The tradition of packing up the family and driving out to the nearest Christmas tree farm to tag or cut your own live tree is still a yearly event for a lot of people. But as families become more pressed for time, money and obligations, that tree-hauling adventure has been replaced with buying either pre-cut live trees or artificial ones.

The artificial trees tend to be more popular with older people because of the cost effectiveness (they can be used year after year), they can come pre-lit and they create less mess. Also anyone with limited space may opt for an artificial tree because they come in virtually every shape, size or even color for that matter. In 2001 artificial Christmas trees accounted for about 7.3% of total tree sales. But by 2007 that number had increased to 17.4%. If you do decide to go with an artificial tree, just remember that as with just about everything else in life, you get what you pay for. A $25 artificial tree may sound good at the moment and even look good the first year, but if the branches break and needles start falling off the next time you pull it out of the box, you may wish you had spent a bit more. If you have to keep replacing your artificial tree, then there really is no savings involved.

According to data released by The National Christmas Tree Association, in 2007 there were almost 49 million live trees purchased. Of those, 16% were cut by buyers themselves and nearly 25% were bought from big chain retailers, with Home Depot leading the sales. The rest were bought from garden centers, individual tree lots and other smaller stores. The average cost of a 6 to 7 foot tree from Home Depot is about $30.

Before you begin your tree hunt, you need to know how high the ceiling is in the room you want to display the tree. If it’s your first Christmas in a new condo or townhome, you may be especially excited to pick out a tree. But remember that trees always look smaller standing outside in a lot than they will in your living room. Most new Chicago condos or townhomes have 9 to 10 foot ceilings, although many have loftier ones that can stretch to a cathedral height of 20 feet. Many also have floor-to-ceiling windows or balconies and terraces that provide a great spot to put your tree in front of for display. You can check out some of those Chicago condo layouts here http://www.chicagocondodirectory.com/new-condos/ And if you have a fireplace, as a lot of town homes do, don’t put the tree close to it.

As for live trees, the varieties can be overwhelming sometimes. Should you drive to a tree farm or buy from the local seller downtown? Are you satisfied with the selection that’s already bagged as long as you get that wonderful pine smell? The choice is really up to you, and the most important thing is to get as fresh a tree as possible so it will retain its needles longer and not dry out. And you need to water them every day with fresh water, no additives like sugar or any other supposed remedy to keep the trees fresher longer.

Probably the most popular type of live tree here in the Chicago area is the white pine. This variety has softer needles so you don’t get pricked as much while you decorate. Scotch pines are also popular because they have a very full shape, but their needles are sharper and they tend to grow more on whatever side has been facing the southwestern sun exposure so they may be harder to level in a tree stand at home. The Colorado Blue Spruce is another beautiful variety that people may be drawn to, but they don’t weather well indoors and are better left for planting in your yard. Fraiser Firs, Canaan Firs, Noble Firs and Balsam Firs are also readily available.

Many growers are also offering live trees with their roots balled in burlap. This is a growing trend with those who want to be eco-friendly because you can then transplant the evergreen in your yard. A few things need to be considered before you go this route though. The tree will have to be in the house decorated for no more than a week, otherwise it will warm up, come out of dormancy and try to grow out of season only to die once you put it outside. You need to keep the ball in a container of moist shredded paper, soil or moss to keep it from drying out. And you have to plan ahead and dig the hole in your yard well before the ground freezes plus store the soil to be put back in someplace where it won’t freeze either. The process is a bit more labor intensive, but can give you years of enjoyment and spruce up your lawn. You can even get smaller live trees in containers for your table top.

No matter which type of tree you decided to get this holiday season, the most important thing is to get one you can enjoy and make a memory.

Which One Do You Prefer?

Shimano is one of the leading manufacturers of fishing reels today. To accommodate different kinds of fishing enthusiasts, they have offered several types of fishing reels you can choose from. Here are some of the main Shimano reels you can opt for.

1. Front Drag Reels. This type of Shimano reels is capable of spool micro adjustment that makes it capable of fitting into the line. It is more advance than most reels available today.

