The Perfect Time to Visit Lake Tahoe By Chloe Mulliner

As the winter snow melts away and the temperatures start to rise in Lake Tahoe, it?s perfect time for a weekend getaway. Ditch those snow boots, grab the fishing poles, and enjoy a fun filled long weekend at the lake this time of year.

1. Boating
There's no better way to welcome summer than by cruising on the crystal blue waters of Lake Tahoe. Boating season has officially begun in Tahoe, but just make sure to swing by one of Tahoe's various roadside boat inspection stations before setting sail. The roadside inspection stations in Alpine Meadows, Meyers, and Spooner Summit are already open, while the ones at Northstar at Tahoe Resort and Homewood Ski Resort open on May 23, just in time for vacation season.

And don't worry, those who don't own boats won't miss out on any fun because the Tahoe area features multiple boat rentals where visitors can rent their dream boat for the day. These boating companies such as SWA Watersports and Tahoe Water Adventures also offer boating equipment from wakeboards and jet skis to fishing poles and water skis to spice up the water adventure.

2. Barbecuing
After a long day splashing in the lake and soaking up that early summer sun, kick back with a barbecue bash. Countless Lake Tahoe hotels , including Tunnel Creek Lodge, Chinquapin Vacation rentals, and the Franciscan Lakeside Lodges provide barbecue pits and grills, which guests can use to cook up mouth watering ribs while taking in the serene views of the mountains and the Lake.

3. Biking
For some exercise, adventure, and spectacular views, hop on a bike and venture through Tahoe?s bike trails. The weather this time in Tahoe is ideal for a bike ride, not too hot and not too cold, so it's the best time to sneak in a little exercise during vacation.

Lake Tahoe offers countless trails suitable for all fitness and experience levels, from beginner trails with scenic views to rigorous mountain terrain designated for the brave at heart. The Tahoe biking companies such as Factory Bike Tahoe City provide visitors with all the biking gear they need such as cruisers, townie bikes, mountain bikes, and even trail-a-bikes so that the little ones can join in on the excitement too. For those unfamiliar with the Tahoe trails, Wanna Ride Tahoe Bike Tours feature trail maps and bike guides to help visitors experience the best of Lake Tahoe.

4. Gaming
Sure, we all have visions of a warm and sunny vacation, but Mother Nature doesn't always behave. While nature can be unpredictable, don't let a little wet weather rain on the getaway. Let loose, play the slots, and go for the jackpot at any one of Tahoe's various casinos. From poker tables and video games to slot machines and horse races, the casinos offer plenty of things to do in Lake Tahoe until the sun decides to shine through.

Enjoy the Outdoors? Take a Grand Canyon Smooth Water Float Tour! By Susan Bissonnette

A lot of folks look for vacations that aren't just fun, but also help them get back in touch with nature. If that describes you, then one of the Grand Canyon float tours would be a perfect choice. The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and it's an amazing place. Below is some information about taking one of these exciting trips.

The Tours

First of all, find out the type of raft for the tour you are considering. If you can, choose a tour that uses a motorized pontoon raft that holds about 19 passengers. Even though you stay on smooth water, these rafts are built to handle whitewater rapids. This means you can feel safer on the water.

These floating tours of the Grand Canyon last all day. Many are labeled half-day tours, but when you take into account the time involved in getting there and returning back to your hotel, you'll be gone the whole day. You'll need to bring some salty snacks, water and an extra set of clothes.

These floating tours are very popular so you should get your seats as early as possible. You might be able to sneak in 72 hours ahead, but booking a week in advance is much safer. Since many groups take these tours, it is harder to get several seats together, so if your whole family is going you may have to book even earlier.

Smooth Waters

As I mentioned earlier, there aren't any rapids on these trips, so kids 4 and up can participate. You can choose a more adventurous trip that covers whitewater and lasts from three days to a month, but these cost a lot more.

You can choose the West or South Rim for your smooth water excursion. Vegas-based folks will start with a chopper flight to the bottom at Grand Canyon West. The float tour begins at the base of Hoover Dam and ends eleven miles away at Willow Creek. Watch for bighorn sheep, they hang out in Black Canyon, clinging to the sides of the cliffs!

At the South Rim, you can choose between a deluxe or basic tour. The basic tour takes you by bus to the base of Glen Canyon Dam. You'll then hop into your boat and float 15 miles down river to historic Lee's Ferry. The upgraded package substitutes a plane flight for the bus ride and adds a unique 4x4 tour of Antelope Canyon.

Internet Specials

I highly recommend booking these adventures on the Internet. Besides being convenient, booking online is the best way to snag a discount. Just be sure to get your seats on the tour operator's website and avoid intermediaries like Expedia, Priceline, and Viator. The tour companies own and operate the tours, and they always offer the best deals. Just make sure to complete your purchase on the company's website. That is the only way you can get the Internet discount.

Grand Canyon raft tours over smooth waters are fun adventures you don't want to miss. Plan to leave your hotel in the morning and return in the evening. These tours are great for family getaways since all ages love them. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the amazing beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Trips Over the Winter Season By Susan Bissonnette

Out here in the Southwest, winter is in full effect. So if your plans are slated to include a Grand Canyon helicopter ride, make sure to dress warmly. Lately, the weather has been cool, crisp and wonderful, but there have been times when it's gotten cold.

I guess you could say "cold" takes on a different meaning out here. During the day over here in Nevada and Arizona, you can expect high temps during the day to reach into the 60's. At dawn, there can be freezing temperatures but that's not all that common.

Now that I've said that, please don't get lackadaisical. For instance, the South Rim during winter is not a place for shorts and flip flops. Believe it or not I've seen folks from Las Vegas arrive up here like that. The cold starts nipping at them and before you know it they sprint back to the bus.

My recommendation is to give the 10-day weather forecast a good read and be conservative when it comes to predicting cold weather. The best helicopter feature superb climate control in the cabin but you'll want to still be prepared.

Just how prepared you are will be based on the rim that you visit. The West Rim, for example, is warmer than the South Rim (elevation 7,000 feet). In fact, expect the weather at the West Rim to be a lot like that you'd find in Las Vegas, except possibly a little colder and windier.

The key thing is to pack for comfort. In my case, I like to dress using layers. By that I mean I start with a t-shirt underneath everything, then a shirt, a thick sweater and a jacket. Of course, this depends on which Rim I plan to visit and what I plan to do there. Bringing a hat, gloves, lip balm and gloves are also essential to having a great experience. Scarves are a nice addition and work great to keep the cold out.

I touched on sandals earlier in the article. You might barely be able to use them in Vegas, but it's just not a good idea when visiting the canyon. You'll begin to notice that it was a bad idea when you walk outdoors from check-in to your helicopter. Things become really apparent for those taking a tour that lands at either the top or bottom of the canyon -- that's when you wish you had some socks. The actual moment, however, comes once you deplane, which is either the top or the bottom of the West Rim.

Please be aware that helicopters from Las Vegas don't fly to the South Rim. It's just too far. This leaves you with two options: airplane and bus. On average, it takes the bus 5 1/2 hours to reach the South Rim. By contrast, the airplane takes 60 minutes. You can probably tell which option I'm leaning toward

Just like helicopters, airplanes, too, come with awesome climate control. Not quite comparable to what you get in a helicopter but comfortable all the same. It's whenever you deplane at Tusayan, which is where the Grand Canyon Airport is located, that you suck it up and enter an environment that's nothing like Las Vegas'. And it's here where I suggest you consider taking a pair of personal ice cleats, as there might be ice at some of the key lookout points.

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Grand Canyon River Rafting For The Fourth Of July Holiday By Susan Bissonnette

If you want an exciting Fourth of July getaway, you should think about taking a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon. That is a fantastic way to celebrate the highpoint of the summer.

The float tours take you past some of the most scenic portions of the Grand Canyon and you stay on calm water the whole time. There are no rapids or rough waters so senior citizens and kids age four and up can come along.

You can book one of these fun tours out of Vegas or Tusayan in Arizona. The Grand Canyon National Park Airport, or GCA, is located in Tusayan, and the city is near the South Rim's main gates. These rafting tours of the Grand Canyon depart every morning and last an entire fun-filled day.

Las Vegas Raft Trips

Rafting trips from Vegas are wildly popular and you would have a fantastic time on one over the holiday. The tour starts with a thrilling helicopter descent from the top of the rim to the floor of the canyon. You have the chance to explore the area on foot for about 30 minutes and then you get on a motor coach for a short ride to the Hoover Dam.

That is where your motorized pontoon boat awaits you, when you get on board, your 11-mile float along the Colorado River begins. The beautiful scenery will thrill you as you pass by Black Canyon and other amazing sights along your way to Willow Beach. You might see some bighorn sheep along the way!

Tusayan Float Trips

At Tusayan, you can choose a basic float tour or a more comprehensive version.

The basic version starts out with a motor coach ride from the airport in Tusayan to the Glen Canyon Dam. Your float trip begins there and takes you 15 miles down the Colorado River in a motorized raft. The rafting portion of the tour ends at the historic site, Lee's Ferry.

If you opt for the comprehensive tour, you will first board a plane that takes you to Page, Arizona. That is where you will get in a Jeep for a fun off-road trek to see the Slot Canyons in Antelope Canyon. Be sure to bring a camera so you can snap photos of this amazing place.

The Jeep then brings you back to Page where you get aboard the pontoon raft. The comprehensive tour and the basic tour conclude with a motor coach ride back to the Grand Canyon National Park Airport.

What's Included

These all-inclusive excursions provide for all your needs such as a river guide, live vest, water, and lunch. In addition, the tour packages include transportation, park fees, and taxes. These tours are very well planned, leaving you free to worry about other things like what you should wear.

