Travel

Trip tracker

So we've survived the first cold snap of the winter. As we settle in to the snow-filled days above 20 degrees, just remember: Another crisp cold spell awaits us around the corner. Maybe it's time to plan that sunny, warm vacation before the next snap hits. These beach destinations offer a more unique getaway than the typical Hawaiian or Mexican trip. Think outside the sandbox.

Trip tracker

Does the thought of another large family Thanksgiving dinner, with dry turkey and tipsy, bickering relatives leave you wanting to just get away from it all?

Trip tracker

With more than 300 million active viewers, Facebook has become a smart way for businesses to reach consumers. These tourism-related sites are offering vacation contests to their Facebook fans. Don't "ignore" these opportunities!

Trip tracker

Got your snow tires on? Winter clothes out of the cedar chest? Before you pack up the summer duds, consider a trip to one of these unique tropical resorts.

Trip tracker

Myths and legends of monsters and the supernatural are part of our history and culture. Visit the places where these stories began and see for yourself if there is some truth to the rumors.

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Sure, you've been to the haunted houses at Halloween, where makeup-wearing, minimum-wage-making fake ghouls try to scare you.

Global hitchhiker stops in Fairbanks two years into trip

A 25-year-old Frenchman was in Fairbanks last week, the northernmost stop on a 100,000-mile hitchhiking voyage. If all goes the way he expects, he'll be on the road for another three years.

Trip tracker

Located in North Africa along the banks of the Nile River, Egypt is the land of the Sphinx and the pyramids. Plan your trip for between November and March.

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Want to get away with that special person in your life but the thought of staying in a typical hotel is not putting that spark in your romantic plug? These cozy retreats will set the mood for rest, relaxation and endless possibilities for so much more.

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Fly fishing is gearing up for its biggest month in many locations across the country, including Alaska. Got enough salmon and halibut in your freezer? Why not add some trout to the mix. These crisp autumn days could be your chance to snag the trophy fish of a lifetime.

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Scream your way through a scary, heartpounding, horror filled fun time at amusement parks that are transformed into hallows of nightmarish doom during the month of October. Yes Halloween is more than a month away. But you need to act now if you want to secure tickets to these fright filled events.

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Each year hot air balloon festivals fill the skies across the U.S. with giant cartoon characters, animals, cars and other wild and vividly painted shapes. Whether you're young or just young at heart, these family-friendly events provide a perfect piece of Americana pie for everyone to enjoy.

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Is the Calgon bath just not doing it for you anymore? Do your husband's hands get tired after two minutes of rubbing your back? You work hard, whether at home or at work. How about some "me" time at a spa, where you can recharge your batteries and refresh your mind.

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It's been said that surfing is like a drug. It can transport you to an alternate reality and make you feel like you can conquer the forces of nature. It's addictive.

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Whimsical, grand, rustic, medieval; Castles evoke images of another time, when knights battled for the honor of fair maidens locked in turrets.

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With the smell of summer's end wafting through the air, we start to watch the trees for telltale signs of changing colors. Autumn's brilliant foliage change is a great excuse to vacation in many parts of the Lower 48, where the season lasts a little longer.

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Does your idea of romance and fun involve riding the rails through scenic countrysides and along endless winding coastlines? Train vacations are the perfect way to sightsee and explore the many landscapes of the world. Hop aboard, relax and enjoy the ride.

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Explore America's history where it all began and learn why we value life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These family-friendly spots are sure to be both fun and educational.

SCOTT MCMURREN

Explore Spain

While Barcelona is the capital of the Catalan region of Spain, you need to get outside of the city and explore the countryside. We chose Girona as our base, about 60 miles north of Barcelona. If you're flying Ryanair, the low-cost European carrier, they use this airport to serve Barcelona.

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The Alaska Marine Highway provides a great opportunity to visit many communities in Southeast Alaska through its Inside Passage ferry route. The spectacular natural beauty of the unspoiled coastline and the Tongass National Forest will have you reaching for your camera in between oohs and ahhs.

SCOTT MCMURREN

Off to Barcelona

If there is one thing that sticks with you following a trip to Barcelona, it's the art and architecture in the city. In most cities, you'll find the art in the museums and the architecture in the buildings and structures.