top places to visit in florida

Walt Disney was right: Florida is a place that captures the imagination. The landscape is exaggerated, and invites exaggeration unsecured loans. Spanish explorers saw manatees and imagined them mermaids; Ponce de Leon saw crystal-clear springs and imagined them fountains of youth. Developers saw swamps and sold them as paradise, but if they are, there’s plenty of the devil in them.

In its history, Florida has inspired as much madness and murder as it has fantasies of a magical kingdom where dreams really do bad credit loans come true. So come for the beaches and Mickey Mouse, come for the people and the Everglades, come for the nightlife and the kayaking and the manatees and the gators. But make sure to come. Here are our top 10 Florida getaways:

1. WALT DISNEY WORLD

Wait. Walt Disney World? That’s about as Lonely Planet as a trip to Branson, Missouri (no offense, Branson). Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it! Sure, there will be lines a mile long, and sure, you’ll spend more money than you intended on a Mickey Mouse sweatshirt that you would never have dreamed of buying before you came. But no matter how much of a hard-core traveler you claim to be, there’s something here that will soften you – something that will spark your inspiration and imagination. Maybe it’s the children’s awestruck faces illuminated by the fireworks above Cinderella’s Castle. Maybe it’s a particular turn in a particular ride. Maybe it’s the corny (but endearing) joke told by the guy who drives the horse-drawn carriage down Main Street. Whatever it is, once you’re there, you’ll admit it. Walt Disney World’s got you.

2. MIAMI

What was once a little citrus town is now a pan-American mosaic, the most Latin city in the world north of Mexico. A vibrant mix of Cuban, Haitian and Colombian cultures (just to name a few) splashed against a pastel backdrop of distinctive art deco architecture, the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay kissing the sands of South Beach, it’s this diversity that makes Miami more quintessentially American than the cutest Mid-Western Main Street.

3. KEY WEST

Feeling like mainland Florida is just too tame for your taste? Time to ship out to Key West, where the high- and low-brow mix it up with a devil-may-care attitude. There’s always a party to be found here, and the vibe is decidedly tolerant: the Key West motto is ‘One Human Family’, which translates to acceptance and mutual respect for people of all colors and religions, gays, straights, and everything in between. It’s all love – and rum punch – here.

4. THE EVERGLADES

Often dismissed as a swamp, the Everglades are arguably more beautiful than all the sin and flash Miami can produce. Forget what you’ve heard about airboats and swamp buggies. Come and canoe, bike, kayak or walk around the park. Get to understand the delicate ecosystem that has endured forever here. Stand still long enough to see an alligator’s back surfacing above the black water and take in the unbroken vistas of wet prairie, big sky and long silences.

5. ST AUGUSTINE

Saunter along cobbled roads, linger at charming cafes, and learn about the city’s rich history at countless museums. Cap it all off with dinner at a gas lamp-lit restaurant and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Historic District. Europe? Oh wait, we’re in Florida. Epcot? No way, this is the real deal. Founded by the Spanish in 1565, St Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the US, preserved for centuries and awaiting your discovery.

6. SANIBEL ISLAND

This beautiful barrier island is the perfect beach escape: scout for seashells along the porcelain sand, spot night herons, anhinga and alligators at JN ‘Ding’ Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and dine on delicious fresh seafood at one of the quaint beach-shacks. If you’re without a car, don’t worry about it – with 23 miles of dedicated paths, you can bike around the entire island.

7. CALADESI ISLAND STATE PARK

Located in the Tampa Bay area, Caladesi Island State Park ranks at the top of national surveys for the best natural beaches. Reach it by canoe or take a ferry from nearby Honeymoon Island (also worth a visit). In addition to nature trails and an unspoiled, palm-lined 3-mile beach, it’s the perfect spot for a lazy day of swimming and picnicking.

8. AMELIA ISLAND

Home to Fernandina Beach, a charming shrimping village with 50 blocks of historic buildings, delightful eateries, and unique B&Bs, Amelia Island is a moss-draped southern fantasy.  Prefer a swanky resort to the quaint B&Bs? They’ve got that too, as well as miles of shark-tooth covered shoreline and a commanding Civil War-era fort anchoring it all.

