West Coast and Gulf Coast Beaches

June 1, 2012 – 4:08 pm

We’ll round out our week at the beach today by featuring the beaches of the West and Gulf Coasts.  The West Coast is situated on the Pacific Ocean, which is known to be significantly colder than the Atlantic Ocean but offers better opportunities for surfing and other activities such as whale watching.

California

Malibu Beach

Of the most popular beaches in the world, the beaches of Malibu in Los Angeles County have been known to attract a wide array of celebrities to its sandy coast. There are 24 beaches in Malibu, and they are all carefully maintained for visitors to go for a casual yet elegant experience.  Malibu Beach is a surfer’s paradise and rests in a beautiful lagoon.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

From Los Angeles International Airport take San Diego Freeway (Interstate 405) north to Santa Monica Freeway (Interstate 10) west. The Santa Monica Freeway intersects the Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica.

California – Catalina Island

A popular destination for honeymooners, they don’t call it the Island of Romance for nothing. The beaches of this island offer luxurious resort experiences for those interested in treating themselves as well as accommodations for every budget. The island is secluded and a perfect escape from the stresses of daily life.

Courtesy of gavinortlund.wordpress.com

Things to do:

How do I get there?

Getting to Catalina from Southern California is easy and fun. You can get to Catalina Island from five mainland ports in Southern California in under an hour by either boat or helicopter. Once there, you can get around by taxi, trolley or even walking due to the small size of the island. For more detailed directions please visit: http://www.catalinachamber.com/howto/

La Jolla Beaches

These beaches located in San Diego exude exquisite natural beauty. Lined by bluffs, the beaches of La Jolla are all unique from one another.  La Jolla Shores (www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/shores.shtml) is best of swimming and sunbathing, while the waves at Windansea (www.a-zsandiegobeaches.com/windansea.htm) are ideal for surfing and windsurfing, and Children’s Pool (www.a-zsandiegobeaches.com/lajollachildrenspool.htm) is ideal for seal spotting.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

San Diego International Airport is the closest airport to fly into. For driving instructions, please visit: http://www.lajollabythesea.com/visitor-resources/maps-directions

Santa Cruz – Main Beach

While crowded in the summer as most beach destinations are, Santa Cruz boasts 29 miles of sandy beaches.  Main Beach is known as one of the top surfing spots in the world and is a nice destination to relax, unwind and enjoy the Pacific Ocean.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can look up the address 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, California in Google maps, which will take you to the boardwalk for the most updated directions on how to get to this attraction from where you are coming from.

Capitola – New Brighton Beach

Located in Santa Cruz County, this is one of California’s most visited beaches. Known for it’s spectacular view of Monterey Bay and surrounded by breathtaking bluffs, this beach is at the site of an old Chinese fishing village. Located south of the city of Santa Cruz, this beach has plenty to offer in terms of scenery and activities.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

The beach can be reached by taking the New Brighton/Park Avenue exit off Highway One. If you are coming from farther away, the closest airport to fly into is San Jose International Airport

Elsewhere on the West Coast 

Oregon – Cannon Beach

In the Pacific Northwest of the United States, Cannon Beach provides a tranquil nearby destination for those looking for a world-class beach in an unusual region.  Stretching 9 miles, this wide beach is ideal for swimming, surfing and sunbathing along the wide sands.  The main attraction to this beach is the giant Haystack Rock, which is the 3rd largest monolith in the world.  This rock is home to a plethora of wildlife and adds an interesting dimension to the skyline.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can drive to Portland, Oregon from Seattle and to the beach in 3.5 hours. You can fly into Portland International Airport and rent a car to get to the Beach. For detailed instructions depending on where you are coming from: http://www.cannonbeach.org/getting_here/car_and_car_share.aspx

Gulf Coast

Texas- South Padre Island

Surprise! Texas has more to offer than rodeos and BBQs. This stretch of land near Corpus Christi attracts thousands of visitors each year.  You can get relief from the intense heat of the Texas summer at the South Padre Island beach that is packed with fun activities that would make for the perfect weekend vacation.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can fly into Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport or Valley International Airport. From the airport there is an assortment of transportation opens that will take you to the beach such as airport shuttles, taxis and public transportation: http://www.sopadre.com/gettinghere/transportation.php

