www.tripsandgetaways.com

The Brandywine Valley located 30 miles southwest of Philadelphia is situated were Delaware and Pennsylvania come together and the Brandywine River runs through it. It has been nicknamed the “chateau country” because of its beautiful landscapes, rich history, culture and art. The area is a storehouse of prominent and stately mansions, gardens and museums.

The Brandywine Valley Museum & Garden Alliance is offering discount tickets for individuals and families through Labor Day that include 10 Brandywine Valley attractions for one price. Visit www.brandywinetreasures.org. These two museums are a sampling of the true treasures found in the Brandywine Valley. There is a storehouse of gems just waiting for your discovery.

Brandywine River Museum

On the banks of the river you’ll find a delightful museum appropriately named Brandywine River Museum. Originally a 19th-century civil-war era gristmill it was bought and restored by the Brandywine Conservancy. It houses the largest collection of paintings by three generations of Wyeths, N.C., Andrew and James (Jamie).

Some of N.C. Wyeth’s works are illustrations from “Treasure Island,” “Kidnapped,” and “The Last of the Mohicans.” Andrew Wyeth’s “Snow Hill,” “Spring Fed,” and “Roasted Chestnuts” are displayed.

James Wyeth’s “Kent House” and “Portrait of Pig” are on exhibit. Every hair on the pig seems to stand out and it’s as if he was sporting a smirk that makes it so charming. These are just a few of the numerous familiar and rarely shown works that are rotated on a regular basis.

Other paintings of the Wyeth family members are also shown along with well know illustrators including Howard Pyle, N.C. Wyeth’s teacher.

In addition the museum offers tours of N.C. Wyeth’s home and studio, as well as Kuerner Farms, Andrew Wyrth’s inspiration for many of his paintings.

Victoria Wyeth, Andrew’s granddaughter hosts tours on certains days and time, which are included in the admission. She is delightful, witty and adds a wealth of insight and knowledge about the family.

The outside gardens feature flowers, shrubs and trees native to the area and a path along the river for exploring.

The museum’s restaurant is located in a glass tower and serves lunch and views of the river. Visit the museum store for gifts, books and reproductions of your favorite paintings. The museum is open every day except Christmas from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to the museum and tours are nominal. No charge for the gardens.

For details and events, visit www.brandywinemuseum.org.

This summer, through Labor Day, the museum along with 600 other museums across the country have joined together to offer Blue Star Museums. There is a free admission program for active duty military personnel and their families. For information, visit www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

Delaware Art Museum

Founded in 1912 and then renovated in 2005 the museum’s plans were to preserve and display the works of Howard Pyle (1853-1911), known for putting Brandywine Valley on the artistic map. It has evolved over the years to include Pyle’s students such as N.C, Wyeth and John Sloan to name a few. Howard Pyle’s “The Buccaneer Was a Picturesque Fellow” and John Sloan’s “Spring Rain” are just a few of many featured. You’ll also find masterpieces of American Art of the 19th century by artist Raphaelle Peale, Edward Hopper, Dale Chihuly, and many others. If you are a fan of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly you will love his display in the north entrance. Commissioned in 1999 he created 18 large scale glass multi-colored flower like structures and later in June 2005 added 11 more. He named it “Persian Windows.” Quite a stunning display.

The museums claim to fame is America’s largest collection of British Pre-Raphaelite (before Raphael) Art. The artists subjects depicted were taken mostly from literature themes like that of the Bible and Shakespeare. Many magnificent masterpieces by Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s (1828-1882) and others are breathtaking.

Before departing take a stroll in the nine acre Copeland Sculpture Garden. Displayed are some major works by contemporary artists. Besides the permanent displays the museum hosts many traveling exhibits and events. Light lunch is served in their delART Cafe and the Museum Shop provides books, poster, jewelry and more. The museum is closed Monday through Tuesday and free on Sunday. Admission prices are reasonable. For information and calendar of events, visit www.delart.org.

Last month, I treated my mom, brother and sister to a tour of Winterthur, the great American country estate nestled in the heart of Delaware’s beautiful Brandywine Valley.