2. Fly Reels. These fly reels are known for their beauty as much as their function. Its precision is unmatched by most of its competitor in the market today.

3. Big Pit and Long Cast. This was initially created with beachcasters in mind. Its main feature is its big cranking power and durable frames. The spool system is also superb and allows for hauling in big fishes. This is mainly a favorite type of reel for those who favor catfish, pikes, or even carps.

4. Baitcasting Reels: This type of reel is small, compact, and lightweight. This is best used for lure fishing.

The Shimano TLD

The desire of Shimano to constantly update their line of Shimano TLD reels is an attempt to keep in swing with the growing demands of their patrons. The decision to keep on producing top quality Shimano TLD reels is something that Shimano does to harness the potential of new technology in creating the perfect fishing reels. The Shimano TLD with its lightweight reel and excellent graphite frame offers a powerful and efficient performance. With the outstanding lever drag system of the Shimano TLD, you can use any type of line, making easy and rapid changes to the drag of the line even when you are using it. It then automatically returns to its original setting once the fish has been taken out.

The superior materials used in creating the Shimano TLD gives the advantage of having a reel that will not wear out easily and could potentially last a lifetime, regardless of whether you use it in freshwater or saltwater fishing.

Go ahead and get your own Shimano TLD at Sea Isle Tackle. It is the best place to find the perfect reels for you.

Although this asbestos related cancer is rare in comparison to other more common types of cancer, there has been a gradual increase in the number of diagnosed cases over the past 20-30 years, some medical doctors have become specialist and experts in the diagnosis and treatment of this terrible disease.

Most times the first medical professional that a mesothelioma patient will have contact with will be their family physician. The family physician will order for several imaging tests once there is reasonable clinical suspicion, to be able to make definitive diagnosis. Once a definitive diagnosis is made, the family physician will refer the patient to an oncologist, who may be located in the area where the patient lives.

However while most oncologists are familiar with mesothelioma, because of the rarity of the disease not all of them have enough experience in treating this type of cancer.

Many patients would rather prefer to look for the best top mesothelioma experts in the country so that they can get the best available medical care.

Most of these top mesothelioma experts work in the nations best hospitals located in the major cities. These doctors have built a reputation over time based on their knowledge and exemplary care. Most of these doctors are usually involved in ongoing research work, so they can give the patient latest information on clinical trials, and other aspects of the disease.

Some of these mesothelioma experts are not oncologists, though they have sound knowledge and experience in cancer treatment. Quite a number of them are respiratory physicians, known as pulmonologists; these are doctors specializing in the treatment of diseases of the lungs. Some other ones are Thoracic Surgeons; these are doctors that specialize in performing surgeries of the lungs, chest wall, esophagus and diaphragm. A patient can make a choice from these different medical experts, all of them can offer good medical care once they become familiar with the persons disease and particulars.

Most of the time, mesothelioma patients living in the small towns will have to travel to the major cities where the large hospitals where these experts work are situated. This usually involves additional expenses on traveling, lodging, feeding etc, but most patients do not mind the extra money that they will have to spend. Most of these hospitals assists out of town patients to find affordable accommodations to stay while some offer their own lodging options to patients who have traveled over a great distance to come to the hospital.

Patients are also advised to check their medical insurance carriers before making a decision on their preferred medical expert. Insurance policies are different and some policies may actually cover travel and other expenses that will be incurred when attempting to see an expert. Again, an administrator in the doctor’s office or hospital personnel may be able to help determine what is covered and what is not. Meeting with a doctor before making a definitive choice is often a good idea. Though he/she may be an expert in the field of mesothelioma, patients should strive to choose someone with whom they believe they can work well. Having a good rapport with your doctor is essential in building trust and open lines of communication are certainly a must. Take time to interview a doctor before making a final decision.