Texas – Galveston Beach

This beach is located on Galveston Island, approximately 45 minutes South East of Houston in the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf Coast beaches are ideal for shell collecting and fun beach activities. The island of Galveston has plenty of local attractions to keep you busy as well! The Galveston Island Visitor’s Center will provide you with all the information you need to start enjoying your stay there.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can fly into William P. Hobby Airport (closest) or George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Transport from the airport includes public buses as well as taxis and rental car options. For more information: http://www.galveston.com/maps/

By akingtoniex | Posted in Travel Ideas | Tagged , | Comments (0)

New England and Southeast Beach Destinations

May 31, 2012 – 4:38 pm

The whole Atlantic Coast from Maine to Florida offers a wide variety of beach destinations. On Day 3 of our beach series, we’ll visit the historic coastal towns of New England, the family-friendly spots of the mid-Atlantic, and the lively and vibrant beaches of Florida and the Keys.

New England Beach Destinations

Connecticut – Mystic Seaport

Ideal for the history enthusiast, Mystic Seaport in Connecticut can rightfully boast of some of the impressive maritime museums in the country, historic revolutionary war era re-enactment villages and impressively preserved ships. Mystic Seaport is a fantastic place to stroll along the picturesque waterfront for a true taste of New England. During the Fall, there are many scenic drives through Mystic for “leaf peepers” and featured wineries along the way as part of the Connecticut wine trail.

Courtesy of tlc.howstuffworks.com

Things to do:

 How do I get there?

Mystic is approximately 2 hours from mid-town Manhattan. By train, Amtrak’s Northeast Service from New York Penn Station stopping at Mystic station: http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Amtrak/HomePage

By bus several bus companies provide service from Port Authority Bus Terminal to the Mystic Country region, including Foxwoods Resort Casino, and Mohegan Sun:

Maine – Old Orchard Beach

One of the top beaches in Maine, this destination boasts seven miles of white sand and is popular for visitors almost year round.  The 200-year history has made this beach a distinct community with a quaint and historic feel.  Visitors can enjoy deliciously fresh Maine seafood on the main pier, and enjoy the amusement park by the coast.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

By driving you can take Exit 36 off of Interstate 95, it is located 2 hours north of Boston, and 5 hours north of New York City. Fly into Portland, Maine, at Portland International Jetport and either rent a car or take a taxi to your final destination. Amtrak also stops close to the city center: http://www.oldorchardbeachmaine.com/Downeaster.htm

Massachusetts – Nantucket Island

Nantucket Island is a true American gem in the Northeast region. This island in Massachusetts is a popular warm weather destination that serves as an escape from exhausting urban environments. Despite its popularity, it has managed to retain a relaxed, classy, old timey vibe with lots to do. There are beaches that suit every preference from family fun to romantic sunsets. The historic district in the center of the island is lined with cobblestone streets and boasts state of the art architecture. Tourist season is long and starts in April and ends in mid November. This unique island captures the rustic charm of a different time and is truly a delightful sample of classic American vacation culture. Please note that visits to this island should be booked far in advance and can be expensive due to its popularity.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

Nantucket Island is located 25 miles off the coast of Cape Cod.  For a list of the most current ways to get to the island visit resources pages like this Nantucket Guide: http://www.islandofnantucket.info/howtogetthere.html

Southeast Beach Destinations

South Carolina – Myrtle Beach

Courtesy of myrtlebeach.com

A perfect summertime getaway right on the East Coast of the United States! This bustling summertime destination attracts tourists from all over the world to its silky white sand beaches. The beach is beautiful and makes for the perfect setting for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. One of the many beach towns along South Carolina’s 60 mile strand, this resort town differentiates itself with the largest number of water and amusement parks, restaurants and bars the area has to offer. During the summer, the population of the town swells from 26,000 to over 400,000! If you don’t mind the crowds you can see what all the excitement is about yourself. 

Things to do:

How do I get there?

Visitors from afar can fly directly to Myrtle Beach International Airport. Once you get there you can either rent a car or take a taxi, or even a limousine to your final destination. You can also drive to Myrtle beach and find directions online through numerous websites including Google Maps or visitor websites: http://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/Map/

North Carolina – Cape Hatteras

For a different type of beach experience, you can check out historic Cape Hatteras to experience what the U.S. coastline was like during the Native American inhabitant days of the land. Surrounded by a historic fishing village, this beach boasts the most famous lighthouse in the world and was designated as a coastal area for preservation.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

For detailed directions on how to get to the Caper Hatteras, please visit: http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/directions.htm

Florida – Beach Paradise

For beach time in the continental United States, there is no place better than the beautiful beaches that stretch across this peninsula state that juts into the warm Gulf waters in the southeast region of this the US. With a whopping 663 miles of beaches dotting the Florida Coast, this state promises a beach for every type of vacationer.