Winterthur is the former home of Henry Francis du Pont (1880-1969), an avid antiques collector and horticulturist. In the early 20th century, H. F. du Pont and his father, Henry Algernon du Pont, designed Winterthur in the spirit of 18th- and19th-century European country houses.

Rediscover America’s heritage through its unparalleled collections of antiques and Americana. Venture out over the fields and farmland to learn about the workings of a great American country estate. Wander through the breathtaking beauty of the 60-acre naturalistic Winterthur Garden. Youngsters (and the young-at-heart) will wonder at the magic of Winterthur’s famous fairy-tale children’s garden, Enchanted Woods, and enjoy hands-on learning in the Touch-It Room. Researchers will find a wealth of resources awaiting them in the Winterthur Library.

Begin your trip to Winterthur at the visitors’ center, where knowledgeable staff will guide you to the best way to see the estate and gardens within your time constraints. If you get to Winterthur around noon, make sure to start off with a nice lunch at the café, which serves salads and sandwiches.

Take a garden tour on your way to the estate. Winterthur’s 1,000-acre country estate encompasses rolling hills, streams, meadows and forests. You will hear about how founder H.F. du Pont developed an appreciation of nature as a boy that served as the basis for his life’s work in the garden. He selected the choicest plants from around the world to enhance the natural setting, arranging them in lyrical color combinations and carefully orchestrating a succession of bloom from late January to November. Du Pont translated his love of the land into a unified work of art that embodies a romantic vision of nature’s beauty.

Each season comes alive with different parts of the garden bursting into bloom. No matter when you come, you won’t be disappointed.

Both Sycamore Hill and Oak Hill are at their peak of bloom this month, as Kousa dogwoods with their white star-like blossoms, pink spirea, white deutzias and lavender lilacs all come into bloom. Primroses are still colorful at the Quarry Garden in shades of yellow, pink and orange along with spirea and potentilla, which can be found below the Quarry Garden bridge.

Throughout Winterthur, some late azaleas and rhododendrons add their colors to the landscape. Arching sprays of deutzia and spirea are complemented by blue and white iris at Magnolia Bend. Be sure to take a stroll and enjoy the interesting textures of ferns, hostas, daylilies and other delights of the Winterthur woodlands.

Make sure to ask the tour guide to drop you off at the Enchanted Woods, a unique children’s garden at Winterthur. In a three-acre plot of the Winterthur Garden, the fairy folk created a magical landscape for children of all ages! Canopied by majestic oak trees, Enchanted Woods has been taken over by the woodland fairies who live here and is transformed into a place of enchantment, mystery and discovery. From the Tulip Tree House to the Faerie Cottage, children will find a new world to explore.

Trams run every 20 minutes, so another one will be along to pick you up after you’ve had a chance to explore the unique garden to take you to the estate.

When you get to the estate house, you will be put in a tour group of 10 for a guided tour around the house. You will be instantly immersed in another time and place. Feel free to take photos and wrap yourself in the rich du Pont history as experienced tour guides tell about this family’s exquisitely furnished rooms in which du Pont entertained his family and friends in grand country-house style. In the inspiring architectural surroundings of the period rooms, you will view magnificent vignettes of antiques celebrating the finest in style and craftsmanship.

Make sure to view the film of the history of Winterthur and the Lost Gardens of the Brandywine exhibit, which runs until July 25. Through rare early color images and garden ornaments, explore the private, historic gardens of the Brandywine Valley-hidden gems of fleeting beauty, many of which have been lost to time.

Before you leave, make sure to visit the garden gift shop where you can purchase some of the fine flowers and bushes representative of the gardens. You can take a little bit of Winterthur back home with you!

For information, visit www.winterthur.org.

Last fall marked the opening of “Restless Planet” for the Virginia Aquarium and Science Center located in Virginia Beach. The $25 million renovation features four habitats.

The habitats depict what was likely Virginia’s ecological history millions of years ago.

The new exhibit showcases 6,000 animals and 367 species and 300 hands-on, educational fun.

