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Travel Trends in 2012

With more than ever to see and do in the Southwest, you can bet the New Year will bring with it the promise of exciting new activities, hot destinations and overall smarter travels.

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Southwest US Travel Spotlight10

Great Place for a Dance

Saturday January 21, 2012

By now you've probably already started to see the photos pouring in: Gorgeous celebrities, bundled from head to toe in designer duds, strolling down the Main Street corridor in Park City, Utah. After all, it's Sundance Film Festival time again.

But even if you can't make it to Park City for the festival, it's a worthy destination any time of year. From incredible skiing to thrilling adventure rides to wonderful shopping and restaurants, it's the kind of place you hope to find yourself visiting again and again. I can see why so many families make it a tradition to come here every year.

If you're planning to visit Park City sometime soon, I put together this primer with everything you need to know. No matter whether you visit in winter for the wonderful skiing or summer for the incredible hiking and mountain biking opportunities, my guess is that you're going to have an incredible time.

Kidding Around

Thursday January 19, 2012

Anyone who has traveled with kids knows what an amazing experience it can be. Opening their eyes to new places, new experiences and new cultures is something they will remember for their lifetime. That said, it can come with certain challenges.

From cramped airplanes to crowded cars to cranky spells in public places, traveling with little ones can be difficult at times. That's why I've put together this guide to traveling with children in the Southwest. Here you'll find fun travel tips on everything from what to take, where to eat and how to make sure that everyone has a good time.

I can't ensure you won't have to face any temper tantrums or crying spells, but I can say that in my experience taking the kids along for the ride has always been worth the trip. Next time you're thinking of heading out and about in the Southwest, why not take the kiddos along?

Colorado Enchantments

Wednesday January 11, 2012

I'm a huge fan of Colorado. Ever since my brother moved to Denver, I've taken a great deal of pleasure in uncovering the state's many attractions and excitements. Many of those times, those attractions involve skiing. I've carved the slopes at Aspen and marveled at the peaks from the base of Winter Park. But sometimes you just don't feel like skiing.

That's why I created this round-up of incredible things to do in Colorado -- besides hitting the slopes. From dog sledding to hot air ballooning to fly fishing to hitting some hot springs, you'll enjoy the wonderful options you'll find in this diverse state. So strap on some snowshoes or simply hop on a snowmobile -- this is a no-ski zone.

Just be sure to do some research before you go. The Colorado tourism board, www.colorado.com, has lots of suggestions for visitors of all ages. Check it out, then book your trip. You won't regret it.

Just the Right Pitch

Sunday January 8, 2012

I'll never forget the first time I camped during a Texas winter. A group of friends and I drove out to Enchanted Rock during our Christmas break. A novice camper, I figured the rest of the group -- many of whom were Eagle Scouts -- would know how to keep us warm, fed and happy during our weekend-long adventure. Boy was I wrong. Midway through a horribly cold night (temperature were in the 20s) I made my way to the car, desperate for a little warmth.

Now, I know that I just wasn't adequately prepared. If you're planning to head out into the wilderness in Texas, I've prepared this guide that's filled with tips, suggestions and information for your next camping adventure. No matter when you're going or where you're going, there's a way to do it right. Not sure where you want to go? I've got pointers on that as well.

What are you waiting for? Grab your stuff and plan a trip. There's no better time to go camping in Texas -- as long as you do your research.

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