Delray Beach

Delray Beach is a two-mile stretch of sandy coast that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing and other water based activities. Located at Ocean and Atlantic Avenues, Delray is a lovely town by the beach that is complete with the natural splendor of the ocean as well as shops, fabulous seafood restaurants, interesting architecture, and a popular Arts District. 

Things to do:

How do I get there?

Delray Beach has 3 surrounding airports, the closest being West Palm Beach, and the other two being Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Once you fly in, the best way to get there is to drive. Delray Beach is located off of historic U.S. Highway 1. You can check Google Maps for directions on how to get there from where you are coming from.

Clearwater Beach

Clearwater Beach spans a 3-mile stretch and is unique in that it straddles two bodies of water making for an unforgettably beautiful destination. As it faces both the waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay, this beach is ranked among the best beaches in the country. It boasts white sandy beaches and has a great combination of peaceful tranquility and fun-filled activities.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

The closest Airport is Saint Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport. Service is also available by Amtrak and Bus Routes. The most convenient method is by driving.

Naples Beaches

Over 10 miles of sandy beach along the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is great for all sorts of beach activities and watching sunsets. Visitors can also admire the awesome mansions that make up Millionaires’ Row. A popular beach lies on 12th Avenue South, as well as a few miles north of Old Naples, at the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park. You can rent water sport gear directly from the beach and enjoy loads of activities.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can fly into Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers. Otherwise, it’s about a two-hour drive from Miami or Ft. Lauderdale airports. Once you are there, public transportation is available from 7 AM to 9 PM via Lee Tran: http://www.rideleetran.com/

South Beach

South Beach, a neighborhood in the city of Miami, is a world-renowned destination and getaway featuring the superior nightlife of a major city with beaches that rival any resort destination. To some, South Beach might just have it all. It is home. South Beach is known for it’s unique architecture, art and music festivals, and the infamous nightlife that makes it a destination year round.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can fly into Miami International Airport.  From the airport you can take the J or 150 Bus to South Beach.  Other options include rental cars, taxi/shuttle bus services.

Key West

Key West is an island to the southern most tip of the United States located in the Florida Keys.  This island is located 90 miles away from Cuba, and home to some of the most beautiful spots in Florida. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches and tranquil water that surrounds the small island.  The island boasts beautiful coral reefs making it a snorkeling destination. Everything is within reach, and in addition to the unbeatable beaches, visitors can explore the island and learn about its history through a variety of activities.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can fly into Key West International Airport directly, or it may be cheaper to fly into the other major airports in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. From the airports you can either take a Greyhound bus, the Keys Shuttle, or a public bus. For more options you start by looking here: http://wikitravel.org/en/Key_West

Palm Beach

A high-end destination along the Florida Coastline, Palm Beach is a 14-mile long and half mile wide island for the rich and fabulous.  It boasts a number of extravagant hotels, restaurants and shops, and some of the most beautiful beaches around.

Things to do:

How do I get there?

You can fly into Palm Beach International Airport. From the airport you can either call a cab (Palm Beach Transportation 561-689-4222), or take the Tri-Rail Commuter Bus Service or you can take the city bus service the Palm Tran  For more information on traveling to Palm Beach you can visit: http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/florida/palm-beach-and-the-treasure-coast/travel-tip_2409676.html

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The Jersey Shore

May 30, 2012 – 1:13 pm

For day 2 of our beach series, we’ll head to the Jersey Shore. You may have seen the TV show, but trust us—most parts of the Jersey Shore are nothing like what you see on the show. Stretching approximately 129 miles from Sandy Hook to Cape May, the region can rightfully boast of the natural beauty of its numerous beaches, historic Victorian seaside resorts, festive boardwalks, amusement and water parks, casinos, world class waterfront dining and endless outdoor sports and entertainment. Read More »

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New York Beach Destinations: Fire Island, the Hamptons and Beaches in the Boroughs

May 29, 2012 – 5:13 pm

Memorial Day is the official kickoff to summer, and summer means it’s time to hit the beach! This week, we will feature some popular beach destinations around the U.S. for you to visit when you need a break after a busy week at your internship. Read More »

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Imperial vs. Metric System

May 24, 2012 – 4:46 pm

There are two main systems for measuring distances and weight, the Imperial System of Measurement and the Metric System of Measurement. Most countries use the Metric System, which uses the measuring units such as meters and grams and adds prefixes like kilo, milli and centi to count orders of magnitude. In the United States, we use the older Imperial system, where things are measured in feet, inches and pounds. It might be confusing if you are living in the U.S for the first time and are not used to this system. If you ask someone for directions, they will probably tell you something is a certain number of miles away. Or you may be told to move a few feet… But, whose feet?

