Create Many Great Travel Memories

There are so many fun things to do over the holidays months.

One of my memories was tasting roasted chestnuts over the fire at the Miners Christmas in the the California Gold Country. Then we went on a Christmas Eve walking tour exploring the Twelve Nights of Christmas in this mining town with hot chocolate and homecooked food afterwards.  Have fun!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

~~ The FunTourGuru ~~

Let's start planning the next memory now! Post your recommendations now!

 

Ideas for Travelers to Remember Prescott & Scottsdale, Arizona

"You may find some real valuable 'gems' tucked away in hills;

when you take a day & explore not on your itinerary."

Ninth Commandment for All Travelers

IX. Thou canst be welcome in every land. Treat thy host with respect and thou shalt be an honored guest. 

My valuable gems this year was the community spirit of Prescott, a couple of hours north of the friendly Scottsdale, AZ.  The power of Twitter is when you actual-ly get to meet your new Twitter friends in person.  Both towns, Scottsdale and Prescott in Arizona is where I honestly discovered a community spirit within these areas. You don't have to go far, far away to see a different way of life.  To drive down that brand new road unfamiliar to you.... what a great feeling!  

I found friends, the best food, interesting museums, and learned something new; on a short vacation getaway.  Travel with me in 2010 ~ The FunTourGuru 

Tips for Travelers - Start a vacation savings now $20 per week.

"Howdy partner, great shoppin, eatin, hikin, and tourin, right here in sunny Arizona"

Eighth Commandment for All Travelers

VIII.  “Thou shalt carry Thy own Country’s Passport with thee at all times in a safe place, NOR shall ye pack it in thy suitcase, for it is said that a man without a Passport is a man without a country.”

Start planning your vacation now.  There are many deals available to you by planning ahead.  We may not be able to afford as many vacations right now, as many of us are still searching for work or getting back on our feet again. 

As you start working again, remember this tip and set aside $20 in the cookie jar every week, it will accumulate for that ONE special vacation you want next year.

Get ideas for independent vacations to Europe and USA using the web tool on our website and call us to help with planning.  Let's go!


~ Start Planning & Have Fun! The FunTourGuru

Local Fun Getaways in San Jose, CA

Do you have that itch to go somewhere for fun this winter, still watching your personal budget?  Visit or re-visit the attraction close to home.  A #1 attraction in San Francisco bay area and Silicon Valley is the Winchester Mystery House. With local history and the mysterious haunted fun stories, it is fun for everyone of all ages.

This once was Sarah Winchester's (widow of William Winchester, yes of Winchester guns) personal residence and now on the National Register of Historic Places. (National Park Service)  If you have visited before, I recommend a return visit and take the "Behind the Scenes" Tour.

Find really fun itineraries and more information at San Francisco Bay Area Attractions.  This is one of the key attractions I include on local group tours.  Add wine tasting at J Lohr Tasting Room, 10 minutes away or one of the Santa Clara Valley Wineries (30 minutes south) after the Winchester Mystery House tour and you will have a great experience. 

It might have been when History Channel Show that made this attraction come to life. It is worthwhile to see.  A sample clip from the History Channel History Channel Show (produced by KPI).   

Explore, have fun ~ The FunTourGuru  Contact us

Happy Thanksgiving in USA

I wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving in USA! And, to carry this tradition of being thankful through to everyday this next year!  Everywhere they go!

Here's to many different trips, local and afar ~ The FunTourGuru

Vacations, Weekend Getaways, Local Trips

Seventh Commandment for Travelers

VII. Thou shalt do only somewhat as the natives do. 

Be respectful and cautious at the same time.  Spam doesn’t occur just on the internet.  You don’t have to stay inside your hotel room a 100% of the time, do think about those safety tips you have been reading at all times while you are exploring. 

Tips of for 2010 Vacation

There are some great adventures, don’t be surprised to find "different" vacations are already being reserved now, yes now for 2010.  Reserve space on a few USA unique tours now for $150.

Add the in-depth, up close, sightseeing of Yellowstone/Glacier National Parks with other people on a group tour (remember price includes most expenses) in July.  It is a great way to see these National Parks, as a soft adventure, for many people.  There is a wide choice of tours in this region, reserve one which is operated locally.

Try the Rocky Mountaineer train through the Canadian Rockies. There are special added values if you reserve before December 31.

