One of the toughest things to do, it seems, whether it be a holiday at home, or a trip, is to stay regimented with diet and exercise. In my opinion there is no doubt that the trip away from home is just awful when it comes to staying fit.

Why is this? Well if you’re in a hotel you have that damn candy and soda machine right down the hall from your room. Oh, yeah, don’t get me started with going on a cruise because the word buffet is synonymous with cruises. 

Ok, so what do we do when we go on vacation to keep fit and on the right track. Well let’s stick to doing it with the hotel travel.

1. Pack the running shoes and the work out clothes. This makes the ability to get to the gym much easier.

2. Try and find hotels that offer fitness centers. Also, make sure that the fitness centers are what you need. Not a medicine ball and a thing to stand on that vibrates a belt. 

3. Refuse to get the key to mini bar in the room. Lot’s of empty calories my friends. 

4. Pack some healthy snacks that won’t go bad. Protein Bars, a bag of almonds, you know what’s right. Fruit may be an issue.

As you see going away does not have to throw you off from being healthy. You just have to plan to beat the vacation bug of being bad.

Reserve Vacations LLC is quickly becoming one of the new gems of the online travel market. Serendipity probably had a greater hand in the success the web site ReserveVacations.com has had, due to the fact that the vacation packages offered are tremendously discounted and the economy turned bad at the time of launch. So be it. Regardless of pricing, Reserve Vacations web also operates under a strict professional style. This can be found in the sites’ Vacation Package Price Guarantee.

If you visit the page the policy is very straightforward. The long and short is if you can find a better deal that exactly offers what is being offered in any one of the web sites vacation packages, Reserve Vacations will refund 110% of the difference. It’s that simple. If you find a vacation package on another site and email Reserve Vacations, within 48 hours of booking you will receive that refund. 

A trip to a casino resort can be one of the best ideas for a vacation. Around the country, if not the globe, casino resorts are masters at providing all the fun you could want under one proverbial roof. No doubt that if you do plan on visiting any number of these resorts you’ll find world class entertainment, great food, accommodations to rival the best of any hotel you’ll ever visit and other great amenities such as lounges, pools and amusements. We have two signature casino vacation packages that you must check out if this is of interest to you.

First we head west to the desert of Nevada for our featured Las Vegas Casino Vacation Packages. Here we offer one of the best deals you’ll find for a trip to Las Vegas. For $99 you get 3 Days and 2 Nights with accommodations at the Hilton Garden Inn Las Vegas. That’s right, $99 and you’re in the heart of the city of Las Vegas and within walking distance to some of the best casinos in the world. You’ll be put up in one of 155 great rooms that comes with a large work area, WiFi access, coffee maker in addition to a property that has a heated swimming pool, laundry service and fitness center.

Next we go to the shore of New Jersey where we have  featured Atlantic City Casino Vacation Packages. For the rate of $159 you’ll get 3 Days and 2 Nights at the Flagship All Suite Resort Atlantic City plus $50 to be used at the House of Blues Atlantic City located at the Showboat Casino Resort and $50 to be used for coin at the slots.  The property is awesome in that every room has a mini-kitchenette, bedroom and living area, plus magnificent views of the city and skyline.

Be sure to review the entire group of hot vacation deals that Reserve Vacations markets daily, but if you’re interested in enjoying some times at the tables or slots to wager a little magic, the vacation packages above offer quite a bit.

The Atlantic City Beer Festival is scheduled to descend upon the Atlantic City region this coming March on Saturday the 21st and Sunday the 22nd of the month. If you’ve never made it to the Atlantic City Beer Festival it’s something to consider especially to usher in the season of spring.  The festival is to feature over 75 brewers and breweries from around the globe. Due to the success and high attendance of the even in 2008, it is strongly suggested that tickets and reservations be made sooner than later.

We have a great Atlantic City Vacation Package for that weekend that comes with accommodations and some incredible premiums. You’ll be staying at the Flagship All Suite Resort in Atlantic City located at 60 North Maine Street in Atlantic City. You’ll get complete use of all the properties amenities that includes an entertainment center and a large indoor olympic sized swimming pool. On top of that you’ll get a $50 gift certificate to be used at the House of Blues Atlantic City located at the Showboat Casino and Resort Atlantic City, plus $50 in complimentary coin to be used towards slots.

