Incredible New Show Coming To Branson!
December 23, 2009 by admin
Filed under Branson MO
Every year Branson unveils new or redesigned shows, which only adds to the excitement of the new production season. This year is no exception. While very few shows have undergone major redesigns, there is one new show coming to Branson that has the locals very excited.
Chun Yi – The Legend of Kung Fu is a show unlike any other in Branson. The story follows a young boy as he enters the life of a Buddhist monk. During the story, the young boy learns the skills of martial arts, is seduced by ego and illusions, leaves the pure life of the Buddhist monks behind, and eventually returns to assume the position his Master left to him. Chun Yi – The Legend of Kung Fu is a powerful tale of personal growth and the realization of physical and emotional harmony. To read more about the show, check out our Branson News blog for a more in-depth story!
Chun Yi – The Legend of Kung Fu is filled with fantastic acrobatic feats, displays of brilliantly choreographed martial arts, and emotion-filled dancing. Featureing a cast and crew of 80 talented performers, designers, and choreographers, this show is the longest running show in China and has been seen by more than two million people. The Kung Fu practitioners have performed around the world, including a special performance during the Opening Ceremonies at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. This incredible show will be performing in the newly-acquired White House Theatre and is scheduled to open in May of 2010.
If you don’t want to wait until May, there is a similar show already in Branson. The Acrobats of China may not have quite as strong a story line, but the acrobatics are sure to please. The incredible aerial feats and awesome dance number will keep you satisfied until the new show arrives!
In Search of the Past: Restoring and Furnishing America’s Historic Sites
The Williamsburg area plays host to some fascinating events throughout the year, and there is one in particular that you may want to check out. Hosted as a means to educate the public about the domestic life of yesteryear, the Annual Antiques Forum is once again visiting Williamsburg.
This year’s title is In Search of the Past: Restoring and Furnishing America’s Historic Sites. The goal is to help people understand the décor, furnishings, and everyday life of centuries gone by. There are always several workshops, demonstrations, and lectures for the public to attend. Some of the topics this year include ‘American Neoclassical Furniture’, ‘Preparing and Serving an 18th Century Meal’, and Dirty Dishes: Archeology, Ceramics, and Historic Interiors’.
The events are being held this year at the Williamsburg Lodge and the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. There will also be tours available at local historic sites, including the Governor’s Palace. The Annual Antiques Forum will begin on January 4 and run through March 14. Whether you’re already going to be in the area or trying to choose a destination, the Annual Antique Forum in Williamsburg is the place to be!
There are a three hotels that you might consider for your stay, and the best part is all three are less than two miles away from the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. The first is the Westgate Historic Williamsburg, which keeps you within minutes of all the major Williamsburg attractions. Second is the Fairfield Inn & Suites. This hotel sits in the heart of the historic district of Williamsburg so you can soak up all the history you want to! The third hotel is the Quality Suites Williamsburg, which offers suite-style lodging close to attractions, entertainment, and shopping.
Grand Ole Opry Welcomes 2010
December 23, 2009 by admin
Filed under Grand Ole Opry
2009 is quickly coming to a close, which means many things for the Opry. If you’re wondering about what 2010 holds for this beloved country music show, you’re in luck. We’ve got the answers to all your questions.
The Radio City Spectacular Christmas show will close just prior to the new year, opening the Opry stage back up. Performances of the Grand Ole Opry will get to move back to home sweet home on the famous stage beginning in January. So if you’re planning on seeing the show in January, just remember that the performances have left Ryman Auditorium and moved home.
The schedule of the shows in 2010 will be the same as they have been in the past. A Tuesday show for the mid-weekly visitors is always a wonderful option. Also, the weekend shows will remain the same. Friday will host a 7 PM show, while Saturday hosts the 7 PM and 9:30 PM shows. As always, Vacations Made Easy will be sending out weekly newsletters announcing the weekend performers.
If you want a little more history of the Grand Ole Opry during your next visit, the Opry will still be offering all the same tours. Definitely check out the Opry House Backstage Tour to help make your next visit a special experience. Vacations Made Easy is more than happy to help make your trip to Nashville easier by helping you to book tickets ahead of time.