Indonesia’s Flores Island Habitat

The Indonesion Volcanic Island Habitat is home to the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard. There are two males and one female.

They seem very much at home in their new surrounding and at times act as if they have been coached to pose for photos. Could it be they are just as curious about us? Fluttering in the same area are colorful Indonesion finches.

The unique aspect of this section is the capability for young visitors to crawl into and pop up in a clear acrylic bubble and get a eye-to-eye, close up view. How cool is that?

Red Sea Habitat

The Red Sea Habitat consists of an 8,000 gallon aquarium with beautiful live coral. Eagle Rays with the wing span of up to 6 feet swim in a 100,000 gallon aquarium along with a remarkable collection of fish. A 40-foot glass tunnel allows quests to have a spectacular underwater experience.

Coastal Sahara Desert Habitat

The Coastal Desert and Mediterranean Sea area brings desert and sea together. Some of the creatures featured here are short-snouted seahorses, cuttle fish, hedgehogs, and deadly scorpions and cobras.

Malaysian Peat Swamp Habitat

The Malaysian Peat Swamp Habitat is damp with thunder and watery sounds. Here you’ll find southeast Asian animals that include snakehead fish, turtles and Malayian leaf frogs.

The most impressive in this section is the rare and endangered Tomistoma crocodile.

Its very long and narrow snout sets them apart from other crocs. The pair, one female and one male, were born in 1985. Now, somewhere between 11feet and 13 feet long, they are at the age to reproduce.

It took the aquarium six years to acquire them. They wanted to make sure they were compatible, so when the female laid her head over the male’s tail they knew they had a match.

In addition, be sure to visit Restless Planet’s two Science Shacks. Play “Puzzled Earth” and “Where in the World” games. Check out and get close to live animals at the Conservation Station.

You may never be able to travel the world to seek out and observe these rare creatures but the Virginia Aquarium and Science Center’s  Restless Planet brings them all to us.

For more information, visit www.VirginiaAquarium.com.

Croc’s 19th Street Bistro

To complete your trip to the Virginia Aquarium’s Restless Planet exhibit, make sure to stop by to visit the “Green Queen” at Croc’s 19th Street Bistro.

The restaurant sponsors the Tomistoma crocociles in the Restless Planet exhibit.

Croc’s claim to fame is being the first restaurant to be certified green in Virginia. The program encourages sound environmental practices. Owner Laura Wood Habr is known as the “Green Queen.” Rightly so because floors, counter tops, lighting, water savers and biodegradable take-out ware are just a few of the eco-friendly items at Croc’s.

Cuisine is based on sustainable produce and seafood. Croc’s offers typical Lebanese favorites along with eating mezze (little bites), an old Middle Eastern custom.

Menus include delicious, delectable and fresh seafood, steak, lamb and poultry along with an award winning wine list. Thursday nights rock with live bands or DJs, so you can  show off your moves on the dance floor. Croc’s is a wonderful gathering place for a casual meal or planned party and close to the aquarium and the beach front.

For more information and events, visit www.crocs19streetbistro.com.

Also, on Saturdays mid-May through September, Croc’s parking lot becomes a farmer’s market promoting locally fresh vegetables, fruit, fish, herbs and wine. For information, visit www.oldbeachfarmersmarket.com.

The “Green Queen” is an avid supporter of the aquarium’s Sensible Seafood Program helping to save our oceans and sea life. The seafood guide informs consumers of fresh or farmed and what is the best choice, a good alternative, or what to avoid.

For more information on the area, visit www.vbfun.com.

I often wonder why the avid angler spends a lifetime of repetitive activity of catching fish just for sport. Fly fishing reels in both men and women. It is a technique, an art form and a science. It takes you from curious wonder to a desire to master the skill. There is more to it than meets the eye. The craft takes practice, patience and a seasoned instructor at the onset.

Handling the rod and getting the feel of the different casting positions is just the beginning. Knowing what the fish are feasting on at that particular time is crucial in the catch. It could be eggs on the stream bottom, larvae, nymph or a floating insect about to take flight. You can purchase ready-made lures, but some folks make their own from feathers and fur.