This is a fabulous deal and a great way to get deluxe accommodations while being able to attend the Beer Festival.

Many cities are well known for their restaurants and even for specific types of foods. The obvious examples include New York City, with scores of Five Star restaurants and supper clubs, Los Angeles, with it’s collection of elite establishments often owned by celebrities, Chicago, known for the world’s largest annual food festival, The Taste of Chicago. No doubt, each major metropolitan area features some great stand out chefs as well as restaurants. One such small corner of the world that I happen to be familiar with is the Atlantic City New Jersey area.  
When it comes to food and a dining experience, I put my stamp of approval in terms of total value. That is, the best in my opinion aren’t necessarily the most exclusive or highest priced menus. Restaurants that top my list are ones that exhibit a consistency over time, have wowed me with a few signature dishes that have never lost their luster, offer an ambiance in one form or another and where I feel like I’m getting what I paid for and more. Even if that price tag may be high, as long as I sense the value it works for me. So with no further ado here are my Top Five Restaurants in the Atlantic City NJ area. Might I add, before I go further, the order is not listed from best to worst. Each restaurant is equal to the others. 
1- Angelos’ Fairmount Tavern - Located in what was known as Duck Town in Atlantic City, at 2300 Fairmount Avenue, Angelo’s is a home run, and I literally mean that. The restaurant’s patriarch Angelo Mancuso dedicated a room in the restaurant to historic baseball memorabilia. Angelo’s is ambiance, coziness, quality and good food all rolled into one. One of my favorite dishes is the Veal Parmesan, but one can’t go wrong with any number of great authentic Italian dishes. What’s more is Angelo’s has their own homemade Italian Red wine. A perfect compliment to any dish with a red sauce or gravy. The restaurant also offers facilities to cater any size function. Call for more information at 609-344-2439.
2- The Knife and Fork Inn - This restaurant is world famous and has even appeared in motion pictures. The Knife and Fork Inn is literally a city landmark. Located literally where Atlantic, Pacific and Albany Avenues all converge, this restaurant greets visitors as they come over the Albany Avenue bridge. The restaurant and the property have stood for over 93 years, but there were some down times. Several years ago, the Dougherty family took over ownership of this landmark, and have definitely restored it to it’s glory days. For those of you that may not know, the Dougherty family also owns and runs another great classic in Atlantic City, Dock’s Oyster House. We’ll be talking about them in a bit. Anyway, the Dougherty’s transformed the Knife and Fork to greatness by giving it an upgrade, but also maintaining it’s historic charm. There’s no way around it, the prices and the menu are a little on the “high” side, but as I stated, where there’s value this can be justified. The menu selections of steaks, seafood and chops are just incredible. One dish I just salivate right now thinking of is their Rack of Lamb. Totally incredible. Beyond that, the service is great and the experience is incredible. Call for reservations or other information at 609-344-1133. 
3- Dock’s Oyster House - Well as promised above, here’s my thoughts on Dock’s Oyster House. This restaurant is as much a landmark to the city as is the Knife and Fork Inn and also, owned and operated by the legendary restaurant family in the area, the Dougherty’s. Located on Atlantic Avenue in Atlantic City, Dock’s Oyster House is just a great elegant place to eat. From the piano to the excellent food and service, this restaurant is as much Five Star as any fancy establishment in New York City or Los Angeles. Dock’s offers a complete wine list of some of the best labels you could find, and the menu is incredible. Obviously, they are known for their signature seafood dishes, such as Lobster Tail, Pan Sauteed Crab Cakes and one favorite I just loved, the Crab Meat Au Gratin. Yes, the name says it all, and it’s probably not something you should eat if you’re on a diet, but boy is it incredible. For Reservations and other information call 609-345-0092. 
4- Library III Steak House - This place fits right in to my definition where value meets excellence. You may not find the Library III Steak House on many other Top Restaurant lists for the Atlantic City area, but I’m here to tell you, this place is awesome. Pound for pound and dollar for dollar, I’ve said it often, the best Steak I ever had came from the Library III. Located outside of Atlantic City in Egg Harbor Township NJ on the Black Horse Pike, the Library III is completely unassuming. It definitely doesn’t have the glitz, glamour or elegance of the other restaurants named here, but one thing it does have is good food. The menu is very simple, but the offering is right on the mark. The Library III is a pure steak house. You get taken to your table and then head to a window to select the piece of steak you want and tell the chef directly how you want it. Then you head to the salad bar. It’s all you can eat. The restaurant is decorated with shelves of books, which obviously is the reason for the name, and the environment is very laid back. Many nights they offer live music, and the staff are just fantastic. For more information call 609-645-7655. 
5- Buddakan Atlantic City - Last on my list is a restaurant that is a chain across several cities, Buddakan. Buddakan is one of those restaurants that really is all about upper class and experience. You can’t expect to visit this place without having lot’s in the wallet or a high limit on your credit card. For the restaurant enthusiast that wants the image factor Buddakan is your place. Located in the dining area of the now famous Pier in Atlantic City, a night out to Buddakan is the perfect place to impress that new girl, or just to take a walk on the side of elegance. Buddakan offers both lunch and dinner menus, and any selection you choose will most likely not disappoint as the kitchen is run by industry veteran and Executive Chef Darryl Raymond. For reservations or to schedule a special event call 609-674-0100. 
I’m sure many other people might have a completely different list in mind when it comes to dining options in the Atlantic City area. I’m very confident that the restaurants mentioned above will please the palate of just about anyone. To all of you good eating !!!