Check out the available activities at:
http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/NashvilleTN/activity/
Sample a Taste of Southern History in Chattanooga
The Chattanooga, Tennessee area is full of history, ranging from the time the region was settled to the Civil War to the depression-era building of the region. Whether you are visiting Chattanooga on a day trip or extended vacation, add some of these historical sites to your trip to better understand the rich history behind Chattanooga and Tennessee.
Sequoyah Caverns Tour with Visit to Ellis Homestead
The Ellis Homestead is over 160 years old, so it has seen its fair share of Chattanooga history. With the Sequoyah Caverns Tour with Visit to Ellis Homestead, you can experience both the legendary homestead along with some of the oldest caves in Chattanooga. During this activity, you will get to explore the caverns as well as Ellis Homestead, which contains a 160 year old cabin. At the homestead, you will also be able to participate in gem mining and wildlife watching.
While you are in Chattanooga, you must stop by the legendary Chattanooga Choo Choo complex on historic Market Street. This historic building contains the Chattanooga Choo Choo engine, a model railroad museum, and fascinating architecture. At the Chattanooga Choo Choo, you will also find many places to eat and shop, making it a fun family destination perfect for an afternoon that offers history as well as entertainment.
Chattanooga Regional History Museum
Chattanooga is also home to many interesting museums that commemorate the history of the museum. At the Chattanooga Regional History Museum, you can explore decades of years of history of the Chattanooga area. The museum contains exhibits and artifacts on Chattanooga’s role in the Civil War, daily life from the 1920s to 50s, and the work of Chattanooga artists. Offering a fascinating look at Chattanooga’s history, this museum is a great activity for families and visitors who have never been to Chattanooga before.
Visit The Dakota Area With A Tour
While the Mt Rushmore area of South Dakota is a wonderful place for a vacation, if you’ve been there before you need something new to add to your trip. Not to worry. There is a guided tour that passes through the Mt Rushmore area while still providing you with other sights. Check it out and book online today! It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
The 8-day West Dakota guided tour begins with your arrival in Rapid City, South Dakota. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a welcome dinner before you check into your hotel. Day two is when the tour really gets started as you tour Mt Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Monument. You will also enjoy a jeep tour through Custer State Park. Enjoy dinner at State Game Lodge before turning in for the night.
On day 3, you are scheduled to tour Badlands National Park, after which you’ll get to shop at the historic Wall Drugstore for souvenirs before heading back to your hotel in Chamberlain, South Dakota.
Day 4 is filled with a visit to Akta Lakota Museum and the St Joseph Indian School, where you’ll learn about the native people that once thrived on the plains. The rest of the day is spent traveling to Bismarck, North Dakota.
Enjoy the city of Bismarck and nearby Fort Mandan during day 5. You will be treated to a sightseeing dinner cruise on the Missouri River aboard the Lewis & Clark Riverboat.
Day 6 is filled with tours of the hometown of former president Teddy Roosevelt. You can experience the Badlands in the old cattle town of Medora before visiting Knife River Indian Villages and enjoying a Medora Musical performance and a pitchfork fondue.
The morning of day 7 is wide open for you to explore Deadwood, SD as you choose. Enjoy a trail ride or explore the local shops. You will also visit the Tatanka: Story of the Bison exhibit, where you’ll learn about the majestic animals that roamed the plains. Day 8 is reserved for traveling home.
Memphis Hosts 51st Liberty Bowl
It’s that time of year again, and I’m not talking about Christmas. It’s Bowl season again! That’s right, college teams are heading off to play in the famous bowl games around the country. If you’re planning on visiting Memphis early in the new year, you should definitely make plans to attend the AutoZone Liberty Bowl.
While 2009 was the 50th anniversary of the Liberty Bowl, the 2010 game promises to be a great one. The game is slated to begin at 4:30 on the afternoon of January 2. In keeping with tradition, the game will be played at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.
