Moon – Page 9 – Footloose Forever

The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Opposites

July 2, 2016July 3, 2016Posted in Photo challengeTagged colors, contrast, green, minimalism, minimalist photography, opposites, Photo challenge, vine, yellow, yellow wall18 Comments

“All colors are the friends of their neighbors and the lovers of their opposites.”

~ Marc Chagall

Last week I stumbled upon a post on minimalist photography, which I found very appealing. As soon as I finished reading the article, I took up my camera and started looking for a subject.

I knew that the newly painted boundary wall in our backyard could be a subject. So I ran to the balcony and this green vine caught my attention immediately. The combination of living and nonliving – the contrast of lush green leaves and the bright yellow wall on its background creates a nice frame.

I would also like to share the opposite combination here. A yellow flower with green background. So… which one do you like more?

P.S: I have brightened the image slightly and darkened the edges to enhance the colors. Hope you like it. 🙂

Published in response to The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Opposites.

The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Partners

June 25, 2016Posted in Photo challengeTagged birds, doves, love, partners, partnership, Photo challenge, pigeons38 Comments

“Of all the myriad ways we define love, there is perhaps none more honest and powerful than this: Great love is rooted in great partnership.”

~ Sarah MacLean

It was a foggy winter morning. I was still lying on my bed when my mother came into the room and opened the window. That’s when I saw them perched on our neighbor’s boundary wall. Partners, having some “alone time” together.

Cute! Aren’t they? 🙂

Published in response to The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Partners.

Daytona Beach Vacation – Oceanfront Hotels and Luxury within Budget

June 22, 2016June 21, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Becah vacation, Boutique hotels in the US, Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach hotels, florida vaction, hotels in Daytona Beach, tropical vacationLeave a comment

daytona beach boardwalk, florida beach vacation

Daytona Beach is one of the most happening leisure destinations in Florida. Stunning views and wild waves of the Atlantic beckon beach lovers and adventurers to indulge in activities like beach volleyball, surfing, parasailing, boating, scuba, and more. In addition, an array of beachfront hotels offer all the modern amenities you would like to have on a tropical vacation.

Image via Flickr by Motapics

Wyndham Ocean Walk

A short walk from Daytona Lagoon Waterpark, Wyndham Ocean Walk stands tall overlooking the Atlantic. The beach is just outside the resort. You can count the waves sitting right in your room as well. Spacious studio rooms and suites come with private balconies, small kitchens, and bathrooms with tubs for enhanced living experience. The resort ensures quick access to the pier, shopping arcades, and other nearby attractions. Inside the resort, chill out at the indoor or outdoor pool or float along the Lazy River. A mini golf course, a pool table, and a game room are only a few of the many recreational amenities offered at Wyndham Ocean Walk.

Image via Flickr by sdobie

San Marina Motel

It’s not that you always have to spend the extra bucks to get a nice beachfront accommodation at Daytona Beach. If you want to curtail expenses on lodging, San Marina Motel on 1001 North Atlantic Avenue is a good option. The hotel offers non-smoking, air-conditioned rooms with king beds, mini refrigerators, microwaves, cable televisions, and complimentary Wi-Fi in the room at $50 a night (excluding tax). There is an outdoor pool to relax anytime. Moreover, the Daytona Beach boardwalk, shopping center, movie theaters, and restaurants are within walking distance from this economical hotel.

Image via Flickr by treytitone

The Plaza Resort & Spa

The Plaza Resort & Spa offers luxury within any budget. Elegantly decorated mid-range rooms come with queen beds, large flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, telephones with free local calls, and kitchen areas with a mini fridge and a microwave. The resort houses an outdoor pool with poolside bar and dining, a full-service spa, fitness center, and a basketball court. Special activities such as Yoga sessions, pool games, and poolside movie nights are organized for guests during high seasons.

Image via Flickr by mathewingram

Hilton Daytona Beach Resort/Ocean Walk Village

With a range of recreational amenities for adults and kids, the Hilton Daytona Beach Resort/Ocean Walk Village is a favorite among family vacationers. The hotel offers pet-friendly accommodations with luxurious beds, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, work desks with an ergonomic chair, a table lamp and electric plugs, free printing, and telephones so that you can carry out business activities in the privacy of your room. Other room facilities include TV with premium sports and movie channels, housekeeping, laundry, and evening room service. An outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a luxury spa are there for you to relax at the end of a busy day.

Image via Flickr by jared422_80

Mayan Inn

Located next to Daytona’s famous Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club, Mayan Inn offers neatly appointed rooms with private balconies overlooking the ocean. The rooms have one king bed or two queen beds along with televisions, small refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, hairdryers, and irons with ironing boards. You can get a room and amenities, such as complimentary breakfast, coin-operated laundry, and access to the hotel’s outdoor pool, bar, and sports lounge at a modest rate at Mayan Inn.