I’ve read through some of the posts on this site and it appears that the theme is a Top 10 of things to do in a city or destination. Well being a native of the Atlantic City area I thought my contribution of some golden nuggets of knowledge towards enjoying your visit while in town would serve my fellow readers best. Now on to my Top 10 Things to Do in Atlantic City. Please bare in mind that the listing does not indicate any particular order or ranking, but all told any of these ten are a perfect option when visiting the Atlantic City area.

1. Atlantic City Beaches - Going for a Walk on the Beach – Night or day, Summer or Winter, this natural beauty is something many people forget about when they think about Atlantic City. The tip here is where and when to go to the beach depending on the time of day and time of year. In the summer it’s a no brainer. I know the phrase no brainer is one of those that journalists hate, but it really is just that. Head to the neighboring city of Margate NJ. Margate is south of Atlantic City along the coast. The beaches there are just far enough from the Atlantic City beaches that the “riff raff” that may cloud the beauty of what the beach has to offer. There is no boardwalk to crowd the area, as can be found in both Atlantic City and it’s abutting neighbor Ventnor. What’s more and this is the beauty of Margate Beaches, you’ll find a plentiful selection of eye candy from all the co-eds that visit the area for the summer. Bronzed young skin bouncing with life and verve.
2. Atlantic City Golf – Many Award Winning Courses to Choose – Sure many areas claim to have golf in there area, and I’m not saying that Atlantic City is another Myrtle Beach, but the area is home to some World Wide Recognized Courses. First, the Galloway National Golf Club.  The course is an 18 hole golf shrine as it winds it’s way against the back bays of the marsh as well as wooded areas. Created by World Renowned Golf Course Architect Tom Fazio, the Galloway National Golf Club is a must visit for the serious golfer visiting the area. The next is the Brigantine Links. A whole different type of play than a normal golf course, the Brigantine Links is designed in the style of Scottish Golf links and is playable almost all year round. To round out a final suggestion on a top course to visit is the Seaview Marriot Golf Resort. The club is part of one of the premiere hotel and spa facilities on the East Coast and the course captures that excellence. Any of these are great choices, but is should be noted that the area is home to well over 20 top golf courses and links to choose from an play.
3. White House Sub Shop – An argument could be made that a sandwich is just a sandwich, but for anyone that has had the opportunity to enjoy any number of selections from the White House Sub Shop on the corner of Artic and Fairmount Avenues in Atlantic City, I’m sure they would disagree. With more than a half century in the same locale and having served some of the most famous people and entertainers in the world such as Frank Sinatra, Joe DiMagio and Oprah Winfrey, and for good reason. The subs are made with a unique style Italian roll that just can’t seem to be replicated anywhere else in the world, in addition to imported high quality meats and cheeses. Some attest that the unique blend of the local water with the dough is what creates the truly unique roll. All in all, this should be a definite stop if you make your way to the city.