The 51st Liberty Bowl is a showdown between the Razorbacks from the University of Arkansas and the East Carolina University Pirates. When the teams take their half-time break, the crowd will jam to the hits of Eddie Money as he takes the stage for a spectacular half-time performance.
The Razorbacks are led by head coach, Bobby Petrino, and quarterback Ryan Mallet. Their record is 7-5 overall with 3 wins in their conference. The Pirates area led by head coach, Skip Holtz, and quarterback Patrick Pinkney. The Pirates’ record is 9-4 overall.
If you’re planning on visiting Memphis for the Liberty Bowl, you should know that the stadium is only a few miles a way from Memphis International Airport. There are so many lodging options in the area, all of which will keep you close to the stadium, the airport, and a few of Memphis’ more famous attractions.
Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge: A Great Destination for Kid-Friendly Vacations
December 18, 2009 by admin
Filed under Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN, VME
If you are looking for a great destination to visit with your family, check out Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. These jewels in the Smoky Mountains offer a variety of activities that can appeal to all ages. Check out the following ideas of activities every member of your family is sure to enjoy.
An activity that combines thrilling roller coasters and entertaining shows, Dollywood is one of the most popular attractions in Pigeon Forge for good reason. This park contains acres of family fun set in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. This theme park contains multiple roller coasters, water rides, and entertaining shows. In addition, even young children have their own children’s park to have fun in. You will also find dozens of restaurants, shops, and craftsmen scattered around the park. Throughout the year, Dollywood hosts different festivals, so be sure to check the calendar when you book your tickets to see what Dollywood has in store for you.
Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies
If you have budding scientists in your family, a visit to the Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-do on your vacation. This unique aquarium attraction contains a massive walk-through aquatic tunnel where you can see sharks swimming overhead and around you. The tunnel is just one highlight of this attraction, which contains over 10,000 creatures and a variety of different exhibits.
If your family is a little more adventurous than most, then check out the Monster Truck Rides. This activity allows you to experience riding in a real Monster Truck with 66 inch tires. The truck can hold 12 passengers, so this is an activity that the whole family can do together. The truck takes five laps around the course, and you get to experience what it is really like to ride in one of these powerful machines. For a unique and memorable vacation activity, you cannot beat the Monster Truck Rides.
Touring NYC Is Easy with Hop On/Hop Off Tours
Looking for an easy, affordable, and fun way to tour New York City? A multi-day pass for a Hop On/Hop Off Double Decker tour provides ease and convenience when touring New York City. Whether you are a first time visitor or have been several times, these tours are excellent choices that allow you to see the most of New York City all on your schedule. We offer several of these tours, but we have highlighted some of the best options below.
All Loops Double Decker Tour 48 Hour Pass
If you want a straightforward tour, the All Loops Double Decker Tour 48 Hour Pass is the best option for you. This tour gives you two days of access to four different touring loops: Brooklyn Loop, Downtown Loop, Uptown Loop, and the Night Tour. Combine, the tour makes 35 different stops at top New York landmarks and attractions, including Central Park, Wall Street, and the Empire State Building. With two days of access, you will be sure to see the highlights of New York with time to spare. If you feel you need a little more time, this tour is also available in a 72 hour pass.
Freestyle New York: 72 Hour Hop On/Hop Off Pass with Three Attractions
Many tours include a multi-day pass as well as attraction tickets, making them practically a complete vacation in themselves. One such tour is the Freestyle New York: 72 Hour Hop On/Hop Off Pass with Three Attractions. You will have three days of tour access on all four tour loops as well as your choice of three attractions. You have your selection of attractions like the Empire State Building, skyline cruise, ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty, and the American Museum of Natural History. With tickets to popular attractions and a three day hop on/hop off pass, the Freestyle New York tour has everything you need for a fantastic New York vacation.
Shop, Hop, and Top: 96 Hour Hop On/Hop Off Pass w/ Attraction Tickets
If you are going to be in the city for a week, the Shop, Hop, and Top: 96 Hour Hop On/Hop Off Pass w/ Attraction Tickets is an excellent choice if you want to devote lots of time to sightseeing. This tour offers four days of hop on/hop off access on all four loops in the city, as well as several additional tickets. This tour includes admission to either the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock Observatory, a Circle Line 75 Minute Harbor Cruise, Museum of the City of New York Admission, and a Woodbury Common Day Trip. From narrated sightseeing to a cruise in the harbor, this tour has it all!