South Carolina

James Bradof, M.D. SC

Tennessee

Spencer McCachren, M.D. Thompson Cancer Center Knoxville, TN (423) 541-1812 Texas Department Of Clinical Investigation University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center 1515 Holcombe Blvd., P.O. Box 39 Houston, TX 77030 (713) 792-7959

Washington

Dr. Eric Vallieres P.O. Box 356310 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195-6310 (206) 543-3093 Washington, D.C. Cesar A. Moran, M.D. Department of the Army Armed Forces Institute of Pathology Washington, DC 20306

Dr. Paul Sugarbaker Sugarbaker Oncology Associates, P.C. 110 Irving St., NW Washington, DC 20010 (202) 877-3908 Wisconsin

Joan H. Schiller, M.D. H. Ian Robins, M.D. University of Wisconsin Madison, WI

If you are going to be planning an extended stay business trip in the state of Texas, the top ranking corporate housing destinations are Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. You have a wide range of selections to choose from including apartments in tall skyscrapers, humble dried brick buildings, and rooms in elegant mansions. The only limitation is your own imagination, and of course the amount you are willing to spend. Other locations in the United States that you may want to keep in mind include:

•Miami, FL
•Atlanta, GA
•Los Angeles, CA
•Minneapolis, MN
•Seattle, WA
•St. Louis, MO
•New York, NY
•Charlotte, NC
•Chicago, IL
•Washington, DC
•Richmond, VA

Naturally you will not always be planning your extended business trips within the United States, so you may also be interested in finding the best corporate housing destinations worldwide. Planning a trip overseas is much more involved than a simple trip within your own country, and it is all the more important to find a location with a comfortable and familiar setting for home base.

When staying abroad, you have countless choices, and while this offers you something new and exciting it always makes it more difficult to choose. You have to keep certain things in mind while choosing your location; for example, would you be more comfortable in a rural destination or an urban one? Would you like to choose a simple apartment offered at an affordable rate, or an elegant high-rise that offers a swimming pool, 24 hour doorman, putting greens, and spacious rooms?

The following are a few of the most popular destinations for corporate housing all over the world, outside of the United States:

•London
•Tokyo
•Dublin
•Edinburgh
•Glasgow
•Toronto
•Vancouver
•Rome
•Florence
•Barcelona
•Bath
•Copenhagen
•Bangkok

When choosing a destination for your business trip, remember to choose a place that will not only be located conveniently to your business associates, but also to fun and exciting locations as well. When you are asked whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you want to be able to answer “both!” Be sure to work some time in your schedule for leisure activities as well so you and your team can make the most out of your journey. All of the cities mentioned above have so much to offer in the realms of art and entertainment.

Although this asbestos related cancer is rare in comparison to other more common types of cancer, there has been a gradual increase in the number of diagnosed cases over the past 20-30 years, some medical doctors have become specialist and experts in the diagnosis and treatment of this terrible disease.

Most times the first medical professional that a mesothelioma patient will have contact with will be their family physician. The family physician will order for several imaging tests once there is reasonable clinical suspicion, to be able to make definitive diagnosis. Once a definitive diagnosis is made, the family physician will refer the patient to an oncologist, who may be located in the area where the patient lives.

However while most oncologists are familiar with mesothelioma, because of the rarity of the disease not all of them have enough experience in treating this type of cancer.

Many patients would rather prefer to look for the best top mesothelioma experts in the country so that they can get the best available medical care.
Most of these top mesothelioma experts work in the nations best hospitals located in the major cities. These doctors have built a reputation over time based on their knowledge and exemplary care. Most of these doctors are usually involved in ongoing research work, so they can give the patient latest information on clinical trials, and other aspects of the disease.

Some of these mesothelioma experts are not oncologists, though they have sound knowledge and experience in cancer treatment. Quite a number of them are respiratory physicians, known as pulmonologists; these are doctors specializing in the treatment of diseases of the lungs. Some other ones are Thoracic Surgeons; these are doctors that specialize in performing surgeries of the lungs, chest wall, esophagus and diaphragm.

A patient can make a choice from these different medical experts, all of them can offer good medical care once they become familiar with the persons disease and particulars.

