Nevada Photo by João Martinho

Car rental in the USA is great value and it affords you the freedom to explore wherever you choose in your own sweet time. Today we consider the rugged landscape of Nevada, which effortlessly combines hedonistic cities with charming small towns and beautiful scenery.

Here are just a few of the highlights…

Las Vegas

It just wouldn’t be right if we didn’t start this list with Las Vegas. What better way to begin your road trip of the state than with a slow cruise down the Las Vegas strip? Don those sunglasses, get that roof down, marvel at the towering hotels, and try your best not to be blinded by the brightness of all the neon. Try your hand on the tables if you dare, and if you have time, you know this is where all the cool kids come to party – make sure you experience all that it has to offer.

Lake Tahoe

From the bright lights of Vegas, to one of the USA’s most tranquil destinations. Lake Tahoe is a 191 square mile body of the most crystal clear water located right on the border of California and Nevada. Gaze into the water and you can expect to see an almost perfect reflection of the surrounding snow-topped mountains and alpine forests. As well as its undeniable beauty, Lake Tahoe is a popular destination with lovers of the great outdoors, and is the perfect place for you to stretch your legs and get some fresh air after all of those miles behind the wheel.

If you are visiting in the summer you’ll have the chance to try a little deep water fishing, horseback riding or maybe a few holes of golf at one of the area’s many golf courses. Come here in winter and you’ll find places to ski, sled and ice skate. The area offers great accommodation options whatever time of year you visit, ranging from cosy log cabins to modern and comfortable campsites.

Ski resorts

If you time your trip right, you will have the opportunity to pop on your salopettes and hit the slopes at any one of the 18 ski resorts in Nevada. Depending on your route – a few that you might like to try include Squaw Valley, Sugar Bowl and Diamond Peak.

Reno

Back in the days when Las Vegas was merely a gleam in the developers’ eyes, Reno was satisfying the tourists’ desire to have a flutter. Affectionately dubbed the “biggest little city in the world”, Reno traditionally attracts tourists from San Francisco and Sacramento, whereas Vegas was more frequented by those hailing from Southern California and Phoenix.

Reno is located just 90 minutes drive from Lake Tahoe but just 18 miles south of the city is Washoe Lake – another great photo opportunity and popular choice with kite boarders and windsurfers.

Lifecruiser Love Roadtrips

Other US Roadtrips related posts at Lifecruiser:

Maine – The Getaway from the Getaway
Travelling The U.S. By Road This Summer
Cool routes for a driving holiday in Florida
Travel Dreams: Cruising US Coast in a Corvette Stingray
Hiking on the edge: a Grand Canyon experience
 

No photography or video footage can do it justice – the only way one can truly appreciate its awesome beauty is to experience it in person.

NPS photo by Michael Quinn

The exhilaration of seeing the Grand Canyon from the rim is unlike anything else. However, hiking down to the base of the canyon is an even more unique and exciting experience. Because the canyon runs more than 277 miles in length, over 18 miles wide and more than a mile deep, hiking it takes plenty of preparation. While it is best suited for experienced hikers, even novices can hike the Grand Canyon.

With so many ways to explore the Grand Canyon, it can be hard to choose which route to take. So, it doesn’t really matter which of the many Grand Canyon hotels one stays in as long as the hike is planned out accordingly. One of the best hiking routes is to start at the South Rim and head to the northern part of the canyon, which includes crossing the Colorado River.

Hiking the Grand Canyon is different from any other backpacking experiences one can have – it is virtually the opposite of every other hike because the trail starts by going down the canyon and working back up.

NPS photo by Michael Quinn

In an effort to make the Grand Canyon hike one of the best and most successful of any hiker’s life, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Proper speed

A good rule of thumb is that if an individual can talk while walking, then the speed is about right. When a person huffs and puffs while hiking, he or she isn’t getting enough oxygen into the body for proper functions. This uses up energy reserves and can cause nausea, fatigue and muscle cramps. Making sure the body is properly oxygenated makes for a much more enjoyable hike. Take a ten-minute break every hour.