Wear clothing that protects you from the sun such as a long sleeved shirt made from cotton, a hat with a brim, sunglasses, shorts, and river sandals. You should also bring extra clothes in case you get wet, sunscreen, lip balm, a camera, and a fully charged smart phone for photos. You might also want to bring along some extra water and salty snacks.

To Recap

Rafting trips in the Grand Canyon begin in Las Vegas or Tusayan, Arizona. When you leave from Vegas, you can choose the exciting tour that includes a helicopter descent to the canyon floor. If you are going to the South Rim, look for tours that originate there.

Any of these tours would be great for the July 4th holiday, but you have to book your seats early. Tour operators will be busy then. Try to get your tour booked one week ahead of the holiday if at all possible, and even earlier if you can.

Another thing, you should book your tour online. You will find the cheapest prices on the tour company's website. When you complete a purchase there, it qualifies you for the lowest rate, the Internet rate. Otherwise, you have to pay full retail price and spend more than you need to.

Grand Canyon National Park Helicopters Offer Incredible Autumn Views By Susan Bissonnette

Autumn is one of the best seasons of the year to take a scenic Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Several leave daily from Tusayan, Arizona (at the South Rim) and Las Vegas.

The weather is perfect in the fall for touring the canyon. During the summer, temps can hit 110 degrees at Grand Canyon West!

Best Time For Flying

In the fall, you can enjoy a Grand Canyon tour any time of day since the afternoons are not so hot. That being said, the air is calmer (less turbulent) and visibility is best at mid-morning.

Book Early

Grand Canyon helicopter tours are very popular. The helicopters only hold six passengers so they sell out during the peak summer season. During the fall months, things are a little better. Fewer people come to the Park and there are more open seats. That means you can probably snag a seat on even the very popular tours during the fall months. It is still recommended that you book your tour in advance if at all possible.

Based on my own experiences, I recommend booking fall tours at least a week ahead of the date you want. That's especially true if you're hoping to take one of the popular Vegas landing tours that include a champagne picnic or a smooth-water float trip down the Colorado.

Choices, Choices

You will probably begin your helicopter tour in Vegas or Tusayan but it is possible to fly out of Phoenix or Sedona but those tours are more expensive and inconsistent. If you need to depart from northern Arizona, the best thing to do is drive to Tusayan and catch a helicopter tour from there.

The tours that depart from Vegas provide you with the most options including landing tours and the air-only variety. Air-only flights are terrific for folks with limited free time. The air-only tours take about three hours including the free shuttle ride from your hotel, and they fly you over the canyon highlights as well as Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.

If you have more time, you should take a landing tour if you can. These let you see the canyon from the air and experience it up close from the ground. And they pack in a lot of value. With one popular package you'll land on the canyon bottom as well as the top. Another comes with VIP access to the West Rim's magnificent "Glass Bridge" -- the Grand Canyon Skywalk.

South Rim visitors can take 30- or 50-minute flights. On the short tour, the helicopter flies you over to the North Rim and back to the South Rim. This includes a thrilling tour of the Dragoon Corridor, which is the deepest and widest part of the canyon. I always go with the longer flight, though. You'll get to see the same highlights the shorter tour covers, but you also get to fly all the way to the eastern boundary of the National Park. That means you'll see up to 75 percent of the Park, including highlights like the Vermillion Cliffs, the Little Colorado River and the Desert Watchtower.

Dress Appropriately

Temps are cooler during autumn, so dress appropriately. It is a good idea to wear a jacket if you go to the South Rim, dress in layers, and protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat. The temps at Grand Canyon West are less predictable, so check the weather shortly before you leave for your tour. Wear the right clothing and you'll have the best time possible!

Interested in Adventure Tours? By Wadner Tranchant

While it used to be that people visit other places to marvel at the sites, taste exotic food, and somehow learn a thing or two about a foreign culture, a new breed of travelers have added a somewhat novel reason: adventure. Some travelers are not contented with just admiring the sights and sounds of wherever they?re visiting. They now want to experience an adrenalin rush in these new places. The great thing about it is that there are actually places that these thrill junkies can go to so that they can have their fix of thrills and adventures. The era of adventure tours has indeed arrived.

Adventure-focused travel has become increasingly popular because it offers something different to travelers and also brings with it certain advantages. For example, in contrast to more "traditional" tourism vehicles, which are more focused toward indoor sights and admiring outside locations, adventure-based travel obviously involves a lot of action. If these travelers want to continue with their fun when visiting these places, they are being encouraged by tour operators and the local governments of these places to do their share in protecting the ecological balance and purity. Should they display nonchalant and destructive behavior, they are bound to lose the chance to visit the place again and get the same adrenalin rush because it has already deteriorated because of their actions. Thus, saving it from ruin becomes their personal crusade.

Speaking of personal, another advantage of adding adventure to travel itineraries is that outdoor activities have been recommended by health professionals to prevent or solve health issues. "Park prescriptions" have become more and more popular to treat illnesses from obesity to heart disease. With the popularity of travailing itineraries with an adventurist twist, those park prescriptions are sure going to be more justified and applied to frequent travelers.

Now, which places would be great for adventure tours? All around the world, there are places that have packaged themselves as ideal for both fun and adventure. Here are a couple of suggestions:

Mammoth Mountain in California offers extreme sports fanatics a reason to pack up their skis and go to the Golden State. Amounts of snowfall in this area have been established as world records, assuring travelers that anytime of the year would be great to visit the place and indulge in some adrenaline-pumping activities like skiing, skating, sledding, and snowboarding.

On the other hand, those who want to rough it in wild waters can go to Idaho and have their adventure tours planned there. The Twin Rivers Bruneau and Jarbidge are ideal for wild water rafting. Surrounding the rivers is an area that has just been designated as a protected wilderness area. This means there is quite a variety of wild flora and fauna there are well.

Travailing with a lot of adventure in mind these days is not something difficult to accomplish anymore. Those planning to do such exploits just have to find a place with the activities they are interested in, and they should be set on a great adventure in no time.

Grand Canyon Helicopters Give You Amazing Views On South Rim Trips By Susan Bissonnette

The South Rim is the region of the Grand Canyon that most people recognize. That's where most of the best photos are shot, and that's where Grand Canyon National Park is located.

It's almost impossible to see all the Park's highlights from the ground. It would take a long time to even try. The ideal solution is to tour the South Rim by helicopter. You should take one of these Grand Canyon helicopters if you can. They are a lot of fun and give you a unique perspective on the immensity of the canyon. Don't shortchange yourself while you're at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Being that it's located in northern Arizona, most of the South Rim's visitors come from Phoenix, Flagstaff, Sedona, Scottsdale and other Arizona cities. It's also a favorite excursion for people coming from Vegas, who arrive there by plane (a 45-minute flight) or bus (a 5 -hour ride). It is easy to guess which mode of transportation is the most popular. Quick and convenient wins most of the time.

You can choose from some great Grand Canyon South Rim flights. There is a 50 minute tour and a shorter 30 minute version. If you go on the shorter tour you fly to the North Rim and back and pass over the Dragoon Corridor, which is the widest part of the Grand Canyon. The 50 minute flight does too, but it's more comprehensive and adds the Painted Desert, the Desert Watchtower, Imperial Point (the Park's highest spot), the Colorado Confluence and Zuni Corridor.

The longer tour is best if you can swing it. The Park is huge (more than a million acres of wilderness!) and many travelers will only make it there once. Don't miss out on seeing as much of the Park as you can unless you simply do not have time for the longer flight.

South Rim helicopters fly out of Grand Canyon National Airport, just outside the Park's main gates. You can take one of these tours every day, including holidays. It is a good idea to book your seats at least a week ahead of time. Booking early allows you to get the lowest price and the widest choice in tour times and dates.

If you wait until you get there to buy your tickets you will have to pay a lot more, plus your group might have to split up and you have less chance of getting the best early morning flights or a flight on the best choppers, the EcoStar 130s.

Let me explain why I think the EcoStar 130 is the best of all the South Rim helicopter models. These choppers are roomier and more comfortable than other tour helicopters. Their stadium-style seating and panoramic windshield gives every passenger magnificent views of the spectacles below. Their body design allows for a smooth and quiet flight and the cabin has the ultimate in climate control.

A couple of landing tours are now being offered at the South Rim. One tour option is to take the rim to rim aerial tour and then hop on a Jeep for a ride to the canyon's edge to view a spectacular sunset. The other substitutes a ride in the Park on a Harley for the Jeep ride. These fun tours are limited and they cost more but they are worth it because of the great experience you will have.

You can save some bucks on your tour by booking on the tour company's website. The tour companies always have the best deals, and I've been able to book several terrific Grand Canyon tours at 1/3 off their retail price just by booking direct on the company's site. You get this low rate by completing your transaction online so you qualify for the Internet only discount.

River Rafting At The Grand Canyon Is Great For Summer By Susan Bissonnette

Did you know that the Grand Canyon, located in the great American Southwest (Arizona, to be precise), is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World? It's not surprising really. The beauty of the canyon is breathtaking. I don't think any other place is quite like it.

Fun For The Family

There is no better place in the U.S. to take a family vacation than the Grand Canyon. Besides the obvious sightseeing (there's nothing like it!), you can even take a smooth-water rafting trip down the Colorado River. The water's so calm that seniors and kids four and up can participate in this unique experience.

It is difficult to appreciate how massive the Grand Canyon is when you arrive. Standing on the rim, you're about a mile above the Colorado River at the bottom. The river looks more like a silvery ribbon than what it really is - the force that created the gorge over hundreds of millions of years. Grand Canyon float tours give you an ?up-close-and-personal? view of the river and you'll be awed by the canyon walls towering above you.

Some folks prefer to stay on top and explore the rim they're visiting. A few adventurous souls hike down the trails until they reach the bottom. However, that is not easy to do if you have seniors or little kids with you. Fortunately, families can take Grand Canyon float tours for a fun, educational experience and get the same bottom-up? perspective.

