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The Yucatan Peninsula separates the Caribbean Sea from the Gulf of Mexico and includes Belize, Cancun and Cozumel. Beaches and resorts abound in this tropical wonderland, but don't forget to explore the hidden secrets left behind in the Mayan ruins and temples.
Although many still think of Croatia as the war-torn country that fought and won its independence from Yugoslavia, its rich history began in the early 7th century and many cities have become popular tourists destinations. Located between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, Croatia affords visitors the opportunity to ski in the winter and swim during the summer months.
Florida offers a unique mix of vacation opportunities, catering to all tastes, interests and ages. Whether you're looking for great golfing, fishing, surf and sand or family vacations, this state delivers.
The three U.S. Virgin Islands offer three very different tropical destinations. From duty free shopping and nightlife on St. Thomas to snorkeling and golf on St. Croix or romantic seclusion on St. John, these exotic destinations are hassle free -- no passport needed.
I'm not a birder, but I love watching birds, especially in their native habitat. Outside of Copan, Honduras, a five-hour bus ride from Guatemala City just over the Honduran border, lies Macaw Mountain Bird Park and Nature Reserve.
The exotic smells of Mediterranean spices will lure you into a luxurious fantasy as soon you set foot into Morocco, a country located in North Africa.
The enchanting Isle of Capri sits in the Bay of Naples, off the Amalfi Coast of Italy. The island is only accessible by boat, but it has been a resort since the time of the Roman Republic.
South Africa will host the 2010 FIFA World Cup of football, or what we Americans call soccer, from June 11 to July 11. The host cities throughout the country offer much to see and do before and after the games. Each city has a unique vibe and provide perspectives to this diverse country.
Mexico is so much more than a spring break getaway with crowded beaches and rowdy tourists. The country has countless picturesque villages and cities to explore and take in the rich culture and inviting people who live there.
The surrounding desert is ablaze in shades of ochre, red and gold as only a desert can be at sunset. Mammoth sandstone icons, named the East and West Mitten Buttes, dominate my field of vision. They are Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park's signature.
Communing with nature has never been more fun than with a stay at a treehouse resort. These tropical retreats, nestled in the jungles and often close to secluded beaches, provide the ultimate getaway from civilization.
Leave the backgammon and all you can eat shrimp for someone else and look to alternative cruises for something different.
The South Pacific Fiji Islands offer an abundance of activities: from mountain trails and whitewater rafting to surfing and scuba diving. The islands also provide the perfect setting for peaceful sunbathing and relaxing beachcombing.
Argentina could be one of the most versatile travel destinations you can find. Sandy white beaches, rich food and a nightlife that originated the tango combine with golfing, fishing, vast jungles to hike through and great mountains for snow skiing.
We've been driving for three hours along the Scottish coast outside of Edinburgh looking for a room. We've been stopping in every village and small town looking at bed and breakfast accommodations. They are totally full and I'm getting nervous.
The new decade is knocking on the door. Are you ready to let New Years in with a bang? Forget those failed resolutions from a year ago. It's time to wipe the slate clean and maybe make some more realistic goals for 2010. But hey, let's party first!
From forgotten tropical jungles filled with Incan ruins to the icy mountaintops of the Andes, the mystical qualities and legendary history of Peru and its people provide the average traveler with a bounty of once-in-a-lifetime experiences at very affordable prices.
Rock formations, canyons the attraction in Southern Utah
It's 3:30 p.m., and I'm heading up the hill to see Delicate Arch in Arches National Park just outside of Moab, Utah. I want to be there in plenty of time to take pictures of the arch at sunset.
Christmas is often the one time of the year when people plan at least a week off from work to spend with family and reflect on life after a long 12 months.
Did you get up at 5 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving so you wouldn't miss the Black Friday frenzy? Does the thrill of a deal give you chills as if you just took an adrenaline pill?
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.
AUDIO SLIDE SHOW
Take a look at life in and around the house in Eagle River that is headquarters for Church of the Flaming Funk.
CONTEST
Put your creative chops on display by submitting an original writing sample for the chance to win cash prizes and be published in the Anchorage Daily News and LitSite Alaska.
PHOTOS
Since its inception in the late 1930s, Fur Rondy has been the premier winter carnival in Alaska.
AUDIO SLIDE SHOW
Get a peak at the new planetarium that not only explores planets and stars, but also the human body, cells and DNA.
AUDIO SLIDE SHOW
Many African and Alaska animal mounts from the collection of Louie Brunner were auctioned Saturday at Alaska Auction Co.
AUDIO SLIDE SHOW
Take a tour of the new "Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination," exhibit now on display at the Anchorage Museum.
SECTION
See local photos, videos, pets available for adoption, lost-animal listings, and events for the animal lover on our new pets portal.
PHOTOS
Ketchikan artist Ray Troll and volunteer created a 12 foot by 30 foot mural in the new Imaginarium space in the Anchorage Museum of History and Art.