There’s so much to do in “Sin City,” from gambling around the clock to eating at plentiful buffets, from watching the free outdoor shows (”Sirens of TI” and the dancing water fountains at the Bellagio) to enjoying thrill rides like the New York New York’s roller coaster. Then there are the magnificent shows by the world’s greatest musical, comedy and acrobatic acts.

Never one to rest on its laurels, Las Vegas is continually unveiling new shows and attractions. The best part? No matter where you spend your timeshare vacation in Las Vegas this spring or summer, you can sample these restaurants, spas and shows that are open to the public, even if they are housed in some of the mega-resorts on the Strip.

Dos Caminos Opens at The Palazzo

Located in the new Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino, Dos Caminos Las Vegas is the fourth outpost of the famed Mexican hot spot in New York City. Building on classic Mexican staples like guacamole, empanadas and tacos, the menu includes signature items of modern flair created exclusively for Las Vegas.

The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel

The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas has introduced its new 2008 spa menu, featuring an array of new signature treatments uniquely conceived to hydrate skin, promote anti-aging and elevate the art of relaxation. Signature treatments include the Four Seasons Desert Oasis Treatment, the Everlasting Flower Stone Facial, the Desert Flower Stone Massage and the Vitality of the Glaciers, a facial which incorporates cool glacial waters. Travel + Leisure magazine ranked The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas No. 12 overall in its list of Top Hotel Spas in the U.S. and Canada. It was the only Las Vegas spa to be included.

Cher Headlines at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace

The legendary performer Cher headlines at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace beginning May 6. The performance agreement, which is in partnership with AEG Live, includes approximately 200 shows over a span of three years. Cher at The Colosseum, designed exclusively for the 4,300-seat venue, will feature countless chart-topping hits over the course of her career. The 90-minute show will be complemented by state-of-the-art lighting, special effects and costumes.

Venetian Headliner Wayne Brady

BASE Entertainment and The Venetian recently announced that they will extend the hit show Making It Up, starring Wayne Brady, through July 2009. The extension will allow Brady to star in more than 300 performances before the end of July 2009. Since he started performing in Making It Up in April 2007, he has created a different show each night with improv partner Jonathan Mangum.

The Rio Opens the Only Seafood Buffet in Las Vegas

Las Vegas’ only seafood buffet, located at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino, is now open. Refined, elegant and boldly designed, the Village Seafood Buffet is under the direction of acclaimed Chef Richard Leggett, serving the freshest seafood from around the world, flown in daily with restaurant-style execution. From Indonesian freshwater
prawns to Pacific salmon, Alaskan king crab, Canadian snow crab, shrimp from China and slipper tail lobster from Southeast Asia, the Village Seafood Buffet purchases more than 200 tons of fresh seafood annually.

T&T Restaurant to Open at Luxor

T&T (Tacos & Tequila), a highly stylized restaurant with a high-energy vibe and flavorful menu, will open this July at Luxor. Embodying traditional and modern elements of Mexican style intermixed with a rock ‘n roll flair, T&T combines the talents of Master Chef and world-renowned restaurateur Richard Sandoval with world-class designer, Adam Tihany, for an unparalleled concept. The menu includes Sandoval’s unique presentation of both modern and traditional Mexican cuisine and a drink program filled with an extensive tequila selection, specialty cocktails and infused tequilas.

Jersey Boys Opens at the Palazzo

Jersey Boys, the Tony Award-winning musical, is now showing in a custom-built, 1,600-seat theater at Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino. Jersey Boys is the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. It’s the tale of how a group of blue-collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time. The show features such hits as “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” “Oh, What a Night,” and many more.

Learn more at the official Las Vegas Tourism Web site.

Blog: Vegas Tripping

               

Learn to Exchange Like a Pro

If there is one thing about timesharing that causes grief for people, it’s got to be exchanging. Now for me, I believe there are two reasons for this:

Over-promising at the resort, and understanding how it works.

ARDA, the American Resort Developer’s Association, says that exchanging is one of the main reasons why people buy. I don’t know about that, but it’s certainly one of the big promises made by every timeshare salesperson on earth. “Just bank and go,” they say, “it’s that easy!” Well, it’s not and you and I know it! But before I reveal to you Maria’s Seven Secrets of Exchanging, let me introduce myself and tell you what I do at Holiday Resales. [read more]

Also: Timeshare Exchange System

               

No passport? No worries! You can still enjoy a tropical vacation in the Caribbean. The U.S. Virgin Islands, also known as “America’s Caribbean,” does not require American citizens to have a passport for entry.

