Win a honeymoon at Horse Stamp Inn

Horse Stamp Inn entrance.

Funny? Outrageous? Embarrassing? Did you make or receive a unique proposal? Describe it in 30 words by October 30, 2012 and you might win a two-night honeymoon at Horse Stamp Inn in Waverly, GA.

What you win: Package that includes:

• A bottle of Chilled Champagne
• Chocolate covered strawberries and assorted sweets
• Turn-down service with fresh rose petals
• 1-hour boat excursion on the Horse Stamp Inn sightseeing boat down the Little Satilla River
 Morning mimosas served in your room or accompanying a gourmet breakfast

The honeymoon couple will have a choice of one of the five luxurious bedrooms at the Inn that are namesakes of famous horses: Sea Biscuit, Cimarron, Dawn Run, April Love and Sugar Foot. Photos and descriptions are on the Inn’s website, www.horsestampinn.com.

How: The contest runs from August 20 – October 30, 2012. The couple that submits "the most unusual wedding proposal" on the Inn's Facebook page,  www.facebook.com/HorseStampInn, wins the grand prize 2-night Honeymoon Package at the Inn. The winner will be chosen by Inn owners Tom & Kris Hutcheson.

No fair making it up.

WellsWorld on the Radio: Tourist Tips for NYC, CityPASS, Fun in Flagler County, Park and Cruise

Manhattan

Being a tourist in New York is all about hurry up and wait. There are lines for everything, from picking up a sandwich at Dean & DeLuca to the myriad of lines that have you all but climbing to the top of the Empire State Building.

9/11 Memorial

9/11 Memorial
The Memorial Museum isn't finished yet but the Memorial opened on the 10th year anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. It's an impressive sight -  the two acre-sized reflecting pools each with continuous waterfalls and names of victims etched around the rims surrounded by a grove of trees - and everyone wants to see it.

The site, though, is surrounded by ongoing construction. To facilitate the crowds, free, timed reservation tickets are issued, either in person or, much better, online at www.911memorial.org/visitor-passes.

Getting in: Wait until reaching New York and you'll wait on line forever. A limited number of  same-day passes are issued, maximum 4 per person, daily but lines stretch around the blocks at the four distribution locations.

My recommendation: Go online from home. There are separate links for family members of victims and the rest of us. You can reserve and print out access passes or if you don't have access to a printer, reserve at home and line up to pick up your tickets in the Visitor Center near the Memorial. If the date and time you want to visit are taken, keep checking. More tickets are released regularly.

You'll still have to stand in line to enter but you will get in.

Getting there: The entrance is at the northwest corner of Albany and Greenwich Streets, The website has specific directions. 

Atop the Empire State Building

Empire State Building
It's become our Tower of Babel. Standing in line to get in, around, up, around again and finally out then repeating the process to finally reach the sidewalk, you'll hear all of the world's languages. The building is a fine example of Art Deco and a remarkable feat of engineering for its era, but the lure of going to the top escapes me. it's one of those things everyone wants to do at least once, though, so set aside a whole morning or afternoon if that describes you. There's only one way to shorten the wait, a CityPASS, but it will still take you more than an hour of lines, waits and elevators to reach the top.

Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island

Posing with the lady.

One welcomed, the other processed the millions of immigrants to this country and now you do both in one day. A full day. 

Getting there: The subway deposits you in front of the Staten Island Ferry terminal and the short walk through Battery Park to the shuttle boats is pleasant. The wait to board them isn't. Again, the only way to speed the process is with CityPASS, which lets you avoid the ticket lines. Expect lines to get off then more lines to get back on the boats.

You'll  pay extra to get under Miss Liberty's robes and go to the top. For my money the best show is watching the people, again a United Nations of ethnicity, pose for pictures of themselves with the iconic sculpture.

Ellis Island

I found Ellis Island much more interesting. The film is worth watching, the sound displays, especially the songs, are endearing and the realization of what it took to get across to the U.S. is mind-boggling. We come from brave, determined, desperate stock. 

If your ancestors came in through Ellis Island you can research it here but better, do your search online, www.ellisisland.org.

