FOXNews.com: Flying? Expect fewer flights, higher fares

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Flying? Expect fewer flights, higher fares Mar 29th 2013, 15:07 A woman waits in line with luggage to check in for an American Airlines flight at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Va.AP United Airlines CEO Jeff Smisek thinks the airline business is transforming into a profitable industry, thanks to fewer flights and higher fares. Mergers have helped bring rationality to the market, Smisek told an aviation conference Thursday. For far too long, he said, too many airlines were chasing too few passengers. "I've been in the industry for 18 years and this is the first time that I have hope for this business," he said. In the past few years United and Continental have merged. So have Delta and Northwest, Southwest and AirTran and now American and US Airways. Smisek used his speech at an aviation summit hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to repeat many of the top talking points of his industry's lobbying group, Airlines for America, which is pushing a national airline policy. The message: airlines still face too many taxes, not enough support from the government and could benefit from a modern air traffic control system. Smisek said a new satellite-based air traffic control system would not only save fliers time but also cut fuel usage by 10 percent. United alone consumes about 4 billion gallons of jet fuel a year. "That's more than one day's supply of oil in the world," Smisek noted. Mergers have helped airlines price tickets at a rational level, he said. In the past, Smisek added, "we priced our product below its cost and tried to make it up on volume." Airlines are now run by professionals, looking to make a profit for shareholders, he said. And despite those rising prices, he thinks flying today is still "an incredible bargain." "In the bad old days of the industry, people got used to fares that were absurdly low," Smisek said, noting that they didn't even cover the cost of fuel. "This is a business that remains brutally competitive," he told the conference. Related Stories How to Snag the Best Price on Airline Tickets for Every Occasion 7 common expenses that take travelers by surprise Eleven Travel Tips to Snag a Free Airline Flight

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FOXNews.com: Taking the Kids -- and letting the kids lead the way in Washington, D.C.

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Taking the Kids -- and letting the kids lead the way in Washington, D.C. Mar 29th 2013, 12:32 The Tidal Basin and cherry blossoms, Washington, D.C.Washington.org Young visitors enjoy story time at the National Air and Space Museumâs Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.Dane Penland Learning about Japanese screens at the Smithsonian's Freer Sackler Galleries.Freer Sackler Galleries Boy participates in a paper airplane contest in the National Air and Space Museum's How Things Fly gallery.Smithsonian Institution The Jefferson Memorial, Washington, D.C.Washington.org Next Slide Previous Slide Got your umbrella? On a rainy day, grab an umbrella and go to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. "Nobody's there," reports 11-year-old Sean, who is from suburban Virginia and was one of the local and visiting kids we interviewed for my new "Kid's Guide to Washington, D.C." While you are there, pick up a mini Washington Monument, "The best souvenir from Washington, D.C.!" offers William, 12, who lives in suburban Maryland. Take time to read the quotes on the wall of the Lincoln Memorial, suggests Hayley, 13, from Fort Worth, Texas. "My favorite place that I visited in Washington, D.C., was the Lincoln Memorial," she said, adding that she especially enjoyed reading the quotes on the walls. Any parent or grandparent who has traveled with kids knows that if the kids are happy and engaged, everyone will have a good time. It makes sense. No one wants to be dragged along -- especially on vacation -- doing someone else's bidding. Of course, when we were kids, no one asked us where we wanted to go on vacation or what we wanted to do when we got there. We were told we were lucky to be going anywhere -- I especially remember my dad saying that when he shepherded us from memorial to monument in Washington, D.C. -- and I guess we were. But these days, according to the newest Portrait of American Travelers research, among leisure travelers who have kids at home, six out of 10 surveyed report that their kids actively help with planning what their families will do for fun. More parents reported that their kids are involved in planning what they do on vacation (57 percent) than what they watch on TV (50 percent). Fifty-five percent of those polled for this major national study said the kids have a role in deciding where to go; more than a third helped decide on the hotel. (Note: Hotel Industry: If you want parents to book, you've got to appeal to their kids!) Certainly you aren't going to let the kids dictate a trip that is beyond your budget, no matter how appealing the hotel's water playground or how badly they want to ride the London Eye, see a Broadway play or step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. But once you decide where you want and can afford to go this spring break and summer, invite the kids -- if you haven't already -- to help plan the itinerary. Think of how much that will de-stress the experience for you. The kids can't whine or blame you if they don't like the tour, the restaurant or the theme park attraction they chose. Park them in front of the computer -- where they live anyway -- and suggest they start planning. (Just make sure each child in the family has an equal say. Parents get a vote, too, and here's a tip: Kids will be more accommodating to your picks when they've had a say in the itinerary.) This is easier than ever since you can take virtual tours to just about anywhere you might want to go -- from Orlando's theme parks to the Smithsonian, which incidentally, has a terrific website for kids with online activities to prepare them for their visit. (They can try their hand at planetary research before they visit the National Air and Space Museum or check out the traits they share with other mammals before heading to the National Museum of Natural History.) On the Smithsonian's site, you can also find special activities for families like the Art a la Cart program at The Smithsonian American Art Museum or the chance to meet a Kiwi bird from New Zealand (did you know they don't fly?) at the National Zoo. Let's not forget all the apps that will help kids lead the way in Washington, D.C. There's even a free one from the National Park Service for the National Mall compatible with the Android, iPhone and iPad. Also check out the FamilyiTrips Washington, D.C., available at the iTunes store for $3.99, which lists more than 250 attractions and is the most comprehensive Washington, D.C. family app around. One reason Washington, D.C., is a good place to let kids lead the way is because so many of the attractions are free -- the monuments, all of the Smithsonian's 19 museums, including the National Zoo, visits to the Capitol or the Supreme Court, a walk on the African American Heritage Trail or a hike in the enormous (more than 1,754 acres) Rock Creek Park. Even the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has free daily performances -- at 6 p.m. on the Millennium Stage. So what if the kids' pick turns out to be a dud, or they get bored in the museum? Move on! Better yet, go outside on the National Mall and turn cartwheels or fly a kite! Let's not forget we are in the midst of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which lasts until mid-April and includes Family Days (March 23 to 24) and the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade (April 13). Come back to view the monuments at night. That doesn't cost anything, either. "They were all lit up beautifully," said 11-year-old Greta, from Boise, Idaho. "My favorite memory from Washington, D.C., was visiting all the monuments in the dark." Creating those memories, of course, is what family vacations are all about. Just make sure you've got the camera -- and the umbrella. Eileen Ogintz is a syndicated columnist and writes about family travel on her Taking the Kids blog. Follow "taking the kids" on www.twitter.com, where Ogintz welcomes your questions and comments. Related Stories Taking the kids to the Caribbean in summer 3 ways to make family travel cheaper Taking the kids: food is part of the adventure at some hotels

