OMG! This private beach is exactly what dream vacations are made of! This is a private island/beach and very popular stop with Carnival Cruise lInes and Holland America. White sand beaches, crystal clear water, you have to see it to believe it.

On this edition of Beyond Your Backyard, I find out why so many people are “Proud to be an Okie from Muskogee.” The crew and I travel to this quaint Oklahoma town to learn about the history of the Girl Scouts, the Trail of Tears and the local country music connection.

You know what they say…meet me in Montauk! And in case you haven’t been, please allow me to expound. Montauk is located at the very end of Long Island (to the east) after the Hamptons. It is a charming beach community featuring miles of sandy beaches, lush, green state parks, quaint shopping and dining districts and plenty of accommodation options if you book in advance.

We’ve all been there. We arrive at our destination, we get our bags (unless you’ve paid attention and only brought carry-on luggage), and you trudge your way over to the Rental Car Center.

If you read my previous article about which cruise is right for you and have made your selection, then the next big decision is to tackle what cabin you are going to select.

January is fast-coming to a close and February is on the horizon. How are your vacation plans coming along? If you are wondering whether or not your budget will accommodate an added vacation expense then I have a thought.

Vintage T.W.A. to European destinations (Italy, Greece, Switzerland, and France) 11oz mug.