(ARA) – With consumers looking to stretch their travel dollar further in today’s challenging economy, many are turning to vacation rental homes as an alternative to traditional hotels.

While vacation rentals have typically been associated with week-long trips, a recent report from HomeAway — a vacation rental company that offers nearly 200,000 worldwide vacation rentals through its Web site — suggests that travelers are using vacation rentals for everything from weekend getaways to multi-week vacations. Continue reading “Vacation Rental Homes: An Affordable Alternative to Hotels” »

(ARA) – Despite a battered economy, most of us aren’t ready to give up summer travel.

If you’re among the millions trying to travel smarter this summer, the right travel tools can significantly increase your savvy factor.

While a majority of Americans own a mobile phone, many are not aware of the travel advantages a smartphone can offer. In addition to making calls, smartphones can help you avoid some of the headaches and inconveniences that often come with travel. Here are a few ways using a smartphone can help with your summer travel plans: Continue reading “Travel Smarter this Summer” »

(ARA) – Do you ever wonder how professional photographers capture such amazing images? It doesn’t take a fancy camera or expensive photo-editing software to get incredible photos you’ll be proud to share with friends and family.

Tracey Clark, a professional photographer and founder of the popular online photography community ShutterSisters.com, offers five simple tips to help you get great photos.

* Shoot unexpected portraits to capture authentic beauty and personality Continue reading “Five Simple Tips for Great Summer Photos” »

Everywhere you turn lately , a celebrity or something is telling you to Go Green!  A long time ago , going green meant with envy, however nowadays people are becoming hip to the fact the environment is in trouble but it ’s on us to aid insure that it is a better place.

Now, I’m no Greenpeace Campaigner , but I do my share .  I recycle.  I turn off lights.  I even purchased those hideous spiral luminosity bulbs for the lamps in my house .  For some people , these minor life adjustments are enough .  For some who desire to achieve more, one can find surprisingly many things they can do to lessen their carbon track in the world. Continue reading “Tulum Hotels – EcoTravel” »