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FOXNews.com: Insider secrets of Rome

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Insider secrets of Rome Mar 28th 2013, 18:00 The Vatican Museums are a gorgeous sight any time of day. But we can get you there after-hours for a self-guided tour in relative peace and quiet.Kaeli Conforti With the newly elected Pope moving in and Easter upon us, the old adage about all roads leading to you-know-where seems especially true these days. Here, Budget Travel shows you how to enjoy Rome like a Roman. Heaping plates of light-as-air pasta. Art by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini. Some of the most entertaining people-watching on the planet. Rome is a city like no other. But as welcoming as it can be, to the first-time visitor Rome can also feel a little like an upscale hazing ritual, with winding ticket lines, expensive meals, and crowds, crowds, crowds. With the help of actual Romans and some well-traveled BT editors, we've put together some can't-miss tips for making yourself at home in the Eternal City. Se 25 Beautiful Photos of Rome Eat Like a Local It's easy to eat great in Rome, but keeping the tab reasonable is another story. We turned to Rome resident Elizabeth Minchilli, author of the bestselling app Eat Rome and host of the blog Elizabeth Minchilli in Rome, for affordable restaurant recommendations. Her picks: Forno dei Campo dei Riori. "This outpost of the famous bakery sells one thing only: Panini," says Minchilli. "The bread is actually the bakery's much-loved pizza Bianca and filling includes mortadella, mozzarella and tomatoes, and frittata." (Vicolo del Gallo 14) Enoteca Corsi. This wine shop also does a brisk business as a working-class restaurant. "The real action is in back," says Minchilli. "Paper-topped tables and wooden chairs are all original. A daily menu is thrown on the table, with dozens of Roman specialties like meat-stuffed zucchini, osso buco, and thick and delicious faro soup. Don't miss the gnocchi on Thursdays!" (Via del Gesu 87) L'Asino d'Oro. With creative riffs on traditional Umbrian and central Italian cuisine, this restaurant is jammed and pricey at night. "But at lunchtime, the fixed menu is one of the best deals in town at $17," says Minchilli. "Three full courses, plus wine and water, but it's cash-only at lunch and make sure you reserve ahead." (Via del Boschetto 73) See the Vatican After-Hours With one of the greatest art collections on earth, it's no surprise that the Vatican Museums are packed during the day. Time was you needed to hand over hundreds of extra euros for a less-crowded tour during the evening. But each Friday between May 3 and July 26, and September 6 and October 25, the Vatican Museums will be open from 7p.m. to 11 p.m., with the last entrance at 9:30 p.m. For $21 at mv.vatican.va, you can enjoy relative peace and quiet on a self-guided tour of the Pio Clementino collection; Raphael Rooms, the galleries of the Candelabra, Tapestries, and Maps; and the Sistine Chapel. Bring binoculars to view Michelangelo's paintings on the Chapel's ceiling, but remember that photography is not allowed (the company that funded the chapel's recent renovation was given rights to the iconic images and does not allow them to be photographed by visitors). Beat the Lines at the Colosseum The most famous site in Rome is remaining open to the public during a $30 million, 2+ year renovation that will create an underground visitors' center and expand access to underground tunnels. While the amphitheater has been thrilling visitors for 2,000 years, that doesn't mean you should have to wait for centuries at the back of a seemingly endless ticket line. Instead, buy your tickets (about $14) to the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill at the Palatine box office on Via di S. Gregorio 30. Then, you can proceed right past the line to the entrance turnstiles. (If you have visited Rome over the past 10 years or so, you may recall that the Forum was once free, but now tickets are required.) Get Into the Galleria Borghese Don't make the rookie mistake of showing up at the popular Galleria Borghese without tickets. Only 360 visitors are admitted every two hours (at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.), and advance tickets (about $14) are required before you can see the heartbreakingly beautiful works here, including those by Titian and Bernini. You can drop by a day or two in advance to make your reservation for a specific date and time, or reserve at galleriaborghese.it. Then, collect your tickets in person at least 30 minutes before your scheduled admission time. Don't Eat Ice Cream on the Spanish Steps! Sure, Roman Holiday may be the most, well, romantic movie ever, and the sight of Audrey Hepburn eating gelato on the Spanish Steps is indelible. But if you try parking on the steps--or any other public space--to chow down these days, you may end up being slapped with a fine. Last year, Rome's mayor was horrified when he saw the city's historic landmarks jammed with people scarfing pizza and panini and licking ice cream cones. A new ordinance forbids eating and drinking anywhere in Rome with "particular historic, artistic, architectonic, and cultural value" (yeah, that's pretty much everywhere). And we're not talking about a minor traffic ticket here--fines can total up to more than $600. More FromBudget Travel 26 Vacations of a Lifetime 15 Things You Didn't Know About the Vatican 10 Most Beautiful Churches