Relax in the sun at a Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, AZ, with shopping, culinary, and hiking, and add two days for history, hiking and culinary tastes in Prescott area.

A Hawaiian Island vacation is affordable and convenient with departing flights on Hawaiian Airlines from the west coast.

Taking an extra day when you are in Austin (why is this called the Music Capital?) and visit the Texas Hill Country attractions.  Ask a local expert to assist!

Or, add a side getaway trip from Branson, and see “Little Switzerland” Eureka Arkansas.

Are you traveling independently through  Europe  in November/December?  Look at some of the rental cars value in sales right now.  

For those of you in USA, Happy Thanksgiving!

Remember to have fun.  If not traveling to other destinations, try going to a local museum or attraction you have not seen in your own town.  ~~ The FunTourGuru

Tips when Traveling

The sixth commandment for All Travelers: 

“Blessed are they who can wait and smile for they shall enjoy themselves.” 

With every trip you take, either solo or with a group, remember there will be wait time with all forms of transportation, whether it is flying, cruising, train travel, car trips, or by motorcoach.  Prepare in advance for additional wait periods.  And then have some fun.  Discover something you do not already know.  

Things you might do:

• Reserve tickets to attractions, transfers to/from hotel, and day tours in advance with your personal travel consultant before your trip. 
• Dine during the "slower periods" of meal time hour.  
• Have a book ready.
• Create a game of your own by preparing questions in advance and engage in conversations with at least one new person sitting next to you. Conversation starters to get acquainted with these new friends: where are they going, recent book or movie they liked, favorite exercise, or last trip they took.  

Remember, to have fun during your vacations and even business trips.  Do not be afraid to say "I do not know" and learn something new and different.

Another item different topic: 

Instead of buying presents for each person during the holidays this year, share with a simple flower centerpiece or arrange to play sports game between friends and family.

~~ The FunTourGuru

 

Reserve USA & Europe Tours: Discounts, Family Friendly Available

I just found out that if you travel with 5 friends on escorted tours (USA & Europe tours are good) next year, there is a 5% discount. Of course, you have to reserve all 5 friends at the time of the first reservation. There are other Early Discounts valid right now too! Contact us for reservations.  There are already "definite departures" being posted.

If you have already been to these destinations across Europe and USA, the Cost Saver tours may be great, as you may split off when you reach the daily destination from the rest of the group tour if you want. And, if you like the unpacking once (like cruises), there are escorted tours like these available.

AND, triple and quad rooms are available with hotels now on Family Travel escorted tours.  This is a great idea for families.  Remember, escorted tours are inclusive price.  Start planning ~ this is a great time to reserve.

Travel with your small group of friends in 2010!  ~ The FunTourGuru

Tips to Remember with Your Travels

Paradise, right in our backyards!  A great weekend away! 
In Arizona, call to reserve. 

Returning to the 10 commandments series which is actually taken from a book, “Great Travel Quotes” published by a former Book, Maps, & More store, Phileas Fogg’s, and favorite store of mine to simply walk around, browse and attend book lectures.  If you live on the San Francisco bay peninsula, you may remember this store.

The fifth commandment for All Travelers:

“Thou shalt not judge all people of a country by one person with whom thou hast had a problem.”

This commandment really stands on it own.  Maybe a smile wasn’t used when asking for something. Remember, local people across the world all have their reasons why they do what they are doing.

Think about the diverse group of people living in the USA alone, and then across the world.  Get to know these people on a different level.  And of course, find out first, why we all have found the best method (which works for us) for doing things. 

An undiscovered treasure is to learn about the local people on our travels, and how they do things, within our own country as will as other countries.

A Smile helps much, when speaking with people!  ~ The FunTourGuru

 

Tips When Traveling

"Try something different"

The fourth commandment for All Travelers:

“Thou shalt not worry, for he that worrieth hath little joy.”

This sounds easy to do, people don’t realize how difficult it is to leave worries at home.

There are many types of worries that creep into our minds. Whether we are thinking about letting go of the way we do our paid work during a short time, our loved ones which may be ill, or even situations which may occur on the trip itself like.

There was a time that worry inflicted me and I would retain thoughts of situations from work or home, or even about situations that happened while on tour.

A vacation is a time to let go of our previous thoughts. Don’t try to copy from others or control. A trip is where you might discover something about yourself that you have never been acquainted with before. Use positive words to describe what you see.