Avoiding dehydration

Most hikers are used to hiking in the mountains, not the desert, which is what the Grand Canyon is. The dry, hot environment can cause a lot of stress on the body, especially during the warm summer months. This can lead to overexertion and heat exhaustion, so it is essential that hikers remember to bring plenty of water and stay hydrated – it is also smart to avoid hiking during the warmest part of the day. Symptoms of heat exhaustion and dehydration include minimal urination, loss of thirst and appetite, headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

Hiking smart

As with any hike, it is important to hike smart. Wear comfortable hiking clothes and shoes. Hikers should also carry a first aid kit that includes materials for treating minor scrapes and cuts, heat exhaustion, blisters and sprains. Other supplies that should be in everyone’s pack include a flashlight and the right foods. The correct hiking foods include crackers, salty foods (to promote water absorption), trail mix, hard candy and electrolyte powder.

And remember, pay attention to flash flood warnings and weather advisories!

Lifecruiser Love Grand Canyon

Other hiking related posts at Lifecruiser:

Spanish Pilgrimage hike – Departure La Coruna
The Best Things to do on a Cruise in Hawaii
Family Holidays in Africa
 

Bond Over Old Games

Remember how you and your buddies used to play that old game system in your parent’s basement? Well, dust it off and play another tournament. You can find vintage gaming systems online. You’re sure to enjoy a walk down memory lane as you bond together over that old game. Even if you weren’t gamers, there is something that you and your friends loved to do “back in the day”. Find a way to make it happen during your next get together.

Remember the Old Days Through Photos

After you’ve bonded again over the things you used to love, bring out all the old photos. You can sit in the living room with a drink and laugh about all the good times you used to have together. You will remember things that you haven’t thought of in years, and it will be sure to make your day. If this is a planned visit, ask your friends to bring all of their photos too. That way there will be more to see than just your collection. And don’t forget the yearbooks!

Make New Memories

It’s great to remember all the great times you used to have, but you should also try to make new memories with these special people in your life. After you’ve spent some time reminiscing, go find an activity that you can do to make new memories. You can book tee times online and then hit the greens if you’re an avid golfer. Afterwards, go out for a nice meal or head to the theater to catch the latest flick.

Don’t fail to let the years slip by without catching up with the important people in your life. While it may seem impossible, there are ways to find time together. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant. Something as simple as coffee one afternoon is enough to keep the friendship going and the memories fresh in your mind. This not only helps you remember where you’ve came from, but also appreciate how it made you become the person your are today. So, call you old high school buddy and setup a time to get together soon. You won’t regret it.

Lifecruiser Love Reunions
 

As a person that every year wishes for a red & white Corvette Stingray of 1957 years model for Christmas (ha ha), you can imagine that this would not at all be wrong for me to do one day….! Putting it on my bucket list!

What also is interesting is that this highway of America, also sometimes is called the Mother road and was established as early as in November 1926 – which also happens to be the birth year and month of my own mother. If I ever manage to fulfill this dream, I will for sure remember my Mom during the trip.

Do you have any similar travel dreams? Let us know in the comments!

©Lifecruiser Love Cab Cruising
 

NY Theatre district, Image courtesy of Vikram Vetrivel

One of the most popular dreams to chase in New York is singing. Although many people think of the West Coast, NY has a ton to offer. If you are serious about your vocals you can find many venues to get the word out about your talent. There are hundreds of cafes and lounges where you can perform. Not only do many record labels have hubs in New York but also the world of Broadway employs hundreds of performers. Getting a contract or job at this level might take a lot of training and performing, but those who pull it off will never regret it.

Strengthening your vocals is also extremely important. Unlike recording artists, you do not have the luxury of having a recorded and lightly altered version of your voice. You are singing live. You must deliver. It is important to make a lasting impression with those that are listening to you.