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FOXNews.com: Economist proposes 'pay-as-you-weigh' model for air tickets

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Economist proposes 'pay-as-you-weigh' model for air tickets Mar 28th 2013, 12:12 Published March 28, 2013 FoxNews.com Should overweight customers be footing the bill for their excess baggage?iStock Should passengers be charged for airline tickets based on their weight? That idea is being floated in the Journal of Revenue and Pricing Management by Bharat P Bhatta, associate professor of economics at Sogn og Fjordane University College in Norway. Bhatta published his controversial findings saying, "Charging according to weight and space is a universally accepted principle, not only in transportation, but also in other services." He suggests three methods of implementing the scheme: a simple price-per-pound, a fixed low fare with heavier passengers paying a surcharge and lighter passengers being offered a discount. Bhatta said that charging overweight fliers more would help carriers recoup the cost of the extra fuel required to carry them, saying that reducing the weight on a plane by a little more than 2 pounds will result in fuel savings of $3,000 a year. Many argue that such policies are discriminatory and humiliating.  But the debate over "passengers of size" has been growing since 2008 due to the rising price of jet fuel. About 30 percent of  American adults are considered obese, according to the Center for Disease Control.  Samoa Air, which operates out of the Pacific, is already charging passengers based on their weight.  Many U.S. carriers have also been tightening up their policies. Southwest Airlines requires that passengers either fit in the 17 inches between the armrests, or they must buy a second seat. American Airlines states that passengers unable to properly buckle their seatbelt  must "address their seating needs" when booking. "Some people consider that charging air travelers according to their body weight is not appropriate because this policy treats human beings as goods. They think that charging based on personal characteristics is discriminatory," Dr. Bhatta notes. "Nevertheless every business does this already. This is not different but just a little hard to imagine because we are not used to weight-based fare yet."

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FOXNews.com: Primitive escapes: The Galapagos

