Travel blog

So you’re going to Hawaii. You’ve already read the guide books and decided on the popular attractions you’ll visit but what about those little-known, out-of-the-way spots the locals love? Since we often remember the flavors of our travels almost as much as the sights, just what are the favorite native hangouts and the tastes we’ll want to savor? Here are our recommendations for the best-loved local eats in Hawaii:

Vacations are supposed to be relaxing. Don't let planning stress you out, let us do that for you. We always find the best deals. Call YMT at 1-888-756-9072 or request a brochure delivered in the mail.

So you’re going to Hawaii. You already know you’ll go to Pear Harbor and Volcanoes National Park, but what about those lesser-known experiences that you won’t want to miss?

Here are five unforgettable things that may not have made your travel radar but are sure to make a memory.

Our planet is a canvas upon which is painted the entire history of the earth. Volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, floods, even the constant warming of the sun, combine to change and reshape the landscape. Nowhere is this more evident than in Arizona’s Painted Desert. These rocky badlands in the northern corner of Petrified Forest National Park are a work of art millions of years in the making. Across this vast area, a portion of which rests in the Navajo Nation, you’ll discover every hue colored across the rockface -- from deep purple to crimson red, shocking orange to pale shades of pink. Here are some of the things you can expect to enjoy on your travels to America’s Painted Desert:

I don’t like to fly. However, if it means getting somewhere I really want to go, I will put up with my own misery for the end result. Going to Cuba was just such a destination. We left San Diego airport early morning July 1, the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.

Most of my friends and family had reacted the same way when I told them of our travel plans. Comments ranged from “How exciting!” and “That’s on my bucket list!” to “Why?”  Regardless of the viewpoint, the initial response was always one of surprise. I suppose it’s not a common destination, at least not for Americans. That may change soon.

Kailua-Kona stretches out along a lava-lined coast of Hawaii Island’s western shore. Along this expanse of paradise you’ll find coffee farms and historic sites, postcard worthy beaches and natural wonders that include an active volcano. Visitors to the heart of the Big Island will have their pick of activities and outdoor pursuits, but to get you started in the right direction, we offer these top 10 things to do in Kona:

Every year, YMT Vacations offers travelers a chance to venture into the world with our President, Jerre Fuqua. Not only is Jerre a very knowledgeable man, a great storyteller and a lover of people -- he’s also a lifelong traveler. While work and everyday obligations often keep him in the office, he relishes the chance to pack his bags and head out into the world. It doesn’t really matter where -- Europe, China, even the back roads of our country. Because according to Jerre, every village, every monument, every person has a story worth discovering.

There are many ways you can explore the islands of Hawaii but perhaps one of the most memorable is through a helicopter tour. While most travel itineraries do not include them in the cost of your vacation, these optional tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is well worth the additional expense. But before you take off, here are a few tips for your helicopter tour of Hawaii:

Making the Most of an Inside Passage Tour

It’s finally time to check off that Bucket List item you’ve been dreaming of: an Alaska cruise. But before you pack your bags and head off to the Last Frontier, here are a few insider tips to make the most of an Alaskan Cruise on the Inside Passage:

When you vacation in mountain settings like the Canadian Rockies, you may find yourself feeling the effects of such an otherwise spectacular journey. Having a plan beforehand can mean the difference between getting sick and having an unforgettable getaway. It’s not uncommon for travelers to have difficulty adjusting to the altitude. The higher you climb, the thinner the air gets, making it hard for your body to get the oxygen it needs. In fact, 75 percent of all people experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness: headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, fatigue, shortness of breath and tiredness. Whether or not you’re planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies or other mountain setting, this advice on how to stay healthy up high is just great information to know: