Experience a Smoky Mountain Christmas in Gatlinburg
October 26, 2009 by admin
Filed under Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN, VME
November marks the beginning of the Christmas season in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area, and two attractions that you should not miss during the holiday season are Dollywood Theme Park and Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede.
Dollywood Theme Park‘s annual Christmas festival, Smoky Mountain Christmas, begins on November 7 and runs to January 2, 2010. This popular event features over 4 million sparkling lights, live holiday shows, Santa’s Workshop, and special holiday-themed rides. Even the Scroogiest member of your family will find something to put him or her in the holiday spirit! Live shows during the Christmas season include Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs, Appalachian Christmas, Dollywood’s Babes in Toyland, and the Christmas in the Smokies, which features a 12 member cast and a live band. One highlight of the festival is the nightly Carol of the Trees, in which the millions of twinkling lights shine in a choreographed performance to holiday music. In addition, guests can also enjoy the daily Parade of Lights. One special ride to enjoy during this festival is the Polar Express 4-D attraction, which is an indoor experience that tests all of the senses.
With the Dollywood Three-Day Weekend Getaway Package, you can experience the holiday cheer of Dollywood along with three nights’ of lodging in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg, which will give you plenty of time to enjoy all that a Smoky Mountain Christmas has to offer.
Another Dolly Parton offering in the Smoky Mountains is Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede. In addition to being a fabulous dinner show, the Dixie Stampede also gets into the Christmas spirit with an unforgettable holiday show. With the Dixie Stampede Pigeon Forge Vacation Package, you can enjoy tickets to the Dixie Stampede as well as two nights’ lodging in Pigeon Forge. During the holiday season, the arena at the Stampede is transformed, featuring evergreen boughs, poinsettias, and twinkling lights. The show includes a take on the traditional Christmas story as well as the fun games and tricks that guests can always expect at the Dixie Stampede! As always, the show is accompanied by a delicious four course Southern feast.
Gatlinburg is full of opportunities to enjoy a fantastic holiday experience, so do not miss out on your chance to experience the best of what Christmas in the Smokies has to offer!
New Year’s Adventure – New Zealand & Australia Grand Tour 2010
Don’t spend another winter stuck in the cold and even treacherous weather that the majority of us in the United States experience. Once the festive holiday season has come to a close, skip town and enjoy the New Year in the sunny and tropical setting that only the Southern Hemisphere can provide during the winter month of January with the New Zealand & Australia Grand Tour 2010. This unique outing departs on January 6, 2010 and will allow you the opportunity to escape from the dreary weather and monotonous routine for thirty one days of adventurous exploration as you trek through Australia and New Zealand with knowledgeable guide and other enthusiastic travelers!
Throughout the journey, you will experience Fjordlands National Park, immerse yourself in an authentic Maori village, tour metropolitan settings including Auckland and Sydney, cruise along the Great Barrier Reef, explore an actual rain forest, interact with kangaroos and koalas, visit the Sydney Opera House, and even view the wonders of space through giant telescopes at the CISRO Observatory!
Truly make the beginning of 2010 a time to remember with the New Zealand & Australia Grand Tour 2010! Those interested are encouraged to look into reservations as soon as possible as space is limited. Learn more and make reservations online.
Additionally, find other unique vacation experiences in both Australia and New Zealand throughout the rest of the year online.
New York City Shows Holiday Spirit
With the holiday season kicking off in a couple of weeks, New York City is getting in the spirit. There are several attractions that are Christmas-themed that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you’re looking for a holiday classic or something new, NYC has it.
Radio City Rockettes
Every Year, Radio City hosts the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular. This world-renowned show has become an icon of Christmas spirit and cheer. With impeccable choreography, razor-sharp kick lines and amazing costumes the Rockettes will have you brimming with holiday cheer as they re-tell the story of the Nutcracker. Don’t let your family miss out on the beloved holiday classic.
Take a tour unlike any other in the NYC area. Brooklyn goes above and beyond every year to out-decorate the surrounding area. On this guided tour, your family will see giant inflatable Santas, Rudolph prancing on rooftops and some of the most beautiful Christmas lights in the area.
New York City Holiday Lights Tour
This tour takes you to all of the famous window displays in New York City. You’ll see everything from the world-renowned Macy’s Christmas windows to the displays at Henri Bendel. This tour also includes a stop at the infamous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Don’t let your family miss the chance to see New York City light up in true holiday fashion!