If something happens which you may not agree with, simply say, “That is fascinating,” and remember all things are fresh and equal to discover new surroundings. It may make a great story to tell later.

It really does help to use a simple “smile” at all times. Remember, this trip is about fun and discovering IN the destination. As Julie Andrews sings in Mary Poppins, “a spoonful of sugar really does help the medicine go down.”

Try sitting next to a new person each day on a motor coach instead of your spouse, friend, or relative and find out all you are able about that person. It also gives you a “day” vacation from your traveling companion. If you do this each day, you have created 10 new “day” vacations of experiences which are all different.

Many people never even think about sharing the day with a stranger. Be bold and different. Describe your day with positive words to your traveling companion over dinner. Practice your story telling with this.

Use positive words and be kind. Smile. Discover something different, create several day vacations on your trip by spending the day with someone different! ~ The FunTourGuru

Special Offer on Classical Greece CRUISE

Ask about this Cruise special offer now!

We just discovered a special offer on the October 30, 2009 sailing of Classical Greece cruise. Cruise fares include a 2-night stay in Athens at the Ledra Marriott Hotel and a Half Day City Sightseeing Tour of Athens.

This Mega-Yacht, Harmony G, only holds 50 passengers. It is a great way to enjoy the Greek Islands at a very affordable price!

If this fits into your vacation plans this year, please email us and let's discuss.

~~The FunTourGuru (the cruise picture is not the same Yacht)

Tips when Traveling

Harpist in San Gimignano, Italy

My Third Commandment for Travelers is

“Thou shalt not let other tour members get on thy nerves, for thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself.”

Enjoy Your Travel Companions

 

At the same time you learn about what local people do in other regions; enjoy your traveling companions too! These people come from many different geographical areas in the world now and join you on tour vacations. Include everyone that you travel with during shopping sprees, meals and group gatherings. Find ways to learn about these companions and do things with them.

Game to Play By Yourself On Trips

Learn how to explore places on your own. Sometimes I play a game by myself like a scavenger hunt. I make a list of the many attractions which I enjoy in the town we visit. Then I add 2-3 new things, like having a cup of coffee and talking with a local person with a specific interest of the area.  

I capture the list of items with pictures. Your Tour Manager should be able to assist in locating someone to chat with during this time. 

Or, simply make a list finding people in action (taxi driver opening a door for someone or server at a restaurant opening wine at a outdoor cafe) and then search these out with your camera.

Be Prepared For These

I admit, you may find a challenge with another tour participant that just doesn’t fit into your own expectations. This is when you may solicit assistance from the Tour Director/Manager. Let them find a creative way of a win-win situation for the both of you. 

One challenge that happened several years ago, was when I was one of three adults on a motor coach tour through England. Sleeping arrangements were not always straight forward.

There were a few times when these smaller Europe hotel rooms were not adequate for 3 adults. I spoke to the Tour Director about securing a single room. Remember, just because the sleeping arrangements are NOT great, you may still have fun together with other activities. 

Have these challenges happened to you?

• Try to see yourself in the position of sleeping in the tiny, cot-like 'shelf' pulled out to sleep on.
• One person is freezing cold and the other person is hot  -hint: please don’t wait until that person goes asleep and then adjust the temperature.  
• One person is a smoker and the other person is not.

Get assistance from the Tour Manager to work out the situation.

Everyone wants to have a good time and pay to go on vacation.

Remember, you make and share memories of a lifetime with these people you meet from different regions on one trip.

  

Read 3 Most Frequent Questions from Travelers on Trips (FAQ) for additional tips.

D0 you like this article? Please share with your friends and review the items in this sidebar.  Comment and talk with us below!
 

Have fun experiences, enjoy your new travel friends! ~ The FunTourGuru

Ed. Note: Picture included here we took from our Italy tour. 

Update to Twitter - wine tasting this weekend

If you are looking for the Twitter answer to wine tasting, try this link:

LT&T Facebook page

~ The Fun Tour Guru

Tips when Traveling, following the FunTourGuru

"Adventure finds me"

The Second Commandment for All Travelers is:

"Thou shalt not take anything too seriously, for a carefree mind is the cornerstone of a good vacation."

Traveling is an escape to explore realities and fiction of a different world. This is one time that you should allow new items enter into your world without control, or returning to your old habits. Currently, there are so many challenges that may creep into getting TO a destination, we forget about having fun IN the destination.

