Vacationers planning to book Arizona timeshare rentals may not be sure what adventures they should prepare for in a state filled with desert trails and sandstone cliffs. Whether amidst the vast Sonoran Desert, filled with wildflowers, cacti and other fragrant desert plants, or among the Red Rock Crossing, where the waters of Oak Creek capture massive sandstone cliffs in its reflection, your visit to the Grand Canyon State will be rich in unforgettable memories of the Southwest desert landscape.

Savor Sedona’s artistic culture
Located in North Central Arizona, Sedona possesses a culture rich in art and Native American history. Famous for its artist enclaves, the city boasts several scenic small towns where creative thinkers have found inspiration in the histories of the land. Galleries, studios, festivals, concerts and film screenings entertain residents and visitors throughout the year, creating a tight-knit cultural community within the state.

If you book your next vacations at timeshare resorts in the art-filled city, you may find the excitement you’re looking for at the Sedona Arts Center, which used to be an old apple-packing barn until 1958. Events such as the Sedona Plein Air Festival and Sedona Photofest take over the barn in the months of October and June and keep community members and tourists educated in the artistic successes of neighborhood artists.

Other festivals in the city include the Sedona International Film Festival in February, the summertime’s Red Rocks Music Festival and the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks concert series in the fall.

Nighttime tours in Red Rock State Park
Under the desert stars, Arizona vacationers can journey on a guided moonlight hike in Sedona’s Red Rock State Park. The national park offers two-hour treks twice a month from April-October. Flashlights or headlamps are required for the nightly stroll, because you never know what you may encounter along the park’s 10 developed trails.

The moon’s glow will offer you just enough natural light to witness the manzanita and juniper plants growing along the trails, until you reach the rich banks of Oak Creek. You may want to have your camera ready when you arrive at the rippling stream – the hills of red rock reflecting across the moonlit creek will be a view you won’t want to forget.

When hints of warm weather begin to show, young students know that spring vacations from school are soon to arrive. While a simple getaway from the daily routine is enough to excite most kids in the classroom, booking vacation rentals in new and exciting cities can be a fun change of pace for the family.

Many locations around the country are ideal for entertaining individuals of all ages. Travelers can take a spring vacation road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco across Highway 1 and cruise around its curvy turns and steep cliffs that plunge straight to the crystal clear ocean. Sightseeing through each California city and booking the occasional nightly condo rentals when drivers need a rest can open children’s eyes to unfamiliar cultures and style.

A visit to Flagstaff, Arizona, will give family travelers the ultimate look at the wonders of the Southwest. The city is found 7,000 feet high in the world’s largest ponderosa forest, welcoming visitors to seven national parks and monuments. Families can visit Bushmaster Park or FoxGlenn Park and take advantage of the great outdoors, or visit the Mountain Top Honey Company to savor a taste of its sweet quality product.

Whether travelers are interested in an outdoor, golf or spa vacation, Sedona, a beautiful area in central Arizona, is the ideal place to plan a trip. There are many things to do in this city, such as hike and explore the area, enjoy the beautiful weather or shoot a few holes at one of the many Sedona golf resorts.

In this gorgeous Arizona locale, there are many different options for Sedona lodging. The Bell Rock Inn is one great place to stay, especially for individuals who are traveling with a large group of friends or family. At these accommodations, there are poolside barbecue areas that overlook beautiful red rock formations. Visitors may wish to plan a get-together at one of these sites, as it is the perfect setting for a fun afternoon cookout. Additionally, The Bell Rock Inn is located close to the Coconino National Forest, where adventurers can embark on exciting Sedona hiking expeditions.

There are also many spas in Sedona, such as the Los Abrigados Resort and Spa. This hotel is located right on the edge of Oak Creek, a beautiful and well-known body of water that many visitors enjoy walking along to take in the scenery. The accommodations at this resort are comfortable and upscale, and provide a very tranquil and peaceful atmosphere in which individuals can relax. There are many spa treatments that one can undergo while staying at this hotel, such as manicures, pedicures, body wraps, massages and sea salt scrubs.