9. APALACHICOLA NATIONAL FOREST

The largest of Florida’s three national forests, Apalachicola occupies almost 938 square miles of the Panhandle, from just west of Tallahassee to the Apalachicola River. Hike and bike this otherworldly forest of cypress hammocks, dunes, swamps, sinks and karst terrain.

10. SARASOTA

If you’ve ever wanted to run away and join the circus, Sarasota is the place to go. John Ringling (yes, of Ringling Brothers fame) made Sarasota the winter home for his circus. His legacy lives on here in the Ringling Museum Complex, which includes his former home, a fine art museum, and of course, a circus museum. The circus doesn’t stop there – the entire town is obsessed. Enroll your kids in circus classes, go to the church that the circus built, or check out one of the many shows in town.

hangover 2 talky

 Warner Bros. has what you'd call a champagne problem this weekend: Its "The Hangover Part II" could gross as much as $140 million over its first five days following a huge $29.7 million Saturday, but it probably won't break any of the R-rated-opening records set by the studio's second "Matrix" movie in 2003.

"Hangover 2" grossed an estimated $91.4 million through Saturday. "The Matrix Reloaded" grossed $91.8 million over its first three days (although actuals might change that outcome). The critically eviscerated "Reloaded" also grossed $144.4 million over its first five days of release, also a bar that would appear difficult for Todd Phillips' R-rated follow-up.

For an R-rated comedy like "The Hangover 2" to beat out a huge tentpole like "The Matrix" franchise would have been nothing short of extraordinary.

"Hangover 2" does, however, appear to have the all-time comedy-opening record, besting the $85.7 million start for "Bruce Almighty" over Memorial Day weekend in 2003. The $29.7 million Saturday gross was also a comedy record.

Also among all-time best this weekend, Terrence Malick's Palme d'Or winner "The Tree of Life" has an estimated three-day gross of $352,320 at four New York and Los Angeles locations. The $88,080 per-theater average is Fox Searchlight's best ever, even beating out the $80,212 pace set by "Black Swan" in December.

"Tree of Life's" did not have the best limited opening of 2011, however. That mark belongs to Woody Allen's "Midnight in Paris," which averaged an incredible $99,834 per screen last weekend.

Expanding from 6 to 58 locations this weekend, "Midnight in Paris" grossed an estimated $1.9 million over the standard three-day weekend period.

Back among the tentpole trees, DreamWorks Animation's "Kung Fu Panda 2" grossed $18.7 million Saturday, according to studio estimates. That film could end up grossing more than $70 million over its first five days (it's currently on pace for around $68 million) bad credit loans.

A flashy number with a seven in front of it might be enough to influence a punitive Wall Street, which cratered DWA stock 5 percent Friday amid "Panda 2"s $13.2 million second day.

"Panda 2" has also grossed $57 million so far opening at 8,023 locations in 11 foreign markets.

Also performing big internationally, Disney's fourth "Pirates of the Caribbean" movie, "On Stranger Tides," is expected to have a two-week global total of over $645 million through Monday.

The film is also predicted by studio estimates to gross $50 million domestically over the four-day Memorial Day holiday weekend, a second-week decline of around 45 percent.

Saturday update:

Warner Bros.' "The Hangover Part II" grossed an estimated unsecured loans $30 million Friday, putting the Todd Phillips-directed R-rated comedy sequel on pace to exceed $130 million over its first five days of release, according to studio data.

The raunchy film, which re-cast Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis in their "OMG, what happend last night?" roles, was widely expected to break R-rated opening records while grossing around $125 million from its Thursday-morning midnight opening through Monday.