The draw to fly fishing can be addictive and worth all the effort when you snag a rainbow trout and hold him in your hands. They definitely make for good eating, but there is something about giving that wild wonder of creation its freedom to swim again. I once heard that fish bite better on a cloudy drizzly day. Is it fact of fiction? It is a fact! I caught my first rainbow trout on such a day.

Wilderness Voyageurs

You don’t have to go far to find that perfect fishing spot. Freshwater lakes, streams or creeks fit the bill. Cold water streams that feed into the Youghiogheny River in south western Pennsylvania make fly fishing ideal year round. You can expect to find rainbow, brook, brown and even golden trout.

Wilderness Voyageurs can outfit you and provide one on one or group lessons. The company has even started offering women’s fly fishing clinics. Located in Ohiopyle, Pa., the Martin family has provided outdoor recreation for 40 years. Whitewater rafting (various levels), kayaking, fly fishing, bike excursions are just a few. If you prefer a tamer river ride enjoy their Historical Float Trip where you are guaranteed not to get wet. Wilderness Voyageurs’ domain include parts of Maryland and West Virginia and—if you’re really adventurous—pack up and go with them on a Colorado fly fishing expedition.

Dale Kotowski, fly fishing director and enthusiast since his teens, says “Fly fishing makes me happy!” Fortunately for him, his wife shares his love for the sport. He also considers Youghiogheny River area to be one of the top 10 for fly fishing in Pennsylvania. For information, visit www.wilderness-voyageurs.com.

Nature Quest

North central Pennsylvania in Wellsboro is another sweet spot for enjoying fly fishing. Nature Quest can furnish whatever you need along with a guide for two hours or several days of camping and fishing along miles of Class A wild trout waters. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced they will help to make your experience memorable. While fishing keep a look out for elk. Nature Quest also has Elk Treks. In the spring, elk are having babies and in the fall you will hear the bugling of the males. For a full list of their many outdoor sports and events visit www.naturequestadventures.com.

This beautiful mountainous region of Tioga County and Pine Creek Gorge is a must see. It is known as the “Grand Canyon” of Pennsylvania. For more information on the area, visit www.tiogacentral.com.

Seven Springs Mountain Resort

If you like the outdoors but prefer a bed to a sleeping bag, Seven Springs is a worthy destination. Since its inception in 1932, the resort has evolved over the years into a spectacular four-season venue. Located on 5,000 incredible acres in the Laurel Highlands area of southwestern Pennsylvania, you’ll find almost any outdoor sport—and many indoor activities—that make this a most desirable family-oriented resort.

You can pursue your fly fishing aspirations with a guided tour and instructor. Fish on numerous spring-fed lakes and streams or float-tube fish on Lake Gosling.

The newly refurbished hotel is sophisticated elegance but still reflects a mountain resort ambience. On the property you’ll find excellent casual dining choices and fine dining at Helen’s Restaurant located in the original home of the Seven Springs founders.

Your stay at Seven Springs would not be complete without a visit to the renovated Trillium Spa, named after the delicate three-petal wildflower native to the area. The moment you enter the facility, stress seems to melt away. The quiet, colors, aromas and water sounds envelope you. Treatment areas and lounges are lush and relaxing. Feel pampered with a wide variety of treatment options. You’re sure to come away feeling rejuvenated.

For information, visit www.7springs.com.

An outdoor adventure getaway means something different to everyone. From the weekend warrior who wants to flirt with nature to the serious explorer who wants to become one with nature,  travelers will find all levels of outdoor adventure in Tioga County, Pa.

Tioga County is known as home of the “Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.” Even if you’ve traveled to the real Grand Canyon in Arizona, you will still be awestruck by the natural beauty of this one, and it comes dressed in the beautiful lush greenery we all love about the Mid-Atlantic region.

Tioga County is located in North Central Pennsylvania (near the New York border), just a four- to five-hour drive from Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New York City and Baltimore/Washington, .D.C., area. To get there, Route 15 (soon to be Interstate 99) and Route 6 will lead you right to Tioga County.