4. Atlantic City Entertainment – One would be remiss to not remind all of us that Atlantic City is a headlining destination. Sure the Atlantic City Casinos have had there share of licks in the past few years due to increasing competition from neighboring states, legislation such as bans on smoking and a sagging economy, but the city, it’s casinos and entertainment venues have been bringing in top headlining acts for some time. Acts such as Jerry Seinfeld, Chicago, Fleetwood Mac, Christina Aguilera and many more have donned the stages of show rooms and the Convention Center. At any given time of the year top world class headlining acts like this can be found. If you’re planning a visit to Atlantic City in the near future it would make sense to take a look at the Atlantic City Headliner Shows Schedule for up coming months to see what might tickle your fancy.
5. Somers Point Bay Avenue – All of the action of Atlantic City isn’t necessarily in the city of Atlantic City. Some fun can be found if you venture out of the city limits with only a five minute car ride. Somers Point New Jersey is a semi famous city in the area that has been known for it’s nightlife venues for sometime. The stigma attached to the bars and watering holes of Somers Point have changed over the years, from a Doo Wop scene, to a low class drinker area to a more middle class tavern style of establishments. Notable places to visit if you’re in Somers Point include the Anchorage, which has a storied history in the area, but offers some great food and great vantage of the bay, Charlies Bar, which is known for some of the most outstanding Hot Wings I’ve ever had and Caroline’s by the Bay, which is a great spot located right next to the meadows. I can’t promise that the scene won’t be wild and on occasion full with just of age drinkers, but the more so than not you’ll have a good time.
6. Ocean City Boardwalk – In the hey days of Atlantic City, the Atlantic City Boardwalk was the inspiration for the the city once being called the “World’s Playground” and for good reason. Visitors to the shore city could find almost a carnival like atmosphere where you could find daily shows of the famous diving horse to food to amusement and games for miles. That day has come and gone and nothing could replace it or the era for which it represented. The Ocean City Boardwalk, however, may not be a replacement but sure can offer a great bit of family fun. The Ocean City Boardwalk is host to great pizza in three different locations at Mack and Mangos, where a side of Pennsylvania Dutch Birch Beer is a fine compliment to a plethora of amusements and rides. Visitors will find ferris wheels, arcades, and water rides and the smell of cotton candy, caramel popcorn from Johnson’s and the ocean itself makes for a one of the most unique and relaxing places to visit.
7. Historic Town of Smithville – If you’re truly looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still be only a stones throw from the action, Smithville New Jersey and specifically the Historic Town of Smithville is a great choice. Tucked away in the Galloway Township area and about 10 minute drive from the city, you’ll find a quaint commercial area full of eateries, ponds, shops and more. I’d say this is a great spot for the romantics out there that want to give a little substance to their visit to the Atlantic City area.
8. Atlantic City Cruises – Just like the beaches of the area, many forget that the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding bay areas offer a great diversion. Atlantic City Cruises. Cruise packages offered include Booze Cruises, Dolphin Watch, Moonlight Dance Parties and just plain old sightseeing. Cruises usually last for about 3 or so hours on average and are perfect for group plans.
9. Atlantic City Jet Skiing – One more idea keeping with the overlooked maritime theme of the area, are jet skiing and wave runner spots. The area is full of independent shops that offer rentals of jet ski’s and wave runners to enjoy the ocean and bay areas. Trust me this is a lot of fun.
10. Atlantic City Skyline Helicopter Tour – This attraction was recently brought to my attention and just seems like a great thing to do. The Atlantic City area with it’s wide beaches, bay and nearby wooded area is incredible to see from up above.