Friday, December 27, 2013

Island Trader Vacations Reviews the Missouri River Breaks National Monument


Missouri River Breaks is a national monument that encompasses nearly 500,000 acres that is a series of badland areas. The area is characterized by steep bluffs, rock outcroppings and beautiful grassy plains. It is adjacent to the Missouri River. The area here remains virtually untouched since it was traversed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, the first to document the region with notes and drawings.

The Upper Missouri River Breaks is home to more than 60 mammal species and hundreds of bird species.  It is easily possible to see an elk herd and bighorn sheep. The flora and fauna along the river are striking to behold with willows and shrubs along the bank and the prairie abundant with sagebrush and short grass. 

Many of the captivating, inspiring views were captured on canvas in the paintings of Charles M. Russell, and the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge makes up the eastern border of the park. The western boundary is made up of the Missouri River which was designated a Wild and Scenic River in 1976. The water here flows at nearly 9000 cubic feet per second. If you want to take in the whole experience on the river stop in at the Interpretative Center in Fort Benton where they can help you plan your excursion. They have one day excursions and even up to a full seven day one that will take you into even more remote parts of the region.

If you’re looking for a place to stay try the Missouri River Breaks Lodge. It is located on the North Dakota prairie on nearly 300 acres. It is an exclusive hideaway that is log built and nestled into the hillside right above the Missouri River. The lodge has beautiful Australian cypress flooring and hand-crafted Victorian furniture throughout. The lodge offers luxurious accommodations, several amenities and bountiful activities to take part in. It is a perfect place to stay for any occasion and to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Be aware they are easily booked so make your reservation far in advance.

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Friday, December 6, 2013

Island Trader Vacations Reviews Lubbock A Top Texas Destination


While it may not be as large as Texas other top cities including Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth, Houston or even San Antonio, Lubbock is making a name for itself and not just in Texas for what it has to offer travelers. Nicknamed the “Hub City”, Lubbock is an economic, healthcare and educational hub and now, a growing travel destination as well. 

Founded in 1890, the ity of Lubbock dates back another 14 years to the arrival of its first residents. Made famous in 1951 to those interested in the paranormal, this growing Texas city is more than just lights in the sky. From art and historic sites to parks, restaurants, clubs and annual events, there is always something to see and do in Lubbock. 

For art lovers, top attractions include:
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  •  Art on Texas Avenue
  • Ballet Lubbock
  • The Louise H Underwood Center
  • Many galleries
For fun and outdoor lovers top attractions include:

  • Joyland Amusement park
  •  Lubbock Water Rampage
  • Lubbock Memorial Arboretum
  • Mackenzie, Maxey, McAlister and Tech Terrace Park
  • Buffalo Springs Lake
  • Lake Alan Henry
  • Buddy Holly Recreation Area
For history lovers attractions include:

  • Bayer Museum of Agriculture
  • Buddy Holly Center
  • Lubbock Lake Landmark
  • National Ranching Heritage Center
Other unique must sees include:

  • American Wind Power Center
  • Mackenzie Park Prairie Dog Town
  • West Texas Walk of Fame featuring the Buddy Holly Statue
For wine lovers, Lubbock offers 5 wineries including:
  • Cap Rock Winery
  • La Diosa Cellars
  • Llano Estacado Winery
  • McPherson Cellars Winery
  • Pheasant Ridge Winery
Other facts to note

  • Although Lubbock may not be a massive metropolitan area, they understand convenience and cater to pet lovers as well. Offering pet friendly parks is just one way of offering convenience for pet owners, the city is also home to more the 10 pet hotels to help accommodate you.
  • Lubbock is located in West Texas and is 3,241 feet above sea level
  • It is in Central Standard Time
  • The average temperatures range from 80 in summer to 40 in winter
  • Lubbock offers more than 4,800 hotel rooms
  • The entertainment district is called the Depot Entertainment District
Find out for yourself what is making Lubbock such a growing destination for travel today. Get out and explore and review top destinations for travel with Island Trader Vacations reviews.