As you look on YouTube and other places that advertise music talent, you will notice something: the common thread between all of these artists are instruments. No matter the genre of music you sing, instruments are always a great help. If you are looking to get into the music scene you should find instrument lessons. There are great benefits in living in a big city. One of which is that there are many place to receive piano lessons in New York.

Learning an instrument can really help you, especially when it comes to nervous energy. For many, getting up in-front of a crowd makes their hands shake and heart race. This is because they have extra energy that they need to channel. That is why many big name artists dance on stage. But, an instrument can be a way for you to get rid of your extra energy.

Voice training is one of the most important things for an artist. But when you are just beginning in this career money is hard to come by. It is not always feasible to hire a person vocal teacher. Luckily, there is another option. Many libraries carry voice lessons in their movie sections. Your first voice lesson could be as simple as going to the library and checking it out. This may not be the most ideal option, but it can be a helpful option to you.

These tips to help you with you music career could be small. But every little thing helps. Every artist had to start some where. Remember that no singing gig is too small. As long as you are performing, you are living your dream. Never forget your dream and continue to pursue it.

Lifecruiser Love Music
 

Storage can happen in a couple of different ways. If you live close to the desert, you can store your ATVs, dirt bikes and other equipment at home in your own garage. However, it will take up quite a bit of space, which you could use for other things. If you travel to the desert every time you want to enjoy your toys, you can use one of the Phoenix, AZ self storage units to keep your vehicles. This provides a convenient place to store your toys, so that you don’t have to haul them from home.

Preparing Your ATV for Desert Season

When desert season rolls around, you need to make sure your ATVs are ready to go. Taking them directly from storage to the desert isn’t a good idea. You want to check a few things before you ride. This will ensure your ATV is ready and won’t cause you any issues.

1. Check your Tires

Sometimes if you let your toys sit for a few months, the tires need a little air. You want to make sure they are good and a quick check will give you the safety you need. Make sure to adjust the tire pressure for the conditions and check the weather, so you will know what the proper tire pressure will be for the day you plan to ride.

2. Check your Fuel System

If you didn’t drain you fuel tank before storing your ATV, you need to check the fuel system. Sometimes water will end up in the fuel tank and this can cause your engine to run poorly or not at all. It’s a good idea to drain your fuel tank and replace old fuel with new fuel before heading out to the desert.

3. Clean or Replace your Air Filter

Another very important part of your ATV is the air filter. Riding in the sand causes it to get dirty very fast and you want to check and make sure it’s clean. If it’s not clean, you need to either replace it or clean it. This will help your motor run better and will prevent other issues.

It’s always a good idea to perform basic maintenance on any vehicles you decide to take into the desert. Whether you enjoy dirt bikes, dune buggies, ATVS or another type of fun toy, you need to make sure to maintain these toys or you could end up with other issues while out riding.

Lifecruiser Love Dune Rides
 

Tailgating

Tailgating is one of the most exciting parts of the gameday experience at Ohio State. Parking lots all over the Ohio State campus begin to fill up at least 5 hours before the game, even earlier in the case of a primetime night football game. There is lots of great tailgating food, lots of imbibing and lots of friendly people enjoying one of the best tailgate atmospheres on the planet.

OH – IO

This is one of the best traditions at Ohio State. An individual or group will yell out the letters, "O! H!" and those around them yell back the letters, "I! O!"

This happens repeatedly over the course of gameday, starting at the tailgates and progressing to the huge chants of it between tens of thousands of fans at the stadium.

Skull Session

One of the best traditions in college football is the Skull Session held at St. John’s Arena two hours before kickoff in Columbus. The Ohio State Marching band, colorfully nicknamed The Best Damn Band in the Land, provides music at a giant pep rally in the arena. This is extremely popular and some fans start showing up for the Skull Session two hours before it begins.