Most of the time, mesothelioma patients living in the small towns will have to travel to the major cities where the large hospitals where these experts work are situated. This usually involves additional expenses on traveling, lodging, feeding etc, but most patients do not mind the extra money that they will have to spend. Most of these hospitals assists out of town patients to find affordable accommodations to stay while some offer their own lodging options to patients who have traveled over a great distance to come to the hospital.

Patients are also advised to check their medical insurance carriers before making a decision on their preferred medical expert. Insurance policies are different and some policies may actually cover travel and other expenses that will be incurred when attempting to see an expert. Again, an administrator in the doctor’s office or hospital personnel may be able to help determine what is covered and what is not.

Meeting with a doctor before making a definitive choice is often a good idea. Though he/she may be an expert in the field of mesothelioma, patients should strive to choose someone with whom they believe they can work well. Having a good rapport with your doctor is essential in building trust and open lines of communication are certainly a must. Take time to interview a doctor before making a final decision.

The following includes a short list of the top medical mesothelioma experts in USA, for a more comprehensive list, do visit my blog.

South Carolina
James Bradof, M.D.
SC

Tennessee
Spencer McCachren, M.D.
Thompson Cancer Center
Knoxville, TN
(423) 541-1812

Texas
Department Of Clinical Investigation
University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center
1515 Holcombe Blvd., P.O. Box 39
Houston, TX 77030
(713) 792-7959

Washington
Dr. Eric Vallieres
P.O. Box 356310
1959 NE Pacific
Seattle, WA 98195-6310
(206) 543-3093

Washington, D.C.
Cesar A. Moran, M.D.
Department of the Army
Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
Washington, DC 20306
Dr. Paul Sugarbaker
Sugarbaker Oncology Associates, P.C.
110 Irving St., NW
Washington, DC 20010
(202) 877-3908

Wisconsin
Joan H. Schiller, M.D.
H. Ian Robins, M.D.
University of Wisconsin
Madison, WI

In fact, the entire county of Whatcom is sky-high on anyone’s beautiful scenery list. As a jumping off point for the world-class vacation destination known as the San Juan Islands, Whatcom County’s western side is replete with gorgeous views of water, islands and sunsets that match any you’ve seen on the Travel Channel. And Bellingham itself is a fascinating city of historic buildings and interesting neighborhoods that is worth a daytrip all by itself.

But go east from Bellingham and you venture into snow-topped mountains so dramatic they have been used in movies and on TV shows to depict the Colorado Rockies and other famous mountain areas. During winter, the snow’s so deep up here that the Mt. Baker ski area always seems to get the first snow and the deepest snowpack. This area is for mountain-lovers, not for folks who settle for the hills that pass for mountains in places like Vermont or other eastern states.

Our quick getaway into the Mt. Baker area began with a turn-off from Interstate 5 in Bellingham at Highway 542 – the Mt. Baker Highway. After a few blocks of businesses and homes, this country road began to live up to his billing as one of Washington’s most scenic drives. The two-lane road meanders through meadows and valleys, over hills and around curves through old-growth timber that grows more towering with each passing mile. The Mt. Baker Highway is about 57 miles to its end, although we planned to spend the night near Maple Falls, less than half that distance from Bellingham.

With all of the nearby mountains and forests, it’s surprising to learn that Maple Falls is only at an elevation of 643 feet – not enough to get the huge snow dumps the Mt. Baker Recreation Area is known for. But we were kind of glad – our rental car didn’t have four-wheel drive and we hadn’t planned on snow problems because we were visiting in late spring. As it turned out, there was snow all right – just at a little higher elevation than we were visiting.

We stopped in Maple Falls to pick up our keys to the cabin we had reserved for the night. We wanted the cabin-in-the-woods experience – a hideaway a little off the beaten path with no other buildings nearby. We find that, unfortunately, some of the best “cabins” or vacation homes today are built in subdivisions that have the look and feel of a housing development. We had mentioned to Mt. Baker Lodging that we wanted to be more isolated than that and they came up with the perfect choice.

