So long cold long winter. Long-stay vacations are exciting and now very affordable.

It used to be that for those who could travel and escape the winter clime that their options were rather limited. Not so now. The new buzzword for those of a certain age is the “long stay” vacation. The genre is wide and covers a multitude of possible styles and destinations. The common denominator however is the desire to escape the depths of winter. Who can blame them?

For years the destinations for winter snowbirds were the standards – Arizona, Palm Springs and Texas and Nevada. However the rapidly rising dollar of the early 1990’s made other destinations possible. The weak Australian currency, coupled with a low season for accommodation that started in late January encouraged some travelers to the warmth of the Australian Gold Coast for their winter.

In the Australian Gold Coast apartments are still a bargain, and range from $ 400 to $ 800, and coupled with an airfare of about $ 2000. Thus the math is simple and works out well, Go for it.

And now the world is yours. In a word why limit yourself. The world is your oyster so to speak. From
2009 Humana Medicare Plans - Sponsored Link
Ad - Visit The Official Humana Site For Affordable Medicare Plan Options.
Six injured in blast at Islamabad police headquarters
Six people were injured as an explosives-laden car blew up near a building housing Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) officials at the police headquarters here, police said. The blast badly damaged the three-storey residential building reserved for the squad but
UK & World News: Husband's grief over floods tragedy
centre. When they drove back the water was up high over the bridge. They got out of the car, all held hands and started to walk across the river. 'It was only up to their knees, but one of them slipped and the others came crashing down. It carried
Candidates call on electors to vote
licence or a person who can vouch for their identity before they can receive a ballot. A social insurance number card and a bank statement with your name and address would also work. Bring your Voter Information Card as well, he suggested - it isn't a
Mixed reaction to proposed bank deal
the most profitable corporations in Canada.' He argued that the money should instead be used to expand Employment Insurance coverage and public works projects to get people the jobs they will need as the credit crunch deepens. The government would buy
UK & World News: Car bomb hero in intensive care
Glasgow Airport car bomb hero John Smeaton is fighting for his life a day after the two men accused over the attack went on trial. Sources said the 32-year-old was rushed from his
How Can You Avoid Multitasking When Your Devices Do?
I recently posted about the tragic death of a toddler who was left in the car all day when an overwhelmed mother forgot that she had taken the baby along with her that day. This event, and the story on Oprah, left me wondering for days,
Mamata seeks jobs at Singur
NEW DELHI: With Tata scrapping its Nano car project at Singur, the farmers' land restoration movement spearheaded by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and SUCI is now pushing the West Bengal government to get a fresh industrial project at
Japanese Man Facing Murder Charges In LA Hangs Himself
the murder and conspiracy charges were filed in Los Angeles, prosecutors alleged Miura collected about $750,000 from life insurance policies on his wife.Prosecutors also allege Miura 'solicited five different people to murder his wife,' including the
Assessing celebrity marriages: Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier
man such as Prince Rainier. It is like they were made for one another. He gave her a car that she simply loved. How thoughtful of him. He realized she was not in need of expensive jewels and frivolities. She was an adventurous woman and he knew her well.
Turf protection
shoulder as if to turn him back around. Harvick responded by shoving him onto the hood of his car, and as crew members rushed in to break it up, witnesses said Edwards was put in a headlock. 'We were in our pit stall and just protected our turf,' Harvick
Helio gets a break, off to Australia
change his bail conditions on tax charges so he can compete in a race in Australia. The race car driver and 2007 Dancing With The Stars champ is barred by a court order from leaving the country. A judge scheduled a hearing yesterday afternoon on
Cooperation, but is the G7 going far enough?
for a bunch of dyed-in-the-wool-suit capitalists. The G7 statement is full of good ideas, such as expanding deposit insurance, fairly valuing assets and even reviving the much-maligned securitization markets. But the statement also pointedly excludes the
F1 teams angry over loss of Canadian GP
a marketing tool to sell road cars - without an F1 presence in the world's most important continental car market. 'We are hugely disappointed,' Honda team principal Nick Fry said at the Japanese Grand Prix. 'It's difficult to emphasize just how much. 'It
Stars and Balloons
was told, kindly, that it was time for a new monitor. If I had a question about my car I knew where to ask. A very kind Fool (who concealed his impatience with an idiot), managed to make it clear that when my car started beeping and flashing its
Paulson details plans to buy equity in banks
were unfreezing credit and money markets, ensuring banks can raise capital from the private sector, ensuring that deposit insurance regimes were robust, and repairing secondary mortgage markets where appropriate. The actions should be taken in ways that
Japanese businessman in murder plot hangs himself
Angeles County prosecutors contended Miura wanted his wife dead so he could collect about $750,000 on her life insurance policies. They argued that he signaled someone to shoot the couple, although no one else has been charged. The case remains a huge
Bomb attacks kill eight in Pakistan
vehicle and caught a school bus in its wake in the Dir region. In Islamabad an apparent suic-ide car bombing badly damaged an anti-terror squad building and wounded at least four police officers in the heavily guarded Police Lines neighbourhood.
GM, Chrysler have held exploratory talks, Wall Street Journal reports
the Journal added. The New York Times, which reported the talks, said Cerberus is also meeting with other car companies such as France's Renault SA and Japan's Nissan Motors (NSANY:NSANYNews, chart, profile, moreLast: Delayed quote dataAnalyst Create
Keeping Kids Safe in the Car
went to Volvo for information about how you can best keep your children safe while riding in your car. Here are recommendations from Volvo?s safety experts: Have Children Take a Back Seat Certainly, in your life you don?t force your kids to
For MontyCFA
I purchased a life insurance policy for $1 megzillion. I purchased it from the Fort Nox Life Insurance Company for 50 bucks! I bought it from them because I know they have a sound credit
Grace Slick versus today's pop stars: Who rates better
you can count them as you go by. And sometimes we make a game of it in our car. My children count from the backseat as soon as they see one. I have had so very many encounters with those whose minds are on everything other than the road.
Pacers deal Williams to Mavs
was arrested shortly after leaving Williams' suburban Indianapolis home, then in July, police arrested a passenger in Williams's car for marijuana possession. Williams was not arrested but was written up for window tint and seat belt violations. 'I think
Assessing celebrity marriages: Dennis and Kimberly Quaid
As interesting as this could be, it's not my place to assess anyone's marriage, celebrity or no. I hope that Mr. and Mrs. Quaid would forgive those who believe they have some kind of 'right' to do so. Because a person is in a particular industry should
Re: I am freaking tired
I am having flashbacks to when I lost my job in the dotcom bust and couldn't get health insurance because of legal loopholes and bad luck. The market crashed, my job crashed. Now here again the market is crashing, and perhaps it won't be my job, but
Two shot in Sampit after drug deal
did not come back out, Pierce said. The man then threw a glass bottle at the house, a car chase later ensued, and one of the men in the car carrying the alleged dealer took a shotgun and fired at the car a head. The people in the car
Fontana Rotarians finish slain man's home project
was the final part of a reconstruction project that began last fall after a drunken driver rammed his car though the front of the house, destroying part of the roof, side fence and entryway. 'We worked hard to try and rebuild this house,' Saxton said.
Austrian far-right leader Haider killed in crash
Joerg Haider, a charismatic populist who helped bring anti-immigrant politics into the European mainstream, was killed in a car accident on Saturday. He was 58. Haider, who led the right into a coalition government from 2000 to 2006, polarised his
Strong Kiwi squad for Bathurst race
TAFE to straighten the chassis. Today they will continue to determine if it is possible to rebuild the car to a driveable state for tomorrow's race, which would be a major victory in itself. 'It is a long shot but the team are willing to work day and
Kiwi Bathurst driver injured in crash
otherwise suffered no injuries. He was being fully assessed at the on-site medical centre. The HSV Dealer Team car has been scratched from Sunday's race. Meanwhile, Australian Paul Weel has been given the medical all-clear after CT scans showed no major
Leading Austrian politician killed in car crash
Association says Joerg Haider, leader of a far right party and a provincial governor, was killed in a car crash early Saturday. Police say the 58-year-old Haider died after suffering head and chest injuries when the car he was driving veered off the road