If you'd love to get your kids interested in nature and environmental issues, a smooth-water rafting tour would be a great way to do it. Floating along the river is exciting for everyone and the views are indescribable, plus it is educational for the kids.

Colorado River

As you're passing the canyon's unique rock formations, you can teach your kids some basics about the geology of the area. The Colorado River carved out the canyon from the limestone of the Kaibab Plateau. Your kids will be amazed at the thought of it, especially when they see the rocks with their own eyes. It's amazing what erosion can accomplish if given long enough.

Keep your kids engaged and have them be on lookout for wildlife such as the California condor, hawks, bighorn sheep, and rock squirrels. Observing plants and animals in their natural habitat helps your kids learn about the delicate balance of nature. Your kids can learn a lot of things such as how to identify the animals, then they can imagine what they eat and where they live in the canyon.

The area is also rich in Native American history and culture. Hualapai Indians have lived in the Grand Canyon thousands of years and now own the land at the West Rim. The Hualapai have become creative in ways to earn money from their land since the old ways of hunting for a living are gone, and one of the things they do is earn income from the Skywalk glass bridge.

To Wrap Up

All good teachers know children need to be interested in order to learn. Kids are naturally inquisitive, but they get bored easily. You can disrupt this boredom by changing the topic often to keep things exciting. Nothing combines just the right amount of excitement and changing sights and topics better than a smooth-water rafting trip. It's easy for kids to have fun while they're learning about geology, wildlife and history during Grand Canyon rafting tours.

Doing a Grand Canyon Bus Excursion this Veteran's Day By Susan Bissonnette

Veteran's Day is coming up. It's one of the last 3-day weekends in the U.S., making it ideal to take a Grand Canyon bus tour from Las Vegas, NV.

Bus tours of the canyon operate on the same schedule over the holiday weekend. The tours depart pretty early in the morning and drop you off later in the evening. Please note that I said "later in the evening."

Driving Time

Bus tours go to the West Rim or the South Rim (you can't do both). The South Rim is farther away and takes 5 hours to get there by bus, while it only takes 2 hours to get to the West Rim.

Buses return from the South Rim around 9 p.m., and from the West Rim around 8 p.m. The key thing here is that bus tours require a complete day to do.

Which rim should you go to? The jury's out because based on my experience half the people I book tours for go to the West and the other half go to the South. It is a matter of personal preference.

West vs South

The West Rim is closest to Las Vegas at about 120 miles to the east. You'll find the glass Skywalk there and you don't want to miss the chance to walk out past the rim and peer down to the canyon floor. It's also got a number of great lookout points like Guano and Eagle.

What's more, there are several fun adventures you can take part in at the West Rim. Understand that it's the only place in the National Park where you can take a helicopter to the bottom. If you want to go all in, add a boat trip to the package. You should think about adding the chopper and boat rides to your bus tour.

The South Rim is 277 miles from Las Vegas. Indeed, it's a long drive but it's well worth it. The South Rim, which many call the "official" Grand Canyon is known for it's scenic beauty. Once you get to the South Rim, the bus spends about three hours touring the park so you see many sights.

Hoover Dam Stop

Whichever rim you go to, your bus stops at the Hoover Dam for a quick photo stop. The stop is a quick one. You don't get to actually tour the Hoover Dam too. There is not enough time to do both tours in the same day. The Hoover Dam tour is fun too and you can book it at a later time.

Bus tours are an excellent value. They pretty much come with everything. They come with a tour guide, lunch, taxes, park fees, and shuttle service to your hotel. So you don't have to worry about extra charges. No surprises.

I said earlier that Veteran's Day is one of the last big three-day holidays. This means that there will be strong demand for tours and I advise you to book your coach trip early. One thing's for sure: don't book a bus tour the day before you want to go. If you wait until the day as your tour, you probably won't be able to get a seat.

Let's Wrap This Up

Don't miss the opportunity to take a fantastic weekend trip to the Grand Canyon that includes a motor coach tour. These road trips are truly a great value and are great for families and groups. Decide which rim you want to see and book your seats now.

2012 Survival Kit By Nicole Adams

Prepare Yourself with the Best 2012 Survival Kit

2012 survival kit essentials can be confusing as people tend to choose different items depending on their own needs. However, regardless of what you have in the kit, ensuring that you have some form of medical kit in the house and vehicles is essential. You can never tell when disaster will strike, and if you are not organized, it can be devastating.

There are several different styles and sizes of the survival kits that are available for both home and your car, which can make the decision process daunting. You need to consider what style of kit you require, and what essential elements must be included. Even the most simplest of first aid kits can make a massive difference when disaster strikes.

Disasters typically cause injury, which you may be able to treat if you have a 2012 survival kit to hand. There will always be some injuries that are to severe, but a vast majority can be dealt with quickly with the kit. You will be surprised how much calmer people feel knowing that there are medical supplies available.

All survival kits can be beneficial; however, medical kits can provide the equipment that you need to save a life. There are several items you can include in the kit that will make it personal to you and your family. There is also basic equipment that is considered essential, and should be included in every medical survival kit.

Pain relievers, dressings, scissors, and bandages, antiseptic cream and personal medication are considered to be essential. You need to consider the size of the kit, and where it will be stored before adding any other items. There are numerous possibilities that will ensure that you have everything you need when the kit is needed.

When disaster strikes the last thing that people tend to grab is their medication, which can be a matter of life and death later on in the day. If you are unsure where to begin when selecting the items for the 2012 survival kit, there are many online guides available. Some kits will have the basics included, and you need to add other items that you feel are necessary.

If you are fortunate enough to have space for a large medical kit, you can include blankets, water and purification kits. Organization is vital when packing the kit, and many have dedicated compartments for every item. This will ensure that there is less panic and that you know where the items you need are placed at a quick glance.

The medical survival kit should be waterproof, and easy to transport ensuring that a majority of people can move it easily. The kit should also be marked clearly so people know it contains the medical supplies. You will need to check the kit regularly to ensure that all medicines are in date and that no items have been removed.

Bus Tours Of The Grand Canyon Sell Out Quickly By Susan Bissonnette

A lot of folks tell me they've tried to book one of these motor coach tours, only to learn that it's already sold out. These motor coach trips sell out quickly for good reasons. Fortunately, all of them can be prevented by planning ahead.

As it turns out, timing is the main issue. If you wait until 48 hours from the time of the tour, it will probably be sold out already. The day before the tour it is nearly impossible to get seats. Getting seats on the same day as the tour is probably not going to happen.

What's the answer?

Follow the advice to book your seats at least one week in advance. You can sometimes sneak in if you book 72 hours ahead, but mostly this happens during the winter, off-peak season. I'd never wait that long for a summer tour. The peak tourist season at the Grand Canyon is during the summer months. Every year, 5 million people come to the National Park, and for most of them it's during the summer.

Some of the coach trips are more popular than others are too. The bus trip that goes from Vegas to the South Rim is one of the most sought after tours. It is an all-inclusive tour that comes with lunch, Park fees, taxes, a professional guide and free shuttle service to Strip hotels, so it is no wonder it is so popular.

The tour includes all the details so all you have to worry about is bringing personal items like sunscreen, water, sunglasses, a cool long sleeved shirt, and a hat with a brim for sun protection.

Be sure to dress for the season because the elevation at the South Rim is 7000 feet above sea level. Because of its altitude, South Rim winters are cold and snowy, while summers are temperate. In comparison, the climate at the West Rim is a lot like it is in Vegas with very hot summers with temperatures up to 100 degrees and chilly, windy winters.

The bus trips to the South Rim may be popular, but trips to the West Rim are exciting too. It seems to be easier to get seats on a West Rim bus, but maybe that's because there are more of these tours. Even so, don't delay too long when you're booking a West Rim trip, especially if you want the package that includes VIP access to the Grand Canyon Skywalk.

This engineering marvel has become a famous destination for travelers from around the globe. Each glass panel cost around $250,000 and the total cost of constructing this amazing bridge is 30 million dollars. You can walk out 70 feet to the farthest point and gaze down to the bottom of the canyon 4000 feet below you. The views from that vantage point are simply spectacular.

Don't waste time shopping around for your seats. Instead, buy direct, right on the tour company's website. They can offer you the lowest prices and the best choices too. You'll have a great time and save money by following this strategy.

Grand Canyon Tours Are Running On Time Despite The U.S. Govt. Shutdown By Susan Bissonnette

As you have probably heard, since the government is closed, the gates are locked at America's National Parks. What should you do if you have a trip planned to the Grand Canyon? If you are planning on taking a tour, especially one that visits the canyon by air, you shouldn't have any problems.

The South Rim is definitely closed. That is where the main gates are, near the town of Tusayan. Fortunately, the West Rim is not actually located on Park land so it is still open and conducting operations as normal.

West Rim Tours

So if you will be in Vegas, you can take a tour to the West Rim with no problem. It is just over 100 miles away, which is about 2 hours by motor coach or automobile. Chopper flights take about 45 minutes and plane flights to the West Rim from Vegas take about a half an hour.

However, flights to the South Rim out of Vegas are grounded for the time being. There is no flight from the West Rim to the South Rim either. You can still see the South Rim by catching a flight out of a city in Arizona, otherwise, you will have to wait until the government shutdown is over if you want to depart from Vegas. So if you really want to take an aerial tour of the South Rim, you will have to look for a flight out of a city like Sedona, Flagstaff, or Phoenix.

Tours Of The South Rim

You can take two kinds of South Rim aerial tours. One choice is to get a seat on an airplane that takes you over the amazing scenery that lies between the South and North Rim over to the eastern border of the Park. The other choice is to take the same flight path in a helicopter instead of a plane. You can also take a shorter version of the helicopter tour that only lasts around a half an hour. You will see fantastic panoramic views and many unusual rock formations on these air tours. If you want the best view possible, choose the helicopter tour because the choppers fly lower and you are closer to the scenery. The chopper tours cost a lot more too.