The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon is really a gorge, known as Pine Creek Gorge, that winds its way through a beautiful wilderness landscape. The gorge is surrounded by approximately 165,000 acres of the Tioga State Forest. The canyon begins south of Ansonia along US Route 6 and continues for approximately 47 miles. The maximum depth of the canyon is 1,450 feet at Waterville, near the southern end.

The canyon embraces a natural waterway – Pine Creek – and was formed about 26,000 years ago during the glacial period. Bordered by Leonard Harrison State Park on the East Rim and Colton Point State Park on the West Rim, the canyon is a breathtakingly beautiful site that attracts thousands of visitors per year.

There are many ways to view the canyon and take advantage of the beautiful area. You can drive to the scenic overlooks at Leonard Harrison and Colton Point State Parks, where the depth is more than 800 feet. These overlooks offer the most spectacular views and nearby trails are perfect for beginners who just want to wander around and take in the view.

Hiking the Turkey Path from Leonard Harrison State Park will wind you past waterfalls and areas of beautiful scenery. The trail steeply descends one mile to the canyon floor. The Overlook Trail, a .6-mile loop, offers a scenic vista along the way. Picnic areas, playground, a seasonal, visitor center and gift shop are also available for your enjoyment.

Colton Point State Park features the rustic charm of the Civilian Conservation Corps era of the 1930s. The park also highlights four miles of hiking trails, including the Turkey Path Trail. This very narrow trail steeply descends to the floor of the canyon and does not allow access across Pine Creek to the other side of the gorge. Many more miles of trails are accessible through the Tioga State Forest, adjacent to the park.

One of the best ways to explore the area is through Nature Quest, www.naturequestadventures.com. Nature Quest offers many adventure tour packages – from beginning to advanced – that include horseback riding and wagon rides, hunting, birding and fishing. Nature Quest also offers wildlife watching excursions – its popular one is the Elk Trek – and a variety of themed hiking and biking tours around the rim of the canyon and to the area’s waterfalls. Their experienced tour guides and experts offer a wide range of adventure for all ages and skill levels.

Tioga Central Railroad

Another way to enjoy the beauty of the area is to take a train ride on the Tioga Central Railroad. You will see up to 42 miles of Pennsylvania and New York countryside as you pass scenic fields and forests, roll along Crooked Creek’s sparkling waters, and enjoy the splendor of Lake Hammond.

The climate-controlled train offers clean restrooms and a snack bar. The dining car is wheelchair accessible. The Tioga Central Railroad offers Saturday dinner trains and Sunday brunch trains and has many special excursions. All trains depart from the Wellsboro Junction, just three miles north of Wellsboro. For more information, visit www.tiogacentral.com.

Wellsboro

Called the Gateway to Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, Wellsboro is a quaint, friendly town that offers lovely, well-preserved architecture, wide gas-lit boulevards and a pedestrian-friendly environment. The little five-square-mile town, which is the county seat, was incorporated in 1830 and has a population of just over 3,000.

Visitors will enjoy strolling through the streets with a diverse array of shops, restaurants and family-run establishments.

Wellsboro’s Town Green is home to a unique statue called Wynken, Blynken and Nod, based on a 1899 Dutch Lullaby by Eugene Field, which was created in the 1920s and brought to the town in 1938 in memory of a town native.

The Gambrel House

To capture the ambience of the area, you must stay at the Gambrel House, located in the Historic District of Wellsboro. The little cottage has a kitchen, fireplace, living room and two bedrooms upstairs. The bedrooms are not handicapped-accessible, as you must go up steep stairs reach them. But the country-style cottage is very quaint and beautifully decorated.

You will certainly feel right at home after your long day of exploring the area. For more information, visit www.thegambrelhouse.com.

For more information on Tioga County, visit www.visittiogapa.com.

It was my good fortune to go to the small city of Ubud recently. Its natural beauty, friendly people, exotic views, culinary delights, rice terraces and spiritual aspects fascinated me.

As I stood outside my room at Murni’s Houses and said to myself, “everyone should see a place like this before they die.”

Highly spiritual

Bali is described aptly by Ni Wayan Murni, of Murni’s Houses and other travel-related facilities in the Ubud area, as highly spiritual.