Our cabin was just another four miles or so from Maple Falls’ tiny downtown, so it was quick to get to, and easy to return to town for groceries or dinner at one of a few local restaurants. The cabin was just off Silver Lake Road with no sign or street name indicating the turn-off, but excellent directions provided by Mt. Baker Lodging, the rental agency. We removed the chain blocking the road entrance, replacing it as we drove further into the deep forest. And then, in just a minute or two, there was our cabin – all by itself, no neighbors, hiking trails nearby and ideal for our quiet weekend in the woods.

The word cozy was invented for this place. It was relatively small, simple construction but with plenty of charm. The chalet-style building had a bathroom, a small kitchen and dining area, and a comfortable couch and easy chair for watching the 20-something inch TV or for curling up by the fireplace. The bedrooms upstairs were fairly small with low A-frame ceilings, but that just reminded us we were in a real cabin. Outside the owners had built a shelter for the picnic table and a grill was close at hand, ideal for hamburgers and hot dogs in the Great Outdoors.

The trees in these woods were thick and mossy green, almost like a rain forest. In between them snaked a trail that, just in case you missed it, had a sign designating the pathway as a “TRAIL.” Who could resist following it to its end to see what was in store even deeper in the woods?

Once we brought in our suitcases and a few groceries we were headed down the trail to find what we would find. In just a few minutes we came to Silver Lake, a tranquil pond that, on a warmer day, might have been perfect for a swim. Thick woods and marshes lined most of the lakeshore, although there were tell-tale signs this wasn’t quite as far off the beaten path as it would seem. For starters, there were paved roads. Then we discovered buildings. And soon it became obvious this was a public recreation area that, while not used at all this spring weekday, probably was a popular spot on weekends during warmer times of the year.

Nevertheless, the lake is gorgeous and close to the cabin, and ideal for a hike through dense woods. We could easily have spent hours in such a peaceful place.

Later during our stay, we took a drive farther east on the Mt. Baker Highway – not all the way up, but as far as Nooksack Falls, which was just a few miles beyond the town of Glacier. We took the short walk from the highway to a vantage point practically on top of the falls and close enough that we got a true sense of the power of 88-foot falls and could see why filmmakers thought they were visually interesting enough to include in the movie the Deer Hunter. A visit to the falls was just one choice of many along the highway where you find numerous trailheads and mountain views worth a stop.

Weather was a factor for us on our trip – a low cloud ceiling kept us from seeing some of the most famous views farther up the Mt. Baker Highway including those of Mt. Shuksan and the mountain ranges near Mt. Baker. Instead, we left a little early, driving back toward Bellingham and then south on Highway 9, an inland byway that roughly parallels Interstate 5. It’s a two-lane country road that won’t get you there quite as fast, but has lots of interesting sites along the way.

Along the way we saw dairy farms as well as places to stop along the South Fork of the Nooksack River. There were also century-old country stores along this route including Everybody’s Store in Van Zandt and the Acme General Store in Acme. Further south, in Sedro Woolley, Highway 9 meets the east-west route of Highway 20 that will take you the five miles west over to Interstate 5 to continue your journey south to the Seattle area.

We loved our cabin-in-the-woods experience and especially the Mt. Baker area – at some point we’ll go back to take full advantage of the trail system and get a camera full of pictures in what really is one of the most beautiful areas in the country.

AT A GLANCE

WHERE: The Mt. Baker recreation area is within just a few miles of the Canadian border in the far reaches of Northwest Washington. The Mt. Baker Highway extends 57 miles east from Bellingham.

WHAT: Mt. Baker is one of the major Northwest peaks and is surrounded by mountains and forests that make this an ideal vacation spot. WHEN: Best time for hiking is April through early October. Many people visit the area in the winter to enjoy the snow sports, including downhill skiing. There is less snow in the Maple Falls area because of its low elevation.

WHY: Mt. Baker offers unsurpassed scenery as well as numerous trails to access wilderness areas. There are also many charming small towns in the area, complete with their funky restaurants and country stores.

HOW: For more information on Mt. Baker as well as Bellingham, contact Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism at 800-487-2032, or go to www.bellingham.org. For information on cabin rentals at Mt. Baker, please go to www.mtbakerlodging.com or phone 800-709-7669.

