Bacharach, Germany
This was a last minute deal we found on a new route at American Airlines. Ready for this; round trip from Dallas to Frankfurt, Germany for $250! Don't bother looking for that price on-line. It was a one time offer.

Bacharach is a small medieval town on the Rhine River a couple hours West of Frankfurt. This is a popular stop for most tour groups so be warned. Try visiting in the winter time. It's much more quaint without the crowds.

This is the heart of German wine country so take advantage of the local vintages.

Within the town are many examples of 11th century architecture and classic walled city defenses. For a great view of the valley hike up to the castle, which is now a hostel, overlooking the town.

The Hotel Kranemturm is the best buy hotel on the river. Originally a tower on the city's defensive wall, it is now a cozy hotel dripping in original woodwork, run by Fatima and her husband Kurt. The location is ideally central to the town and is perfect for excursions up and down the river. If you are lucky to get a tower room you will have views of both the river and the castle.

The Jagerstub is the local watering hole. Any night of the week is a good night to drop in talk to locals and swap stories with other travelers. Say hi to Ingrid, Ute, and Heidi the bartender for us.

St. Goar, Germany
St. Goar is a larger town further north on the river. The focus of this town is the mighty Rheinfels Castle. At one time, this was the largest castle in Europe. And while many other castles in Germany have been restored and garnished with different styles of architecture. Rheinfels, although partially destroyed, is still in its original state.

Adjacent to the castle is the Schloss Rheinsfels Hotel. This is was our splurge on the trip, but we were rewarded with the finest amenities and the best views money can buy. This is the ultimate in romantic getaways. Take note; the castle and hotel is a good uphill hike from the train station.

London, England
This was our second trip to London. Our first trip to London was your typical sight seeing trip. Big Ben, Tower of London, Westminster Abby, so forth and so on. This time we wanted to experience the non-tourist side of London.

The Holiday Inn Kensington Forum makes a great base of operation. Next door is a shopping center and an Underground station. Neighborhood resturaunts line the streets surrounding the hotel.

The goal of this trip was shopping. British fashion undoubtedly has on affect on American fashion. This was a great opportunity to get a jump on the latest trends.

The main shopping areas we hit were Oxford Street, High Street Kensington, and Carnaby Street. Here you will find apparel and brands only available in the UK. Don't bother with the GAP. Check out the Brit's version, NEXT.

As usual when in a performing arts city, we had to have our cultural experience. Les Miserables tickets are available at the TKTS half price ticket booth on the day of the showing. Be prepared to wait in line, but at almost half price for a probably sold out show, its worth it.

We also saw The Lion King. Tickets are not available at the TKTS half price booth and must be purchased at the box office. I thought it was entertaining and you should too, as long as you don't find all the characters having a British accent distracting.

More London travel tips under 2006 and 2003

Cancun, Mexico
Sheri's family has timeshares in Cancun and we invited to a family getaway.

The Fiesta Americana Villas Cancun is on the north side of Cancun's hotel zone and is within walking distance to shopping malls. Be warned; this is a timeshare hotel so be prepared for ambush sales presentations. However if you sit in on one, you can get discounts to the hotel's activity desk.

Looking for an excursion away from crowded Cancun? Forget Cozumel! Try Isla Mujeres. Tiny Isla Mujeres is a small fishing village an hour offshore, Northeast of Cancun's hotel zone. There are several ferries to Isla Mujeres that embark from several docks within Cancun. Since the island is relatively unknown to most tourists, there are no crowds. Beautiful blue water, fresh seafood, and alone time await you.

More Cancun travel tips under 2004 and 2009.