The Imperial System is also called The British Imperial because it came from the British Empire that ruled many parts of the world from the 16th to the 19th century. After the U.S gained independence from Britain, the new American government decided to keep this type of measurement, even though the metric system was gaining in popularity at the time.

We are one of the few countries in the world that still use this system, and first time visitors may find it confusing. Here are a few things to remember that will come in handy day to day:

  • 1 mile equals 1.6 Kilometers.
  • 1 inch is about 25 millimeters.
  • A 3-foot measurement is almost exactly 1 meter.
  • 1 Kilogram is just a little under 2 pounds
  • 1 pound is about 454 grams
  • For British visitors, 100 pounds = 7.14 stone

Complicated measurements, used in the sciences for example, will be in the metric system so no need to worry if you are planning to do an internship in engineering or chemistry.

By the way, the temperature scales are different too. We didn’t want to make things too easy for you! Though not technically part of the metric system, Americans measure temperature in Fahrenheit, not Centigrade. You may turn on the television and listen for the weather and hear that it is 70 degrees outside. No, you won’t pass out and be vaporized by the sun; 70 degrees Fahrenheit is actually very pleasant, about 21 degrees Centigrade. Centigrade has been used around the world from the mid 20th century but again, Americans held fast to the original Fahrenheit system.

Here are some more handy conversions for temperature:

  • 0 degrees Celsius is equal to 32 degrees Fahrenheit. (The freezing point)
  • 24 degrees Celsius is equal to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. (A very pleasant day)

There is no reason to expect that we will change over to the Metric System and Centigrade anytime soon. The chances that we will make the switch during your short-term stay in the United States are slim, so your best bet is to try to adjust as much as possible. Or, if you have a smart phone, you can do what I do when I travel– download a conversion app. The company World Wide Metric has a comprehensive and easy to use conversion webpage: http://www.worldwidemetric.com/measurements.html

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American Fads: Snuggie Mania

May 21, 2012 – 12:20 pm

The “Snuggie” or “Slanket” is one of the more recent fads to sweep America. Essentially an oversized blanket with sleeves, this reverse-robe was designed to help individuals stay warm while maintaining the freedom to use their arms. Read More »

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“Deal”-ing

May 17, 2012 – 1:43 pm

Moving to the United States can be expensive! You need to pay for rent and transportation and somehow manage to feed and clothe yourself while you are here on your own. If you are on a budget or just like to save money but still want to experience the wonderful things your new host city has to offer, the information we are about to provide is a must-know. Read More »

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Heading to the Airport?

May 14, 2012 – 3:15 pm

International Travel

If you are traveling to the U.S. for the first time, or traveling internationally during your program, there are a few important things you need to know when heading to the airport. International and even domestic flights have heightened security with many new regulations for what you may bring with you on your flight. Read More »

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U.S. Involvement in the Vietnam War

May 10, 2012 – 11:02 am

Background and Brief History:The Vietnam War was fought between North Vietnam, supported by its communist allies, and South Vietnam, backed by the U.S., from November 1, 1955 until April 30, 1975. North Vietnam wanted to unite Vietnam under one Communist government, since it had previously been a French colony. The anti-Communist government of South Vietnam resisted this and fought the North Vietnamese army with the help of the U.S. The U.S.’s involvement in this Cold War era conflict was part of the U.S.’s larger goal of “containment”—preventing the spread of Communism. Read More »

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Top 10 Museums to Visit in Los Angeles

May 7, 2012 – 12:08 pm

California Science Center: The West Coast’s largest hands-on science center is a great place to learn and explore. It has an IMAX theater for a larger-than-life film experience and all permanent exhibits are free to the public.

Hollywood Heritage Museum: This museum features historic photographs and cinema artifacts from the golden age of Hollywood. Old film buffs will enjoy all of the memorabilia on display. Read More »

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