How to Write Christmas Cards Low Down

• Select the Christmas cards you wish to use for the holiday. Select from store-bought individualized cards, boxed greetings or even homemade cards. Choose a card with a predetermined sentiment that will go well with your own words. Choose a blank greeting card if you unsecured loans wish to completely personalize the Christmas card.
• 2
  Make a list of card recipients. Remember to include family, extended family, friends, coworkers and people who have been part of your life. This may include a special teacher, real estate agent or employer. bad credit loans Be sure to include people who sent you greeting cards the previous year.
• 3
  Determine the length of holiday greeting you want to use. Will you write a full holiday letter? Do you want to write one simple sentence, or use just a holiday closing? If you have had an eventful year, want to tell people about a bright future or recent family development, choose a longer, letter-style Christmas card.
• 4
  Plan your words. Use a quote book or check online for phrases and sentiments of the season (see the Resources section). Write out a rough draft of personal information. Set your sentiments aside and reread them a few days later. Make any necessary adjustments. Be sure you include your feelings about the season, and why you are sending the Christmas card to the recipient.
• 5
  Choose the style of writing for your cards. Although it takes more time, a handwritten Christmas card or letter is much more personal than a typed letter. If your greeting is too long, or your have too many to write, a handwritten card may not be possible. Then at least include a handwritten signature and address the envelope in your own handwriting.
• 6
  Include extras with your Christmas card. An updated family portrait, wedding photos and pictures of a new home will be appreciated by your card recipients. If you're having a holiday gathering, include a small map and your phone number for RSVPs or directions. Decorate the envelope with stickers and festive return address labels.

  
  

DC Shoes pro skater

It stayed many a person’s preference to walk and skate in Rob Dyrdek shoes showcasing the skills and life of the pro-skater and star of MTV's Rob & Big. So this signature shoe was released showcasing some real heavy-duty features.
The list starts with the suede, followed by a soft, action leather upper and together they bring in an optimum support not many DC shoes of this price range can bring; the materials also double-up the durability unsecured loans factor. As for the fit, it is a tongue padded with foam and a collar with soft tricot lining that turns it a comfortable one. The picture of the DC RD 1.5 shoe completes with internal, elastic tongue holders; the whole effect boiling down to additional foot stability. The rubber soul is abrasion resistant, meaning you will wear a spotless pair for many days. The rubber outsole’s pill pattern brings on an improved grip thus enhancing overall board control through an excellent ground contact, thanks to its ultimate flexing properties.

 

Rob Dyrdek

Source: Rob Dyrdek

The build quality shows the great care with which the components have been put together, right from the heel to the toes including the double stitches, many times better than a single stitch and simple gluing. Not that glue is absent in the DC RD 1.5 shoe, but that’s when the double stitching needs to be concealed. The end result is an even wearing of all the components, maintaining parity. That’s what people seem to mean by aging gracefully. And that starts from the bottom parts i.e. either from the outer soles or from the pads receiving maximum friction from the heels. Unlike other skating shoes where the lace cuts into the holes, this one has metal rings that guard the top eight.
The two elastic straps hold the tongue in place ensuring the foot stays in place within preventing any sort of sprains resulting from a lack of balance; the centered position sets the equilibrium bad credit loans in quite a perfect manner.
Regarding the style and the fit, they are exclusively that of the skaters’  but the durability is enough to grant it a permanent place in the weekend wear list. The only problem is the whites turn dull and discolored pretty soon, but those willing for an used look would like that immensely. One more thing: This is a pair that will retain its shape long because of the perfectly centered tongues.
As far as the price goes, £60 is a meager price to pay for a long investment that will provide the same comfort as it would on day one. The credit goes to the sumptuous amount of padding inside, also a big insurance against a board slapping against or when slipped from the ramp. That’s a big saving on the money you would have spent otherwise on the orthopedic or on the medicaments.

Hottest Christmas Gifts 2011

Are you ready for Christmas? How about shopping?

To help you with choosing gifts for your family and friends, I have composed a list of the hottest Christmas gifts for 2011 below. I am really just focusing on two categories here, electronics for adults (and teens) and toys for kids. These two categories are always hot Christmas sellers and there is always new stuff coming out, so this will cover the majority of bestsellers for the year.