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Primitive escapes: The Galapagos Mar 27th 2013, 12:42 The Galapagos Islands are a mythical land. Even when I was literally sitting inches away from prehistoric looking marine iguanas or rolling in the waves with sea lions or being pecked in the knee by a Blue-Footed Booby, I still wondered, "Is this real? Is the world still this wild?" Packing List As for what you need to pack, here's a the short list of what was in my suitcase: Teva Fuse water shoes – Not the sandals, but the closed-toed, sneaker variety so that I could walk off the panga, into the water and still hike that day Underwater camera. Swarovski binoculars. You have to have binoculars. Trust me. Soft-sided North Face luggage. The cabins on the boat are nice but small. So you want soft luggage that can be easily tucked away. Scarpa hiking boots. Many of the islands are covered in rocks from mini to massive. You want happy feet that can handle the sometimes tough terrain. North Face "adventure" pants. I brought one pair that zipped off into shorts. Two would have been better. Julbo polarized sunglasses. Do not underestimate the water's reflective powers. Waterproof iphone case. I use E-Case for both waterproofing and sandproofing. It definitely saved me from many a near miss. Aqua Lung snorkel and mask. The ship provides gear but it was awesome to have some that fit me and worked perfectly. Rash guard. The water can be cold. Perhaps it's because visiting the Galapagos is the stuff bucket lists are made of. Or perhaps it's because it's hard to imagine there's anything left that is truly untamed. Yet, there I was aboard the Letty, one of three yachts owned by Ecoventura—an environmentally-minded tour company that takes visitors through the Galapagos Islands, an archipelago of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean some 500 miles off the mainland of Equator. The islands, which famously inspired naturalist Charles Darwin's book The Origin of Species after he visited in 1835, is home to some of the rarest species on Earth. In 1978, UNESCO designated the Galapagos as a World Heritage Site and over the years the growth of tourism has been threatening this fragile environment.  Tourists are allowed to visit but must abide by strict rules. Visitors to the Galapagos can stay in hotels or resorts –and even camp, but one of the best ways to explore the Galapagos is on registered boats, with registered guides. The goal is to keep the destination in as close to its natural state as possible while still allowing visitors to explore. Ecoventura's boats only have 10 cabins, making for a more intimate experience. I traveled with 17 other people and we all cringed when we happened upon other tour groups from boats carrying 50 to 100 people. Traveling the Galapagos is the hardest vacation you'll ever love. It's a highly logistical trip, and with too many people or less than top-notch guides,  things could very quickly go very badly. Each day's itinerary includes a series of visits and activities, each requiring panga rides (a small transport boat) and a variety of equipment, both personal and from the ship. Snorkeling gear, fresh drinking water, and towels are provided. I'm telling you, it is no messing around.  Ecoventura guests typically cruise for seven nights.  The company alternates between two routes in an effort to preserve the islands, so some guests stick around for a full 14 nights. On the late January cruise I was on, we visited Cerro Colorado, Punta Pitt, and Cerro Brujo, all on San Cristobal; Punta Suarez and Gardner Bay on Espanola; Punta Cormorant, Devil's Crown, and Post Office Bay on Floreana; Darwin Station, El Chato (the highlands), and Los Gemalos on Santa Cruz; Sombrero Chino; South Plaza Island; North Seymour; and the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal.   To do it all in the span of one week is a lot of ground (and water) to cover.  Daily itineraries –which begin at 7 am and end at 9.30—include island visits, snorkeling trips, briefings and thankfully some siestas. When the trip began, I wondered what I would do at night. There were no evening activities planned, no board games or collections of DVDS. But after the first night I realized why. Our days were so full that walking back to the cabin after dinner was the only activity I could manage before being rocked to sleep by the sea beneath us. But, trust me, it's worth every intense minute of it. There was so much to see.  The islands themselves are wild, the animals are wild, and the experience traveling there is certainly wild. Everyday was an adventure filled with exploration.  I communed with sally lightfoot crabs. I had a staring contest with a blue-footed booby. (He won.) I snorkeled with a shark, a sea lion, a turtle, a school of brilliantly colored fish, and forests of coral in a variety of colors that only a giant jar of mixed jellybean flavors could match. I watched baby sea lions nurse. Some days, when during the hour or two siesta in the afternoon we remained anchored in one spot at sea, I would marvel at the islands by which I was encircled; islands whose proximity to one another was a close as their vegetation and landscape were different, from volcanic rock to dense brush and from chandelier cacti to low lying succulents. On Floreana Island's Post Office Bay, under the hot sun, I left postcards for friends and family in a barrel in hopes that other guests to the island would pick them up and hand deliver them for me, something that people have been doing for one another since the whalers began the practice back in the 18th century. I also wandered down into a cave until I was chest high in the freezing water and marveled at the contrasting temperatures that nature could provide just steps apart from one another. From the deck of the boat, I saw a flock of frigates try to steal a sea lion's catch and a solo flyer try to steal what the chef was cooking by an open window for my own dinner. And I don't think the frigates saw any difference between the two plots. That was the thing about the Galapagos--the boundaries are blurred. The wildlife was unafraid of the human visitors and the only rules were to walk within the gently marked bounds designed to keep our footprint to a minimum lest this all disappear. The trip left me feeling that there is still some magic in the world—and that wasn't limited to our wildlife excursions. Our guide Ivan Lopez sang us awake over the intercom each morning and rocked out with his onboard band for our listening pleasure at night.  Another guide, Orlando Romero, who has been part of Galgapagos tourism for so long that he himself marked out many of the trails we hiked, daily imparted his vast knowledge. It can be easy to get jaded in our see-it-all, do-it-all, have-it-all world. The Galapagos Islands are a reminder of what life once was, what life in some places still is, and what always should be—wild.     Jenny Block Related Stories Galapagos Islands In 5... Planning a Trip to the Galapagos

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FOXNews.com: Jazz Fest releases detailed lineup for 2013 shows

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Jazz Fest releases detailed lineup for 2013 shows Mar 27th 2013, 07:18 May 4, 2012: The Pedrito Martinez Group performs at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in New Orleans. Martinez and the Red Baraat rhythms band are among the acts heading to New Orleans to headline in this year's festival.AP NEW ORLEANS –  As this year's New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival's detailed lineup was released Tuesday, a month before the gates open, organizers said they are energized and expecting to build on last year's growth in attendance. "Last year's festival was really special," festival producer Quint Davis said at a news conference. "It was the first to show attendance going up a notch. We came out of last year with tremendous momentum and after 44 years to be relevant and growing is a tremendous accomplishment." He added, "This year's festival has reinvigorated and reignited people and the anticipation has taken off again and that's exciting that people are still energized about going to the festival." That's thanks in part to a lineup over seven days with more than 80 acts on 12 stages including Billy Joel, Jill Scott, Fleetwood Mac, B.B. King, Frank Ocean, Maroon 5, Gary Clark Jr., Earth, Wind and Fire, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews and Aaron Neville. "There is no other festival that really is as broad as this, that's as deep as this, as indigenous as this, and as close to the community as this is," Davis said. The festival, April 26-28 and May 2-5, released the coveted schedule "cubes," which show what acts are playing when and where. "Today is the day that the festival really is defined ... by the unequaled talent of New Orleans because today, with the cubes, you see the shows on each stage," Davis said. "And for every so-called national guest there's a New Orleans equal and New Orleans match. No other city and no other festival can match that." Davis urged fans to dig deep into the schedule to find the "nuggets and gems" and get beyond the festival's surface. "I mean, I can't wait for Kermit Ruffins and B.B. King," Davis said, "but as you look through your cubes, think about each day, because nowhere else has this level of talent. Dig deep. There are little things buried everywhere like Earth, Wind and Fire in discussion on the Allison Minor stage and The Selvy singers in the gospel tent." Davis also showed off the 2013 jazz fest poster created by artist James Michalopoulos and featuring Aaron Neville as well as the 2013 Congo Square poster featuring Buckwheat Zydeco created by R. Gregory Christie. In addition, the festival will spotlight Native American culture, musical talent, crafts and food. "Our celebration will require a reconfiguration of the festival layout. The entire center of the festival, from the flag pole to the food booths, will be turned into a Native American environment, a village if you will," he said. He singled out native American flue player Robert Mirabal and a Canadian group, A Tribe Called Red — electronic music DJs who do Native American chants over the music. "It's really a festival within a festival and one of the greatest Native American exhibits that we've very put together," he said. The Dirty Dozen brass band, which plays the festival on the second weekend, provided music for Tuesday's news conference. Hasting Stewart, a spokesman for Shell's Deep Water division, the festival's presenting sponsor, and members of the New Orleans City Council also were on hand. ___ New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival: www.nojazzfest.com