Respect new ways and find out why other people in other regions may do what they do. It is a great time to laugh and enjoy conversations with total strangers.

Try to choose new words that build up others and are positive at all times. And, be open, don't take a change in plans to seriously. An example, if theater/attraction plans is canceled one evening, let your carefree mind bring in the next fun thing to do.

The fog in San Francisco drifts in and erases the present for just a few minutes, allowing us to change! Have fun on your vacation!

~ The FunTourGuru
(by the way, join us over on LT&T Facebook )

Tips when Traveling

"Where is this?"

The first Commandment in the Ten Commandments for All Travelers is:

"Thou shall not expect to find all things precisely as they were at home, for thou hast left home to find things different!"

Think about this, it is fun to learn about the way people do things in other regions. And, you find new ways of doing things in your experiences. Example, miss your coffee pot at home? Sure, why not try to find its replacement in the new region. It may be the local coffee, talking with local people at the local cafe, or freshly squeezed orange juice.

Change is unfamiliar, yet it is fun when you are open and try it. A great place to learn about change is on your vacation trips!

~ Remember to turn the opposite direction and be adventurous on your trips ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Now on Facebook

Yes, LT&T is on Facebook. Become a fan now and follow favorite vacations and things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area. And, even other regions around USA. Do you want to visit Yellowstone? In the wintertime?

Check us out, and post a question, make a comment, add fabulous events you think people will enjoy. Be a part of this FUN community who likes FUN vacations.

~Always a story at hand, The Fun Tour Guru

2009 Summer National Senior Games

The finale of the 2009 Summer National Senior Games in the San Francisco Bay Area is today, Aug 15. These have been fun experiences to work with these active, energetic, healthy athletes. I had the fabulous opportunity to work as a timer for men and women events with the Swimming competition, an "interpreter" (translate meters to feet for the athletes) in the women's shot put, and as a distance measurer in the men's shot put events with Track and Field.

It is each of these individual's stories that make the Games extraordinary. I am sharing images of the Women's Shot Put winners with their medals. Not only are the athletes remarkable, to work with the Officials that ran each individual sport was a great experience.

Make way for this new generation of Seniors as preparation for the next National Competition to in Houston is happening. A salute to all events and athletes!

A Simple Idea

I read many articles about lower revenues this year. Yet, as a consumer, I am paying the highest prices this year comparing to the last 20 years. This is not only describing the Travel Industry prices, this is healthcare, living accommodations (rents), phone bills, cars and gasoline prices, new cars, and groceries, etc.

I am signing up with low cost deals like using phone services that cost me less than $10 per month because of the high rent I pay out. There are companies that show increased profits this year with these low cost plans.

Perhaps, large corporations should take out out the old fashion chalk board and erase their old Financial Statements of last year completely. Throw away last year's Annual Earnings Statements.

Now, write down with a piece of chalk, new Financial Statements, without the history comparisons to this year. Create a focus of retaining customers they have had for many years (with lower discount plans). Be proactive with these customers, instead of harassing with a collections staff about old stuff. If one brings in $1 a day by retaining a customer, that is $365 each year. I would be agreeable to buying a service or product for $1.

This assists both the consumer and people selling the goods. Make selling easy. Is this not a easy concept to follow?

New conversations. Preparing for rebound. Change.

2009 Summer National Senior Games

Catch the fun in the sun with the 2009 Summer National Senior Games at Stanford University with events from San Francisco to San Jose!

2009 Summer National Senior Games

Fun at the
2009 National Senior Games
in the San Francisco Bay Area

To be able to participate and be around these active, healthy athletes this summer is extraordinary. It is the individual stories of each of these athletes which are stimulating. And yes, right in our own backyard!

Discover Historical Events on your Vacation

Has it really been 20 years since this event? How has this region changed during this time? What were the news headlines 20 years ago?

It was 20 years ago the Berlin Wall fell overnight from 9 - 10 November 1989, a historical event of global significance!

Discover something a bit different by stepping off the your scheduled itinerary path and have fun! The Fun Tour Guru

Quick advice on Europe Car Rentals

Interesting article to share with you

Double trouble on a Europe car rental

Beware of foreign-language contracts, and put any complaint in writing, when renting a car abroad through companies such as AutoEurope

(Note: I use AutoEurope to reserve and have never had any challenges with them. Perhaps, this is reason why using a Professional Travel Consultant to assist is of good value. You are not alone in the follow up. You have someone on your side.)