Fun Things To Do

Tours that go to the West Rim give you the chance to participate in many fun activities. The West Rim is conducting operations as usual so all land and air tours are available to you. You can choose air-only or landing tours too. Landing tours are fantastic fun because you get a personal view of the canyon and you get to visit fun landmarks like the glass Grand Canyon Skywalk. That's not to say the air-only tours are not any fun, because with them you get to see all the amazing rock formations from an aerial perspective, plus you get to fly over Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam.

One of the most popular Grand Canyon tours at the West Rim is one you should definitely check out. It is the chopper tour that lands on the canyon floor where you are treated to a fun champagne picnic. A fun airplane tour drops you off at the Grand Canyon West Airport and gives you three hours to explore the region by foot and find interesting things to do and see. If you are adventurous, you could walk out on the Skywalk, or you could ride a chopper to the bottom of the canyon and hop on a raft and tour the canyon by floating down the river.

Recap

It is nice to know you won't have to worry about the tours in the Grand Canyon being shut down. Don't even worry about the government shutdown. Don't let the shutdown ruin your trip. Before you go, understand how the tours are operating, especially if you want to go to the South Rim. Remember the main gates to the National Park are closed so if you want to see the South Rim region of the canyon, you have to do it by air. The tours going to the Grand Canyon are popular as always and the seats go fast. Get your seats early so you don't miss the chance to see this scenic wonderland. Go to the tour operator's website to buy your tickets because you will get an Internet discount that will save money on your tour.

Grand Canyon National Park Rafting Begins With One-Day Float Tours By Susan Bissonnette

Summer is a great time to go rafting in the Grand Canyon. But don't wait until the last minute to book your tour as these trips are famous for selling out.

Google Maps

First, let's look at one-day raft tours that depart from the Grand Canyon's South Rim, which is the main point of entry to the National Park. If you are trying to find this location on Google Maps, search for the town of Tusayan.

Anyhow, South Rim rafting tours come in two versions. The first tour takes you by bus to your raft, which waits at the base of Glen Canyon Dam in Page, AZ. The other tour takes you to Page by airplane instead and also includes a fun Jeep ride through Antelope Canyon.

The raft tour itself covers 15.3 miles of river and takes you to Lee's Ferry. After that, you take a bus ride back to where you started in Tusayan.

No Rough Water

The water on this stretch of the river is always calm, so kids ages four and older are allowed. It is actually a great tour for everyone, even senior citizens. You can take a whitewater tour if you want, these are the multi-day tours that cost around $1500 for each person.

There is another fun one-day raft tour that leaves from Las Vegas. This one kicks off with a helicopter tour to the bottom of the West Rim. From there, you'll ascend, transfer to a bus and go to the base of iconic Hoover Dam.

This float tour is eleven miles long. You will meander through the picturesque Black Canyon on your way to Willow Beach. You will have great fun catching glimpses of the many species of wildlife that call the Grand Canyon home.

Seasonality

Grand Canyon rafting trips operate April to November. This is because the water is brutally cold during winter and early spring. The waters are also swift during the winter and spring since the melting snow from the Rockies flows through the canyon on its way to the Sea of Cortez in Mexico.

Be prepared for how popular these tours are with travelers to the Grand Canyon. Because of that, you need to book your seats at least a week in advance. Waiting until the last minute to get your seats is just too risky. Forget trying to book within 24 hours, especially if you are staying in Flagstaff or Williams (if you do, factor in a 60-mile drive and a 6 a.m. tour check in).

The simplest thing to do is book your seats online. Just stay away from the travel sites. Instead, go direct to the actual tour supplier. These are the company's that own and operate the tours and are the only ones in the position to offer their trips at a discount. Be sure to complete your transaction on the site so you can get the low Internet rate.

Let's Recap

Your entire family will have a blast on one of these float tours. You can tour the South Rim from Tusayan or the West Rim from Vegas. The tours take all day so be prepared to leave early, there are no half-day tours. Book these trips well in advance and buy them on the Internet as doing so will save you significant cash.

Grand Canyon Helicopters Still Fly Above The Canyon Despite The Govt. Shutdown By Susan Bissonnette

I've been getting a lot of questions on whether Grand Canyon helicopters are still flying despite the shutdown of the American government. You will be glad to hear the tours are still in operation.

You see, Arizona's South Rim is temporarily closed because it's part of Grand Canyon National Park. You can't even get in the main gates there because they are locked. Luckily though, the South Rim aerial tours are still in operation. See, the aircraft take off from the Grand Canyon National Park Airport, and this airfield sets outside of the National Park's boundaries. Also, the government doesn't own the airspace above the Park.

It's business as usual at the West Rim. Grand Canyon West isn't affected by the government stalemate because it's privately owned by the Hualapai Indian tribe. So the West Rim isn't part of the National Park and under government control.

South Rim Flights

You can take an air tour of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon by chopper or plane. The airplane tour is nearly an hour long and flies you over the South Rim and North Rim and includes the eastern part of the Park. It covers 75 percent of the whole Park!

There are two versions of South Rim helicopter tours: a 30-minute flight and a 50-minute version. The long chopper tour covers the same flight path as the airplane tour and lets you see more of the Park. The helicopter tours cost more but they are worth it. Try to get a tour on an EcoStar 130 if you can because they are great for sightseeing and will enhance your flight.

Flights Out of Vegas

If you will be in Vegas, you are in luck because tours that leave from there and go to the West Rim are totally unaffected by the government shutdown. All the tours to the West Rim are operating on a normal schedule including air and bus tours, and rafting trips, just keep in mind rafting trips always close for the winter in mid-November. The only hitch relates to the South Rim -- Vegas plane flights and bus tours of the South Rim are shut down until Congress agrees on a budget. As soon as the government shutdown is over, the South Rim tours will resume.

Book Your Tour With The Operator

It gives you peace of mine when the tour operator offers a cancellation policy. Anything could come up at the last minute. But it's even more important now, during the government budget crisis.

Avoid the cut-rate tour operators. They offer cancellation policies with exclusions and loopholes that make it hard to get your money back. Instead, buy from a tour operator that offers a full refund if your tour is canceled because of the government shutdown. If you're not happy about the uncertainty, there's no penalty if you cancel your tour yourself as long as you do it at least 24 hours before your flight. Tours to the Grand Canyon are very popular and you have to book your seats in advance or you will be shut out, so if you go with a company that has a good cancellation policy, you won't have cause for concern.

Quick Summary

It is too bad the government ruined a lot of travel plans by closing the National Parks. Even so, tours to the Grand Canyon are largely unaffected. Just keep in mind, right now you cannot take any bus tours to the South Rim because the main gates are closed. and you cannot take the flight from Vegas to the South Rim that includes a bus tour once you get there. You can still see the magnificent Grand Canyon, despite the U.S. Government shutdown!

Go Grand Canyon National Park Rafting This Labor Day Weekend By Susan Bissonnette

Labor Day is on Sept 2nd, and it is fast approaching.That's a great time to take a day long rafting tour of the Grand Canyon, but you need to book your seats now.

Labor Day Is Busy At The Grand Canyon

This year the holiday falls on a Monday, meaning most of us will be able to enjoy a three-day weekend-an extra bonus I always look forward to! But Labor Day weekend (whether it's two-day or three-day) is always one of the Park's busiest times of the year.

I'm strongly urging folks to book their Labor Day float trips at least a week before the weekend begins. It is risky to wait longer than that, but you never know, you might luck out and get a seat 72 hours in advance.

Even though the holiday is a busy time, you can still get a great deal on your tour. In fact, you can probably save about 20% off the price when you book your seats online.

Book with the Tour Company

What is the best way to save? Avoid the big name travel websites. I buy direct, on the tour company's own website. The tour companies own and operate the tours. They offer low rates that travel brokers cannot match.

One-Day Raft Trips

Since the tours take all day, be prepared to depart about 7 a.m. You can take off from Las Vegas or from Tusayan, Arizona, which is near the main gates at the South Rim.

There are two tour options when you leave from Tusayan. The standard tour begins with a motor coach ride to Glen Canyon Dam, there you get on your 19-passenger pontoon raft and set off on a fun 15 mile trek down the Colorado River. The pontoon ride comes to an end when you reach Lee's Ferry.

If you opt for the deluxe Tusayan float trip, you will start with a short plane ride to Page, Arizona. That's where you'll board a Jeep for an off-road trip to the "Slot Canyons" in Antelope Canyon. You'll then drive to Glen Canyon Dam for the rafting portion of your tour (identical to the standard version). The deluxe and standard float trips end with a bus ride back to where you started in Tusayan, Arizona.

If you plan to start your tour in Las Vegas, you will go to the West Rim and descend to the canyon floor in a chopper. Then you are given a half an hour to explore the region by foot. After that, you get on board a bus and ride over to Hoover Dam, once there, you get on a raft and float about eleven miles down the river until you get to Willow Beach.

Smooth Water Only

None of these float trips involve any whitewater , they're all smooth-water experiences that active seniors and kids as young as four can enjoy. That's why these raft trips are great fun for everyone in your family. It is easy to see why these tours are so popular.

All-Inclusive

Everything is included in your tour such as your lunch, gear, Park fees, taxes, and a tour guide. You'll need to wear sturdy river sandals or running shoes, shorts, a hat, long sleeves, and sunglasses. You will probably get wet, so wear something that won't be ruined. Take along sunscreen too and some water. Consider bringing an extra set of clothes.

Going to the Grand Canyon and taking a raft tour is the perfect Labor Day getaway. Your whole family is sure to have a fantastic time and make memories that will last forever.

