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Paddlewheeler Adventure

3/18/2015

Have you ever considered a Mississippi River paddlewheel cruise? I have been on a few paddle-wheeler day-trips, but they were more of sight-seeing adventures in places like New Orleans, so spending a few days aboard one would be incredible.

A paddle-wheeler adventure would make an awesome family-reunion activity or even a multi-generational trip.
Since there are not as many high-energy activities on this style of cruising, as opposed to maneuvering around one of the mega-sized cruise ships, you can spend time relaxing and bonding as a family. Enjoy a slow-paced and luxurious trip through time while hanging out on the top deck viewing the passing country side or even relaxing in the library reading a Mark Twain book. Bring along some family games or cards to enjoy with your family while taking in the views.

If you are looking for authentic paddlewheeler, check out the Queen of the Mississippi. They have several itineraries to choose from and you will find well-appointed staterooms with complimentary room service including High Tea in the afternoon. This particular paddlewheeler has an exercise room and a putting green, so you can make sure and stretch a bit from all the relaxation.

Visit Americancruiselines for more information

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Houseboat rentals and Lake Powell

3/3/2015

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Summers sneak up fast. Since pre-planning usually offers the ability to get the best deals, this is the perfect time to talk about house boating. For the last couple of years, we have spent a few days on beautiful Lake Powell. It is, in my humble opinion, one of the most amazing lakes to spend some time on. The rock formations alone make it a majestic dream vacation. With that being said, it can be hotter than a lot of people are use to. Since I am use to Arizona weather, it is cool for me. There are a lot of houseboat rentals available on Lake Powell. If you go online to Wahweap, you can pick one to rent, from a demure and basic place to lay your head, to an opulent two story, fully air-conditioned, BBQ included, mega-slide for the kids, lake mansion. They are costly to rent, even the basic models. But if you have a large group or family, that cost can work out for you by sharing the price and by saving with the peanut butter and jelly lunches you will eat on the lake. Restaurants on vacation add up, as do tours. You can rent a boat in advance as well to take around and save on gas since, honestly, you will not want to be toting around the lake on the houseboat and spending money for that with the price of that liquid gold. They also have jet ski rentals.

How we usually did it, and take this for what it is worth and the type of group you will be going with, is that we all put a certain amount of money in, to cover the rental costs, gas, the basics, and food. That way no one person is being stuck for the costs of things you do not anticipate. Each person can bring their own snack and keep it for themselves by marking it. We also always did BYOB. Plan to spend your first day loading, looking for the perfect beach to park at, and getting a quick dip to cool you off. You will need it! We also have the first meal of the night prepared in advanced. There will be no time for that with setting up.

Here are some good cheats if you are not a seasoned house boater but want to give it a try:
Have the dock captain take your to a spot and set you up. The can also pick you up and take you home. You might say "Well what is the point of house boating them?" I understand what you are saying, but how fun will it be trying to figure out how to drive, park, set up, navigate, and ultimately have a problem on your dream trip. It cost for this service, but if you are like me, I am all about the camping in a great spot, not worrying about an accident or harming a very expensive rental boat.
Book in advance for the best prices. You can also look for people who own timeshares on them and rent them out.
You can order groceries to be put on the boat for you. Again, a cheat, but a worthy cheat if you are coming a long distance and do not want to find a store. Besides, that way you know what grocery bill to split before you go.

http://www.lakepowell.com/

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Travel Ideas!

Paddlewheeler Adventure

Houseboat rentals and Lake Powell

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