CityPASS
Carrying one one of these is the most cost-effective and efficient ways to do Manhattan.
You save money, about 48 percent, on admissions to museums and attractions, but better, you save time being able to bypass all those lines for tickets. Often there's a separate dedicated line if one at all.

Check into it at www.citypass.com.

Washington Oaks Gardens beach

Day tripping: Flagler County
For many it's the no-stop zone along I-95 between St. Augustine and Daytona. My recommendation: Stop. Here are three good places to do just that.

Florida Cracker cattle at Florida Agricultural Musuem

Florida Agricultural Museum
It's living history that crows, quacks, moos, barks, brays, meows, whinnies and oinks. Take a ride in a tractor-pulled wagon or atop a horse. Let the kids have close encounters with farm animals and see how farmers used to live. www.myagmuseum.com.
  

Lodge at Princess Place Preserve

Princess Place Preserve 
 See Florida's first in-ground pool and where a Russian prince and his wife once lived. Trails are easy and short for amblers or challenging to mountain bikers and the surroundings are beautiful. A nice place to picnic and wander. If you have horses, they have equestrian trails for you, too. www.flaglercounty.org/facilities.aspx?page=detail&RID=18

Koi pond at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
Perfect for picnics, you have your choice of a beach with coquina rock outcroppings or oak-shaded gardens overlooking the Matanzas River. Do both but don't miss the gift shop; it's a good one. Plant sales the second Saturday of the month.


Park, Stay and Cruise from Fort Lauderdale
Parking is a part of cruise costs that most people forget to factor in. No problem with this special package.

The AAA Four-Diamond Hollywood Beach Marriott is located beachfront between the Intracoastal Waterway and Hollywood’s famous two-and-a-half mile Broadwalk of cafes, restaurants and live entertainment. 

What: The Park and Cruise Package includes overnight accommodations, breakfast for two, and complimentary covered parking while you are on your cruise. 

Where: The AAA Four-Diamond Hollywood Beach Marriott is located beachfront between the Intracoastal Waterway and Hollywood’s famous two-and-a-half mile Broadwalk of cafes, restaurants and live entertainment. Hollywood, FL.

When: Valid through Oct. 31, 2012

Price: Rates from $129. 

Fine Print: Must mention promotional code: PCJ. j

Shaken, Not Stirred St. Augustine Open House

Sip a signature Bond martini and celebrate the 50th anniversary of James Bond films.

Where: Casablanca Inn and its Tini Martini Bar, 24 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL.

When: 5 p.m. till ... Sunday, August 26, 2012

Cost: Free hors d'oeuvres and Bond movies (3). If you want to stay Sunday night, rooms are $99 plus tax.

Attire: Bond-worthy tuxedo, villainous togs or Bond girls' costumes optional but wearer of the best wins a weekend at the Inn.

No guarantee Miss Moneypenny will answer but you can get info at 904-829-0928 or www.casablancainn.com.

Quick Cruise Deals from Cruises-N-More

Act quickly - by August 31, 2012 - to save money on your next cruise.

Example: Book a Celebrity Cruise for

• Gratuities or onboard credits for all bookings

• Credits for spa treatments, specialty dinners and/or wine; $50 per ocean-view, $100 per balcony, $159 Aqua Class or Concierge Class balcony cabins; $200 per suite.

Teacher Appreciation Sale: Active or retired teachers receive $100 off per cabin on 4- or 5-night cruises, $200 off 6- or 9-night cruises, $300 on 10-plus-night cruises in 2012.

Contact: www.cruises-n-more.com

End of Summer Grand Canyon Special

The savings will make you jump for joy.

See the South Rim of the Grand Canyon at end of summer prices.

When: Aug. 26-Sept. 6, 2012
What: Accommodations at Maswik Lodge or Yavapai Lodge, cafeteria breakfast for two, one in-park motorcoach tour for two and discounts in Xanterra gift shops of up to 20 percent. Rates are based upon double occupancy. Additional guests can share the room at $9 plus tax each. Breakfast and tour may be purchased separately.

How Much: The rate at Maswik Lodge is $169 per night plus tax and features accommodations in a “Maswik North” room,  breakfast coupons, choice of a Hermits Rest motorcoach tour in the morning or Sunset motorcoach tour in the afternoon and a one-time gift shop discount good for 10 percent off purchases of $50-149.99 and 20 percent off purchases $150 and above.