Guest-Approved Hotels In Nashville
October 22, 2009 by admin
Filed under Nashville TN, VME
A vacation can be exhausting. You have to lug around suitcases, keep track of the family, and try to keep everyone happy. Not to worry. A hotel room can go a long way to keeping everyone happy, which means there’s less you have to worry about. There are a few hotels in Nashville that received stellar customer ratings and if fellow vacationers are saying they’re good you know they are!
Embassy Suites Nashville at Vanderbilt
This hotel is nothing but comfort and luxury! Every room in the hotel is a suite featuring tons of perks. This hotel also places you within walking distance of everything in Nashville’s West End and just a short drive to downtown. Previous guests are raving about this hotel’s southern hospitality.
Sheraton Nashville Downtown Hotel
The Sheraton Nashville Downtown places you right where the name suggests. Located in the heart of Nashville’s downtown district, you will be within walking distance of The Coliseum, Historic Second Avenue and Gaylord Entertainment Center. According to past guests, this hotel is more than accommodating. The staff is simply considerate and hospitable.
If you want to sight-see in Nashville, this is the place you need to stay! The hotel is located just a short drive from Ryman Auditorium, General Jackson Showboat, Hard Rock Cafe, Wild Horse Saloon and more. The best part is that the hotel has a shuttle to all of the attractions. At the hotel itself, you’ll be surrounded by photos and decor themed around the Grand Ole Opry legends. Previous guests love the quick service from the staff and the complimentary shuttle.
Best Western Airport Inn Nashville
If you are looking for a hotel offer comfort and hospitality at an affordable price, look no further. Previous guests have commented on the hospitality of the staff and the comfort of this Nashville hotel. This hotel sits in the middle of Nashville just minutes away from the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame and downtown Nashville.
Easily Nashville’s most famous hotel, the Gaylord Opryland Hotel is one that guests are raving about, especially this time of year. This sprawling 9-acre resort has just about everything you could need short of a hospital. However, if you want to venture out into the city, the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to many of the nearby attractions. If that’s not enough, past guests are raving about this hotel! They love the amenities, southern hospitality, and the Christmas spirit and decor found at the Opryland Hotel this time of year.
Discounts & Promotions for Branson Show Tickets
October 22, 2009 by admin
Filed under Branson MO, VME
If you’re looking for something to do in Branson but are worried about spending a fortune you’re in luck. Vacations Made Easy is running tons of promotions for Branson shows and activities. Below are just a few examples, but this will definitely get you started in planning your trip to Branson.
The Acrobats of China featuring the New Shanghai Circus is one of the coolest shows in Branson. This show is full of dancing, contortion and aerial feats. The whole family will be amazed with this incredible show straight from China. The best part is the “buy one get one half off” promotion for the tickets!
Keith “Red” Allen Show
The whole family will love this variety show! Filled with comedy and music, this show is family friendly and incredibly entertaining. If you reserve tickets before November 14, you can take advantage of the current promotion. For every ticket you buy, you get another ticket for half price.
Rock ‘n Roll Is Here To Stay is a new show in Branson this year and it is “Here To Stay!” The greatest rock ‘n roll hits of the 50′s and 60′s come to life on the stage as singers and dancers perform this Broadway-style show. The highlight is the famous Elvis tribute sung by Don Solice. If you book tickets before November 14, you will get to take advantage of the “buy one get one half price” promotion!
Ricky Boen and Texas Mud
Starring the 1983 World Champion Fiddler, Ricky Boen and Texas Mud light up the stage with classic Texas swing. Your whole family will be tappin’ their toes and singing along with this incredible show! The ticket price will make you even happier when you take advantage of the “buy one get one FREE” offer before December 12.
To check out more limited promotions, visit us online!
Water Fun For Orlando’s Winter
We are quickly approaching that time of year when even Florida begins to cool down. However, if your family still wants to play in the water during your next trip to Orlando you have options. These Orlando hotels are just a few examples of the options you have. All have heated pools for the family to play in and they keep you close to other attractions for when you want to play out of the pool.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – 4.5 Stars
This modern resort features everything from tennis to video arcades to watercraft rentals. Your family won’t have time to be bored with everything there is to do at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The heated pool sits on the beach, so you can watch the waves roll in as you head down the water slide. There are dining options on-site including Chef Mickey’s where your family can dine with their favorite Disney characters.