The Hive

This tradition is only a few years old, but it has already become one of the best parts of Ohio State Football. The team comes out on the field a half hour before kickoff, gathers in an end zone, locks arms together and starts to sway to the sounds of AC/DC’s hit song, "Hell’s Bells." After moving around in the end zone pressed tightly together in the hive, they burst out of the hive and run down the field.

A Game in Front of 105,000 Rabid Fans

One of the best parts of getting Ohio State Buckeyes Football Tickets is the opportunity of watching a game with 105,000 other screaming fans. The amount of noise that fans make in "The Horseshoe" is incredible. Its real name is Ohio University, but The Horseshoe is what it is called for its unique shape. Fans will get to see lots of great football action in one of the most historic and beautiful stadiums in the country.

An Amazing Experience

Going to a game at Ohio State University is something that everyone that has a chance to should definitely do. When you go, be sure to dress warmly. The late fall football games in Columbus get a little nippy. Bundle up in a red and grey hoodie or coat, preferably with the Buckeye logo on it.

Lifecruiser Love Sport Event Trip’s
 

This is the state to get away and rest from the stressful family getaway you just made. Take a drive to any of the following small villages, stay for a day, a weekend or a whole week. You’ll come back refreshed and ready to take on the world again.

Freeport

If your coming from Boston, you’ll want to stop in at Freeport and enjoy an afternoon shopping in the outlet stores or the small historic boutiques that line the historic district. Spend the night in one of the comfortable and homey bed and breakfasts so you can drive up to Wolfe’ Neck State Park the following day. Stroll through the awe inspiring white pine and hemlock forest. Another scenic area is Casco Bay where you’ll enjoy crabbing along the rocky shoreline. In the evening you can walk downtown taking in the art work, an outdoor play, or simply enjoy a quiet romantic dinner at any of the excellent restaurants.

Bar Harbor

Another interesting little town in Maine is Bar Harbor, which sits between the Frenchman Bay and the gorgeous mountains of Acadia National Park. This is a great place to go biking, kayaking or visiting a lighthouse or two. Spend the day watching the whales or rock climbing. Visit the Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge or walk through town and admire the historical value of the town, founded back in 1763. Hop on one of the tour buses and drive through Acadia National Park to Cadillac Mountain.

Rockland

Another interesting place for a great weekend getaway is Rockland, located in Penobscot Bay and a must see if you plan your getaway in late July or August, as you’ll be able to enjoy the Lobster Festival. Enjoy the day strolling through the exhibitions and viewing the work of local artists, then when you’re ready to eat, enjoy the delectable lobster.

Maine offers a lot to see, some great fishing, picturesque villages and towns to enjoy, as well as wonderful natural wonders. This state is truly the state to get away from family, work and stress. It is the place to renew, rejuvenate and get the rest you need. If you are considering a trip to Maine consider visiting Ogunquit.com to plan the perfect trip.

Lifecruiser Love Getaways
 

A wonderful sunny place to visit is Portugal, with heaps of culture and things to do. Some of the best Portugal villas are situated on or near the Algarve. Steeped in history, you can choose to sunbathe on its many beautiful beaches, enjoy a family day out at a waterpark or hire a car and explore the stunning landscape along the beautiful coastline.

Vilamoura is a popular area with many sports and leisure activities on offer for the whole family, such as the Vilamouraténis Center which offers lawn bowling, swimming, golf, riding, squash and shooting. Indulge in a spot of retail therapy at the Marina Shopping Centre and try your hand at the area’s very own casino for a fun, glamorous night out.

Albufeira is another great location whether for a fun-filled stag weekend or a quiet family holiday – the area can accommodate both. There’s the Old Town with pretty white-washed houses, and narrow cobbled streets, with restaurants and coffee houses offering a picturesque view of the sea.

Then there’s the famous ‘Strip’, brimming with bars and clubs where you can party into the small hours. Other popular areas include the Duoro Valley – classified as a World Heritage Site where visitors can enjoy the area’s famous Port Wine, or cruise up the famous Duoro River by taking one of the many boat trips available throughout the day.