Top Fabulous Nature Travel Spots in Branson

June 20, 2016June 20, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Branson, Branson Wilderness, forest, Log Cabins Branson, Marvel Cave, Missouri, Shepherds of the Hills, Table Rock dam, USA Midwest region, USA Travel destinations10 Comments

log cabin branson, missouri, forest park

Aside from family vacations of lazy summer road trips and sophisticated cities, Branson, Missouri is known for great Ozark Mountains, which is a home for some of the best nature travel and outdoor adventures. The city has earned its reputations as one of the best weekend getaway destinations for family and friends. This charming town in the Midwest is accessible, yet provides a sense of seclusion for its guests out-of-town guests.

Though this city is largely known for its bright lights and live entertainment, it’s also the home for some of the best nature travel spots in whole Missouri. Strategically located at the foots of the Ozark Mountains, nature lovers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts will never run out of things to see and do in this city. Here are some of city’s awe-inspiring spots and views of great outdoors.

The Forest Park

Built on the grounds of the 1904 World Fair, the Forest Park is a city park that houses the original buildings with various attractions around, such as gardens, ponds, as well as the St. Louis Zoo. They have plenty of places to spend a whole day with your family and loved ones. Those who are interested to know more about the place’s art, culture, and history can visit the St. Louis Art Museum.

Shepherds of the Hills

This place is near Table Rock Dam, which is a great attraction of its own as well. The Shepherds of the Hills Fish Hatchery offers hiking trails and a unique wildlife experience from its tower. Their hatchery produces brown and rainbow trout for the ever-beautiful and abundant Lake Taneycomo.

This place also offers tons of great activities for nature lovers. Aside from the forest trail they also have lots of picnic tables, boat ramps, pavilions, and fishing access.

Table Rock Dam

As said earlier, Table Rock Dam is also a great tourist attraction in Branson, and it’s definitely the place you can’t miss if you love the waters. This place will let you camp, swim, boat, and fish. And if that’s not enough, then look around and appreciate the beauty of the Ozark Mountains. Aside from the various recreational activities, you will certainly find yourself busy taking pictures of this photogenic place.

Image via Flickr by Branson Missouri

The Marvel Cave

This tourist attraction dates all the way back to the late 1800s. This cave features breathtaking formations of limestone, which you will have the chance to see up close through its guided tour that will take you 500 feet below sea level.

Also, this place is near the biggest and most popular attraction in the Branson – the Silver Dollar City amusement park, which is the home of some of the most exciting rides and fun activities for the whole family.

Image via Flickr by danbodenstein

Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area

Still looking for more trails to conquer? Check out the Lakeside Forest Wilderness area and experience the beauty of the wooded and hill country that spans 140 acres. Ready your camera for the beautiful landscape, forest with big cedar-like trees, glades and waterfalls. You will be awed right from its entrance-way, as you will be greeted by a large log archway complete with ornamental iron gate.

These are just five of the many great nature travel spots in Branson. Book your vacation and see more of the beauty of the Ozark Mountains in your vacation.

This is a guest post by April Yap. April is an online publisher for The Cabins at Grand Mountain in Branson, MO. She often writes about camping, Midwest traveling, and log cabin experiences.

Discover the Other Side of Dubai – Art and Adventure in the Desert City

June 17, 2016March 2, 2025Posted in World City ToursTagged desert safari Dubai, dubai, dubai attractions, Hot air balloon Dubai, quad biking in dubai, ski Dubai, skydiving in Dubai, things to do in Dubai, wild wadi water park3 Comments

Over the years, Dubai has grown to be a major business and commercial hub in the Middle East. Despite its several hotels, duty-free shopping, and world-class entertainment, Dubai is more than a business and leisure destination. The city offers an eclectic mix of art, culture, technology, and architecture. There is a different side of Dubai that should be explored if you believe in experiential traveling. To discover the other side of the city, stay at a Dubai hotel near Deira or Bur Dubai and explore the various art and adventure activities the city has to offer.

Once your touristy zeal is satiated by exploring Dubai’s manmade wonders, try these things to make the most of your Dubai vacation:

Desert Safari

Image via Flickr by SimSullen

Dubai is a desert city, so your travel is incomplete without a safari to the Arabian Desert, a half-hour drive from downtown. There are several ways to explore and enjoy in the desert, such as camel rides, dune driving, quad biking, and sand boarding. As dusk falls, your Arabian Desert safari ends with a traditional belly dance performance followed by a barbecue dinner at a resort or a camping site.