Disney’s Beach Club Villas – 4.5 Stars
Adjacent to Epcot Center, these villas offer your family every comfort of home. Your family can play in the high-tech video arcade in the Yacht & Beach Club common area or splash around in the on-site water park. Stormalong Bay is three acres packed full of lagoons, sand-bottomed pools and water slides. When you’re ready for dinner, hit one of the restaurants in the village or head out to find one of your own. The location puts you right in the middle of everything!
Summer Bay Resort Orlando – 4 Stars
This beautiful resort is located just outside downtown Orlando on a private lake. You will feel relaxed in the secluded location, but you’re just minutes from everything. The hotel offers shuttle rides to local attractions so you never have to worry about anything. The Summer Bay Resort features several swimming pools and a small water park. Every member of the family will find something to entertain them, so everyone is happy!
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa – 3 Stars
This resort village is like a home away from home. All of the comforts and luxuries without the hassle. You will be situated right in the heart of Orlando’s attractions and the resort offers shuttle rides to most of them. In case you’re wondering, your family will be only minutes away from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World, just to name a few. If you’re looking for a place to take a dip, slip into your suit and head down to the heated pool.
Grand Ole Opry Line-Up For October 23-27
October 22, 2009 by admin
Filed under Grand Ole Opry
Friday, October 23 – Buy Tickets
7:00 – 7:30
Jean Shepard
Jimmy C. Newman
Ashton Shepherd
7:30 – 8:00
Jimmy Dickens
Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
Emily West
8:00 – 8:30
Mike Snider
Jan Howard
Keith Anderson
8:30 – 9:00
Ricky Skaggs
Riders In The Sky
The Whites
Saturday, October 24 – Buy Tickets
7:00 – 7:30
Jimmy Dickens
Jimmy C. Newman
Mallary Hope
7:30 – 8:00
Mike Snider
The Whites
Montgomery Gentry
8:00 – 8:30
Jim Ed Brown
Trace Adkins
Opry Square Dancers
8:30 – 9:00
Jean Shepard
Jack Greene
Oak Ridge Boys
9:30 – 10:00
Jimmy Dickens
Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
Mallary Hope
10:00 – 10:30
Mike Snider
The Whites
Montgomery Gentry
10:30 – 11:00
Jean Shepard
Trace Adkins
Opry Square Dancers
11:00 – 11:30
Jim Ed Brown
Jack Greene
Oak Ridge Boys
Tuesday, October 27 – Buy Tickets
7:00 – 7:30
Jeannie Seely
Del McCoury Band
7:30 – 8:00
John Conlee
Gloriana
INTERMISSION
8:15 – 8:45
Connie Smith
Jimmy Wayne
8:45 – 9:15
Jimmy Dickens
Martina McBride
Experience A Country Christmas in Nashville, TN
October 21, 2009 by admin
Filed under Featured, Nashville TN
Winter cheer is fast approaching Music City as the Gaylord Opryland Resort prepares for its annual A Country Christmas! From November through December, the elegant Gaylord Oprylandbecomes adorned with festive, holiday decorations and presents a variety of Christmas activities ranging from performances by the iconic Radio City Rockettes to a fantastical ice sculpture display that will place you directly within the Christmas classic A Charlie Brown Christmas. And from general information to complete package options, Vacations Made Easy has recently released all of the information and tools necessary to help you plan your Country Christmas in Nashville, TN!
A long standing favorite in Nashville, Louise Mandrell’s “Joy to the World” Christmas Dinner and Showwill be returning for another season, presenting a down home celebration complete with filling holiday meal and entertainment as only Louise Mandrell can provide. Throughout the performance, Louise’s nephew, Mathew Dudley, will emcee the event as Louise and friends entertain through song, dance, comedy and more while you enjoy chicken roulades with cranberry cornbread stuffing, candied yams, and other seasonal favorites.
Another seasonal tradition returning to A Country Christmas is the Radio City Christmas Spectacularfeaturing the world-renowned Radio City Rockettes. Throughout this electric performance you will be treated to a wide range of heart-warming sights and sounds as the Rockettes perform a variety of dance routines centered on themes including “12 Days of Christmas,” “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “the Living Nativity.”
