Whew, it’s December already.  Thanksgiving is behind us, Christmas looms, and every day seems packed full of things to get done.  I’ve been researching, planning, and doing a bit of dreaming over my travel plans for 2010.

Perhaps my travel favorites for this week will get you doing the same.

• The Vacation Gals (in this case Twin Cities Gal) describes Black Friday at the Mall of America.  I’ve never visited, but keep hearing how the mall is more destination that shopping experience.  It certainly seems to be, and it may be worth a visit.
• Gadling offers suggestions for those end of year mileage runs.  This isn’t for the faint of heart, but if you’re close to premiere status, it’s worth considering.
• PlanetEye Traveler – Amsterdam explains canals and canal houses, and it’s easy to understand wh this is the city’s second most popular attraction.
• Consumer Traveler debates whether or not a cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas is worth the price.  Passengers will vote with their wallets.
• Two Kids and a Map has a great post about Christmas ornaments from around the world.  I used to buy an ornament in each spot I visited.  When I was decorating the tree this year, those ornaments brought back tons of great memories as I hung them.  I think this is a travel souvenir I should start buying again.
• The Carey Adventure has a beautiful photo of the full moon over Puget Sound.  Despite it being the rainy season here in Seattle, there have been some gorgeous fall days, remind all of us why this is a great place to live.
• Practical Travel Gear shows a great mini-travel wallet.  When you’re traveling you don’t need to take all those credit and membership cards, and this little gem hold what you need securely.
• And finally, I invite you to take a look at PlanetEye Traveler – Seattle, where I reviewed Jack & the Beanstalk, a local holiday panto production.  I had no idea what I was getting myself into, and it was a lot of fun.

I hope you’ll take a bit of time today and check out these great travel bloggers as they share their love of travel with all of us.  And if you’re so inclined, leave them a comment and let them know that MJ sent you.

Photo credit: SXC

Share on Facebook

World in Focus – Travel photography contest open to professionals and amateurs.  Maybe you could win that grand prize – a 10 day safari in Tanzania.

AAA Travel Views – I found myself nodding in agreement as the author explained that he wasn’t a typical Branson visitor, but he made an exception for Paul Revere & the Raiders.  Since they were a band from my teen years, I can relate.

Intelligent Travel – It’s winter down under, and Vivid Sydney is a cultural extravaganza designed to turn the city into a canvas of light and sound.

The Amsterdam Guide – When’s the best time to visit Amsterdam?  Any time!  And here’s why.

Blisstree – Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that many people fall in love with when they have it in Paris.  Here’s how you can recreate it at home – and it’s not that difficult.

My Melange – A tantalizing review of Tazza d’Oro in Rome reminds me that it’s only 18 days till I leave for Italy.

The New York City Traveler – A tour New York’s famous Zabar’s, a great spot to pick up treats for a picnic.  I haven’t been there for quite some time, but this took me back.

Traveling Mamas – Exploring a city that I’ve not been to — Sedona, Arizona.  Lots of great suggestions on how to enjoy the beautiful outdoors of this area.

Share on Facebook