2012 Survival Kit By Nicole Adams

Prepare Yourself with the Best 2012 Survival Kit

2012 survival kit essentials can be confusing as people tend to choose different items depending on their own needs. However, regardless of what you have in the kit, ensuring that you have some form of medical kit in the house and vehicles is essential. You can never tell when disaster will strike, and if you are not organized, it can be devastating.

There are several different styles and sizes of the survival kits that are available for both home and your car, which can make the decision process daunting. You need to consider what style of kit you require, and what essential elements must be included. Even the most simplest of first aid kits can make a massive difference when disaster strikes.

Disasters typically cause injury, which you may be able to treat if you have a 2012 survival kit to hand. There will always be some injuries that are to severe, but a vast majority can be dealt with quickly with the kit. You will be surprised how much calmer people feel knowing that there are medical supplies available.

All survival kits can be beneficial; however, medical kits can provide the equipment that you need to save a life. There are several items you can include in the kit that will make it personal to you and your family. There is also basic equipment that is considered essential, and should be included in every medical survival kit.

Pain relievers, dressings, scissors, and bandages, antiseptic cream and personal medication are considered to be essential. You need to consider the size of the kit, and where it will be stored before adding any other items. There are numerous possibilities that will ensure that you have everything you need when the kit is needed.

When disaster strikes the last thing that people tend to grab is their medication, which can be a matter of life and death later on in the day. If you are unsure where to begin when selecting the items for the 2012 survival kit, there are many online guides available. Some kits will have the basics included, and you need to add other items that you feel are necessary.

If you are fortunate enough to have space for a large medical kit, you can include blankets, water and purification kits. Organization is vital when packing the kit, and many have dedicated compartments for every item. This will ensure that there is less panic and that you know where the items you need are placed at a quick glance.

The medical survival kit should be waterproof, and easy to transport ensuring that a majority of people can move it easily. The kit should also be marked clearly so people know it contains the medical supplies. You will need to check the kit regularly to ensure that all medicines are in date and that no items have been removed.

River Rafting At The Grand Canyon Is Great For Summer By Susan Bissonnette

Did you know that the Grand Canyon, located in the great American Southwest (Arizona, to be precise), is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World? It's not surprising really. The beauty of the canyon is breathtaking. I don't think any other place is quite like it.

Fun For The Family

There is no better place in the U.S. to take a family vacation than the Grand Canyon. Besides the obvious sightseeing (there's nothing like it!), you can even take a smooth-water rafting trip down the Colorado River. The water's so calm that seniors and kids four and up can participate in this unique experience.

It is difficult to appreciate how massive the Grand Canyon is when you arrive. Standing on the rim, you're about a mile above the Colorado River at the bottom. The river looks more like a silvery ribbon than what it really is - the force that created the gorge over hundreds of millions of years. Grand Canyon float tours give you an ?up-close-and-personal? view of the river and you'll be awed by the canyon walls towering above you.

Some folks prefer to stay on top and explore the rim they're visiting. A few adventurous souls hike down the trails until they reach the bottom. However, that is not easy to do if you have seniors or little kids with you. Fortunately, families can take Grand Canyon float tours for a fun, educational experience and get the same bottom-up? perspective.

If you'd love to get your kids interested in nature and environmental issues, a smooth-water rafting tour would be a great way to do it. Floating along the river is exciting for everyone and the views are indescribable, plus it is educational for the kids.

Colorado River

As you're passing the canyon's unique rock formations, you can teach your kids some basics about the geology of the area. The Colorado River carved out the canyon from the limestone of the Kaibab Plateau. Your kids will be amazed at the thought of it, especially when they see the rocks with their own eyes. It's amazing what erosion can accomplish if given long enough.

Keep your kids engaged and have them be on lookout for wildlife such as the California condor, hawks, bighorn sheep, and rock squirrels. Observing plants and animals in their natural habitat helps your kids learn about the delicate balance of nature. Your kids can learn a lot of things such as how to identify the animals, then they can imagine what they eat and where they live in the canyon.

The area is also rich in Native American history and culture. Hualapai Indians have lived in the Grand Canyon thousands of years and now own the land at the West Rim. The Hualapai have become creative in ways to earn money from their land since the old ways of hunting for a living are gone, and one of the things they do is earn income from the Skywalk glass bridge.

To Wrap Up

All good teachers know children need to be interested in order to learn. Kids are naturally inquisitive, but they get bored easily. You can disrupt this boredom by changing the topic often to keep things exciting. Nothing combines just the right amount of excitement and changing sights and topics better than a smooth-water rafting trip. It's easy for kids to have fun while they're learning about geology, wildlife and history during Grand Canyon rafting tours.

Grand Canyon National Park Helicopters Offer Incredible Autumn Views By Susan Bissonnette

Autumn is one of the best seasons of the year to take a scenic Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Several leave daily from Tusayan, Arizona (at the South Rim) and Las Vegas.

The weather is perfect in the fall for touring the canyon. During the summer, temps can hit 110 degrees at Grand Canyon West!

Best Time For Flying

In the fall, you can enjoy a Grand Canyon tour any time of day since the afternoons are not so hot. That being said, the air is calmer (less turbulent) and visibility is best at mid-morning.

Book Early

Grand Canyon helicopter tours are very popular. The helicopters only hold six passengers so they sell out during the peak summer season. During the fall months, things are a little better. Fewer people come to the Park and there are more open seats. That means you can probably snag a seat on even the very popular tours during the fall months. It is still recommended that you book your tour in advance if at all possible.

Based on my own experiences, I recommend booking fall tours at least a week ahead of the date you want. That's especially true if you're hoping to take one of the popular Vegas landing tours that include a champagne picnic or a smooth-water float trip down the Colorado.

Choices, Choices

You will probably begin your helicopter tour in Vegas or Tusayan but it is possible to fly out of Phoenix or Sedona but those tours are more expensive and inconsistent. If you need to depart from northern Arizona, the best thing to do is drive to Tusayan and catch a helicopter tour from there.

The tours that depart from Vegas provide you with the most options including landing tours and the air-only variety. Air-only flights are terrific for folks with limited free time. The air-only tours take about three hours including the free shuttle ride from your hotel, and they fly you over the canyon highlights as well as Hoover Dam and Lake Mead.

If you have more time, you should take a landing tour if you can. These let you see the canyon from the air and experience it up close from the ground. And they pack in a lot of value. With one popular package you'll land on the canyon bottom as well as the top. Another comes with VIP access to the West Rim's magnificent "Glass Bridge" -- the Grand Canyon Skywalk.

South Rim visitors can take 30- or 50-minute flights. On the short tour, the helicopter flies you over to the North Rim and back to the South Rim. This includes a thrilling tour of the Dragoon Corridor, which is the deepest and widest part of the canyon. I always go with the longer flight, though. You'll get to see the same highlights the shorter tour covers, but you also get to fly all the way to the eastern boundary of the National Park. That means you'll see up to 75 percent of the Park, including highlights like the Vermillion Cliffs, the Little Colorado River and the Desert Watchtower.

Dress Appropriately

Temps are cooler during autumn, so dress appropriately. It is a good idea to wear a jacket if you go to the South Rim, dress in layers, and protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat. The temps at Grand Canyon West are less predictable, so check the weather shortly before you leave for your tour. Wear the right clothing and you'll have the best time possible!

Interested in Adventure Tours? By Wadner Tranchant

While it used to be that people visit other places to marvel at the sites, taste exotic food, and somehow learn a thing or two about a foreign culture, a new breed of travelers have added a somewhat novel reason: adventure. Some travelers are not contented with just admiring the sights and sounds of wherever they?re visiting. They now want to experience an adrenalin rush in these new places. The great thing about it is that there are actually places that these thrill junkies can go to so that they can have their fix of thrills and adventures. The era of adventure tours has indeed arrived.

Adventure-focused travel has become increasingly popular because it offers something different to travelers and also brings with it certain advantages. For example, in contrast to more "traditional" tourism vehicles, which are more focused toward indoor sights and admiring outside locations, adventure-based travel obviously involves a lot of action. If these travelers want to continue with their fun when visiting these places, they are being encouraged by tour operators and the local governments of these places to do their share in protecting the ecological balance and purity. Should they display nonchalant and destructive behavior, they are bound to lose the chance to visit the place again and get the same adrenalin rush because it has already deteriorated because of their actions. Thus, saving it from ruin becomes their personal crusade.

Speaking of personal, another advantage of adding adventure to travel itineraries is that outdoor activities have been recommended by health professionals to prevent or solve health issues. "Park prescriptions" have become more and more popular to treat illnesses from obesity to heart disease. With the popularity of travailing itineraries with an adventurist twist, those park prescriptions are sure going to be more justified and applied to frequent travelers.

Now, which places would be great for adventure tours? All around the world, there are places that have packaged themselves as ideal for both fun and adventure. Here are a couple of suggestions:

Mammoth Mountain in California offers extreme sports fanatics a reason to pack up their skis and go to the Golden State. Amounts of snowfall in this area have been established as world records, assuring travelers that anytime of the year would be great to visit the place and indulge in some adrenaline-pumping activities like skiing, skating, sledding, and snowboarding.

On the other hand, those who want to rough it in wild waters can go to Idaho and have their adventure tours planned there. The Twin Rivers Bruneau and Jarbidge are ideal for wild water rafting. Surrounding the rivers is an area that has just been designated as a protected wilderness area. This means there is quite a variety of wild flora and fauna there are well.

Travailing with a lot of adventure in mind these days is not something difficult to accomplish anymore. Those planning to do such exploits just have to find a place with the activities they are interested in, and they should be set on a great adventure in no time.

The Perfect Time to Visit Lake Tahoe By Chloe Mulliner

As the winter snow melts away and the temperatures start to rise in Lake Tahoe, it?s perfect time for a weekend getaway. Ditch those snow boots, grab the fishing poles, and enjoy a fun filled long weekend at the lake this time of year.