Other resorts in Sedona that individuals may wish to consider staying in include The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort and the Sedona Summit Resort. The latter, in particular, is a great place for families, because it offers many activities that both children and adults that are young at heart are sure to enjoy. Some of the fun options that guests can chose include barbecuing at a beach side pit, swimming in one of the many heated pools, picnicking at Slide Rock State Park or taking a wild ride down one of the hotels waterslides. As for The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort, guests who wish to play a few holes on a perfectly manicured green are guaranteed to find exactly what they are looking for at this hotel.

While staying in Sedona, individuals should explore some of the area’s other attractions, such as the Oakcreek Country Club, Red Rocks and Sycamore Canyon, and the Pink Jeep Tours company.

Top 10 National and Monument Parks – And Where to Stay to Enjoy Your Vacation This Summer

Most folks who are well traveled at some point decide that there is more to traveling than seeing mankind’s greatest achievements in architecture, art, ancient cities, and tourist stops. It is a point that comes at different times for different people. Still, before you can really say you are “well traveled” you have to at least visit some of America’s greatest national parks and national monuments. You must to see and feel the great beauty which we have preserved for ourselves in this great nation.

You need to see the glaciers, the mountains, the volcanoes, the lakes, and wildlife. So, you need to make a list and check it more than a few times to choose which of the top 10 national parks and monuments you wish to see first. For me, I like to stay in nice resort locations adjacent nature’s majestic beauty, perhaps in the backdrop as I wind down my day. A place with a view, that’s what I love, and I think you will too.

Now then, let me give you four very excellent National Park Vacation Rental destination locations to think on. Let’s face it, it’s hard to decide on your own, especially if you haven’t ever been there before, and you don’t know whom to trust to guide you through such a decision.

Rocky Mountain National Parks, CO – Historic Crags Lodge – Golden Eagle Resort
Hawaii National Park, Kailua-Kona, HI on the Big Island – Sea Village Resort
Sunset Crater National Monument, Sedona AZ – Premiere Vacation Club at Bell Rock
Pecos National Monument and Santa Fe national Forest, NM – Villas de Santa Fe

The Rocky Mountains are spectacular and you’ll be blown away by the vistas and views. It’s scenic on the drive up the mountain, or if you fly most of the way, it’s amazing from the air. Why not park your hat at Historic Crags Lodge – Golden Eagle Resort to see what I mean?

On the Big Island of Hawaii, well that is where all the action is as Pele, Goddess of Fire shows you Mother Nature’s energy and heat up close and personal. Take the volcano tour and see for yourself. Hawaii National Park is also quite incredible to view. You can find winning accommodations at Sea Village Resort.

Have you ever seen the red rocks and red mountains of Arizona, why not take a Pink Jeep tour and see what everyone is talking about in Sedona, while you stay at the Premier Vacation Club at Bell Rock? Perhaps, you’d like to also see another wonderful National Forest in New Mexico and stay at the Villas de Santa Fe. Why not book your National Park Vacation Rental today. See what you’ve been missing, while earning your title of; well traveled.

Where are you headed for Valentine’s Day this year? Aside from the teddy bears, flowers, and diamond jewelry, the most important planning on Valentine’s Day is the destination. Here are our 6 favorite Valentine’s Day getaways.