South Africa to South America and more recently the Mediterranean Coast. Choices are plentiful, prices are reasonable and the weather always wonderful. Certainly better than back home at that time of year.

Probably, for those on a more modest budget looking for a destination that differs from the norm Portugal is a great destination.

Further field, but still around the Mediterranean the Adriatic Coast of Croatia is delightful with the ancient towns that ring the picturesque coast. Further south, the resorts in Tunisia offer a tremendous balance between the facilities of a bustling resort town with access to the desert to the enchanting culture and hospitality of the Middle East.

South America too, offers good options. Uruguay and its coast line sweeping northeast offer a number of pleasant beach towns. Most popular in Uruguay is Punte del Este , a mecca for both the world’s rich and famous but also home to a lot of family apartments. A peaceful place to hang one’s hat so to speak. Uruguayans are charming and delighted to find international tourists are coming from farther afield than the traditional source of their tourism which used to be Argentinean based. To visit Uruguay is somewhat what it was like to visit Spain or Italy 25 years ago when the pace was unrushed and one could stay, enjoy and linger whether it is a long lunch or dinner or a stroll along the promenade.

Across the South Atlantic Ocean lies South Africa a country whose tourism industry has grown by leaps and bounds in the last five years. There are many condos available for rent along the beautiful, scenic coast, principally between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth that cost in the range of $ 1500 - $ 1900 a month. You can always use the condo as a base from which to stage wonderful weekend jaunts to either the wine country or to the game parks. Be reassured that flying to South Africa has become much more economical throughout the years with flights originating in European airports.

So long cold long winter. Long-stay vacations are exciting and now very affordable.

