Full disclosure:  I love things too, but I’m older and wiser now and am learning that it’s actually all about the memories, not the batteries.  Like you, I’m on the computer today (Black Friday) looking for those bargains – those things I think I need to have.  Or, that perfect gift for a loved one.  But while I’m here, I’m also going to find you some experiences — some potential travel destinations or at least the beginning of a travel idea.  The best way to create and build a travel dream is a little Nature, Magic, and Wonder. 

NATURE

National Parks Pass $80 annual:  The America The Beautiful card, provides unlimited access to the National Parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites.  Each pass covers entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges. And covers entrance for a personal vehicle for up to four adults and includes children 15and under.  Did I mention that they have a Lifetime Senior Pass for the same $80?   The link above provides more details.  And, the next link takes you directly to the purchasing page:  https://store.usgs.gov/pass

 MAGIC

I no longer can promote circuses (too unkind to the animals), but I adore Cirque du Soleil. I have such an appreciation for the visual magic and sheer athleticism I experience at Cirque du Soleil shows.  A number of the Las Vegas shows are offering Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts. Some of the shows will be 50 percent off, including “The Beatles LOVE” at The Mirage and “Zumanity” at New York-New York. The select performances include:

  • “O” at Bellagio – 25 percent off
  • Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay – 30 percent off
  • The Beatles LOVE at The Mirage – 50 percent off
  • KÀat MGM Grand – 50 percent off
  • Mystère at Treasure Island – 50 percent off
  • Zumanity at New York-New York – 50 percent off

The offer is good for select 2018 and 2019 performances and can be redeemed at cirquedusoleil.com.   

WONDER

There’s of course, the classic Seven Wonders of the World.  Then, there are the Man-made Wonders of the World. But, I’m more personally drawn to this list of Natural Wonders of the World: 

  1. Aurora Borealis (Alaska and Scandinavia) 
  2. Harbor of Rio de Janeiro (South America)  
  3. Grand Canyon  
  4. Great Barrier Reef (Australia)  
  5. Mount Everest (Asia)  
  6. Yellowstone  
  7. Victoria Falls (Africa)  
  8. The Amazon River and Rainforest (South America)  
  9. Iguazu Falls (South America)  
  10. Kilimanjaro (Africa)   
  11. Cliffs of Moher (Ireland)  
  12. Salar de Uyuni (SouthAmerica)  
  13. Pando (Utah)  
  14. The Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland)  
  15. Wulingyuan (China)  

If I can help you pull these experiences into a 2019 travel plan for your family, just let me know.  This is my favorite kind of trip planning. 

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