Celebrate 2010 with a New Year’s Vacation in Nashville
December 17, 2009 by admin
Filed under Nashville TN, VME
Spend the New Year in style when you enjoy a New Year’s vacation in Nashville. We understand that after the hectic weeks of the holiday season, the last thing you want to do is take the time to plan a vacation, so we have a New Year’s Eve package ready to go for you.
The New Year’s in Nashville vacation package offers a fun and relaxing Nashville experience. The package includes four nights of lodging at the Gaylord Opryland Resort, which is practically a destination in itself. For your convenience, this package contains two breakfasts, two dinners, one lunch, and on brunch, as well as many activities.
The package kicks off with an evening spent at your leisure at the Gaylord Opryland. After you get settled in your room, you can explore the resort property, which contains shops, a river boat cruise, lounges, and restaurants. On New Year’s Eve, you will join other visitors for a party at the Gaylord Opryland in the Grand Ballroom. The evening’s festivities include a catered dinner with wine and champagne, party favors, and live entertainment. After the excitement of New Year’s Eve, you will have New Year’s Day to rest, wake up to a late brunch, and then board the General Jackson showboat dinner cruise for another great meal with live entertainment. On the next day of this vacation, you will enjoy a guided tour of Nashville complete with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and lunch at the Wild Horse Saloon. That evening, you will enjoy a performance at Nashville’s legendary Grand Ole Opry.
Complete with a variety of live entertainment, a memorable New Year’s Eve party, and a fantastic time at the Gaylord Opryland, this package contains everything you need for a spectacular New Year’s vacation.
If you would like to plan your own New Year’s vacation or just find something fun to do that weekend, you can easily build your own package or find activities online. Most of the holiday shows will be over, but Nashville still has plenty to offer visitors. Some of the activities available during the long weekend include the General Jackson New Year’s Eve cruise, ICE! at the Gaylord Opryland, and the Grand Ole Opry.
Let Your Inner Photographer Come Out with a Las Vegas Photo Tour
Las Vegas is located in the center of the West with convenient access to many natural parks and beautiful scenery. During your Las Vegas vacation, you can take advantage of the many photo tours we offer to landmarks and parks in the surrounding area. From Bryce Canyon to Area 51, you can explore many beautiful sites and come back with breathtaking photos.
Located in southwestern Utah, Bryce Canyon is a unique natural formation that is a cross between a deep cave and canyon. Carved by freeze-thaw cycles, the fascinating and beautiful formations are like no other you will find in the United States. On the Bryce Zion Photo Tour, you can enjoy a guided tour to Bryce Canyon as well as Zion National Park, which is also located in Utah. On this tour, you will be able to shoot scenery of the Bryce Canyon formations as well as landscapes in Zion National Park.
Valley of Fire-Lost City Museum Photo Tour
If you are looking for more unique sights, try the Valley of Fire-Lost City Museum Photo Tour, which will take you to the Valley of Fire and Lost City. The Valley of Fire State Park is home to remnants of the early Aztec civilization, and you will be able to see Aztec sandstone formations and ancient hieroglyphics. Other stops on this tour include the Lost City Museum, which contains many exhibits and artifacts from the Pueblo Indians who once called this area home. This tour contains unforgettable views that will certainly make for incredible photographs.
Area 51 is not a national park, but it certainly is a mysterious national treasure. The Area 51 Photo Tour will take you to the Area 51 compound in New Mexico. This tour includes several stops around Area 51, including at the Little A’le’inn for lunch and sightseeing. You will see the Indian petryoglyphs that some believe look like aliens exploring the region. The tour does not go inside Area 51, but you will be able to see the view from the road and be able to take pictures of this landmark that is shrouded in mystery. This tour also includes a stop at a Joshua Tree forest.
These tours are only a few of the photo tours we offer, so be sure to check out the whole selection.
