Thorn Tree travel forum

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posted
13-Mar-2003 19:38
by: romanb »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 05:07
by: mrpenney »

271 replies , 185,973 views

Pages 1 2 3 4 ... 19

USA branch FAQ

This branch covers: Mainland USA, Hawaii & Alaska

So many posts request the impossible - that a bunch of people who have never met you magically intuit how much you have to spend and what will make you happy on vacation, generally planning out your route for three months and helping you get discount flight reservations.

So, what can you do to get great travel advice?

1. Do your homework
The web is filled with basic information like how far it is from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, or how to get from JFK to Manhattan (all major US airports have websites with transit info). Google is your best friend. See the list of indispensable sites below. Get your basic info first, then you can ask intelligent questions on the TT and pick the brains of the many knowledgeable locals who frequent this site just hoping someone will ask about a romantic B&B in New Orleans or a baseball g... more »

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posted
13-Jan-2009 03:16
by: Yersinia »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 20:10
by: aubo23 »

67 replies , 7,561 views

Pages 1 2 3 4 5

New Visa Waiver Requirements, effective January 12, 2009

US Department of Homeland Security Reminds Visa Waiver Program Travelers of ESTA Requirements Effective Today

Release Date: January 12, 2009

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today reminded travelers from all Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries that they are now required to obtain approval through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to traveling to the United States. This requirement, effective today, applies to all eligible citizens or nationals traveling under the VWP.

“We have been collecting information from visa waiver travelers for decades, and establishing a program to get that same information in advance is one enhancement that allowed us to extend the valuable benefit of visa-free travel to eight new countries in 2008,” said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. “In... more »

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posted
25-Nov-2009 02:14
by: ahaight »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 02:24
by: Ogie_Ogilthorpe »

1 replies , 21 views

Winter trip to Grand Tetons?

I am considering a winter time trip to the Grand Tetons. Does anyone have experience with this region during winter? Obviously there is the cold and lots of snow, but I am interested in x-country skiing, snow shoeing, etc. Are most places just closed or can you still get around okay? Any recommended spots to see? Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

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posted
25-Nov-2009 01:21
by: Kereneni »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 04:56
by: mrpenney »

2 replies , 28 views

Chicago: Hancock Observatory v. Skydeck (fka Sears Tower)

We'll want to go to the Hancock Observatory or the Skydeck - are there any pros and cons to either over the other?

Looks to be pretty much price neutral.

(Another option we're considering is to simply go up to the Signature Lounge in the Hancock Building and enjoy a drink while enjoying the view. This option would also be about the same cost as doing the tour. But presumably no lines and no rush-rush while atop the building.)

Also: Is the only difference between the two buildings' express elevator ticket and the regular admission the faster access to the top? Or is there some other factor I'm not getting? The price for the express is significantly higher than the regular admission.

Thank you in advance for your thoughts.

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posted
24-Nov-2009 21:56
by: manlymite »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 03:43
by: zeldasdad »

8 replies , 100 views

Viva Las Vegas .... not so perky????

Been chekin out the Cheapo most 10. Then the Vegas section. Where's all the strip joints? I always thought Vegas was like Kings Cross in Good old Sydney town? No Red-Light District? From what I see you only seem to have Gala Shows with the odd Booby girls strutting about. Where's the hardcore? Is Vegas a dud?

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posted
24-Nov-2009 16:42
by: flamingmenudo »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 00:28
by: qwovadis »

2 replies , 36 views

Weather in Kauai in January, places to stay

My question is two-fold.

I know the weather in January in Kauai is rainier, and that the North Shore is going to be one of the rainier parts.

If you were going there for 10 days in January, would you avoid staying on the North Shore?

Also, I'm having difficulty finding options that sleep 5. I've been looking at rental houses, but they are either expensive, in Princeville, or booked already.

Any recommendations and tips appreciated.

Thanks,
N

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posted
24-Nov-2009 14:33
by: jtorsch »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 04:43
by: AskStupidQuesti... »

5 replies , 105 views

100k British Airways miles credit card bonus

Hey everyone, I'm pretty sure you have to be a US resident to qualify for this card so I figured it would fit well on this branch. It's the greatest mileage bonus I've ever seen. 100k British Airways miles! Here's the link to the Chase card and to other Citi bank cards that are offering 30k mile bonuses.

https://applynow.chase.com/FlexAppWeb/renderApp.do?SPID=CQ7K&CELL=6R8Y&AFFID=&CLICK=&CID=&PROMO=DF01&MKID=&MSC=

http://creditcards.citicards.com/usc/Travel/AA/Multi/Aug09/Triple/30000/miles5/default.htm
MC and AMEX - valid till Nov. 30 2009

http://fly9.citicards.com
Valid to 12/31/09. Visa Link

I've been credit card churning for only 3 months and I already have 165k AA miles. Plus I just convinced my parents to each sign up for 3 of these cards and give me the miles for Christmas :) I'm waiting to see if I'm approved for this new chase card. The BA miles can be used w... more »

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posted
24-Nov-2009 08:45
by: sharanam605 »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 00:32
by: qwovadis »

1 replies , 43 views

3 nights camping trip to Everglades

This is a question to people who have camped both at Long Pine Key and Flamingo campground: if you had 3 nights in Everglades, which of these two frontcountry campsites would you base yourself at? Or you would rather spend time in both - let's say one night in one and two in the other, or vice versa? Also, if you know any specialized camping-oriented forums, please let me know.