“The vital thing to appreciate is that there is hardly any division between the religious and the secular world. God is everywhere and in all things,” she wrote on her Web site, murnis.com.

Feeling welcome

Preparation for the trip started months ago when I booked a flight for about $1,500 with Japan Airlines, and later, a jaunt was taken to a medical travel office in Annapolis for immunizations.

For five days, my goals were to see and experience as much as possible in this land of the gods.

After landing at the airport in Denpasar, I was met by a driver from Murni’s Houses and taken to the place I would call home for my short duration in Bali. He was extremely friendly and made me feel welcome in his country.

A magical place

Murni and her husband, Pat, own and operate the guest houses, where I stayed, as well as a warung (store) with a four-level restaurant in the Ubud-Campuhan area. They also maintain Villa Kunang-Kunang, a 10-minute drive outside Ubud.

To me, Murni’s Houses was a magical place to stay, especially at night when insects chirped and animals howled outside as I slept. The first night, the loud noises frightened me but by the last night, I couldn’t wait to hear all the wonderful sounds just beyond the door.

The bottom portion of the house was similar to American homes, but the top was different. It was screened to allow air from outside to circulate throughout. The huge, decorative and colorful umbrella and painted wooden angel above the bed provided a nice sight to wake up to each morning.

Each morning at Murni’s, breakfast was a much-anticipated thing. The plain yogurt with different types of fresh fruit and honey was divine. Coupled with tea, it was the perfect way to greet a new day.

Stunning views of the palm trees beyond the guest houses, and sights of statues and shrines on the grounds of Murni’s is a photographer’s delight.

Ubud

About a three-minute walk down two streets is the fascinating town of Ubud, a place known for artists, temples, very good food, batik items, and a wide variety of stores.

One place with several interesting areas is the temple Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati on Ubud’s main street. Every part of this temple has different things to see and possibly photograph, with very stunning bright colors, coupled with the terracotta color of main portions of the temple dedicated to the goddess of art and learning, Saraswati.

Feast for the eyes

One of my favorite memories from my visit to this temple is a woman who was on her knees, bowing to pray. It was a beautiful sight in a lovely place, with the Café Lotus and large, pink lotus flowers nearby.

Another highlight of a trip to Bali was the talented dancers in their breathtakingly beautiful costumes.

The Legong “Jobog” and Ramayana dances by the Bina Remaja Troupe at the Ubud Palace Court Yard in downtown Ubud were a feast for the eyes.

The Legong dance is based on the story of two brothers, kings Subali and Sugriwa, who are turned into monkeys. They wind up fighting and eventually recognize each other as brothers, according to the dance’s program.

The Ramayana dance features Rama, Sita and her brother Laksamana, who enter the jungle of Dandaka for a journey and are discovered by demonic minister Maricha of Alengka Kingdom.

Petulu Village

Another interesting site in the Ubud area is the Petulu Village, where the white herons live. There are three different types of herons residing in this village.

The herons arrived in Petulu in 1965. A large ceremony was held at the pura desa, or village temple, shortly following their descent.

A pamphlet explains: “It came as a surprise to the villagers the herons arrived after their ceremony and consider it as a blessing from God. In order to encourage the herons to live in Petulu and increase their population, the villagers make special ceremonies called memendak kokokan.

Motorbike tour

Thanks to my motorbike guide who took me to the village, I have some treasured photos of these gorgeous birds, some of them with the orange-colored necks. One of them gracefully spreads its wings in a photo.

I Nyoman took me to Santi Agrowisata in Gianyar. It is an awesome coffee and tea plantation operated by I Wayan Sudarana, who is most welcoming to tourists from all over the world.

I Wayan treated me like an honored guest, as I sampled some of the best drinks I’ve ever experienced – Bali coffee, Bali cocoa, lemongrass tea and ginger tea.

Natural beauty

Since a few days have now passed since I returned from the trip, I think about the natural beauty of the Ubud area and the things that make it so wondrous – the dancers, the folklore, multitude of craftsmen, the music, the orchids and the temples.