The rate at Yavapai Lodge is $154 plus tax and features accommodations in a “Yavapai East” room, breakfast coupons, choice of a Hermits Rest motorcoach tour in the morning or Sunset motorcoach tour in the afternoon and a one-time gift shop discount good for 10 percent off purchases of $50-149.99 and 20 percent off purchases $150 and above.

Such a deal? Rack rates for rooms alone are normally $176 per night at Maswik North and $166 at Yavapai East. Rates do not include taxes.

To book: Use the promo code SUMMER online at www.grandcanyonlodges.com or call toll-free 1-888-297-2757 or 1-303-297-2757 from outside the United States

WellsWorld on the Radio:

The Lodge, luxury living at Turning Stone Resort, Casino and Spa.

Oneida Success: Surprising Turning Stone Resort and Casino

Stunned and delighted with the success of a simple bingo parlor, the Oneida leaders set out to create a first-rate resort that could secure future priorities for their people, better education, health and housing. The Oneida, known as the "people of the standing stone," named it Turning Stone for the effect it would have on their lives.


I recently spent two nights there as their guests and was most impressed with the service, quality, amenities and attitudes, not to mention the improved lives of those living in Oneida territory. Casino buffs will be pleased, gourmets will be more than satisfied and golfers will love it.

Turning Stone is located 30 minutes east of Syracuse, NY, near the town of Oneida and the Finger Lakes region. 


Here is a sample of their specials.


Be Our Next Champion Package
Starting at $635 for The Lodge, $540 for the Tower and $520 for the Hotel, per person based on double occupancy, available May 1 through September 30, 2012.
• Two nights accommodations at The Lodge, Tower or Hotel
• One round each at Atunyote®, Shenendoah and Kaluhyat courses
• $100 replays same day at Atunyote®
• Unlimited replays same day at Shenendoah or Kaluhyat
• Complimentary golf at Sandstone Hollow

Putt & Pamper Package
Starting at $380 per person based on double occupancy, available May 1 through October 31, 2012.
• Luxury overnight accommodations at The Lodge
• One round per person at Shenendoah or Kaluhyat
• One 50 minute Sk7:n8: Spa service per person
• $50 meal credit per person

Lodge Golfer's Getaway
Starting at $303 per person based on double occupancy, available May 1 through October 31, 2012.
• Overnight accommodations at The Lodge
• Unlimited golf after 3 p.m. at Shenendoah or Kaluhyat on arrival afternoon
• 18 holes of golf at Shenendoah or Kaluhyat next morning
• Lunch on the Turn and a drink at the 19th hole
• Complimentary access to the Lodge Fitness Center
• Guaranteed 3 p.m. Check-in
Please call to make a reservation.


Details: www.turningstone.com Reservations: 800-771-7711

Summer in Virginia.

Boar's Head Inn Summer Specials
What: Summer rates from $160 per night per room.
Stay and Play package, $270 per room per night:
•  one night's accommodation
• 1 18-hole round of golf for two at Birdwood
• use of driving range and practice green
• range balls
• cart.
When: Through Nov. 12, 2012.
Where: The Boar's Head Inn, Charlottesville, VA.
Fine Print: Resort fees, taxes and gratuities extra.
www.boarsheadinn.com

Discounts for Amelia's Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off

What: Six hotels offer discounted rooms for the Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off which has 50 professional and backyard teams vying for Best Barbecue cash awards and bragging rights plus free live entertainment from Little River Band and Rockit Fly.

• Addison on Amelia offers a free night on reservations of four nights or more during the Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off weekend.  AddisonOnAmelia.com

• Amelia Island Hampton Inn at the Beach is offering a $99 rate for a double room, plus tax, during the cook-off. AmeliaIslandHamptonInn.com

• Amelia Hotel at the Beach is offering standard rooms (king or double) for $79 per night for visitors attending the cook-off. The rate is only available through phone reservations and includes free parking, free Hot & Healthy breakfast daily, an afternoon warm cookie service and the new “Lobby Lounge” featuring a variety of beverages. Make sure to use rate code COOK when booking the deal.  AmeliaHotel.com