A cultural melting pot, the U.S. Virgin Islands are home to residents who can trace their roots to a number of countries, including Africa, England, Holland, Denmark, Spain, France, India and the United States. The three main islands here are St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas-and if you enjoy shopping, then St. Thomas is the island to visit! After all, the island is known as the shopping capital of the Caribbean. Visitors flock to the duty-free shops in Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Combine a shopping trip with some amazing scenery on a safari bus ride more than 1,000 feet in elevation to Mountain Top, a festive shopping complex. You can see neighboring islands from its “high altitude” location. Shop duty free here or sample its renowned banana daiquiris.

You can also take the tram car up 700 feet above sea level to “Paradise Point” for dramatic views of the Charlotte Amalie harbor. St. Thomas is an extremely scenic island, just 32 square miles, with many emerald hills rising from the turquoise ocean. Simply renting a car and enjoy the landscape is a popular way to wile away an afternoon.

Another great way to take in pretty St. Thomas is by boat. Take a snorkeling cruise, rent a catamaran or paddle a kayak in and out of the island’s many inlets and coves. Or head out into the deep blue sea on a fishing trip or scuba-diving adventure. Other activities include touring historical sites, playing 18 holes of golf and enjoying the fine dining restaurants featuring international cuisine. More than a dozen distinct beaches range from bustling centers for water sports to secluded locations for romantic strolls on the beach.

On the Web:

More about St. Thomas

Online travel guide

               

By Lisa Ann Schreier

If you are familiar with any of my postings, books and/or live events, you know that I am decidedly on the side of the consumer—alerting them for things to look out for when purchasing, or even thinking of purchasing, a timeshare.

Today is different. Today I want to shed some light on an even scarier subject: what to do with a timeshare that you don’t want or use anymore, and the disgusting companies out there ready to fleece you. [read more]

Visit Lisa’s Timeshare Corner

Visit Holiday’s Timeshare Webinar page

               

Sea World has long drawn Orlando timeshare owners with its marvelous marine attractions. But now, with the opening of Aquatica, a one-of-a-kind waterpark, there’s even more reasons to visit the home of Shamu the Killer Whale.

Aquatica, with 36 water slides, six rivers and lagoons and more than 80,000 square feet of white sandy beaches, delights all ages. After all, there are not only gentle water spray areas for young children, but also high-speed water slides and exhilarating wave pools for the most daring of your group. Perhaps the most interesting ride at Aquatica is the Dolphin Plunge, a slide of 250 feet of clear tubes that take you underwater, through Aquatica’s dolphin habitat.

Other rides include side-by-side wave pools that offer different experiences: either crashing 5-foot waves or gently rolling surf. Float on a lazy river past a 10,000-gallon habitat of thousands of exotic fish. Adventure rapids zip guests past geysers and through waterfalls three times faster than a typical waterpark river. Try to beat others down an eight-line racing slide, flying in and out of tunnels along the way. Or soar down a six-story, triple-drop flume raft ride. A whopping 3.3 million gallons of water used throughout the park is kept at a comfortable 84 degrees.

The water park is directly across the street from SeaWorld, and you can purchase a combination ticket to experience both in one day. Or purchase an admission only to Aquatica. The setting features more than 100 species of trees and 250 species of shrubs, grasses, vines and flowers. In total, 60,000 plants cover the grounds of the lush park. With such a lovely environment, and plenty of serene beaches, even if you’re traveling with folks who aren’t interested in water slides, they can just relax at Aquatica in pretty surroundings and enjoy the Florida sun.

               

An interview with Holiday sales reps Kayla Mahaffey and Le Anderle, who recently took a timeshare vacation to St. Maarten.

Where did you go and what did you most enjoy about it?

We went to St. Maarten, the Dutch side of the island. It was the most beautiful place I have ever been to! We stayed at the Pelican Resort on Simpson Bay. There was dazzling turquoise water all around, picture-perfect beaches, and a warm breeze through the palm trees. What more could you ask for? We have been on a lot of vacations between the two of us and have never been to a friendlier place! The locals were so nice we didn’t want to leave. It is an exquisite place.

How did you find out about it, and what does one need to do this type of timeshare exchange?

I have had several clients over the years tell me what an amazing place St. Maarten is, and Le had already been there and loved it. So, I just had to take the trip from Seattle to see for myself. I used my timeshare in Puerto Vallarta, Buganvilias Resort Vacation Club, for the exchange. All I did was call RCI and they took care of the exchange for me very easily. I did, however, plan almost a year in advance. It is better to plan as far in advance as possible.

What are some fun things to do that might appeal to other timesharers who have never been there? Also, what are the “don’t miss” things?

The airport itself is one of the most photographed airports in the world. You fly in 15 feet above the beach! It is very fun to watch from the famous Sunset Beach Bar. You have to rent a car. The driving is a bit messy, but people are very friendly and it’s a must if you want to leave your resort and explore the island. Just honk and go–that’s the island way. You’ll also want to take an Island Cruise or rent a Jet Ski so you can get it all in.