After the list of hottest gifts I have also provided some other general gift ideas as well as some affordable gift ideas. Let’s get started!

Hottest Electronic Gifts 2011

The Kindle Fire

Amazon’s own addition to the tablet market is already creating a buzz and they don’t even start shipping until November! The Kindle Fire is a 7 inch tablet that was designed primarily for media consumption – books, videos, etc. But since it runs off an Android operating system it can also be used with popular Android apps like Angry Birds. You can also use the Fire for surfing the internet and checking email.

But the biggest kicker is the price. It’s only $199 compared to the iPad’s $499 starting price tag. Now, the Kindle Fire is very different than the iPad and the iPad will still be the tablet of choice for many people, but at such an affordable price and with the tie in to all of Amazon’s media goodies, the Kindle Fire is a great device and I predict it will be THE hottest Christmas gift this year.If you want it in time for Christmas I would suggest you pre-order now as it will be ship out on a first come, first serve basis.

CLICK HERE to order the Kindle Fire with Free Shipping

The Kindle  and Kindle Touch

Along with the release of the Kindle Fire, Amazon has also released a new version of

the Kindle called the Kindle Touch. The Kindle Touch utilizes a touchscreen for navigation as opposed to the incorporated keyboard that came with the earlier versions of the Kindle. The advantages is a slightly smaller and lighter Kindle.

But another benefit of the additions to the Kindle family is a new low-priced version of the Kindle at just $79. The Kindle has always been considered to be the best eReader available for general eBook reading but now it is available at a much better price. Many people who maybe couldn’t justify the cost of a dedicated eReader will be likely to buy. The new price also makes it a relatively affordable gift option. All that combined makes these two Kindles a hot gift for the year.

Click for more info on the Kindle or the Kindle Touch

The Logitech Webcam

If you want to post a video on Youtube or talk with friends or family on Skype, a webcam comes in very handy. For the younger generation of adults a webcam is second nature, but even older generations can see the value of seeing and hearing their kids or grandkids that live miles away.

The best webcam by Logitech provides HD quality shots and costs around $65. You can also find cheaper models but the quality won’t be quite as good as unsecured loans. As everyone moves more into online social avenues I expect webcams to eventually be found in every home with a computer. That makes them a great gift idea this year.

CLICK HERE for more information on the Logitech Webcam

The Roku Streaming Player

Most people are now getting their video rentals through online subscriptions with Netflix, Amazon and others. Not only is it easier to just pick a movie without leaving your house, it’s also cheaper if you rent enough movies. Online movie rentals have become so popular that most video rental stores have closed down, at least in my area.

While a newer television, blu-ray player, or even Xbox 360 can stream videos to your television, not everyone has a compatible device or the streaming may not be optimal. The better for solution for many people is using a dedicated streaming player like the Roku 2 which allows easy streaming of movies from Netflix and Amazon and other media agents. With just a $100 price tag, this is a nice gift idea for the family who loves movies or has multiple TVs.

CLICK HERE for more information on the Roku 2 Player

The Apple iPad

I did predict that the Kindle Fire will be a popular, low cost tablet choice but Apple’s iPad is far from losing it’s reign in the market. The iPad has continued to be the bestselling tablet and I don’t see that ending anytime soon.

The iPad 2 has more overall functionality that it’s Android tablet competitors and has the innovation of Apple behind it. The high price tag may put it out of the gift budget for some people, but it is still a hot item for 2011.

See the Apple iPad 2 with Wi-Fi

The Garmin GPS

While some people like myself still manage to drive around without a GPS system I will be honest, I do sometimes get lost. And I wouldn’t mind just plugging my destination into a GPS and going rather than printing out directions for Google Maps. Plus, you can sync your bluetooth-enabled phone with this device and talk hands-free.

If there is anyone at all who drives a car on your list, this is a great gift to consider. Even better for the frequent travelers or long commuters. These GPS systems have been bestsellers for the last year or two and the features just keep getting better.