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posted
24-Nov-2009 06:36
by: mikebart »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 06:36
by: mikebart »

0 replies , 24 views

Day Hikes Near Salt Lake

Hi guys, I'll be in Salt Lake City this weekend for Thanksgiving with the in-laws and would like to take a day to do some hiking. I was there last January and spent some time at Antelope Island which I enjoyed. This time I'm hoping to do some more forest/mountain-type trails. Does anyone have any reccomendations for trails/areas that are within say an hour or so or Syracuse (north of SLC)? I'm hoping snow won't be as much of a concern at this point in the lower elevations. I'm fit and have good boots, but no technical or mountaineering gear.

I see that the Cache NF is nearby, and a bit further is the Wasatch NF. Any great trails there maybe? All help is appreciated.
-Mike

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posted
24-Nov-2009 06:32
by: laura1298 »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 03:24
by: MattwLaw »

4 replies , 84 views

Florida Everglades - which area?

Hi,

I have been researching travel options for a Florida trip next month and I've been having a great deal of difficulty finding the information and/or advice I need.

I will be staying in Tampa for 3 days for work, then heading down to Miami for 3 days. While I am in the area I would like to go into the Everglades, and the original plan was to rent a car in Tampa and dive it one way to Miami, spending one night on the way in Everglades city, and then exploring the Everglades on the drive to Miami the next day. However, I've read that part of the park is more for boaters, and that it is better to see the park via Homestead. Even Lonely Planet Florida states that Homestead to Flamingo Point offers "the best horizons of the Everglades" and "some of the most quietly exhilarating scenery the park has to offer".

I'd love to hear from someone who has been to both areas how much o... more »

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posted
24-Nov-2009 04:01
by: oobski »

last reply
25-Nov-2009 03:57
by: ACommonLoon »

5 replies , 106 views

NYC magazine shops

Can anyone suggest a shop in NYC where I can pick up a copy of the British magazine Geographical?

Thanks!

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posted
24-Nov-2009 01:15
by: Girlwithabag »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 06:44
by: itsgotime »

12 replies , 240 views

Where to live in California

Dear all,
I will be studying for a year at University of California next year. I am in the middle of the application proces trying to figure out what campuses to give priority in my application. Besides San Fransisco and L.A. I have narrowed my choice of destination down to either Davis, Santa Barbara or San Diego. The UC campuses in these cities all offer courses that I am interested in. What cities can you recommend living in?
I am looking for cities with the predictable classics: a flourishing art, dance, drama and music scene, bikes, parks, and (ethnic) neighborhoods with a nice atmosphere.
Looking forward to any input from you!
Best,
Anne

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posted
23-Nov-2009 23:41
by: bobetpine »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 07:19
by: FlagStuff »

5 replies , 120 views

Campground (especially Joshua Tree NP) basic questions

Hi,

First trip in a rented VW van (vintage Westfalia).
We're going to SoCal for 3 weeks over Xmas.
LA,SD, Joshua Tree, Anza Borrego etc...
I have a few questions.

1) Joshua Tree NP web page says there is water available at Cottonwood campground. Does that mean we'll be able to fill the water tank of our Westy? Do they usually supply a hose for that or we'll have to have our own?

2) Our Westy doesn't have a grey water tank just like most Westies. What do people do to wash their dishes, then? (I mean what do they do with the water? It just goes on the desert sand? Weird it seems)

3) Some other campgrounds don't allow advance bookings. It's a first come fist served basis. Let's say we get there early, around 2 pm. We find a site we like, have lunch and then decide to leave to explore the surroundings. Since our Westy is also our car, is there a known method to let people k... more »

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posted
23-Nov-2009 19:05
by: topsydc »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 23:05
by: shilgia »

18 replies , 322 views

Pages 1 2

changing money

where in the u.s. do i get the best exchange rate for the australian dollar - with no fee,s , or is it better to change my money here in australia ??? thanx wayne

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posted
23-Nov-2009 14:35
by: pueblodoc »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 09:19
by: twouglynerds »

10 replies , 169 views

florida Dec 2009

Hello,
I'm on Mission Impossible. I purchased tickets to Miami to go on what would have been a relatively affordable cruise. I'm now pregnant, can't go on the cruise but am hoping that I can concoct a nice, inexpensive vacation in Miami (during peak season.)

I will be traveling with my husband. I would like to go somewhere relaxing and romantic. I do enjoy snorkeling. My dream would be a nice lazy place to stay by the beach that is not too expensive (meaning $100 or less per night, ideally less). If I could get away with not renting a car that would be so much cheaper. We contemplated renting a motor home, but I'm concerned that the hassle of driving that thing around would take the fun out of the vacation. Previous posts have been helpful and opened my eyes to possibly Clearwater, possibly Key West. Would really love some advice.
Thanks

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posted
23-Nov-2009 11:29
by: Ethanwl »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 15:34
by: ackeepod »

8 replies , 149 views

Austin to New Orleans next week

Hello there,

I'm a 28 year-old writer and experienced traveler, looking to get from Austin to New Orleans early next week (maybe 12/1).

Is there anybody driving? I have a clean record and would be happy to help, plus pitch in for gas (and tell a tale or two along the way).

Does anybody have other ideas for how to make the trip cheaply? I would hitchhike, as I have through Japan, but Americans seem too paranoid of strangers to be hip to that these days. (I can say that, being one). I'd rather avoid Greyhound, and Amtrak routes me through Chicago for $350. This has me thinking about riding freight cars. Any experiences or advice to share?

If so, please email me.

Thanks,

Ethan

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posted
23-Nov-2009 09:10
by: Usher73 »

last reply
24-Nov-2009 01:58
by: Websterella »

2 replies , 59 views

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