The Shopping in Philipsburg is the best on the Island. They have a “Front Street” and a “Back Street”; you will find better deals on “Back Street.” “Front Street” seems to be more for the cruise ships, so prices are a bit higher for all the same things. If you are looking for jewelry, Lee’s is the best place by far to shop at.

The food on St. Maarten is incredible. No matter where you go you can find what they call a “Lolo,” a huge BBQ under a tree with a little hut nearby serving beverages. It’s the best the BBQ I’ve ever had, and I’m from the South!

Also, don’t miss The Buccaneer Beach Bar. They have the best burgers on the island and the staff is great, though their other food is good, too. Plus, they are the only bar that has a beach with free chairs! All the other beach bars charge to use their beach chairs. (Say “hi” to owner Jill for me if you go!) If you are a seafood lover, you don’t want to miss out on the “lobster thermador” at Pineapple Pete’s. It’s the best!

Any tips that might make this trip more enjoyable? What did you learn that would make the trip smoother for other visitors, whether it relates timeshare specifically or travel to the Caribbean in general?

Travel light if you can. Just a carry-on is all the better. This helps speed things through customs and gets you caught up on island time. Also, it’s easier to make your connecting flight by traveling super light. All you really need is sandals, a swim suit, a T-shirt, and a pair of shorts. You will need a passport, of course, and some spending cash. You can get sun block, shampoo, and that kind of stuff once you get there.

Anything else that you think of that someone new to timeshare might want to know or do? Best time to go? Reservation details?

Whether you’re new to timeshare or not, this is an incredible experience for anyone who loves to vacation, and really loves the beach. I have to say, I never felt more carefree and relaxed than I did while walking near or swimming in the Caribbean Sea.

Check with your RCI Counselor for details on how to exchange your timeshare for one on this charming island. If you don’t have a timeshare, or just need more info, give me a call. I’ll be happy to share my knowledge as a Holiday Vacationeer.

Other Helpful Links:

St. Maarten weather

St. Maarten/St. Martin Beaches

Caribbean Resale Timeshares

History of St. Maarten/St. Martin

               

Always wanting to keep repeat visitors entertained, Southern California theme parks typically roll out new attractions or activities annually. Here’s a peek at what’s happening at some of the area’s most well-known theme parks this year:

SeaWorld San Diego

Shamu, the world-famous whale, dolphins, sharks and many more marine creatures make their home at SeaWorld. Toddlers and preschoolers will love the new Sesame Street themed attractions, such as gentle rides, a 4-D movie, live musical production starring Big Bird and other characters, as well as an Elmo character breakfast.

Legoland

The interactive rides at this theme park in Carlsbad are hit especially with kids between ages 4 and 8. But there’s something for everyone here–from toddler play areas and water rides to roller coasters and fun live shows. New this year is the Land of Adventure, with four attractions, including the park’s first “dark ride”: Lost Kingdom Adventure puts guests inside desert jeeps and takes them on a journey to recover stolen treasure, laser blasting targets along the way.

Set to open this summer is Sea Life at Legoland California Resort. This is the world’s largest aquarium brand, formerly only found in Europe. The two-story, 36,000-square-foot attraction will have separate admission and focus on teaching young children about the ocean with play zones, fun facts and quiz trails.

San Diego Zoo

This world-renowned zoo in downtown San Diego celebrated its 90th anniversary last year. The latest additions are a panda cub and spotted hyenas.

San Diego Wild Animal Park

This animal park is affiliated with, but not adjacent to, the San Diego Zoo. It’s actually 35 miles north of San Diego, east of Escondido. Last year the park introduced the Journey into Africa safari-themed tour, and new animals this year include seven lion clubs and a baby elephant.

Six Flags Magic Mountain & Hurricane Harbor

Get your thrills on wild coasters, tamer toddler rides or on humongous water slides and rides at these theme parks just outside Los Angeles in Valencia. The newest Magic Mountain attraction is a children’s play area, Thomas Town, based on the beloved Thomas the Tank Engine character. Also, a new $10 million “sight and sound experience” has enhanced the state-of-the-art coaster “X,” which is now called “X-squared.”

Universal Studios Hollywood

At this working movie studio and theme park, the newest characters to stroll the grounds are Scooby-Doo and Shaggy, as well as Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson. The “Revenge of the Mummy” ride received recent enhancements that make it even scarier than ever.

Disneyland & California Adventure Park

At California Adventure, watch the new “Pixar Play Parade” with your preschoolers’ favorite characters from Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Cars and The Incredibles. At “Playhouse Disney Live on Stage” dance along with characters from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny and Little Einsteins.