CLICK HERE for more info on the Garmin GPS

Hottest Toy Gifts 2011

The LeapPad Learning Tablet

The newest educational toy from LeapFrog is the LeapPad Explorer Tablet, just released this year. LeapFrog is well-known and respected for their educational products for kids so their products always sell well at Christmas time. But since this product was just released in August it is a new item that many parents will be anxious to get their hands own.

The LeapFrog tablet actually looks like a tablet PC which is a very smart design. Kids usually respond well to having a toy version of adult product. But what is also neat about this kids tablet is that in functions much like an adult tablet with the stories and games run off apps purchased through the LeapFrog store. The downfall is that these app purchases aren’t cheap. Overall though, this is a hot toy buy for ages 4 to 8.

CLICK HERE to see the LeapFrog Tablet

Angry Birds Toys

The popularity of the app game Angry Birds has now moved into general merchandising. Apparently I’m not the only parent who lets my kids play games on my iTouch (or iPhone) as Angry Birds toys and board games have already hit Amazon’s bestselling toy list.

For kids who love the app, a plush Angry Bird is a simple and fun gift idea. The board game looks fun for both fans and non-fans of the app. There are also shirts, keychains, and other miscellaneous items that could make great stocking stuffers.

CLICK HERE to see the top Angry Bird Toys and Games

Let’s Rock Elmo

Can you have a list of hottest Christmas toys without including Elmo? I don’t think so. Let’s not forget the frantic rush years ago to buy a Tickle Me Elmo doll for every toddler and preschooler living.

Well, Elmo is back this year and with a rock star quality. He comes with drums and a microphone and interacts with children to make beautiful music together. This Elmo toy is getting great reviews already from his fans and is sure to be a big hit with the younger crowd at Christmas time.

CLICK HERE to check out Let’s Rock Elmo

Lego Sets

Legos have been around for decades and have always been fairly popular. But there newer releases of various themes like Stars Wars and Harry Potter have expanded their market. They are no longer just building blocks for preschoolers, the more complicate sets are targeted to ages 8 and up.

This year the Star Wars sets and the Ninjago Sets seem to be the bestselling. But there is no shortage of themes, that is for sure. And for toddlers the basic Lego building set is a top seller every year. Lego sets are once again a hot gift idea for kids ranging from 2 years old up to 10 years old.

CLICK HERE to see some of the bestselling Lego Sets for 2011

Fijit Friends

The Fijit Friends are another new toy item this year from Mattel targeted at ages 6 years and up. They are interactive toys that dance when music is played and respond to voice prompts with pre-programmed phrases and jokes. The Fijit friends come in 4 colors choices including blue and yellow but I have a feeling these will appeal more to girls than boys.

The reviews of this toy so far are pretty mixed. Some kids and parents are delighted with their new friend, others are a bit disappointed. But despite the mixed reviews the  novelty of these toys will make them a hot toy this year. At least, that is what I expect based on the marketing I have seen.

CLICK HERE for more details on the Fijit Friend

Lalaloopsy Dolls

Lalaloopsy dolls are plastic like a Barbie, but with the look of a rag doll – big eyes, pink hair, etc. They are just cute and fill in a gap in the doll market between baby dolls and Barbies. They even come with clothing sets.

If you haven’t seen these dolls in the store, be warned, the online pictures are a bit deceptive. These are actually full-sized dolls and not the size of a Barbie or Monster High doll. The manufacturer recommended age range is 6 to 12, but I would stick with the lower part of that range considering the look and size of these dolls. Playsets are also available for purchase.

CLICK HERE to see all of the  Lalaloopsy Dolls

More Gift Ideas

Sony Dash Viewer

I’m not sure how to describe the Sony Dash. It’s kind of like a tablet PC crossed with an alarm clock. You could use it in your bedroom or anywhere in the house really. The 7 inch LCD screen can be used to watch movies, check your email, check the weather, listen to music, etc. It’s a multifunctional device.