One more idea to save money for vacation trips

Another idea to save money on your souvenir purchases when you travel is to purchase garden seeds which are local to the region. These make great gifts to give to people, or keep for yourself.

When you try to grow plants and trees that you often look at through your vacation photos, it is returning to the trip experience once again. These are simple and easy to pack in your bags to take home with you (not extra weight).

Even your friends will have fun trying to grow these unique, and sometimes exotic plants from other regions. Of course, be sure to ask about any guidelines or procedures about buying these. Most procedures are geared to actual growing plants, and not seeds.

Have fun on your vacations! And, turn down the street that is not on your plan, to make a pleasant discovery. The Fun Tour Guru.

Another Way to Save Money on Vacation Trips

One way I save money on my vacation trips is that I like to be conservative with my souvenir purchases. This does not mean that I need to stay away from shopping. Nor, does this mean that I need to stay out of the high-end retail stores.

When I travel, I look for smaller items like charms to purchase which I may bring home and make some type of jewelry like earrings, necklaces, clothing pins, or key chains. This might be for my own souvenirs, or I will make gifts for family and friends.

Charms are less expensive to purchase than the actual larger piece of jewelry item and you may decide what you actually want to use them for after you arrive home from your vacation trip. These charms are small, and do not take up much space in your travel bags – either checked or carry-on bags. You may wrap them and insert them in your personal bag (cosmetics for women, shaving/personal needs for men).

It is fun to wear them in numerous different forms which you personally make. Yes, men might use on tie clips or key chains or with their cell phone carriers. And, it is definitely a way to start a conversation and talk about the great trip you took when you go to social events if you are shy. I discovered other people like to talk about these same trip stories which I take; even though they did not go with me.

After you get home, locate a favorite Bead Shop in your city and explore what they have available for you to make gifts. These may be very simple, by simply adding the earring hooks for pierced ear rings, or for more creative types, adding other charms and beads to what you are creating.

I have a set of sterling silver "royal coronation crown" earrings and "royal jewels chest" necklace (they are replicas) that I purchased at Harrods Department Store in London. I always smile when I wear them, remembering my escorted tour through England and Scotland. And, it was very affordable to purchase, easy to make.

Remember, you do not have to spend a large quantity of money while shopping on vacation!

Be safe on your vacation trips this year, and remember to turn down that street that is not on your plan, to make a new discovery. ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Solo Traveler's - Great Value

As a solo traveler myself, and I spotted this announcement yesterday. Visiting Europe in the winter months is a great deal. And, with prices up to 25% less than peak season travel, plus there are fewer crowds and shorter lines.

For those traveling solo, this company has waived the single supplement on Winter European Panoramas and Regional Discoveries.

A quick list of some great value tour vacation packages selected for 2009 and 2010 - especially for the solo traveler is at: http://funtourvacations.blogspot.com/. (You may find this link on the side bar).

Let me assist you with making the reservations, as there are dates, terms and conditions, and other discounts to be eligible for - you simply should not have to worry about.

AND, we may even find that we have a small group to go!

EMAIL Me Now .... The time to travel is now. ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Vacation this summer?

Where are you going on vacation this summer?

Susan Boyle, I like your singing

I like Susan Boyle's singing. I support her. I know, this is a individual blog out of zillions of blogs and Susan may never read this particular blog, I need to write this today.

From what I gather of recent reading, "Britain's Got Talent" is a show for anyone to tryout. These people have 3 performances to win votes. I am a fan of American Idol, these singers have several weeks to transition into being a favorite. This is a big difference in a transition. Professional musicians and singers have other professionals to assist them and even use taped performances during live appearances. And, for a performer to know how to adjust and get back on track during a performance, is definite talent.

Simon, of "Britain's Got Talent" said in the introduction tape of Susan at the semi-finals, "I would not want to be in Susan Boyle's shoes right now, getting ready to perform before the whole world." I agree with you Simon. I'd be p .... ing in my pants (grinning).

Susan Boyle is indeed an inspiration to the world (thank you Piers for this comment), when the world needed something.