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FOXNews.com: Go to Cyprus, just bring lots of cash

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Go to Cyprus, just bring lots of cash Mar 26th 2013, 20:02 People in Cyrpus wait in line to withdraw money from an ATM of a Laiki Bank in the old city of the capital, Nicosia.AFP It's not what you'd envision as ideal vacation hotspot: Long lines at ATMs, reports of local businesses straining just to stay open and protesters taking to the streets.  By many accounts Cyprus doesn't seem like a carefree holiday destination right now. But should you steer clear? Experts say no. "Definitely go ahead and take that vacation and enjoy Cyprus. Just make sure you take extra precautions to have enough money and room on your credit card limits to enjoy a hassle- and worry-free trip," travel expert Mark Murphy said. Cyprus, which boasts blue waters, beautiful beaches and three UNESCO world heritage sites, is a popular destination, especially for Europeans. But travel agents say that more Americans looking for good deals are vacationing in Cyprus rather than nearby Greece, with its own financial problems. Whether recent travel trends could change, at least for the short term, remains to be seen. All banks in Cyprus are closed at least until Thursday, and an increasing number of businesses reportedly have stopped accepting credit or check payments, insisting on cash only. The crisis hasn't resulted in any violence, and the U.S. State Department has not changed its travel advisories in light of the current situation.  Even so, State Department spokeswoman Katherine Pfaff says tourists should use caution when traveling to the island nation and should check the agency's website regularly for any travel updates. Murphy advises that though Cyprus continues to work through its financial problems, travelers should be prepared and take enough cash to pay for all expenses, including incidentals. "Carry a couple of credit cards with enough room to add charges during your stay. I recommend a Visa or Mastercard, as well as an American Express," he says, but he adds, "Cash is definitely king." For those concerned about carrying large sums of cash, consider a money belt and take advantage of the hotel safe. "Don't carry more than you need for a particular day or excursion to avoid any potential issues," Murphy said. Hulya Aydogan with Elite Turkey Tours in New York, which books trips to Cyprus, says despite the headlines she's has not received any complaints from clients in Cyprus.   Aydogan says travelers can avoid potential pitfalls by booking through a reputable tour company, because things such as airfare, hotel and transportation are pre-paid. If a Cypriot company does not accept a credit card payment for fear it wouldn't be paid by a bank, at least they have an advocate working on their behalf, she says. "My advice is to book with an American travel agency," she said. "Problems could arise because people are booking hotels directly online. Cyprus' currency issues aren't affecting flights or, for the most part, hotel stays, experts say. Yet, don't be surprised to encounter a few bumps along the way if you're taking a taxi or eating at restaurant. "Even with limited withdrawals and banks closed you shouldn't see more than basic inconveniences," Murphy said. At least for the moment.   Related Stories After Bailout, Cyprus Imposes 'Temporary' Controls Administrator appointed to run Bank of Cyprus Star-Studded Celebs Hit Cyprus for its 'Year-Round Sun'

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FOXNews.com: Spring snow not likely to harm DC cherry blossoms

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Spring snow not likely to harm DC cherry blossoms Mar 25th 2013, 17:32 Published March 25, 2013 Associated Press FILE: Cherry blossom trees are in bloom around the Tidal Basin, with the Jefferson Memorial in the background in Washington.AP WASHINGTON –  The spring snow is not expected to affect Washington's famous cherry blossoms. National Park Service spokeswoman Carol Johnson says Monday's snow should not affect the predicted peak bloom dates for the flowering trees. The cherry blossoms are still expected to reach peak bloom between April 3 and April 6. Johnson says the snow itself doesn't have any effect on the trees. But the cold weather has already slowed the blossoms' growth, pushing back bloom dates to April. Johnson says Washington is lucky that the trees did not bloom early because the heavy wet snow could have knocked the flowers off the trees. The cherry blossoms draw about 1 million visitors each spring. This year marks the 101st anniversary of the gift of trees from Japan.