I remember my new friends and hope their beautiful surroundings in Ubud/Campuhan will never change due to development to strip the land of its natural beauty.

As Gede, I Wayan, I Nyoman, the folks at Murni’s and others showed me hospitality, peace and gave me wonderful memories, I wish them the same in return.

I wish for the exotic sounds of animals and birds to continue and all the array of traditional things they treasure to carry on for generations to come.

Reprinted with permission by The Prince George’s Sentinel, www.thesentinel.com

 “Even in a very difficult economy, our very successful 2009 cruise season provides us with a tremendous sense of optimism for the future of cruising from Maryland,” said Governor Martin O’Malley.  “The strong cruise market in Baltimore last year generated an estimated economic impact of $152 million, illustrating that our Port continues to drive economic progress and create jobs.  We expect another strong performance in 2010 as the number of cruises grows to 91 with two lines offering year-round cruising from Baltimore.”

 In 2010, three cruise lines will operate from the Port of Baltimore:  Carnival, Celebrity, and Royal Caribbean. The Carnival Pride returns for its second year of year-round cruising to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean.  Royal Caribbean brings a newer and larger vessel, the Enchantment of the Seas to Baltimore for cruises to New England/Canada, Bermuda, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Bahamas.  Royal Caribbean will also offer all-season cruising from Baltimore for the first time.  The Celebrity Mercury will return for a second season of winter cruising beginning in October and will travel to the Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean and the Bahamas. 

 The Port of Baltimore is the closest East Coast drive-to port from Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Indianapolis and Chicago.  Baltimore is also within a three-hour drive from the New York City metro area.  The Cruise Maryland terminal is only 2.5 miles from Baltimore’s world famous Inner Harbor, 10 miles from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, and little more than an hour from three other major airports.

 Maryland’s median household income of $70,540 is the highest in the U.S.  Baltimore is also located within a four-hour drive of eight of the ten wealthiest counties in the U.S.   The Baltimore-Washington DC-Northern Virginia region is recognized as one of the most affluent in the nation.

The weather outside may be frightful, but those looking for a family-friendly place to come in from the cold can’t go wrong with a Great Wolf Lodge getaway. And don’t forget your bathing suits because it’s always 84 degrees at the lodge’s water park.

Great Wolf Lodge, with Mid-Atlantic locations in Williamsburg, Va., the Poconos, Pa., and Sandusky, Ohio, is a first-class, full-service, year-round family destination resort designed to capture the atmosphere and adventure of the north woods.

Great Wolf Lodge provides a comprehensive package of destination lodging amenities, including: 401 all-suite guest rooms; a 91,000 square-foot indoor entertainment area, featuring a 80,000 square-foot indoor water park; a spacious outdoor pool; two themed, family restaurants; Elements Spa; Scooops Kid Spa; an over 100-game arcade with ticket redemption center; MagiQuest, an interactive adventure game; a tech center: meeting space; a confectionery café; and a fitness center.

Bear Track Landing – one of America’s largest indoor water parks – is a fun way to spend a cold, winter day. The 84-degree water park features 12 waterslides, a water roller coaster, four tube slides, two body slides, a family raft ride and four kiddie slides. There are six pool, which include an indoor wave pool, leisure pool, zero-depth entry children’s activity pool, a lazy river, and family and adult whirlpools.

But the most fun for all ages is Fort Mackenzie, a four-story interactive treehouse waterfort featuring a nearly 1,000-gallon tipping water bucket. This12-level treehouse waterfort provides an interactive water experience for the entire family, featuring over 60 water effects and cargo-netting and suspension bridges.

When it’s time to dry off, youngsters can go to the Cub Club, which offers special programs that teach kids about nature and creatures of the north woods. There are exciting programs like Bugs on a Rug, Bouncin’ with the Bullfrogs, Backyard Birdies and even a Jr. Lifeguard Program. Also, visit the activity center any time to create a craft souvenir to take home as a keepsake. Best suited for ages 5-12. Hours vary daily.