Skydiving and Hot Air Ballooning

Image via Flickr by pictcorrect

A hot air balloon ride is, perhaps, the best to way to witness the beauty of the desert from a different perspective. Glide over the desert and watch the sun rise over the golden sand dunes. The more adventurous can try skydiving for a “one-of-a-kind” experience. Jump into the void from an altitude of 4,000 meters and take in the bird’s-eye view of the iconic Palm Jumeirah as you swoop down to the landing turf.

Waterpark Amusements

Image via Flickr by Sarah_Ackerman

With exciting water rides and fairy tale-like structures, Wild Wadi Water Park is one of the main attractions in Dubai. The amusement park’s cool wave pools, multiple water slides, and surfing machines let you beat the heat and have fun all day. If you are traveling with kids, Wild Wadi is not to be missed.

Skiing

Image via Flickr by jonrawlinson

How does it feel to walk on the snow in a desert city like Dubai? Well, you can enjoy all those winter sports at Ski Dubai that you usually enjoy during the winter in North America. It’s not just skiing and snowboarding; you can go crazy with fast-paced rides like Snow Bullet. You can even meet the polar penguins and swim with them. Isn’t it amazing?

Water Sports

Image via Flickr by *_* (Guilhem Vellut)

Dubai’s long stretches of white-sand beaches are ideal for relaxation and leisurely walks. They are equally ideal for a wide range of water sports activities. There are extreme water sports like wakeboarding, stand-up paddle boarding, jet-blade flyboarding, wind surfing, and kite surfing, which requires a bit of training and skill. But Dubai has something for everyone. Beginners can try Frantic Ride, Shark Safari, parasailing, or jet skiing for the adrenaline rush. You can also take your family on a speedboat trip and enjoy the view of the spectacular Dubai skyline.

Arts and Crafts

Image via Dubai International Art Centre

Although Dubai is a symbol of modernity with its high-tech architecture, technology-driven entertainment, and man-made wonders, the city is also fond of arts and crafts. Discover the artistic side of Dubai at Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC). Art connoisseurs can join painting or sculpting courses or simply visit an exhibition in DIAC and admire the works of contemporary artists. Kids can also learn crafts, such as glass painting and sculpture mosaics, at the workshops.

Boutique Hotels in San Jose that Won’t Pinch Your Pocket

June 15, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Boutique hotels in the US, Edenvale hotels, san jose, San Jose Airport hotels, San Jose California, san jose hotels, USA travel, USA Travel destinations4 Comments

downtown San Jose, California, capital of silicon valley

Dotted with century-old colonial architectures, green nature trails, and parks, San Jose, ‘the capital of Silicon Valley’, hardly gives the impression of a tech-savvy city, which is home to some of the world’s leading technology corporations. Rich in history, culture, and technology research, San Jose attracts all kinds of travelers year round. This prosperous city has several upscale hotels to welcome its visitors. Whether it is a business trip or a vacation, the boutique hotels in San Jose promise comfort and facilities tailored to meet your specific needs.

Image via Flickr by Richard Masoner / Cyclelicious

Arena Hotel

If a gracefully appointed room with one king or two queen beds, a work desk with ergonomic chair, a flat-screen TV with your favorite channels, and a bathroom featuring a Jacuzzi for two is what you are looking for within budget, Arena Hotel is the place to stay. Located centrally, near SAP Center and Diridon Train Station, the hotel offers value-for-money accommodation with complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. Rooms come with microwaves, coffee makers, and mini-refrigerators so that you can save money on eating out. A self-service business center is also there for carrying out your business transactions uninterrupted.

Dolce Hayes Mansion

Surrounded by lush green lawns lined with palm trees, Dolce Hayes Mansion’s quaint Spanish architecture is one of the most notable historical landmarks of San Jose. The sprawling estate by Highway 101 houses an outdoor pool, a conference center, tennis courts, and a fine dining restaurant. This award-winning four-star property is all set to offer tastefully decorated rooms with classic wood furnishings, plush beds, dual-line phones, refrigerators, coffee makers, work desks, and Wi-Fi. The private bathrooms are equipped with bathtubs and toiletries for a luxurious bathing experience.

Image via Flickr by Archer Art~SJ Arredondo

Extended Stay America – San Jose – Airport

Think of a hotel, which is only a few minutes from San Jose airport. A hotel that offers modern amenities along with pet-friendly accommodations suitable for extended stays. And a hotel that ensures quick access to many of Silicon Valley’s technology firms. You can get this all in one place at Extended Stay America – San Jose – Airport. Laundry, housekeeping, filtered drinking water, free Wi-Fi and business services, and a well-equipped kitchen in the room are some of the amenities that ensure homely comfort and convenience while cutting down on expenses during traveling.

