Summer — It's Finally Here!
It's finally summer... time for sand castles and shopping sprees, quiet pleasure reading and nights out on the town. Whether you're sticking around the house or traveling abroad this year, our summer guide will help you plan a fun, fit and safe summer. Of course, if you live in the Southern Hemisphere, it's actually the middle of winter; come back to this page when the weather warms up!
Travel: Top Summer Getaways
Despite the hot Floridian sun, Orlando is set to be the top tourist destination this summer, according to the AAA travel agency. Mega-theme parks, water parks and countless entertainment eateries are the draw for families year round. Answers.com has put together guides on some of the most famous area parks to help you plan a Southern excursion — or see what you're missing!
Disney World — Kids young and old grin a larger grin when they think about going to Walt Disney World, the world's largest theme park resort. No wonder it touts itself as "The Happiest Place on Earth." Located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida (southwest of Orlando), Disney World provides entertainment for all ages, with shows, rides, restaurants, parades and wandering Disney characters stopping for photo ops. (More...)
Universal Studios — If you ever wanted to know what it would feel like to work behind the scenes in a movie, or what it would be like to be in a movie, a trip to Universal Studios Theme Parks is for you. Even in the days of silent films, Universal Studios offered tours; over the years the public was allowed to walk through dressing rooms and performance sets, and sometimes even watch during the production of a movie. (More...)
Other top getaways:
Nantucket — Hydrangeas, salt-worn cottages and a rich maritime history combine on this isle to create the perfect New England escape.
Capri — This island off the coast of Italy can only be reached by boat. But travelers are rewarded for their determination with magnificent craggy cliffs and the mysterious
Alaska — When the days are long and the temperatures finally break above freezing, it's a great time to explore the majestic coastlines, flora and fauna of the northernmost US state.
Great Wolf Resorts — Welcome to a new concept in family getaways. Enjoy all the features of a state-of-the-art water park without having to worry about sunscreen or summer storms. Find an indoor water park near you!
Answers... on the Go
Even if you're catching up on some well-deserved R and R this summer, you don't need to be far from great information. With MobileAnswers you can still access all you need to plan day trips or keep on top of business. Get weather or stock quotes, or just solve a trivia dispute between you and your travel companion. MobileAnswers (mobile.answers.com) gives you what you expect from Answers.com™ on the go.
Cooking: Summer Destination Recipes
Can't travel this summer? You can still get a taste of some faraway places by preparing recipes inspired by popular summer destinations. You can find even more great recipes in our food files.
Stuffed Grape Leaves — Conjure up the flavor of the Greek Isles with this fresh-tasting appetizer.
New England Clam Chowder — This classic chowder is a standard at fish shacks from Connecticut to Maine.
Gazpacho — Turn your thoughts toward Andalusia when you make this cold tomato soup, perfect for a hot summer day.
Jerk Chicken — Summertime and soulful reggae just seem like natural companions. Channel an island breeze with this grilled Jamaican favorite.
Poisson Cru — Taste the Pacific tropics with this great fish dish that's cooked in lime juice, similar to the Latin ceviche.
Health: Surviving Summer
While traveling and fun are synonymous with summer, many dangers lurk in everyday leisure activities. Here are some of the most common summer calamities — and tips on how to prevent them.
Sunburns — It's common knowledge that soaking up the sun isn't healthy for our skin. Damaging rays can activate wrinkles or cause
Dehydration — This loss of water to the body is easily preventable, yet many people suffer from its symptoms, especially when performing activities in the hot sun. Increased thirst, dry mouth, weakness and lightheadedness can all be the first signs. If you experience any of these, replace fluids and electrolytes fast. Severe cases can include vomiting and require hospitalization.
Heat Exhaustion — Too much of a good thing is never a good idea, especially when it comes to the sun. Several days of exposure to high temperatures can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Fever, a fast pulse and nausea are just a few telltale signs. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion, move him to a shaded place or prepare him a cool bath. Rest is also very important.
Rip Tides — Also known as rip currents, rip tides are seaward-moving jet streams of water that can carry unsuspecting swimmers with them. Nationwide, the US Lifesaving Association estimates that rip tides cause more than 100 drownings a year and are responsible for more than 80 percent of surf rescues by lifeguards. If you find yourself caught in a rip tide, swim parallel to the beach. These tides tend to be narrow and can be escaped by exiting to the side of the stream. Swimming toward the beach is often useless, as the strength of the current can drain the energy of even strong swimmers.
Fitness: Bikini Bod by Yoga
Over the past decade, the popularity of yoga has exploded. One form or another is offered at spas, studios and even gyms across the country. Yet, the different forms can be confusing. First determine your goals and then decide if the style is suitable for you and your fitness level.
Get Toned
If you're already fit and looking to add tone to your workout, Power Yoga is just the thing. Found mainly in fitness and health clubs, Power Yoga is a blend of several different forms of yoga performed for a longer time to improve both physical flexibility and mental focus.
Get Flexible
Get Warmed Up
Get a Hand
Last updated: March 24, 2009.