I have said it in my articles - it is about "regular local people" doing what they love to do. And, it is these local people that keep going and do what it is they do, across the world, that keeps the world moving.

Susan Boyle, I only wish I might be there in person to see this performance - like I watch my favorite Rock n Roll band at the local Street Dance.

Yes, this is one person in California, writing a blog, about another person, Susan Boyle, wishing her good luck. We may never meet in person, I send millions of vibes across the ocean to support Susan!

From California USA to United Kingdom ~ good luck!

The Fun Tour Guru - Remember, go down the path you didn't expect to go down and enjoy the discovery!

(Of course, only positive comments are welcome for Susan and posted.) It is my blog afterall!

Here it is .... Britain's Got Talent

It is amazing that we may be able to share globally talent. Congrats Diversity and to all of the finalists! Thank you Britain's Got Talent - maybe next year I might get a ticket?

Wine Country Tours ~ part 2

My car just steered its way over to a fave winery after a day of hiking through history. A fun activity at this winery is "bottle your own wine" event 4 times a year or with private crowds. The blends of the wine made for these days is a favorite of mine. I do love wine tasting in Italy, though California wines made by Italians are also fabulous, on shorter trips. You never know what will happen off the beaten path with ...

"The Fun Tour Guru"

Wine Country Tours

I am asked questions, "Am I a wine country expert?" Admittedly, I never considered myself to be an expert. I have absorbed much of this information about wines and stories of wineries through arranging the many local wine country tours. Wine tasting is very much an individual experience and everyone always has their own comments. I just listen to everyone.

I enjoy the wine stories and letting everyone - whether novice or experts - have an experience of their own. Some of these groups have been quite lively(almost) party groups, and other trips have been focused on the quality and processes of wine tasting.

Where I may not actually plan the solitary wine tasting trip currently, each trip I do plan will discover one piece of wine country in the regions we do go to now. I have been told by participants that a person does not necessarily have to be a "wine lover" to enjoy wine tasting. There is many other elements to enjoy. How many wineries have you forgotten after visiting several in one day?

I guess you might say, one gets acquainted and as has conversations with people of the local community with these experiences. A new favorite wine country now, is not actually that new. Hermann, MO Wine Country trail near Hermann MO began in the 1800's and still is prominent. It has better value for trips right now for people to experience. Do you know the connection this Wine Country has to Napa Valley?

Why and when do you enjoy a glass of wine? Make tasting an experience, whether it is in the evening or on a trip.

"The Fun Tour Guru"

Registered California Sellers of Travel

I have mentioned this in previous posts, with the status of our economy; and scams which are reported in the news, it is important to remember the following as California residents when purchasing any type of travel from Calfornia Travel Businesses.

Businesses selling any type of travel to residents of the state of California need to be registered sellers of travel. Information is found at the Office of the Attorney General website. This CST# should be displayed on any form of advertisement (websites, flyers, etc) and is renewed annually.

If you are purchasing a trip from a membership organization, or event planner, they should still display the actual seller of travel business of which the purchase is through. Sometimes, this third party is not told about this procedure. An important reminder, through the current trends of social networking. Be open, use this to ask questions up front.

I have personally heard of people's stories where monies are lost. Please research seller's of travel in advance, before your purchases. This does include all transportation (air, ground, and cruise, etc) companies, tour companies, and the retail travel agencies, i.e. any business selling travel and is a different registration from transportation vehicles with a TCP#. Although, the latest CA regulation requires transportation companies to have both.

Of course, this may not stop every criminal, it is certainly a procedure in place to assist. One procedure to remember is that registered sellers of travel are required to set aside consumers dollars before travel is started, and refunded, if trips are cancelled for any reason.

Again, details may be obtained from the CA Office of the Attorney General. There is a similar regulation in the state of Florida and people may search for their information. This is in place to protect consumers and any registered seller of travel is required to explain what this is to you.

Always, be safe and enjoy your trip. It is important to share this, thanks. End of soap box.
Oh, and yes, you will find this CST# displayed in my About Me on this blog.

Happy Tours!

Increasing your education, how?

There are many methods to increase your skills through education and congratulations for those self-starters (entrepreneurs) that take on-going classes in Adult Education classes, Recreation, Community Colleges, Technical Training courses in private schools, online seminars on the web, etc.

What happened to the idea of employers (companies) providing opportunities for training to candidates and employees? There are many stories of (from 10-20 years ago) workers being trained as programmers, sales, etc through employers. What happened to this?