Extended Stay America – San Jose – Edenvale – North

Like the above-mentioned Extended Stay America hotel the Extended Stay America – San Jose – Edenvale – North offers similar types of accommodations and amenities in a quiet neighborhood of South San Jose. The hotel’s studio-style rooms have flat-screen TVs with premium channels. Besides, there are hot tubs and outdoor pools for relaxation and recreation. The hotel chain offers discounts on early booking and longer stays. Military people and senior citizens can enjoy discounted rates at San Jose’s Extended Stay America hotels.

Image via Wikipedia by Daderot

E-Z 8 Motel San Jose I

Located close to San Jose International Airport, E-Z 8 Motel San Jose I offers pet-friendly accommodation within $100 a night. Santa Clara Convention Center, San Jose State University, and California’s Great America are some of the nearby attractions. The hotel’s guest rooms have televisions with top entertainment channels, wireless internet, work desks, refrigerators, microwaves, and irons with ironing boards. Recreational amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a game room. On-site laundry, copy and fax machines, and complimentary parking facilities help business travelers save more on extended stays.

Sun, Sand, and Fun at the Boutique Hotels in Hilton Head Island

June 14, 2016June 14, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Boutique hotels in the US, hilton head hotels, Hilton Head Island, hilton head resorts, South Carolina, USA travel, USA Travel destinations6 Comments

sunset, coligny beach, hilton head island, south carolina

A tiny piece of land by the Atlantic coast, Hilton Head Island is a popular family vacation destination in South Carolina. With pristine beaches and lush vegetation, the island offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. In addition, the boutique hotels in Hilton Head Island promises luxurious accommodations and amenities, which will make your vacation an unforgettable one.

Image Via Flickr by Lee Edwin Coursey

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

One of the most popular luxury hotels in Hilton Head Island is Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort. Sprawling over an extensive area, the resort has 20 oceanfront suites, eight resort view suites, and 295 studio-style suites. The amenities include rooms with separate bedrooms and kitchenettes, allowance for pets, and concierge, child care, and handicap services. Recreational amenities include multi-cuisine restaurants, tennis courts, a full-service spa, golf course, pools, beach-side Jacuzzi, and a private lagoon system where guests can enjoy kayaking and canoeing.

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

If you’re wondering where to stay in Hilton Head Island on your vacation with your kids and pets, what can be a better choice than Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort? Designed after hunting and fishing lodges of yesteryear, the resort offers villas and deluxe studios for accommodation and almost 12 miles of private beaches. Elegantly appointed rooms come with flat-screen TVs, microwaves, in-room safes, mini-refrigerators, DVD players, and coffee makers. Amenities offered at the resort include wireless internet, shuttle service, free parking, laundry, swimming pools, a fitness center, and various recreational activities for kids.

Image via Flickr by Dan’s Eye View

Shipyard Resort by Spinnaker Resorts

Designed like a home away from home, Shipyard Resort by Spinnaker Resorts features well-equipped townhouses, which have amenities like DVD players, complimentary Wi-Fi, kitchens with microwaves, phones with a free local and long distance call facility, flat-screen TVs with cable connectivity, and more. Adults can relax at the on-site tennis courts, hot tubs, pools with poolside cabana, picnic tables, waterside barbecue, and a golf course. Kids can have their share of fun at the Kiddie Pool and on-premise playground. Shopping centers and restaurants are also in the vicinity of the hotel.

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

Surrounded by lush greenery, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island provides an opportunity to immerse your senses in scenic beauty and natural splendor. Whether it’s a walk in the tropical gardens or dining in one of the many restaurants that the resort has; getting pampered at the Arum Spa; or enjoying life in the lagoon swimming pool, this resort offers everything under one roof. The award-winning resort is also ideal for hosting weddings and other programs, including business events. The rooms are done in a style that offers the best of modern amenities for luxurious living, such as plush beds with fluffy pillows and mattresses, pull-out sofas, internet TV with movies and video games, refrigerators, and electronic safes.

Image via Flickr by Ken Lund

Hilton Head Metropolitan Hotel

Only a block from Forest Beach, Hilton Head Metropolitan Hotel offers ocean-view rooms within budget. Coligny Plaza shopping mall, restaurants, and pubs are within walking distance from the hotel. The guest rooms feature king-size beds, televisions with cable channels, coffee makers, microwaves, refrigerators, hair dryers, and irons with ironing boards. Family rooms and suites have an additional kitchenette where you will find double burner stoves and other commonly used kitchen utensils for cooking.