Aug
1
If you are like me, you are watching your travel budget carefully, asking where you can go that’s interesting but affordable. I might suggest you consider a SoCal vacation. It’s got the beaches, theme parks, roller coasters, Hollywood and lots more.
Another possibility would be Hawaii. Although those warm beaches are hard to resist, there’s not as much variety in vacation options as California. Here is an article that discusses the differences between Hawaiian vacations and Southern California vacations. In Southern California you don’t need to worry as much about underwater rocks; also, the humidity is generally lower and the sunshine less intimidating. As we noted, the Hawaiian waters are warmer, but in the middle of summer, the cooler California water can be more invigorating.
Hawaii does have an advantage with such beautiful natural countryside and vegetation, enhanced by the local Polynesian culture. But don’t forget the melting pot of many different cultures to be experienced in California, as well as the mountains, desert and coastline.
The beaches are just one of many attractions to be enjoyed in Southern California. There are a half-dozen major theme parks to be visited. For lovers of roller coasters, Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain are definitely places to visit if possible. You’ll discover many intimidating coasters and thrill rides at Knott’s and Six Flags. In fact, they offer more thrill rides than Disneyland, although the Magic Kingdom does include some fast attractions such as the Matterhorn and Space Mountain.
You won’t find many roller coasters in Hawaii, although surfing on the North Shore of Oahu in winter would qualify as a thrill ride. In terms of the budget, there may be great vacation specials to both destinations, but you can drive to California if airfare is too costly.