Rounding out A Country Christmas, ICE! offers a veritable winter playground complete with life-sized depictions of classic scenes from A Charlie Brown Christmas carved from two million pounds of ice. Children and adults alike will delight in being present for the rehearsal hall practice, visiting Snoopy’s house and helping Charlie Brown choose a Christmas tree as Charles Schulz’ family classic takes on life-like dimensions before your very eyes!
If you are looking for complete package options you will find a couple different choices to help you experience A Country Christmas. The Gaylord Opryland Resort Country Christmas combines both admission to ICE! and main floor seating for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular with three nights lodging.
Additionally, Nashville’s Radio City Rockettes Winter Vacation Packageoffers a concentrated look at the Rockettes that can fit into a weekend and comes complete with main floor seating for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and two nights lodging.
San Diego Hotels Offer Comfort & Convenience
If you’re considering a trip to sunny San Diego any time soon, you’re probably headed for the beach. Vacations Made Easy would like to help you get there a little sooner. There are hundreds of San Diego hotels to choose from, so we’ve narrowed down your search. If you’re hoping for a super-relaxing vacation with easy beach access, these are the hotels for you!
Del Coronado Hotel – 4 ½ Stars
This gorgeous hotel sits right on the beach of Coronado Island. Considered one of North America’s most beautiful resorts, “the Del” has played host to Presidents, world dignitaries, and movie stars. The 26-acre resort is only about 15 minutes from the airport and downtown San Diego so you’ll enjoy world-class dining and amazing shopping and activities. Del Coronado Hotel is brimming with luxurious amenities and the staff is always available to help you with anything you may need.
Paradise Point Resort & Spa – 4 Stars
This 44-acre resort is hidden tropical world in the middle of San Diego. Just 10 minutes away from downtown, this resort offers the relaxing feel of a tropical island and the convenience of San Diego. Situated in a premier location on Mission Bay, Paradise Point offers direct beach access, water sports and activities, and a world-class health club. After a grueling workout, hit the spa and unwind with a Thai and Japanese-style massage.
Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa – 3 ½ Stars
The Hilton San Diego Resort offers you so much more than immediate beach access. Your family will never be bored with available activities ranging from basketball and tennis to snorkeling and scuba diving. If you’re looking for pampering and relaxation, visit the spa where you can choose from a number of top treatments. This resort also features top notch dining. With four restaurants on-site you won’t ever have to leave!
Capri By the Sea – 3 ½ Stars
Capri By the Sea is perfect for a family trip or an extended stay in the San Diego area. The main building of the resort is structured like a condo building, filled with condos and suites. These rooms will feel just like home with DVD/VCR players and premium cable programming. You family can enjoy the gorgeous San Diego weather from the heated pool or watch the sun set from the rooftop terrace. Regardless of how you spend your stay, this trip will be one of the most comfortable vacations you’ve ever taken.
A Traditional South Carolina Christmas
The holiday season is quickly approaching and in just a few short weeks the theaters of Myrtle Beach will begin putting on their Christmas shows. Just in case you were looking for a way to start this season off with a bang, here are a few suggestions.
The Palace Theatre is known for it’s wonderful shows, and Christmas is no exception. Beginning this year, the Palace Theatre will be putting on two shows. The first is the traditional “A Christmas Carol.” This beloved, time-honored tale tells the story of Scrooge, a nasty and bitter old man, who eventually learns the meaning of Christmas. This show is done traditionally, in every sense of the word!
The new holiday show on the Palace Theatre’s list is “Christmastime” which stars Dublin’s Twelve Irish Tenors. Joining them in the celebration are several guests including Debbie Reynolds, Roy Clark, Michael W. Smith and Sandi Patty. If this star-studded cast isn’t enough, the on-stage nativity scene is complete with live animals ranging from sheep to camels!
Make an effort to see “The South’s Grandest Christmas Show” this holiday season with your family. This show, brimming with incredible talent and unbelievable special effects, is sure to impress even the biggest skeptic. This Christmas show simply overflows with singing and dancing as you welcome the joy and cheer of the season. Several singers and even more dancers will have you singing along with all of your favorite carols in no time!
The Carolina Opry Christmas Special is a dazzling holiday experience and should not be missed. The Carolina Opry has won just about every major award is South Carolina and their holiday special definitely lives up to the theatre’s reputation. The sensational vocal styling and the set list make this show enjoyable from beginning to end. The performers will sing all of your favorites from classic Christmas carols to more modern hits. This show covers everything!