1. Napa Valley, California: You can’t get more romantic than the old world Tuscan charm surrounded by vine-covered hills this Valentine’s Day.
   • Where to Stay: Vino Bello Resort
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico: With snow on the mountains and the vibrant American Indian arts and culture surrounding you, Santa Fe is a perfect getaway to romance your special someone.
   • Where to Stay: Villas de Santa Fe
3. Lake Tahoe, California: If you love to ski/snowboard, you have probably heard of Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe. This world renowned resort is perfect to get away and be one with mother nature. Bundle up by the fire, enjoy an indoor jacuzzi, and take in the amazing scenery.
   • Where to Stay: Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley
4. Las Vegas, Nevada: Sin City isn’t just for bachelor(ette) parties. Vegas offers everything a romantic couple can possibly hope for. Pamper yourselves at some of the world’s best restaurants, spas, pools, and theatre, and outdoor adventure.
   • Where to Stay: Polo Towers (on the strip)
5. Palm Springs, California: Golf, hiking, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding, tennis are just a few of the fun activities you can do in Palm Springs this Valentine’s day. Not to mention the numerous festivals, music scene, relaxing spas and resorts, and spectacular snow capped mountain views.
   • Where to Stay: Palm Springs Tennis Club
6. Sedona, Arizona: If perfect weather combined with a relaxing luxury vacation is what you are looking for, head to Sedona. Head to the golf courses or luxury spas and indulge in the local shops and art galleries. But don’t forget about the Red Rock surroundings, the perfect color to match your Valentine’s Day getaway this year.
   • Where to Stay: Los Abrigados Resort & Spa

Helpful Tips When Planning a Condo Rental Vacation

If you’re planning a vacation, renting a luxury condo or house instead of staying in a hotel can save you tons of money. Not only spending less but also provide you and yours more space to relax and enjoy your home away from home. Renting a condo is especially a smart choice if you’re traveling with a group of friends or with children.

Here are tips to help you plan your vacation:

Plan out as early as possible.

Popular destinations like Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada and Hawaii books up fast, so reserve early to get the best deals. The favorite rental months for the winter are November-January and May-August for the summer months.

Is the property family friendly?

If you’re traveling with kids, make sure the property is family friendly. With children, it just makes sense to rent a spacious condo where the family can spread out, relax and save money at the same time. Condos normally have full kitchens. Save money by eating meals at your condo instead of eating out. This allows you to spend money on other things that are more important. Also, it’s important that you see pictures of the property. This way you can be sure that the vacation condo you’re renting fits your family’s needs and all comfortable.

If you still have questions about the condo, do not hesitate to call the property. The staff will be more than happy to provide you with all the information you need.

Can you bring a pet?

Some vacation rentals accept pets and may have a size limits. It doesn’t hurt to ask if your pet can stay. Although there are many options for pet owners, they typical only allow dogs. You may be able to get permission for a cat, bird or other pet. Some resort will accept having the pet stay for a nominal fee.

Interested in a ski vacation rental?  

Ski-in/out accommodations will be set up so you can walk out your door to the mountain. Some resorts provide shuttle service to the slopes – saving you time from driving and looking for parking. Before heading to the slopes, check the front desk for discounted lift tickets. Most ski resorts have special partnerships with the local ski area for guests. Explore your options – ask about one-day tickets, multi-day tickets, mid-week tickets, or even other snow fun activities to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Choose ResorTime.com for popular vacation destinations.

If you’re looking for amazing savings on nightly and weekly rentals, take advantage of vacation rentals at www.ResorTime.com. Offering over 300 luxury resorts worldwide at low rates, there’s no reason why you can’t save on you r next vacation.  Perfect for large groups and family traveling – ResorTime.com properties accommodates leisure, business or group travel. Imagine staying in a 600-800 square foot luxury one-bedroom resort condo with rates starting from $99 per night. So much space for so little cost!

Sedona, Arizona: Are you planning on visiting the “Red Rock Country” this year? Sedona is a great vacation destination all four seasons of the year. Here are four amazing resorts you can stay at to help you relax and take in the beautiful views.

1. Los Abrigados Resort and Spa: A cozy getaway nestled against the banks of famou Oak Creek in Sedona, AZ. The resort rests on twenty-two acres of winding walkways, cascading fountains and shady nooks, while evoking a feeling of total privacy. Los Abrigados is home to the famous “Red Rock Fantasy” christmas light event.
   