1. Boating
There's no better way to welcome summer than by cruising on the crystal blue waters of Lake Tahoe. Boating season has officially begun in Tahoe, but just make sure to swing by one of Tahoe's various roadside boat inspection stations before setting sail. The roadside inspection stations in Alpine Meadows, Meyers, and Spooner Summit are already open, while the ones at Northstar at Tahoe Resort and Homewood Ski Resort open on May 23, just in time for vacation season.

And don't worry, those who don't own boats won't miss out on any fun because the Tahoe area features multiple boat rentals where visitors can rent their dream boat for the day. These boating companies such as SWA Watersports and Tahoe Water Adventures also offer boating equipment from wakeboards and jet skis to fishing poles and water skis to spice up the water adventure.

2. Barbecuing
After a long day splashing in the lake and soaking up that early summer sun, kick back with a barbecue bash. Countless Lake Tahoe hotels , including Tunnel Creek Lodge, Chinquapin Vacation rentals, and the Franciscan Lakeside Lodges provide barbecue pits and grills, which guests can use to cook up mouth watering ribs while taking in the serene views of the mountains and the Lake.

3. Biking
For some exercise, adventure, and spectacular views, hop on a bike and venture through Tahoe?s bike trails. The weather this time in Tahoe is ideal for a bike ride, not too hot and not too cold, so it's the best time to sneak in a little exercise during vacation.

Lake Tahoe offers countless trails suitable for all fitness and experience levels, from beginner trails with scenic views to rigorous mountain terrain designated for the brave at heart. The Tahoe biking companies such as Factory Bike Tahoe City provide visitors with all the biking gear they need such as cruisers, townie bikes, mountain bikes, and even trail-a-bikes so that the little ones can join in on the excitement too. For those unfamiliar with the Tahoe trails, Wanna Ride Tahoe Bike Tours feature trail maps and bike guides to help visitors experience the best of Lake Tahoe.

4. Gaming
Sure, we all have visions of a warm and sunny vacation, but Mother Nature doesn't always behave. While nature can be unpredictable, don't let a little wet weather rain on the getaway. Let loose, play the slots, and go for the jackpot at any one of Tahoe's various casinos. From poker tables and video games to slot machines and horse races, the casinos offer plenty of things to do in Lake Tahoe until the sun decides to shine through.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Trips Over the Winter Season By Susan Bissonnette

Out here in the Southwest, winter is in full effect. So if your plans are slated to include a Grand Canyon helicopter ride, make sure to dress warmly. Lately, the weather has been cool, crisp and wonderful, but there have been times when it's gotten cold.

I guess you could say "cold" takes on a different meaning out here. During the day over here in Nevada and Arizona, you can expect high temps during the day to reach into the 60's. At dawn, there can be freezing temperatures but that's not all that common.

Now that I've said that, please don't get lackadaisical. For instance, the South Rim during winter is not a place for shorts and flip flops. Believe it or not I've seen folks from Las Vegas arrive up here like that. The cold starts nipping at them and before you know it they sprint back to the bus.

My recommendation is to give the 10-day weather forecast a good read and be conservative when it comes to predicting cold weather. The best helicopter feature superb climate control in the cabin but you'll want to still be prepared.

Just how prepared you are will be based on the rim that you visit. The West Rim, for example, is warmer than the South Rim (elevation 7,000 feet). In fact, expect the weather at the West Rim to be a lot like that you'd find in Las Vegas, except possibly a little colder and windier.

The key thing is to pack for comfort. In my case, I like to dress using layers. By that I mean I start with a t-shirt underneath everything, then a shirt, a thick sweater and a jacket. Of course, this depends on which Rim I plan to visit and what I plan to do there. Bringing a hat, gloves, lip balm and gloves are also essential to having a great experience. Scarves are a nice addition and work great to keep the cold out.

I touched on sandals earlier in the article. You might barely be able to use them in Vegas, but it's just not a good idea when visiting the canyon. You'll begin to notice that it was a bad idea when you walk outdoors from check-in to your helicopter. Things become really apparent for those taking a tour that lands at either the top or bottom of the canyon -- that's when you wish you had some socks. The actual moment, however, comes once you deplane, which is either the top or the bottom of the West Rim.

Please be aware that helicopters from Las Vegas don't fly to the South Rim. It's just too far. This leaves you with two options: airplane and bus. On average, it takes the bus 5 1/2 hours to reach the South Rim. By contrast, the airplane takes 60 minutes. You can probably tell which option I'm leaning toward

Just like helicopters, airplanes, too, come with awesome climate control. Not quite comparable to what you get in a helicopter but comfortable all the same. It's whenever you deplane at Tusayan, which is where the Grand Canyon Airport is located, that you suck it up and enter an environment that's nothing like Las Vegas'. And it's here where I suggest you consider taking a pair of personal ice cleats, as there might be ice at some of the key lookout points.

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Bus Tours Of The Grand Canyon Sell Out Quickly By Susan Bissonnette

A lot of folks tell me they've tried to book one of these motor coach tours, only to learn that it's already sold out. These motor coach trips sell out quickly for good reasons. Fortunately, all of them can be prevented by planning ahead.

As it turns out, timing is the main issue. If you wait until 48 hours from the time of the tour, it will probably be sold out already. The day before the tour it is nearly impossible to get seats. Getting seats on the same day as the tour is probably not going to happen.

What's the answer?

Follow the advice to book your seats at least one week in advance. You can sometimes sneak in if you book 72 hours ahead, but mostly this happens during the winter, off-peak season. I'd never wait that long for a summer tour. The peak tourist season at the Grand Canyon is during the summer months. Every year, 5 million people come to the National Park, and for most of them it's during the summer.

Some of the coach trips are more popular than others are too. The bus trip that goes from Vegas to the South Rim is one of the most sought after tours. It is an all-inclusive tour that comes with lunch, Park fees, taxes, a professional guide and free shuttle service to Strip hotels, so it is no wonder it is so popular.

The tour includes all the details so all you have to worry about is bringing personal items like sunscreen, water, sunglasses, a cool long sleeved shirt, and a hat with a brim for sun protection.

Be sure to dress for the season because the elevation at the South Rim is 7000 feet above sea level. Because of its altitude, South Rim winters are cold and snowy, while summers are temperate. In comparison, the climate at the West Rim is a lot like it is in Vegas with very hot summers with temperatures up to 100 degrees and chilly, windy winters.

The bus trips to the South Rim may be popular, but trips to the West Rim are exciting too. It seems to be easier to get seats on a West Rim bus, but maybe that's because there are more of these tours. Even so, don't delay too long when you're booking a West Rim trip, especially if you want the package that includes VIP access to the Grand Canyon Skywalk.

This engineering marvel has become a famous destination for travelers from around the globe. Each glass panel cost around $250,000 and the total cost of constructing this amazing bridge is 30 million dollars. You can walk out 70 feet to the farthest point and gaze down to the bottom of the canyon 4000 feet below you. The views from that vantage point are simply spectacular.

Don't waste time shopping around for your seats. Instead, buy direct, right on the tour company's website. They can offer you the lowest prices and the best choices too. You'll have a great time and save money by following this strategy.

Grand Canyon Helicopters Still Fly Above The Canyon Despite The Govt. Shutdown By Susan Bissonnette

I've been getting a lot of questions on whether Grand Canyon helicopters are still flying despite the shutdown of the American government. You will be glad to hear the tours are still in operation.

You see, Arizona's South Rim is temporarily closed because it's part of Grand Canyon National Park. You can't even get in the main gates there because they are locked. Luckily though, the South Rim aerial tours are still in operation. See, the aircraft take off from the Grand Canyon National Park Airport, and this airfield sets outside of the National Park's boundaries. Also, the government doesn't own the airspace above the Park.

It's business as usual at the West Rim. Grand Canyon West isn't affected by the government stalemate because it's privately owned by the Hualapai Indian tribe. So the West Rim isn't part of the National Park and under government control.

South Rim Flights

You can take an air tour of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon by chopper or plane. The airplane tour is nearly an hour long and flies you over the South Rim and North Rim and includes the eastern part of the Park. It covers 75 percent of the whole Park!

There are two versions of South Rim helicopter tours: a 30-minute flight and a 50-minute version. The long chopper tour covers the same flight path as the airplane tour and lets you see more of the Park. The helicopter tours cost more but they are worth it. Try to get a tour on an EcoStar 130 if you can because they are great for sightseeing and will enhance your flight.

Flights Out of Vegas

If you will be in Vegas, you are in luck because tours that leave from there and go to the West Rim are totally unaffected by the government shutdown. All the tours to the West Rim are operating on a normal schedule including air and bus tours, and rafting trips, just keep in mind rafting trips always close for the winter in mid-November. The only hitch relates to the South Rim -- Vegas plane flights and bus tours of the South Rim are shut down until Congress agrees on a budget. As soon as the government shutdown is over, the South Rim tours will resume.

Book Your Tour With The Operator

It gives you peace of mine when the tour operator offers a cancellation policy. Anything could come up at the last minute. But it's even more important now, during the government budget crisis.

Avoid the cut-rate tour operators. They offer cancellation policies with exclusions and loopholes that make it hard to get your money back. Instead, buy from a tour operator that offers a full refund if your tour is canceled because of the government shutdown. If you're not happy about the uncertainty, there's no penalty if you cancel your tour yourself as long as you do it at least 24 hours before your flight. Tours to the Grand Canyon are very popular and you have to book your seats in advance or you will be shut out, so if you go with a company that has a good cancellation policy, you won't have cause for concern.