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FOXNews.com: 20 tips for visiting the Hawaiian Islands

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20 tips for visiting the Hawaiian Islands Mar 25th 2013, 12:00 The Big Island of Hawaii has forests, waterfalls, lava cliffs, whales leaping offshore and beautiful sunsets.iStock Thinking of taking a trip to Hawaii? From the historical sites of Oahu to the out-of-this-world volcanic landscape of the Big Island, here are 20 tips to keep in mind the next time you head to Hawaii. Thinking of taking a trip to Hawaii? Having spent most of my childhood living on the island of Oahu, I've been able to assemble some great tips for visiting the Hawaiian Islands over the years. This comes in handy especially when my friends and family ask about the best places to visit and how to find the best airfares--always check for flight specials on Hawaiian Airlines, which has been offering great sales ever since they started offering non-stop service from New York's JFK airport back in June, and if you don't see anything you like there, browse Budget Travel's Hawaii travel deals to find air and hotel packages to the islands. From the historical sites of Oahu to the out-of-this-world volcanic landscape of the Big Island, here are 20 tips to keep in mind the next time you head to Hawaii. (Special note: you will need a car to reach most of the places mentioned). See 30 Beautiful Photos of Hawaii OAHU If you want to see Pearl Harbor, reserve your tickets ahead of time online Nothing ruins a trip more than not planning ahead and getting locked out of a major attraction you came all the way to see. Anyone interested in World War II history will want to visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, a moving reminder of the attack that launched the United States into World War II in the Pacific. Reserve your tickets ahead of time (you'll have to pay a $1.50 convenience fee per ticket but other than that, it's free.) Each historic tour is about an hour and 15 minutes long, and includes a boat ride to the site of the USS Arizona Memorial, where you can see the remains of the battleship just below the water's surface. Make time to venture out of Waikiki and Honolulu Some of the island's best attractions are located out of the main tourist zone of Waikiki Beach and Honolulu, but are still worth checking out. The Bus, Hawaii's main form of public transportation, offers a variety of options for as low as $2.50 a ride with free transfers, or you could even hop on one of the Circle Island Tours, which last anywhere from 2.5 to 4.5 hours depending on where you board. Of course, the other option is to rent a car and travel around the island at your own pace. Spend a day snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, a protected nature preserve on Oahu's southeast coast that rents out snorkel gear and a supply of fish food guaranteed to work the wildlife into a tizzy you'll never forget. Tickets start at $7.50 per person, free for children under 3 and Hawaii residents and it costs $1 to park. Open daily except Tuesday. Go for a drive up the windward coast on Kalanianaole (pronounced "ka-la-nee-ah-nah-oh-lee") Highway, where you'll have Koko Head, a dormant yet impressive-looking volcano on one side, and sharp cliffs leading into the bluest ocean you've ever seen on the other. Further down the road in Kailua, take in the beauty of Lanikai Beach, constantly voted as Hawaii's number one beach by the Travel Channel, and still off the beaten path enough to not be bogged down with tourists. Visit Oahu's North Shore and spend a day exploring the Polynesian Cultural Center, kind of like Disney's EPCOT, in the sense that every culture from Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji, Hawaii, and several other islands showcases their cultural dances, food, music, and other traditions (tickets start at $49.95 for adults, $39.95 for kids). Explore Hawaiian food specialties Every time someone asks me what to see and do on Oahu, food automatically ends up in our conversation. If you're staying in the Waikiki Beach area, don't miss the chance to have dinner at Duke's Waikiki, a restaurant named after surf legend Duke Kahanamoku, with a buffet full of Hawaiian favorites like fresh poke, kalua pork, and huli huli chicken among other options. If you're venturing up to see the sights of Oahu's North Shore, make sure you stop by Giovanni's Shrimp Truck just outside the town of Laie--their shrimp scampi is still something I think about, even though it's been eleven years since we moved. The North Shore is also home to Oahu's legendary shaved ice spot, Matsumoto Shave Ice, in the historic town of Haleiwa. They're known all over the island for having a unique variety of flavors like tangerine, green tea, and creamsicle among others, so choose wisely. MAUI Pick a beach, any beach Beaches are probably the first thing that come to mind whenever people mention the Hawaiian Islands, and Maui has its fare share of picturesque options. We stayed primarily on the western side of the island, where the big attraction is Ka'anapali Beach, located just outside the historic whaling village of Lahaina. If you actually hit the point where you need a break from sun and sand, try a day of shopping at nearby Whalers VIllage or take some time to check out the art galleries and historic trails in the area. In the mood to snorkel or dive the coral reef? Try a day-trip to Molokini, a submerged crater and marine preserve only accessible by boat. Take a whale watching cruise from Lahaina Harbor December thru April is prime whale-watching season in Maui, when humpback whales migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to Hawaii's warm waters to breed and raise their young. The Pacific Whale Foundation says whale sightings can start as early as late September and last as long as mid-May. We were lucky enough to visit in early May both times, and took a whale-watching cruise from Lahaina for a better look. There's nothing quite like having a mother whale and her baby swim up alongside your boat for a look at you! Visit Mt. Haleakala with all the other tourists Maui's most popular attraction is definitely Haleakala, the 10,023-foot-tall dormant volcano that rises above the island-the only other point taller in all of Hawaii is Mauna Kea on the Big Island, which you can see from the top of Haleakala. You will need a car to visit this popular tourist spot (unless you're part of a tour group) and be warned that it takes at least two hours to drive the long and winding road up to the summit. We learned the hard way that it's pretty cold at the top of the mountain--as in 35 degrees cold, because