Now, it isn’t a tablet or a computer so you probably wouldn’t want to use it for all your online needs, but it is nice for remote access. I would think that a teenager or college student would be delighted with the Dash over a standard alarm clock. In general, it’s just a neat product for the price and a unique gift idea.

CLICK HERE for more information on the Sony Dash Viewer

Red Cross Weather Radio

Emergency supplies like this radio are one of those things you may not buy for yourself but are happy to have if someone buys it for you. There have been so many weather-related issues across the country the last few years that I think everyone sees the value in being prepared for the worst. It’s also great for campers and the outdoorsy types.

The benefit of these emergency radios is that they can be used when there is no power. This model comes with both a solar panel and hand crank for use without electricity. There is also a flashlight and a USB charger for charging your cell phone which could be critical in an emergency. At only around $30, this radio is a great gift for just about anyone.

CLICK HERE to see the Red Cross Weather Radio

The Keurig B60 Single-Serve Brewer

I am sure that the Keurig isn’t new to you. It’s been around for a few years and has quite a following. Of the various single-serve coffee makers on the market, Keurig is still generally recognized as the best. And the reason that the Keurig makes such a good gift is because there are many people who just wouldn’t buy such an expensive coffee maker for themselves, yet they would be happy to own one.

One thing to keep in mind though is the cost of the K-cups that must be used with this system. If the gift recipient can’t afford the additional cost of coffee or tea that occurs with this system then you may want to rethink this idea. There is a reusable filter that can be purchased separately but reviews are mixed. Still, this is a great coffee maker and perfect for people who entertain a lot.

CLICK HERE for more details on the Keurig B60 Brewer

Car Speakerphone

This is a neat little gadget that allows you to use your cellphone in the car hands free. Just attach the speakerphone to your visor and sync up your cellphone and you can now make and answer phone calls without touching your phone.

There are a few models of in-car speakerphones available and each has their pros and cons. The speakerphones made by Motorola and Jabra seem to be the best rated with prices ranging anywhere from $35 to $120. If you know someone who talks on their cellphone a lot and doesn’t have a new car with this feature already included, this is a great gift idea.

CLICK HERE to see the top selling Car Speakerphones

Easy Gift ideas

Amazon Gift Card

Since Amazon sells just about every item under the sun, an Amazon gift card is a great choice for anybody. Some people think giving gift cards as a gift is tacky but I think that depends on the recipient. I prefer to give a gift card to a teenager or young adult and just let them get what they want. I’m willing to admit I’m not as young or hip as I used to be.

Amazon gift cards also make a great last-minute gift when you have forgotten to buy for someone on December 24th. You can have the gift card emailed directly to the recipient or print it out yourself.

iTunes Gift Card

An iTunes gift card is another great choice for teens and college-aged students. You can just never have enough music on your iPod, or at least that is what I have been told.

These can actually be purchased at many different retail stores so they work in a pinch also. Also a nice stocking stuffer.

Budget Gift Ideas (less than $50)

If money is tight or you just need some low budget gift ideas for acquaintances, here are a few ideas.

USB Hub

Nowadays there are many devices competing for USB ports like your camera, iPad, iPod, etc. This hub makes connecting and recharging multiple items much easier. A great affordable gift for the gadget lover. See it HERE.

 

Zippo Hand Warmer

If you have someone on your lists who spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter, this is a neat gift. Great for sporting events. See it HERE.

Cuisinart Hand Blender

Okay, this is probably most appealing for women but it’s one of those things you can use but may not buy unless you cook a lot. Great for making soups. See it HERE.

 

Oster Wine Bottle Opener

Many people drink wine and this electric bottle opener is a nice accessory. Bundle it with a bottle of wine for an even nicer gift. See it HERE.

There really are some great products out this year for Christmas and this list of best gifts 2011 is a great start. I have also now added some additional gift ideas for specific people like gifts for men or gifts for women to the blog. See what I came up with on the post entitled Best Christmas Gifts 2011.

Hopefully you can get your shopping done early and find some great deals!