Quick Summary

It is too bad the government ruined a lot of travel plans by closing the National Parks. Even so, tours to the Grand Canyon are largely unaffected. Just keep in mind, right now you cannot take any bus tours to the South Rim because the main gates are closed. and you cannot take the flight from Vegas to the South Rim that includes a bus tour once you get there. You can still see the magnificent Grand Canyon, despite the U.S. Government shutdown!

Grand Canyon River Rafting For The Fourth Of July Holiday By Susan Bissonnette

If you want an exciting Fourth of July getaway, you should think about taking a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon. That is a fantastic way to celebrate the highpoint of the summer.

The float tours take you past some of the most scenic portions of the Grand Canyon and you stay on calm water the whole time. There are no rapids or rough waters so senior citizens and kids age four and up can come along.

You can book one of these fun tours out of Vegas or Tusayan in Arizona. The Grand Canyon National Park Airport, or GCA, is located in Tusayan, and the city is near the South Rim's main gates. These rafting tours of the Grand Canyon depart every morning and last an entire fun-filled day.

Las Vegas Raft Trips

Rafting trips from Vegas are wildly popular and you would have a fantastic time on one over the holiday. The tour starts with a thrilling helicopter descent from the top of the rim to the floor of the canyon. You have the chance to explore the area on foot for about 30 minutes and then you get on a motor coach for a short ride to the Hoover Dam.

That is where your motorized pontoon boat awaits you, when you get on board, your 11-mile float along the Colorado River begins. The beautiful scenery will thrill you as you pass by Black Canyon and other amazing sights along your way to Willow Beach. You might see some bighorn sheep along the way!

Tusayan Float Trips

At Tusayan, you can choose a basic float tour or a more comprehensive version.

The basic version starts out with a motor coach ride from the airport in Tusayan to the Glen Canyon Dam. Your float trip begins there and takes you 15 miles down the Colorado River in a motorized raft. The rafting portion of the tour ends at the historic site, Lee's Ferry.

If you opt for the comprehensive tour, you will first board a plane that takes you to Page, Arizona. That is where you will get in a Jeep for a fun off-road trek to see the Slot Canyons in Antelope Canyon. Be sure to bring a camera so you can snap photos of this amazing place.

The Jeep then brings you back to Page where you get aboard the pontoon raft. The comprehensive tour and the basic tour conclude with a motor coach ride back to the Grand Canyon National Park Airport.

What's Included

These all-inclusive excursions provide for all your needs such as a river guide, live vest, water, and lunch. In addition, the tour packages include transportation, park fees, and taxes. These tours are very well planned, leaving you free to worry about other things like what you should wear.

Wear clothing that protects you from the sun such as a long sleeved shirt made from cotton, a hat with a brim, sunglasses, shorts, and river sandals. You should also bring extra clothes in case you get wet, sunscreen, lip balm, a camera, and a fully charged smart phone for photos. You might also want to bring along some extra water and salty snacks.

To Recap

Rafting trips in the Grand Canyon begin in Las Vegas or Tusayan, Arizona. When you leave from Vegas, you can choose the exciting tour that includes a helicopter descent to the canyon floor. If you are going to the South Rim, look for tours that originate there.

Any of these tours would be great for the July 4th holiday, but you have to book your seats early. Tour operators will be busy then. Try to get your tour booked one week ahead of the holiday if at all possible, and even earlier if you can.

Another thing, you should book your tour online. You will find the cheapest prices on the tour company's website. When you complete a purchase there, it qualifies you for the lowest rate, the Internet rate. Otherwise, you have to pay full retail price and spend more than you need to.

Grand Canyon National Park Rafting Begins With One-Day Float Tours By Susan Bissonnette

Summer is a great time to go rafting in the Grand Canyon. But don't wait until the last minute to book your tour as these trips are famous for selling out.

Google Maps

First, let's look at one-day raft tours that depart from the Grand Canyon's South Rim, which is the main point of entry to the National Park. If you are trying to find this location on Google Maps, search for the town of Tusayan.

Anyhow, South Rim rafting tours come in two versions. The first tour takes you by bus to your raft, which waits at the base of Glen Canyon Dam in Page, AZ. The other tour takes you to Page by airplane instead and also includes a fun Jeep ride through Antelope Canyon.

The raft tour itself covers 15.3 miles of river and takes you to Lee's Ferry. After that, you take a bus ride back to where you started in Tusayan.

No Rough Water

The water on this stretch of the river is always calm, so kids ages four and older are allowed. It is actually a great tour for everyone, even senior citizens. You can take a whitewater tour if you want, these are the multi-day tours that cost around $1500 for each person.

There is another fun one-day raft tour that leaves from Las Vegas. This one kicks off with a helicopter tour to the bottom of the West Rim. From there, you'll ascend, transfer to a bus and go to the base of iconic Hoover Dam.

This float tour is eleven miles long. You will meander through the picturesque Black Canyon on your way to Willow Beach. You will have great fun catching glimpses of the many species of wildlife that call the Grand Canyon home.

Seasonality

Grand Canyon rafting trips operate April to November. This is because the water is brutally cold during winter and early spring. The waters are also swift during the winter and spring since the melting snow from the Rockies flows through the canyon on its way to the Sea of Cortez in Mexico.

Be prepared for how popular these tours are with travelers to the Grand Canyon. Because of that, you need to book your seats at least a week in advance. Waiting until the last minute to get your seats is just too risky. Forget trying to book within 24 hours, especially if you are staying in Flagstaff or Williams (if you do, factor in a 60-mile drive and a 6 a.m. tour check in).

The simplest thing to do is book your seats online. Just stay away from the travel sites. Instead, go direct to the actual tour supplier. These are the company's that own and operate the tours and are the only ones in the position to offer their trips at a discount. Be sure to complete your transaction on the site so you can get the low Internet rate.

Let's Recap

Your entire family will have a blast on one of these float tours. You can tour the South Rim from Tusayan or the West Rim from Vegas. The tours take all day so be prepared to leave early, there are no half-day tours. Book these trips well in advance and buy them on the Internet as doing so will save you significant cash.

Grand Canyon Helicopters Give You Amazing Views On South Rim Trips By Susan Bissonnette

The South Rim is the region of the Grand Canyon that most people recognize. That's where most of the best photos are shot, and that's where Grand Canyon National Park is located.

It's almost impossible to see all the Park's highlights from the ground. It would take a long time to even try. The ideal solution is to tour the South Rim by helicopter. You should take one of these Grand Canyon helicopters if you can. They are a lot of fun and give you a unique perspective on the immensity of the canyon. Don't shortchange yourself while you're at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Being that it's located in northern Arizona, most of the South Rim's visitors come from Phoenix, Flagstaff, Sedona, Scottsdale and other Arizona cities. It's also a favorite excursion for people coming from Vegas, who arrive there by plane (a 45-minute flight) or bus (a 5 -hour ride). It is easy to guess which mode of transportation is the most popular. Quick and convenient wins most of the time.

You can choose from some great Grand Canyon South Rim flights. There is a 50 minute tour and a shorter 30 minute version. If you go on the shorter tour you fly to the North Rim and back and pass over the Dragoon Corridor, which is the widest part of the Grand Canyon. The 50 minute flight does too, but it's more comprehensive and adds the Painted Desert, the Desert Watchtower, Imperial Point (the Park's highest spot), the Colorado Confluence and Zuni Corridor.

The longer tour is best if you can swing it. The Park is huge (more than a million acres of wilderness!) and many travelers will only make it there once. Don't miss out on seeing as much of the Park as you can unless you simply do not have time for the longer flight.

South Rim helicopters fly out of Grand Canyon National Airport, just outside the Park's main gates. You can take one of these tours every day, including holidays. It is a good idea to book your seats at least a week ahead of time. Booking early allows you to get the lowest price and the widest choice in tour times and dates.

If you wait until you get there to buy your tickets you will have to pay a lot more, plus your group might have to split up and you have less chance of getting the best early morning flights or a flight on the best choppers, the EcoStar 130s.

Let me explain why I think the EcoStar 130 is the best of all the South Rim helicopter models. These choppers are roomier and more comfortable than other tour helicopters. Their stadium-style seating and panoramic windshield gives every passenger magnificent views of the spectacles below. Their body design allows for a smooth and quiet flight and the cabin has the ultimate in climate control.

A couple of landing tours are now being offered at the South Rim. One tour option is to take the rim to rim aerial tour and then hop on a Jeep for a ride to the canyon's edge to view a spectacular sunset. The other substitutes a ride in the Park on a Harley for the Jeep ride. These fun tours are limited and they cost more but they are worth it because of the great experience you will have.

You can save some bucks on your tour by booking on the tour company's website. The tour companies always have the best deals, and I've been able to book several terrific Grand Canyon tours at 1/3 off their retail price just by booking direct on the company's site. You get this low rate by completing your transaction online so you qualify for the Internet only discount.

Doing a Grand Canyon Bus Excursion this Veteran's Day By Susan Bissonnette

Veteran's Day is coming up. It's one of the last 3-day weekends in the U.S., making it ideal to take a Grand Canyon bus tour from Las Vegas, NV.

Bus tours of the canyon operate on the same schedule over the holiday weekend. The tours depart pretty early in the morning and drop you off later in the evening. Please note that I said "later in the evening."

Driving Time

Bus tours go to the West Rim or the South Rim (you can't do both). The South Rim is farther away and takes 5 hours to get there by bus, while it only takes 2 hours to get to the West Rim.

Buses return from the South Rim around 9 p.m., and from the West Rim around 8 p.m. The key thing here is that bus tours require a complete day to do.

Which rim should you go to? The jury's out because based on my experience half the people I book tours for go to the West and the other half go to the South. It is a matter of personal preference.

West vs South

The West Rim is closest to Las Vegas at about 120 miles to the east. You'll find the glass Skywalk there and you don't want to miss the chance to walk out past the rim and peer down to the canyon floor. It's also got a number of great lookout points like Guano and Eagle.