               

Perhaps the biggest news to hit the Hawaiian Islands in recent months is Aloha Airlines filing for bankruptcy in late March. The beloved Hawaiian company shut down its inter-island and transpacific flight operations after 61 years in business.

Fortunately, United Airlines, Aloha Airlines’ code-share partner, as well as other airlines have stepped up to try to accommodate inconvenienced passengers on their flights, and statewide hotels are also providing special consideration to stranded passengers for extended or emergency accommodations. (Heck, it wouldn’t be so horrible to be “stuck” in paradise for an additional day or two!)

On a brighter note, there is plenty of good news to share from the “Islands of Aloha,” with new events, activities and attractions for visitors:

· The Battleship Missouri Memorial on Oahu celebrates 10 years in Hawaii with two new commemorative tours happening in June. The Weapons Tour features the wide array of weaponry used on the Missouri throughout her five decades of active service. The Generations Tour explores the lives of those who served aboard the vessel.

· Captain Beans’ Cruises on the Big Island offers a new Friday night sunset sail aboard a huge 150-foot double-hulled canoe. With the canoe as your dining room, the two-hour cruise includes live music, a selection of pupu and one alcoholic drink per person.

· Enjoy the music of the islands on the plaza lawn of the Waikiki Beach Walk every Tuesday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The complimentary program focuses on island traditions, cultural beliefs and historical moments in Hawaii, all told through song and dance.

· Tour the night sky with Star Gazers Maui at Haleakala National Park. See the view from the volcano and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the stars 10,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Also learn about the constellations by looking through a giant, computerized telescope. The tour includes dinner, drinks, snacks and hot chocolate. (Haleakala is chilly after dark!)

· The newest zipline adventure on Kauai takes thrill-seekers higher and faster through the treetops of Kauai’s rainforest. JustLive! offers those who dare an opportunity to zip across six different lines, walk across a 70-foot-high swinging suspension bridge and traverse a 60-foot-high dual rope crossing. The company also offers an evening zipline tour by full moon.

               

Have you read the papers lately? The economic outlook can cause a lot of stress. And the more stress you’re under, the more you need a vacation. During periods of economic troubles, the worst thing you can do is cancel your vacation. So what’s the cure for those of us who are fiscally concerned but  still need a break from the rat race? Vacation smarter!

Lisa Ann Schreier, author of “Timeshare Vacations for Dummies”, recently listed four  alternatives to the traditional vacation that could save you some money.

Read Lisa’s article to see why you shouldn’t think about depriving yourself of a vaction this year!

Other Travel Tips:

11 Tips for Smarter Packing

Vacation on a Budget

More info on timeshare

               

If you’re feeling a pinch in your pocketbook, and would like to stretch your dollars on your next timeshare vacation, consider these hints:

Remember to pack toiletries and first-aid items

It’s a hassle, and it’s expensive, to pick up sunscreen, make-up and other toiletries once you’re on vacation. Make a check-list of all your personal items, medicines, band-aids and ointments that you don’t want to forget to pack before you leave home. Also, be sure to pack anything that might be confiscated at the airport in your luggage rather than your carry-on bag. It can be expensive to replace these items after you’ve reached your destination.

Use your timeshare’s kitchen

Stock your timeshare’s refrigerator to store milk and juice for cereal breakfasts. Same goes for sandwich fixings for lunch, beer for happy hour, and fruit for late-night snacks.

Eat like a local

In Europe, pack a picnic lunch of a baguette, cheese and ham. In the Caribbean, eat fresh fruit from roadside markets. Find neighborhood restaurants or pack lunches made from items picked up from local grocery stores, and you’ll save a bundle of money that you can then spend at a more upscale restaurant once or twice during your vacation.

Don’t use the phone in your timeshare unit

Buy a local phone card or purchase an international calling card before you leave home.

Explore on your own

In touristy locales like Mexico, there are plenty of outfitters offering snorkeling, ruins and other sightseeing tours–for a lot of money. Oftentimes, it’s cheaper just to rent a car or take a taxi to the sightseeing location or beach and enjoy it at your own pace. Ask the front desk or the concierge at your timeshare resort how to rent a car, take public transportation or otherwise get to where you want to go. Be sure to ask if the public transportation or the area you’d like to visit is safe for foreigners to check out on their own.

Bargain for souvenirs

Again, going off the beaten path will help you save money while you’re on vacation. Hit a touristy shopping area and you’ll spend much more than if you seek out less-traveled markets. In places like Asia, Mexico and the Caribbean don’t be afraid to bargain if you’re shopping at an open-air market. Bargaining for items it typically expected. Just don’t come down too low if you’ve found an item you really want to bring home!