Ten of the fastest-growing occupations
Do any of the fields interest you? If yes, your future is looking bright. Even though pay is important, make sure you find a profession that you are passionate about. After all, a career and profession is a large part of your life. You want to pick an area that is of some interest to you and that you are excited about.

Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst

1. Salary: $46,000 range
2. Bachelor’s degree needed

Personal and Home Care Aide

1. Salary: Under $20,000
2. No college education required

Home Health Aide

1. Salary: Under $20,000
2. No college education required

Computer Software Engineer

1. Salary: $46, 000 range
2. Bachelor’s degree needed

Veterinary Technologist or Technician

1. Salary: $20,000 – $30,000 range
2. Associate degree needed

Personal Finance Advisor

1. Salary: $46,000 or more
2. Bachelor’s degree needed

Makeup Artists for Theater

1. Salary: $30,000 – $45,000 range
2. Postsecondary vocational needed

Medical Assistant

1. Salary: $20,000 – $30,000 range
2. No secondary education needed

Veterinarian

1. Salary: $46,000 range
2. Professional degree needed

Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselor

1. Salary: $30,000 – $45,000 range
2. Bachelor’s degree needed

Best U. S. cites to find jobs currently

Do any of the cities interest you? In general it is advisable to pick a geographic location that you can see yourself living in for the long run. If you love to ski for example, and are interested in technology, then you are in luck. Salt Lake City would just be perfect for you.

1. Salt Lake City, Utah (for technology related jobs)
2. Atlanta, Georgia (for transportation, distribution and financial service jobs)
3. Indianapolis, Indiana (agricultural related jobs)
4. Omaha, Nebraska (financial services and agricultural related jobs)
5. Seattle, Washington (aerospace and global trade related jobs)

Cities with lowest unemployment rate:

Low unemployment rate is usually a good indicator of a regions economic prosperity. A low unemployment rate is a good sign that the demand for skilled workers is larger than the supply. Any of the cities below would offer good opportunities for job seekers.

1. Sioux Falls, South Dakota (2.4% unemployment rate)
2. Rapid City, South Dakota (2.5% unemployment rate)
3. Idaho Falls, Idaho (2.5% unemployment rate)
4. Bismarck, North Dakota (2.6% unemployment rate)
5. Houma, Louisiana (2.7% unemployment rate)
6. Morgantown, West Virginia (2.8% unemployment rate)
7. Logan, Utah (2.8% unemployment rate)
8. Fargo, North Dakota (2.9% unemployment rate)
9. Casper, Wyoming (2.9% unemployment rate)
10. Billings, Montana (3% unemployment rate)

Knowing what you want to do and what geographic locations are most prosperous for you is half the battle. The second part is to be proactive in your job search. Don’t expect people to come looking for you. Instead go out and prospect for your dream job just like you would going shopping for some new clothes. Gather information about different companies in your field of interest, find out who is in charge of hiring, and send out your resume. The more resumes you send out the higher the probability that you will get a call back for an initial interview. It is simply a numbers game! Last but not least: Keep a positive attitude and never take a rejection personal.

Located on the southern edge of Vancouver Island is the city of Victoria. It has a population of around 390,000 and is steadily growing due to its mild climate compared to other parts of Canada – pleasing those of retirement age and attracting mass tourism to the city and surrounding areas in the summer months. The history of Victoria dates back to the early 1700’s when its first occupants were the Salish people. It then later became a city in 1862 due to the fact that Victoria was the main port for the British Columbia gold industry and today it serves as its Capital City.

Victoria’s economy relies heavily on the tourism industry with it hosting many annual festivals including the Tall Ship Race and Swift Sure International Yacht Race that attracts sailing professionals from around the globe. It has also hosted many sports events such as the Grand Prix, Ice-skating Championships and even the 2007 Commonwealth games were hosted here. Aside from tourism and sporting events Victoria’s other contributions to the economy include telecommunications and pharmaceutical manufacturing as well as Federal Government administration and finance.

Victoria is an ideal holiday destination any time of year as it gets very little snow during the winter months. Compared to other Canadian Cities of Vancouver and Toronto Victoria has a very mild climate with warm springs, hot summers and bearable winters.