   Los Abrigados Resort, Sedona

2. Premiere Vacation Club at Bell Rock: Framed by the extraordinary landscape used as the backdrop for many classic western films. These timeshare rentals and vacation condos offer the perfect combination of first class hospitality and recreation.
   

   Premiere Vacation Club at Bell Rock, Sedona

3. Sedona Summit Resort: Fabulous amenities, personalized service, and designer interiors make Sedona Summit the perfect place to stay for a luxury vacation.
   

   Sedona Summit Resort, Arizona

4. The Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort: Spend just one day here and you’ll understand why so many love this desert paradise. Go for an early morning round on the greens to start your perfect day taking in Sedona scenery.
   

   Ridge on Sedona Golf Resort, Sedona, Arizona

View Where to Stay in Sedona in a larger map

RED ROCK FANTASY XIX

Red Rock Fantasy XIX 2009

Sedona, Arizona: Celebrate with hundreds of locals and visitors at the annual Red Rock Fantasy in Sedona. Nestled within the world-renowned red rocks surrounding the beautiful area, Red Rock Fantasy is an exciting festival of more than a million lights highlighting the scenic sights of Sedona. In its nineteenth year and boasting nearly two dozen light displays created by the families from the Southwest, guests will experience never-before-seen marvels of light that will leave children and adults alike in amazement.

Red Rock Fantasy XIX Sedona, AZ

LOCATION:

Los Abrigados Resort & Spa
160 North Portal Lane
Sedona, AZ 86336

Red Rock Fantasy Lights Sedona

WHEN:

“Lights On” for the 19^th annual Red Rock Fantasy will take place 5:00 PM on Thursday, November 19, 2009 lasting through the New Year, ending with “Lights Out” on Saturday, January 2, 2010. The festival is open each evening from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday.

Red Rock Fantasy Los Abrigados

ADMISSION:

Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for children aged 5-12 and is FREE for children 4 and under. Blocks of 20 tickets or more are sold at a discounted rate of $4 per person. Parking is limited at the resort. For more information, call 928-282-1777 or toll free 800-521-3131. http://www.redrockfantasy.com/

Are you starting to get cold at night? Is the winter creeping up on you? There is still time to take a warm weather vacation in the U.S. Start heading south! Southern California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida are all warm enough for shorts and flip flops.

Not sure where to go? Take my advice by heading south to one of these four warm weather vacation destinations:

1. Orlando, Florida: It is not too late to hit the beach and Disneyworld. An average temparature of about 73 degrees in December will help you defrost and take in some last minute sunshine. Airfare is cheap and there are plenty of places to stay such as Sheraton Vistana Resort or Bahama BayResort… both 5 star quality for amazing prices.
   

   Sheraton Vistana Resort Pool in Orlando Florida

2. San Diego, California: America’s Finest City… for a reason. There isn’t a single month of the year where the average high for the day is lower than 66 degrees. Every day is a beach day and if the sun is shining you can be sunbathing for your Christmas vacation. Don’t miss the unique beach towns of Coronado , Carlsbad, and Del Mar.
   

   View of San Diego Bay from Coronado Island

3. San Antonio, Texas: The most visited city in Texas has great temperatures for travelling there between October through April. Plenty of fun activities such as Sea World, the Alamo, the River Walk, and more all make San Antonio a great warm winter vacation destination. I recommend staying at the the Wyndham Riverside Suites.
   

   San Antonio, Texas

   http://www.flickr.com/photos/wattsbw2004/
4. Scottsdale, Arizona: Right now is the best time of the year to visit Scottsdale. Be sure to pack accordingly because you won’t need three layers to walk around in 68 degrees this winter. Stroll through art galleries, visit museums, or hone in on your golf skills, Scottsdale has something for everyone during the winter. There are many great places to stay, here are two of my favorites: Sheraton Desert Oasis and Westin Kierland Villas
   

   Scottsdale Golf at Westin Kierland Villas

1. Carlsbad Seapointe Resort: Carlsbad, CA – Perched alongside some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California, Carlsbad Seapointe Resort offers the finest comforts of home in a seaside escape. Experience the excitement of San Diego with a short drive to LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo and the Wild Animal Park. Accommodations offer beautiful balcony views, romantic fireplaces and the gentle sounds of the Pacific Ocean.
   