of the altitude--so pack a jacket! There are several lookout points on the way up, but nothing beats the view from the top. Some people recommend driving up in the very early morning to be there in time to watch the sun rise from the summit for the most stunning view, but we have yet to do that (our family prefers to do things a little later in the day.) Haleakala National Park offers horseback riding and a number of hiking trails through the crater. There's also the opportunity to bike down the volcano, something I'm definitely doing the next trip. Experience Hawaiian Culture at a Luau If you get a chance, don't miss a night of traditional Hawaiian food (kalua pork cooked in an underground imu oven, anyone?)music, and of course, hula performances that will make for one of the best memories of your trip. We went to the Old Lahaina Luau, but there are others throughout the island as well. Don't be shy, since most luaus have a tradition of welcoming visitors up on stage to learn the hula--shed your inhibitions and shake your hips to the rhythm of the islands, enjoy the music, and make sure someone is snapping photographic evidence of your new dancing skills. Brave the Hana Highway The scariest, most scenic road in the islands is the Hana Highway. Located on the easternmost side of Maui, it is a long, winding, one-lane road that stretches the length of the coastline from north to south, giving you gorgeous views of the Pacific, and all the mountains, cliffs, and valleys Maui has to offer. A number of lookout points, waterfalls, and natural pools are available road-side, and you'll take on 620 curves and 59 bridges, making the drive about two to four hours long one-way for those brave enough to try it. The views and bragging rights alone make this trip worth it. KAUAI Visit Waimea Canyon, "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific" The western side of Kauai is home to Waimea Canyon, about an hour's drive on scenic curvy roads that offer views of the nearby island of Ni'ihau (only accessible to native Hawaiians) and gorgeous views of the mountains, valleys, and the bluest ocean you've ever seen. "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific" features many of the same geological traits as its namesake--think crested buttes, deep gorges, and colorful rock formations--and is more than 3,600 feet deep, measuring 14 miles long by one mile wide. Stay on Waimea Canyon Drive and keep driving until you reach the Waimea Canyon Overlook. Honeymooners--Elvis fans--shouldn't miss a trip to the Fern Grotto If thoughts of Kauai have you picturing scenes of The King in Blue Hawaii, the Fern Grotto is a spot you shouldn't miss. Entry to the grotto used to be forbidden to all except Hawaiian royalty, but nowaways anyone can catch a 40-minute cruise down the Wailua River to the site for about $20 per person ($10 for children ages 3-12) and take in views of one of Kauai's greatest natural wonders. Folks have been known to get married or renew their vows here, and if you're engaged, newlyweds, or celebrating a wedding anniversary, be prepared to come forward for a slow dance to Elvis Presley's Hawaiian Wedding Song--the Hawaiian lyrics in it were sung here long before the film. Hike, kayak, camp, and explore Kauai's secluded Na Pali Coast If you're an outdoorsy person, nature lover, or just want to see some of the best views on the island without dealing with the tourist crowds, make sure you visit Kauai's beautiful Na Pali Coast. There are no roads on the westernmost side of the island, making it one of the last isolated, untouched, natural places in the Hawaiian Islands. Determined travelers can view the rocky terrain from the air with any number of helicoptor tours, or view the coastline from a boat tour or guided kayak trip, while more adventurous types can try hiking the 11-mile Kalalau Trail from Kee Beach to Kalalau Beach--the full hike is best broken up into a two-day trip, and camping permits are available for $20 per person per night (with a five night maximim stay) thorugh the Hawaii State Parks Department. Kokee State Park offers more challenging hiking trails, like Awaawapuhi Trail, that lead to scenic overlooks while other hikes like Cliff Canyon and Black Pipe Trail are better suited for family hiking trips. Drive up to a beautiful waterfall Kauai is home to a number of impressive waterfalls, two of which are accessible by car alone. Wailua Falls is located just a few miles from downtown Lihue and can be viewed from the road, so there's no need to hike for a great view. Just drive north from Lihue to Ma'alo Road in Halamaulu, and follow the road uphill for another three miles. Another beautiful waterfall, Opaeka'a Falls, is viewable from Kuamo'o Road, but those wanting a closer look can brave the tough half-hour hike from the two-mile marker past the lookout point on Highway 580. Get a slice of Hawaiian history Hanapepe Town on Kauai's southwest coast is home to a bustling Hawaiian art scene, with an art celebration every Friday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. when the town's painters, sculptors, and other artists open their gallery and studio doors to showcase their work. Those seeking an authentic trip into Hawaii's past should visit the museums and historic sites along the Koloa Heritage Trail--visit the Kihaha'ouna Heiau (an ancient Hawaiian temple), Poipu Beach Park (home to the island's endangered Hawaiian monk seals), and other sites dating back to Kauai's former days as a sugar plantation hotspot. The Kilohana Plantation in Lihue is a 16,000 square-foot restored plantation estate that offers a chance to see what life was like in Kauai during the 1930s���also on-site is the Koloa Rum Company, where you can sample the island's best rum every half hour on the half hour beginning at 10 a.m. daily. Located on Kauai's North Shore about a 45 minute drive north of Lihue is the historic Kilauea Lighthouse, great for stunning views of the Pacific and access to the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a safehaven for a number of native bird species found on the island including the endangered state bird, the nene goose. THE BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII Get up close to an active volcano Remember all those earth science classes you took about volcanoes and lava rocks? Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see the real thing in action. Not only will you get the chance to drive right up to the caldera--don't miss the Crater Rim Drive, an 11-mile road that passes through the various volcano landscapes from tropical rainforest to the desert-like crater itself, with scenic overlooks all along the way--there's also the opportunity to walk inside the Thurston Lava Tube, no longer an active part of the volcano, that allows you to walk 1/3 mile inside Kilauea where lava once flowed a few hundred years ago. Expect to pay $10 per vehicle that enters the park, or $5 per individual if you enter by foot, bicycle, or motorcycle. Don't forget to get a park map from staff on your way into the park, and stop by the Kilauea Visitor Center and Jaggar Museum to learn more about what you're viewing. Free camping and hiking opportunities are also available, as are park ranger-led walking tours, but be sure to check the website for updates on volcanic activity in the park before you head out. Always stick to the marked paths and never try to get closer to the lava, no matter how great you think your photo might turn out. You're still on an active volcano, after all. Walk on dried lava at Kalapana Just outside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is Kalapana, or more accurately, the remains of Kalapana, a town overrun with Kilauea's lava flow back in 1990. Miraculously, everyone survived the eruption that destroyed 182 homes, as locals had already evacuated the town, taking the Star of the Sea Church with them. Now, Kalapana serves as a reminder of how powerful nature can be. Free hikes are offered daily from 2 P.M. to 10 P.M. with the last cars allowed to park at 8 P.M. Just keep driving down Highway 130 in Puna until the road in front of you is stopped by a wall of hardened, black lava. Wear sturdy shoes and tread carefully as the hardened lava rocks can be sharp if you fall. As you walk, you'll see street signs and other parts of the former town break the surface of the rock, and you'll be rewarded with views of a beautiful black sand beach at the end of the hike, although it is considered unsafe for swimming due to the proximity of the volcanic activity. Kalapana is also an excellent spot to view the active, molten lava that flows from Kilauea's Pu'u O'o vent into the sea in the distance, causing clouds of smoke to rise out over the ocean as the hot lava meets the cool Pacific. As always, stay on the marked path, and check for updates before you go. Don't take lava rocks as a souvenir, it's bad luck There are any number of souvenirs you could buy and take home from the Hawaiian Islands, but taking lava rocks�� from their natural place is considered a major no-no. Tourists from all over the world have been known to send back lava rocks to the Hawaii Visitor's Bureau with letters saying they've had an unusual streak of bad luck lately, which locals claim is just a little dose of revenge from Pele, the goddess of the volcano. Some Hawaiians say not to buy souvenirs containing fragments of lava rocks, and even go as far as shaking out their shoes after a hike so as not to accidentally take any lava dust home with them. Even if you're not the superstitous type, don't say I didn't warn you. Live like a Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) For a uniquely "only in Hawaii" experience, visit Parker Ranch, near the center of the island, for a taste of Paniolo life. Back in 1809 when Captain James Cook first visited the Hawaiian Islands, one of his men, John Parker, abandoned his duties and hid among the Hawaiians, eventually being charged with important jobs by King Kamehameha I, and starting Parker Ranch in 1815. The ranch later served as a U.S. Marines training ground from 1942 to 1945 as they prepared for Pacific battles against the Japanese in World War II. Nowadays, tourists can visit the working ranch for a chance to see what it's like to live as a Hawaiian cowboy, and take in great views of the island since it's located between two impressive, though dormant, volcanoes, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Try a two-hour long horseback riding tour of Parker Ranch for $79 per person for a more authentic feel. Rides start at the Blacksmith Shop on Pukalani Road, and are available Monday thru Saturday at 8:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. for anyone over the age of seven. Visit the Hilo Farmers Market and nearby Akaka Falls You can't visit the Big Island without stopping in Hilo, home to the Hilo Farmers Market, named by the Huffington Post as one of the top ten farmers markets every food lover should visit. Every Wednesday and Saturday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., over 200 local farmers and crafters share their goods with locals and tourists alike, offering the best deals on local produce, arts, and crafts around--coupons are also available on their website for more discounts. A wide selection of Hawaiian food vendors, clothing, coffee and tea, honey, and fresh flowers are also available, and keep an eye out for free live musical performances offered twice a week. Just a 25-minute drive north of downtown Hilo is 'Akaka Falls State Park, home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the islands. Admission is a mere $5 per vehicle and the photo-ops are endless. Go stargazing at Mauna Kea At 14,000 feet, Mauna Kea is Hawaii's highest point and home to the world's biggest telescopes at the Mauna Kea Observatories. Drive 90 minutes from Hilo on Route 200 up the twisting, winding, Saddle Road, and stop at the Visitor Information Station of the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy to learn more about the dormant volcano, see the giant telescopes, and buy souvenirs. Brace yourself for cold temperatures and the occasional snow drift at such high altitudes (yes, it does sometimes snow in Hawaii), and if weather and road conditions permit, drive to the 14,000-foot summit for a view of the main observatory. For $200 a person, Mauna Kea Summit Adventures will pick you up from certain locations in Kailua-Kona, and loan you cold-weather parkas and gloves for an educational trip to Mauna Kea's summit, and the stargazing opportunity of a lifetime using their large portable telescopes. The tour can last anywhere from seven to eight hours, and includes dinner at the Mauna Kea Visitors Center. Last but not least... Toss a flower lei into the ocean before you leave--it means you'll be back someday. At some point during your trip, treat yourself to a beautiful and fragrant flower lei. Wear it around as much as you want, then toss it into the ocean on your last day, and start counting the days until your next Hawaiian vacation. Or just listen to the Na Leo Pilimehana channel on Pandora for enough Hawaiian music to hold you over til then. Aloha! More FromBudget Travel 9 Most Colorful Beaches in the World 30 Beautiful Photos of the Hawaiian Islands 13 Things You Didn't Know About Hawaii

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