• Beachside Motel will offer a third night free during the Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off. For visitors who can only stay for two nights, the property is offering a 20 percent discount. Only one discount is allowed per room.  The offers are valid August 22-27, 2012. Must call (877) 261-4236 to receive discount. BeachsideMotel.com

• Elizabeth Pointe Lodge is walking distance from the event and offers a Third Annual Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off Package starting at $578.  The package includes a king bed, sunset guest room for two nights, bike rental for two, hors d’oeuvres reception each evening, complete breakfast each morning, newspaper, Wi-Fi, beach equipment and parking. ElizabethPointeLodge.com

• Fairbanks House is offering a bottle of Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce and a bag of Southern Slush Mix to guests staying three or more nights for the Cook-off.  Guests will also be treated to gourmet breakfasts and evening social hours with adult beverages and hors d'oeuvres.  This offer is available for new bookings only, and one offer per room.  Mention code STC12 when making your reservation. FairbanksHouse.com

• Omni Amelia Island Plantation is offering their “Beach and Breakfast” package during the Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off. The package includes accommodations, breakfast for each registered guest, and use of the health and fitness center. Prices start at $179 per night. Must use code LEISBF when booking. OmniAmeliaIslandPlantation.com

• Residence Inn, Amelia Island is the official host hotel of the Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off and recently received the Diamond designation, Marriott’s Highest Level of Distinction. The property offers rates starting at $109 per night, which includes free hot full breakfast, evening social, and shuttle service to the cook-off. Mention Tailgate Cook-off to get the rate.  ResidenceInnAmeliaIsland.com

• The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is offering the “Comfort You” package during the Great Southern Tailgate Cook-off weekend. The package includes accommodations, breakfast for two and a $75 resort credit. The package starts at $379 per night. Ritzcarlton.com/AmeliaIsland
 
Where: Amelia Island, FL.

When: 3 p.m. Aug. 24, 10 a.m. Aug. 25, 2012.

More on the cook-off:  www.gstailgatecookoff.com.

Paddling from the Sea Voyager.

SOLO Travelers Alert
What: Book any 2012-2013 Sea Voyager Expeditions cruise by Oct. 31, 2012 and pay no single supplement! Rates for these all-inclusive 8-12-night cruises aboard the ship M/V Sea Voyager range from $3,950 to $7,450, vs. the usual single rates of $6,350 to $8,950.Cruises concentrate on Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica and Ecuador and most transit the Panama Canal.

Where:
• Eight-night "Caribbean Parks & Islands of Colombia & Panamá" which focuses on the Panamá Canal transit, the San Blas Islands, and the rainforests, clear waters and exotic wildlife of Columbia's rarely visited coast;

• 12-night "Pacific Wilds of Ecuador, Colombia & Panama" and its similar reverse sailing, "Last Frontier of Panama Colombia & Ecuador " visiting Colombia's Malaga Bay and Gorgona Island NP and giving guests the chance to hike Panama's Darien Jungle and Ecuador's Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve;

• Eight-night "Unspoiled Pacific of Panama & Costa Rica" where highlights include Las Perlas Islands, Coiba Island - the world's third largest marine park -- and Osa Peninsula, named by National Geographic as "the most biologically intense place on Earth";

• Eight-night "Treasures of Costa Rica & Panama," where guests explore the Secas Islands with hikes, by Zodiac and kayak, and snorkel the secluded bays, Marenco Biological Reserve with its monkeys, toucans, parrots, manta rays, dolphins and other exotic wildlife, and Panama's Darien Jungle with a visit to the local Emberá village.

Details: www.seavoyagerexpeditions.com

Save $ on 2013 Viking River Cruises

What: Reserve a 2013 Viking River Cruise through Europe or Asia by July 30, 2012 and get $1,000 per couple off airfare. That's in addition to two-for-one fares on selected cruises!

Where: Viking River Cruises offers excursions throughout Europe as well as Vietnam and China along the Elbe, Seine, Saone, Rhine, Many, Moselle, Danube, Rhone and Mekong Rivers.

Fine Print: Applies to new bookings only, airfares subject to change until full payment of air received.

To Book: Contact your travel agent or call 1-800-707-8697 and ask for 2013EBD.