Sightseeing

One of the main attractions in Victoria is the Inner Harbour which is surrounded by historical government buildings, seafood restaurants, quaint bars and the some very expensive yachts. Boat tours across the Strait of Juan De Fuca are a great way to see some of Victoria’s stunning natural wilderness. Steeped in historical events Victoria has left behind many remnants of its past to explore including the Emily Carr House who was a well known painter and Bastion Square which previously was the historical Fort Victoria. If you like old architecture you won’t want to miss viewing Hatley Castle which is now a national historic site and Craigdarroch Castle.

Victoria boasts some of the loveliest Parks and public gardens in Canada due to the mild climate so should you have some time on your hands take a leisurely stroll through Beacon Hill Park and Butchart Gardens which has some of the prettiest and unusual plants and flowers in the world. Its layout is pristine, peaceful and colourful – ideal setting for a picnic or to gather your thoughts. For a family day out head to Victoria West Shore beach, it has 3km of nice shoreline for you to paddle in, go fishing, snorkelling or waterskiing on. Located within the same district is also a spa and golfing resort and close by you will find some country style pubs, the Fisguard Lighthouse and Fort Rod Hill.

Getting To Victoria

Victoria International Airport located 22km north of the city serves British Columbia. Flights are available to Victoria from London with one or two changes at Seattle, Toronto or Calgary to Victoria from many major tour operators. Flying time from the United Kingdom to Victoria is around 11 hours.

These are the top five picks, plus some honorable mentions, from the staff at www.yourmuseumstore.com

American Museum of Natural History, New York

There is no greater city in the world than New York and any trip to the Big Apple should include a stop at its wonderful American Museum of Natural History (AMNH).  This museum has gained added notoriety due to the popular Ben Stiller comedy, “Night At The Museum.”  However, when it comes to dinosaur exhibits, the AMNH is definitely not kid’s stuff. 

Boasting wonderful diversity of specimens (over 100 on display in their Dinosaur Halls), the exhibits are structured to demonstrate the evolutionary connections between species, offering a different perspective than the more traditional “chornological order” structure most often seen in similar exhibits.  Highlights on your trip to the AMNH are the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs where the T-Rex and Apotasaurus can be found and the Hall of Ornithischian Dinosaurs, home to the Stegosaurus and Triceratops. 

On the IMAX screen, the museum is exhibiting “Dinosaurs Alive!”  The 40-minute film follows AMNH paleontologists on an expedition to the Gobi Desert of Mongolia and to Ghost Ranch, New Mexico as they search for dinosaur remains.  Fans of this museum note good lighting in the dinosaur halls for snapping quality photos.  Detractors balk at the suggested donation of $15 for adults. 

Pros:  Rich specimen diversity, good lighting for pictures, the iconic T-Rex, Apotasaurus and Triceratops

Cons:  Can get very crowded, long lines for tickets

Tips:  For big families, the $15 price tag can be a strain but it’s only a “suggested donation.”  Let the ticket agent know you’d like to make a smaller donation that fits your budget.

 
Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, Washington D.C.

No visit to our nation’s capitol is complete without a trip to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History (NMNH).  The nation’s oldest dinosaur museum, the diversity of exhibits is on par with the AMNH, though vistors are sometimes disappointed with the poor lighting and sometimes confusing or missing labels and displays.  Still there is much to enjoy here, with both Saurishian and Ornithischian dinosaurs being well represented.  The vicious Allosaurus is quite popular along with the Triceratops, which was returned to exhibit after a recent restoration.  Ths free admission museum is just one of the Smithsonian’s many fascinating collections and a “must” for anyone exploring Washington D.C.

Pros:  FREE!  Other Smithsonian Museums are right nearby

Cons:  Poor lighting, expensive cafeteria, crowded

Tips:  Parking is a hassle so use the Metro, cafeteria prices are high so pack a lunch and save some cash      

Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago

Visting the Windy City?  Promising an awe-inspiring journey through 4 billion years of evolution, The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago offers a wide variety of dinosaur fossils in its Genius Dinosaur Hall along with animated videos, hands-on interactives that tell the story of when dinosaurs ruled the Earth with their “Evolving Planet” exhibit. 