Amy Goodmann


My Spouse Has a Bad Driving Record. Will That Affect My Insurability?
In most cases, a bad driving record will not prevent you from obtaining auto insurance. But if your spouse's record shows a significant amount of moving violations, citations, and/or accidents and insurance claims, that may translate into higher premiums.
Is My Car Insured if my Babysitter (Who's Not on My Policy) is Driving?
Auto insurance is designed to follow the car, which means that the coverage you purchased for your vehicle will cover the car regardless of who's driving it.
Why Are Hybrid Cars Cheaper to Insure?
Hybrid cars aren't just cheaper to drive. Research shows that hybrid car owners tend to fall into the lower-risk category, which gives insurance companies the chance to offer them a lower insurance premium.
I Have a Babysitter Who Drives My Car with the Kids. Should I Put My Babysitter on My Auto Insurance Policy?
Auto insurance is designed to follow the car, which means that the coverage you purchased for your vehicle will cover the car regardless of who's driving it.
I Work From Home—Is My Business Equipment Covered?
Whether you telecommute for your job or own a business you run out of your home, chances are you've got some equipment—like a computer, or a camera if you're a photographer.
How do I talk to my teenager about driving safely?
When's the best time to talk about safe driving? Right now.
Is My Car Insured if a Friend or Family Member (Not on my Policy) is Driving?
Auto insurance is designed to follow the car, which means that the coverage you purchased for your vehicle will cover the car regardless of who's driving it.
Am I Covered if a Tree Falls on My Car While it's Parked?
Comprehensive Coverage, is designed for just such a situation. Comprehensive Coverage applies when a car's been damaged by either a natural or civil disturbance.
Do I Need Insurance for a Used Car?
Laws in most states require that you carry coverage for a used car. However, you may be able to save on certain options.
Are my Car Electronics and Other Add-Ons Covered by Auto Insurance?
After-market modifications, equipment, and accessories aren't automatically protected by a standard auto insurance policy. We offer options that can shield your investments.
Will my Rates be Affected if I Have a Few Accidents on my Driving Record?
Your driving record is a summary of your life on the road. It's also a mathematically accurate predictor of your general risk profile—meaning, what's happened in the past is a good predictor of the future.
What Could Make my Premiums Go Up?
Many factors affect your premiums: some are factors you can control; others are factors you can't control. Let's focus on the factors you can control.
Should I Wait Until My Auto Insurance Policy Expires to Switch Policies? What if I'd Like to Switch Companies?
Whether you've changed employers and now have access to less expensive auto insurance coverage, or you're simply unhappy with your current auto insurance provider, switching policies—or carriers—is simpler than you might think.
How Does my Deductible Affect my Premium?
Your premium is the amount you pay Allstate either twice a year, or in installments throughout the year.
What's the Difference Between Comprehensive and Collision Coverage?
Here's an easy way to understand the basic differences between Comprehensive and Collision coverage
Are There Things I Can Do to Lower my Premiums?
Many factors affect your premiums: some are factors you can control, others are factors you can't control. Let's focus on the factors you can control.
When Will my Tickets Disappear from my Driving Record?
Your driving record keeps close track of your behavior on the road. However, state laws vary widely when it comes to the length of time a moving violation remains active on your record.
What Happens During the Claims Process?
Whether you've been in a fender-bender or a major accident, filing an auto insurance claim with Allstate is easy.
Clarifying the Confusion: A Few Common Auto Insurance Misconceptions
Know what you have before you need it: a quick review of your auto insurance policy will remind you what's covered, and what's not.
Why is my premium different?
My Neighbor and I Drive the Same Car, but my Premium is Different. Why?
What Exactly Affects my Insurance Scores? And why does my Credit History Matter to Insurance Companies?
Your insurance score is a snapshot of how safe or risky you are to insure, and most insurance companies use it to help figure out your premium.
What Do I Do if I've Just Gotten Into an Accident?
Protect yourself first and foremost. Guard your safety and well-being in the moments after an accident. Listen to your body: if it hurts, don't move it.
Does My Policy Cover the Cost of a Rental Car if My Car is in the Shop?
Many people assume that rental car coverage is part of any auto insurance policy. But the truth is it's rarely automatically included.
What Kinds of Discounts Does Allstate Offer?
With discounts for safe driving, certain safety features, good students, and even for having more than one policy with Allstate, you might be surprised by how much you can save with Allstate.
Will My Policy Still Cover Me if I Get into an Accident Out of State or Out of the Country?
At Allstate, we've got you covered across the US and Canada—even in parts of Mexico.
How is my Premium Calculated?
Many factors combine to create your premium. We can help demystify things, and explain whats behind the most complex number in your policy.
Will Tickets Have an Impact on my Premiums?
Your driving record says a lot about you, its your resume for the road. Its also one of the first things that any insurance company will evaluate when considering you as a customer.
Should I Buy More Insurance than my State Requires?
State laws may not reflect the coverage thats right for you, which is why state required minimum limits could leave you less protected than you want to be.
I Know I Need Auto Insurance, But Where Do I Start?
Researching auto insurance can seem a bit daunting. We can help you shop smartly by clarifying some of the basics and offering valuable insights.
Do I Really Need Auto Insurance?
If you own or lease a car, auto insurance is as necessary as the fuel in your gas tank.