research on Disney dining.

Doing so will help you prepare for the different foods on the respective menus. Don’t worry; you should have no trouble finding stuff that you and your children will be more than happy to eat.

Also do a little research to see if you will need reservations for any of the eateries you are thinking of dining at. The last thing you’d want is waiting in a long line after a fun day of riding the rides and checking out the shows.

Last; check to see if you can take any snacks or water into whichever theme park you go to. If you can, you could save a few dollars on concessions before your main meal.

Whether at Disney World or any other such attraction for that matter; leave with a good taste in your mouth.