Of course, the video game attractions are sure to please kids of all ages. One new thing older kids will particularly enjoy is MagiQuest, an interactive adventure game. Armed with high-tech wands, your family must solve magical challenges throughout the resort to gain powers (and points) and move to higher levels of the game.

Another new activity features computers with teen-conscious Internet access, docking stations for iPods and MP3 players, as well as multiple gaming stations for those who strive to win one of our contests on systems such as Nintendo Wii, XBox360 and PlayStation 3.

At Race Zone, design and build your own remote control vehicle by choosing the color of the vehicle, the color of the wheel and three different body styles. You even get to create your own drivers license and then test your design by racing it on our indoor race track. 

Wind down your day near the great stone fireplace in the lobby as pajama-clad kids in slippers scamper down to the Clock Tower for Story Time, every night.

Great Wolf Lodge is environmentally friendly, and is the first and only national hotel chain to have all of its U.S. properties Green Seal Certified. The lodge is currently offering special winter packages. For more information, call 1-800-WOLF, or visit www.greatwolf.com.

Mimslyn Inn

Luray, Va.

If you’re looking for the charm of a vintage Southern inn without traveling down the coast into the heart of Dixie, you don’t have to venture any farther than the Shenandoah Valley’s Luray, Va. There you will find the Mimslyn Inn, standing atop a high knoll in Luray, beckoning urban visitors to check your stress at the door and taking you away in luxury and charm.

The Mimslyn Inn’s historic setting features expansive lawns peppered with gardens, oversized patios, landscaped terraces and tasteful stonework. It is within walking distance of historic downtown Luray and sandwiched between the famous Luray Caverns and scenic Shenandoah National Park. The inn features spa services and offers wedding packages.

For information, visit www.mimslynninn.com.

Willow Valley Resort

Lancaster, Pa.

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Willow Valley Resort offers the perfect dose of excitement and relaxation for the entire family or couples looking to escape. The resort partners with many area attractions for special pricing and offers a spectacular Sunday brunch.

Families will love the kid-friendly indoor water park, which features slides, palm trees, a giant frog and water sprayers. Adults can make a splash in one of two indoor pools and whirlpools. If you need to keep up with your workout, or simply unwind, the fitness center features free weights, universal equipment, treadmills, stair climbers, an elliptical machine and stationary bikes.

Willow Valley Resort offers special packages, including Kids Stay & Eat Free packages. For information, visit www.willowvalleyresort.com.

Campbell House B&B

Ligonier, Pa.

For visitors who want to experience old-fashioned charm with today’s comfort, the Campbell House Bed & Breakfast offers charming accommodations with a Victorian flavor. Its uniquely decorated rooms, all with private baths, offer an eclectic collection of Campbell’s memorabilia. We guarantee you will see something in its décor that you will remember from your childhood.

The Campbell House, an adult-only getaway, is a smoke-free bed and breakfast. Campbell House is a popular wedding and elopement destination. The Campbell House is a short walking distance to downtown Ligonier, shops and restaurants. It is a short driving distance to the famous Frank Lloyd Wright houses, Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob.

For information on rates and special packages, visit www.campbellhousebnb.com.

Cider Mill House B&B

Hedgesville, W.Va.

Innkeepers Ed and Kat Cimaglio face a challenge when weary, stressed out guests visit their bed and breakfast in Hedgesville, W.Va., just a short drive from Martinsburg, W.Va. Their challenge: How to loosen them up so they can relax during their stay. It’s not a hard thing to do at the Cider Mill House B&B at Willow Run Farms. Ed and Kat are warm and welcoming.

Cider Mill House is an original 200-year-old stone farmhouse. The house is carefully restored and beautifully decorated to reflect the 18^th-century farmstead lifestyle. Period lodging rooms, most with private baths, are charming. Ed and Kat start your day off with a full gourmet breakfast.

Cows, goats, guinea hens and wild turkeys dot the beautiful landscape. Activities include sitting by the fireplace or on the front porch in a rocking chair listening to the sounds of nature, walking on the three miles of hiking trails around the farm and breathing in fresh air. Come in, pull up a chair and sit a while!

 For information, visit www.cidermillhouse.com.