What's more, there are several fun adventures you can take part in at the West Rim. Understand that it's the only place in the National Park where you can take a helicopter to the bottom. If you want to go all in, add a boat trip to the package. You should think about adding the chopper and boat rides to your bus tour.

The South Rim is 277 miles from Las Vegas. Indeed, it's a long drive but it's well worth it. The South Rim, which many call the "official" Grand Canyon is known for it's scenic beauty. Once you get to the South Rim, the bus spends about three hours touring the park so you see many sights.

Hoover Dam Stop

Whichever rim you go to, your bus stops at the Hoover Dam for a quick photo stop. The stop is a quick one. You don't get to actually tour the Hoover Dam too. There is not enough time to do both tours in the same day. The Hoover Dam tour is fun too and you can book it at a later time.

Bus tours are an excellent value. They pretty much come with everything. They come with a tour guide, lunch, taxes, park fees, and shuttle service to your hotel. So you don't have to worry about extra charges. No surprises.

I said earlier that Veteran's Day is one of the last big three-day holidays. This means that there will be strong demand for tours and I advise you to book your coach trip early. One thing's for sure: don't book a bus tour the day before you want to go. If you wait until the day as your tour, you probably won't be able to get a seat.

Let's Wrap This Up

Don't miss the opportunity to take a fantastic weekend trip to the Grand Canyon that includes a motor coach tour. These road trips are truly a great value and are great for families and groups. Decide which rim you want to see and book your seats now.

Enjoy the Outdoors? Take a Grand Canyon Smooth Water Float Tour! By Susan Bissonnette

A lot of folks look for vacations that aren't just fun, but also help them get back in touch with nature. If that describes you, then one of the Grand Canyon float tours would be a perfect choice. The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and it's an amazing place. Below is some information about taking one of these exciting trips.

The Tours

First of all, find out the type of raft for the tour you are considering. If you can, choose a tour that uses a motorized pontoon raft that holds about 19 passengers. Even though you stay on smooth water, these rafts are built to handle whitewater rapids. This means you can feel safer on the water.

These floating tours of the Grand Canyon last all day. Many are labeled half-day tours, but when you take into account the time involved in getting there and returning back to your hotel, you'll be gone the whole day. You'll need to bring some salty snacks, water and an extra set of clothes.

These floating tours are very popular so you should get your seats as early as possible. You might be able to sneak in 72 hours ahead, but booking a week in advance is much safer. Since many groups take these tours, it is harder to get several seats together, so if your whole family is going you may have to book even earlier.

Smooth Waters

As I mentioned earlier, there aren't any rapids on these trips, so kids 4 and up can participate. You can choose a more adventurous trip that covers whitewater and lasts from three days to a month, but these cost a lot more.

You can choose the West or South Rim for your smooth water excursion. Vegas-based folks will start with a chopper flight to the bottom at Grand Canyon West. The float tour begins at the base of Hoover Dam and ends eleven miles away at Willow Creek. Watch for bighorn sheep, they hang out in Black Canyon, clinging to the sides of the cliffs!

At the South Rim, you can choose between a deluxe or basic tour. The basic tour takes you by bus to the base of Glen Canyon Dam. You'll then hop into your boat and float 15 miles down river to historic Lee's Ferry. The upgraded package substitutes a plane flight for the bus ride and adds a unique 4x4 tour of Antelope Canyon.

Internet Specials

I highly recommend booking these adventures on the Internet. Besides being convenient, booking online is the best way to snag a discount. Just be sure to get your seats on the tour operator's website and avoid intermediaries like Expedia, Priceline, and Viator. The tour companies own and operate the tours, and they always offer the best deals. Just make sure to complete your purchase on the company's website. That is the only way you can get the Internet discount.

Grand Canyon raft tours over smooth waters are fun adventures you don't want to miss. Plan to leave your hotel in the morning and return in the evening. These tours are great for family getaways since all ages love them. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the amazing beauty of the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon Tours Are Running On Time Despite The U.S. Govt. Shutdown By Susan Bissonnette

As you have probably heard, since the government is closed, the gates are locked at America's National Parks. What should you do if you have a trip planned to the Grand Canyon? If you are planning on taking a tour, especially one that visits the canyon by air, you shouldn't have any problems.

The South Rim is definitely closed. That is where the main gates are, near the town of Tusayan. Fortunately, the West Rim is not actually located on Park land so it is still open and conducting operations as normal.

West Rim Tours

So if you will be in Vegas, you can take a tour to the West Rim with no problem. It is just over 100 miles away, which is about 2 hours by motor coach or automobile. Chopper flights take about 45 minutes and plane flights to the West Rim from Vegas take about a half an hour.

However, flights to the South Rim out of Vegas are grounded for the time being. There is no flight from the West Rim to the South Rim either. You can still see the South Rim by catching a flight out of a city in Arizona, otherwise, you will have to wait until the government shutdown is over if you want to depart from Vegas. So if you really want to take an aerial tour of the South Rim, you will have to look for a flight out of a city like Sedona, Flagstaff, or Phoenix.

Tours Of The South Rim

You can take two kinds of South Rim aerial tours. One choice is to get a seat on an airplane that takes you over the amazing scenery that lies between the South and North Rim over to the eastern border of the Park. The other choice is to take the same flight path in a helicopter instead of a plane. You can also take a shorter version of the helicopter tour that only lasts around a half an hour. You will see fantastic panoramic views and many unusual rock formations on these air tours. If you want the best view possible, choose the helicopter tour because the choppers fly lower and you are closer to the scenery. The chopper tours cost a lot more too.

Fun Things To Do

Tours that go to the West Rim give you the chance to participate in many fun activities. The West Rim is conducting operations as usual so all land and air tours are available to you. You can choose air-only or landing tours too. Landing tours are fantastic fun because you get a personal view of the canyon and you get to visit fun landmarks like the glass Grand Canyon Skywalk. That's not to say the air-only tours are not any fun, because with them you get to see all the amazing rock formations from an aerial perspective, plus you get to fly over Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam.

One of the most popular Grand Canyon tours at the West Rim is one you should definitely check out. It is the chopper tour that lands on the canyon floor where you are treated to a fun champagne picnic. A fun airplane tour drops you off at the Grand Canyon West Airport and gives you three hours to explore the region by foot and find interesting things to do and see. If you are adventurous, you could walk out on the Skywalk, or you could ride a chopper to the bottom of the canyon and hop on a raft and tour the canyon by floating down the river.

Recap

It is nice to know you won't have to worry about the tours in the Grand Canyon being shut down. Don't even worry about the government shutdown. Don't let the shutdown ruin your trip. Before you go, understand how the tours are operating, especially if you want to go to the South Rim. Remember the main gates to the National Park are closed so if you want to see the South Rim region of the canyon, you have to do it by air. The tours going to the Grand Canyon are popular as always and the seats go fast. Get your seats early so you don't miss the chance to see this scenic wonderland. Go to the tour operator's website to buy your tickets because you will get an Internet discount that will save money on your tour.

Go Grand Canyon National Park Rafting This Labor Day Weekend By Susan Bissonnette

Labor Day is on Sept 2nd, and it is fast approaching.That's a great time to take a day long rafting tour of the Grand Canyon, but you need to book your seats now.

Labor Day Is Busy At The Grand Canyon

This year the holiday falls on a Monday, meaning most of us will be able to enjoy a three-day weekend-an extra bonus I always look forward to! But Labor Day weekend (whether it's two-day or three-day) is always one of the Park's busiest times of the year.

I'm strongly urging folks to book their Labor Day float trips at least a week before the weekend begins. It is risky to wait longer than that, but you never know, you might luck out and get a seat 72 hours in advance.

Even though the holiday is a busy time, you can still get a great deal on your tour. In fact, you can probably save about 20% off the price when you book your seats online.

Book with the Tour Company

What is the best way to save? Avoid the big name travel websites. I buy direct, on the tour company's own website. The tour companies own and operate the tours. They offer low rates that travel brokers cannot match.

One-Day Raft Trips

Since the tours take all day, be prepared to depart about 7 a.m. You can take off from Las Vegas or from Tusayan, Arizona, which is near the main gates at the South Rim.

There are two tour options when you leave from Tusayan. The standard tour begins with a motor coach ride to Glen Canyon Dam, there you get on your 19-passenger pontoon raft and set off on a fun 15 mile trek down the Colorado River. The pontoon ride comes to an end when you reach Lee's Ferry.

If you opt for the deluxe Tusayan float trip, you will start with a short plane ride to Page, Arizona. That's where you'll board a Jeep for an off-road trip to the "Slot Canyons" in Antelope Canyon. You'll then drive to Glen Canyon Dam for the rafting portion of your tour (identical to the standard version). The deluxe and standard float trips end with a bus ride back to where you started in Tusayan, Arizona.

If you plan to start your tour in Las Vegas, you will go to the West Rim and descend to the canyon floor in a chopper. Then you are given a half an hour to explore the region by foot. After that, you get on board a bus and ride over to Hoover Dam, once there, you get on a raft and float about eleven miles down the river until you get to Willow Beach.

Smooth Water Only

None of these float trips involve any whitewater , they're all smooth-water experiences that active seniors and kids as young as four can enjoy. That's why these raft trips are great fun for everyone in your family. It is easy to see why these tours are so popular.

All-Inclusive

Everything is included in your tour such as your lunch, gear, Park fees, taxes, and a tour guide. You'll need to wear sturdy river sandals or running shoes, shorts, a hat, long sleeves, and sunglasses. You will probably get wet, so wear something that won't be ruined. Take along sunscreen too and some water. Consider bringing an extra set of clothes.

Going to the Grand Canyon and taking a raft tour is the perfect Labor Day getaway. Your whole family is sure to have a fantastic time and make memories that will last forever.