The McDonald’s Fossil Preparation Lab offers a unique glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work of the paleontologist.  Star of the show is “Sue” the T-Rex, a nearly complete specimen discovered in South Dakota in the 1990s.  Also of note is the rare Cryolophosaurus, the only dinosaur ever discovered in Antarctica. 

Pros:  Sue the T-Rex, up-to-date “Evolving Planet” exhibit, lots more to see beyond dinosaurs

Cons:  Noisy, steep ticket price ($15 for adults), closes at 5 p.m. every day

Tips:  Save the rental fee by downloading the audio tour from their website and add to your ipod before you go.

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh PA

The Carnegie Museum of Natural History boasts the third largest display of real mounted dinosaurs trailing only the AMNH in New York and the NMNH in Washington D.C.  With 19 dinosaurs on display in two halls, the “Dinosaurs in the Time” exhibit boasts a number of holotypes (considered the premier and defining fossil for a given specimen) including Diplodocus canegii, Apatosaurs louisae and Camtosaurus aphanoecetes.  Others specimens of note are the Stegosaurus, Allosaurus, and Camptosaurus.

Pros:  Recent renovations in 2007 and 2008 offer a more modern scientific view of dinosaurs

Cons:  High price tag, $15 for adults

Tips:  50% discount for military, museum open until 8 p.m. on Thursday

The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia PA

A thorough collection of fossils and replicas from the Mesozoic era with about 30 species represented, half being full skeletal mounts.  Popular attractions include the Big Dig, a hands-on exhibit for would be paleontolgists and the Fossil Prep Labs where visitors can view live demonstrations of fossil preparation.  A great stop for those in the Philly area.  Kids will especially enjoy the many interactive displays.

Pros:  A great diversion for kids who might be burned out on the history of our nation

Cons:  Lacks the depth and variety of the premier dinosaur spots

Tips:  Look into purchasing a Philadelphia City Pass for one admission to this museum along with trolley use, the aquarium, the Franklin and the Zoo

Looking for something off the beaten path?  These dinosaur exhibits and dig spots offer a more up-close-and-personal experience for those who want to get their hands dirty.

Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology, Alberta, Canada

Rivals any of the premier dinosaur museums in the US.  This museum located in the Alberta badlands is off on its own, but worth the trek for those with a keen apetite for all things Mesozoic.  With guided tours of the badlands, camps for kids and a rich collection of fossils on display, including 40 mounted dinosaur skeletons, this museum is a dinosaur fanatic must.

Wyoming Dinosaur Museum, Thermopolis Wyoming

With 60 mostly late Jurrasic active dig sites in a 500-acre region, this is a dinosaur lover’s paradise.  The museum offers 200 displays with 20 mounted skeletons in a 12,000 sq ft facility.  

Ruth Hall Museum of Paleontology, Abiquiu New Mexico

Home to the Triassic dinosaur, Coelophysis, the New Mexico State Fossil. Located in Ghost Ranch, this site is known in paleontologist cirles for its rich quarries of the Triassic era, 220 million years ago. 

Denver Museum of of Nature and Science, Denver Colorado

Regarded for their exhibits on Stegosaurus, Allosaurs and Edmontosaurus – a great family museum.

Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, Woodland Park Colorado

A great collection from the Late Cretaceous period. 

Come back soon…

These museums are currently closed for renovation, but will be highlights for any paleontology enthusiast when they re-open.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Los Angeles California

Re-opening in 2011, this museum’s Dinosaurs Hall will return better than ever with a world-class collection of Mesozoic fossils.

Dinosaur Monument National Park, Dinosaur Colorado

While still open, the main visitor center and access to the “fossil wall” are not available right now.  Structural damage to the main visitor center has forced a closure.  A temporary center is available with limited displays and visitors can hike a short distance to see fossils, but the main attraction is unavailable at this time.