   Carlsbad Seapointe Resort

2. Bahama Bay Resort and Spa: Orlando, FL – Each colonial style building is positioned with views of Lake Davenport or one of three sparking lagoon pools for peaceful scenery from every window. Whether you are taking in a cool breeze from the private balcony, or preparing a family meal, you will find everything you need for a relaxing Florida getaway with Orlando only a short 30 minute drive.
3. Cabo Azul Resort: San Jose del Cabo, Mexico – The Cabo Azul Resort is situated on 12 acres of oceanfront white sand beach and offers an abundance of outdoor activities and water sports year-round. Relax and enjoy its playful spirit, luxuriant design and sublime service, while you soak in the views of the Sea of Cortez.
   

   Cabo Azul Resort

4. Desert Paradise Resort and Spa: Las Vegas, NV – Desert Paradise Resort is minutes from all that glitters on the famous Las Vegas Boulevard and Fremont Street. The heated pool, hot tub and fitness center are available year-round, and the concierge offers discounts to shows, attractions, major shopping centers and championship golf courses.
5. Ka’anapali Beach Club: Maui, HI – The Ka’anapali Beach Club is located oceanfront on Maui’s magnificent north shore. Immerse yourself in the resort’s tropical gardens. Meander between the waterfalls and gazebos. Slide into the one-acre heated pool. Play a round at the 18-hole miniature golf course located on property. Or just relax and enjoy all that the Ka’anapali Beach Club has to offer.
   

   Ka'anapali Beach Club

6. Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley: Olympic Valley (Tahoe), CA – In winter, Red Wolf Squaw Valley treats outdoor enthusiasts to world-class skiing and snowboarding, and in summer, experience championship golf, hiking, fishing, sailing and water skiing. Any time of year, the nearby casinos, restaurants and the region’s scenic beauty make Lake Tahoe the ideal place to escape the ordinary.
7. Resort at Indio: Indio, CA - Your desert oasis awaits you at the Resort at Indio. Just a putt away from the Golf Course at Terra Lago, the Resort at Indio offers unlimited options for fun and relaxation. You can float aimlessly down the “Lazy River”, dive into the 4,950-square-foot pool, or soak in one of three courtyard whirlpools. The more active can tackle the tennis courts or play a game of hoops on the sport courts.
8. Scottsdale Links Resort: Scottsdale, AZ – Explore the beauty of Scottsdale on the emerald fairways of TPC Desert Golf Course and the breathtaking McDowell Mountains.  While at the resort, cool off from the warm desert air with a dip in the outdoor pool, which is heated for year-round use.
9. Sheraton Broadway Plantation: Myrtle Beach, SC -  You’re right in the heart of all the action – just across the street from famed Broadway at the Beach and approximately one mile from the ocean. Explore unspoiled beaches, amusement parks, water parks, state parks and museums. Tee-up on world-class golf courses, go fishing or sailing.
   

   Sheraton Broadway Plantation

10. RiverPointe Napa Valley: Napa, CA – Located along the Napa River in the heart of the wine country, RiverPointe Napa Valley features fully-equipped cottages for a unique style of vacationing.  Enjoy all the resort’s amenities such as croquet, volleyball, swimming pool, spa, sauna, workout room, and laundry facility.  With over 300 wineries, world-class restaurants, the Napa Valley Wine Train, museums, hot air balloon rides, championship golf courses and the numerous boutique and antique stores; it’s easy to relax and indulge in the local Napa Valley flavors.