Perhaps this is an idea which might be given to offset the lower wages which are being offered by employers now? A key question in interviews today is, "Do you have this certain software or skill?"

How does one get the experience? A reply question to the hiring person may be, "what equivalent skill might be acceptable?"

Happy Friday! ~ remember, take a short trip to renew yourself.

"preparing for the rebound"

Audio Guides & Flash Packer

My thoughts on audio guides? What happens when they quit running (for any reason) in the car or on your ipod? I would still rather have a real, in person local tour guide or professionally paid tour director managing the trip.

Are you a "flash packer"? Contact me about what this is now?

Happy Easter ~ be safe!

Preparing for the rebound, how about you?

Check this latest issue of the Valley Access - April out! Great tips of what to do in Silicon Valley & great information about the BEST event in town ......... Be sure to read "Off the Beaten Path" column. It is a recommendation of what to do if the economy and news is getting you down.

7th Annual Hospitality Event featuring Hospitality's Industry Best this year thru the Silicon Valley Concierge Association

Ask about ways you might be visible at this event!

Hope to hear any comments?

~~~ The Fun Tour Guru~~~

New Hotel

Check this out - new hotel! Thank you, friends on Twitter for sharing this.
(click on link above)

Ciao ~ soon to write, I promise. The Fun Tour Guru

Update: this is not true. http://www.snopes.com/photos/airplane/hotelicopter.asp
It was advertising for a new hotel search engine .....

Economy - telephones, cell phones

I am still in search of a place to have lunch (small entree or sandwich, small sidedish, drink) for $5.00 in the south bay region of San Francisco bay area. Not quanitity, quality, smaller servings, and less money is great. Any recommendations?

Phone services - have you counted the number of television advertisements from phone service companies to buy smart phones within one hour? How many dollars do these companies pay for each advertisement?

Do you have minutes to spare (not used) on your phone plan (cell or landlines)? Perhaps these phone service companies should automatically apply these unused minutes of the month before against your phone bill every month?

Outcome, we would have an increase of money in our pockets to buy the latest smart phones companies are trying to sell to us (in advertisements on television) which costs much money to them. I know I would buy a new phone if my company did this for me automatically.

Preparing for the rebound ....

Remember, "When you are traveling local or afar, remember to turn the corner, and go down the street that is not on your plan, to discover a new adventure! " ~ The Funguru

Quick thoughts today..... most active & least expensive

I had this idea after I watched a local television show about searching for cheap eats in the San Francisco bay area (specifically in Silicon Valley or the south bay region). My goal is to be able to buy a complete & healthy lunch for $5.00 in the San Francisco bay area. (sandwich or entree, small side dish and drink). The closest I found for this is McDonalds. They have very delicious salads and total price = $6.50.

Please post any recommendations if you know of any. This is important to me.

By the way, McDonalds is also very, very busy at noontime. If you want to network and meet people, try going to McDonalds. I found most other cafes are empty and prices are est. $10. McDonalds new business plan which was launched a few years ago sure did "make a difference!" (like the pun?) Hmm, lower prices? Why not have some revenue at lower prices everyday than have no revenue at all for periods of time when prices are higher? Thiis assists your plan and budget.

Now, on the economy. I am preparing for the rebound. It will come. I heard this line and really like repeating it. Perhaps a recession or depression is a natural way to launch another baby boom generation? (grin) Remember what happened in the late 1940's after the depression and WWII ........ and yes, (we) baby boom generation turned out fine.

For now, live cautiously and securely; remember to have some FUN! Thanks for reading.

Remember, "When you are traveling local or afar, remember to turn the corner, and go down the street that is not on your plan, to discover a new adventure! " ~ The Funguru

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Happy Valentine's Day & President Day's weekend!
I was awarded this week an Editor's Choice selection for one of my articles of activities in and around Silicon Valley, Intel Museum Tourist Attraction. This is a professional soft news online community of which I am a contributing writer in the section, "Outdoor and Recreation".

The article, is a fun, kid-friendly attraction available in the heart of this region. Click on my name and read other articles about things to do in San Francisco bay area.

Remember, "When you are traveling local or afar, remember to turn the corner, and go down the street that is not on your plan, to discover a new adventure! " ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Where is this restaurant?

Happy 2009!

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