Or if you fancy roving further afield why not make Florida your holiday destination this year? Florida villas are some of the most beautiful in the States. The perfect place if you’re planning a family trip to Disney World Resort, you can opt for a villa just a short 30 minute drive from the park itself, where the kids can explore the Magic Kingdom as well as the Animal Kingdom Park, to name just two of the six on offer. Enjoy a number of attractions, restaurants, sights and sounds.

Orlando itself is bursting with things to see and do, with copious shopping malls and golf courses galore! Or why not admire some wildlife at Gatorland or SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove? In the evening you can be dazzled by the world-famous Cirque de Soleil or the quirky Blue Man Group, otherwise you can check out one of Orlando’s special dinner theatres for a fun-filled night of food and entertainment.

Another area worth exploring is the gorgeous Gulf Coast with numerous lakes and rivers for plenty of fishing opportunities, or you can opt for a cruise and take in the picturesque sights. There are also many fantastic fish restaurants to choose from. You can also go croc-spotting and admire many other types of wildlife at Everglades National Park. And if you want some brief down time, you can relax in a luxury villa, catch some rays by the pool and enjoy a cosy family night in, away from the demands of everyday life.

Lifecruiser Love Holiday Villas
 

Orlando is perhaps most known for the Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando Universal Resort, SeaWorld and Gatorland, but for us golfers also as a warming up winter escape place with many top golf courses as well as other attractions and activities for the whole family (lots of gardens for the wife).

As an old golfer since 26 years, I’ve picked out a few golf courses to try out, which I found interesting. Of course, what is interesting varies for different persons, but if you’re a fairly good golfer with at least a rather low golf handicap, you might like these ones you too.

Falcons Fire: given four stars by GolfDigest as well as rated as America’s Top 15 Women Friendly Courses by Golf for Women, it’s a must play, conveniently located close to the Walt Disney World Resort and Orlando International Airport, rates from $49-$79. (falconsfire.com)

Golf Hawks Landing: at the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort (the worlds largest Marriott) with beautiful wildlife with native birds, rates $39-$129 depending on time of the day when going out. (golfhawkslanding.com)

Hunters Creek: Another must play public golf course with strategically placed bunkers I could need the experience from. Spacious, rolling fairways among 13 lakes sounds like a relaxing but demanding enough golf round for me. Rates $16-$69. (golfhunterscreek.com)

Mystic Dunes Golf: 2 different nine holes. The front nine similar to a British Isles link’s course, the other nine as classic Carolina courses, with wetlands and marsh areas and cypress forests. It’s perhaps the rolling sand dunes and 5 sets of tee boxes that makes me think it would be my kind of course. Golf Getaway Packages starting at $135. (mysticdunesgolf.com)

Grand Cypress: A golf resort with 45 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature golf, with luxury Orlando hotel accommodations which my wife would love to stay at (OK, me too), relaxing at the spa getting a massage or in the pool while I’m golfing. (grandcypress.com)

There are so many great golf courses in the Orlando area, that at least I don’t think that you would be disappointed, what ever golf course you choose. Some other great websites to check out if going to Orlando are orlandogolftrail, orlandogolf, golforlando and golfnow.com/orlando.

When to go there depends on what kind of person you are, if you cope with the heat or rain. Most of the rain falls June-September. I think I’d prefer to go there in the spring. I would definitely try to avoid the hurricane season, especially with my wife’s bad weather curse, remember? (lol)

If we ever are in the same area, let me know and we do a golf round challenge. That is, if you dare? My golf handicap? Officially 5,8, but I’m not sure if I live up to that. I’ve been trying to raise my handicap – have been down at 3,2 when I played every day, now I play more seldom.

©Lifecruiser Love Golf Travel

Some other golf travel related posts at Lifecruiser:

Tips for nightlife in Algarve (twilight golf)
Enjoy UK golf breaks and take in these top three courses
Swedish Golf Season Start 2011
PhotoHunt Golf self-reflection
Golf pleasures in and out