Hot places to go in the fall

Jet, August 4, 2003

Ahhhh, vacation. That time of the year that everyone looks anticipates to break up the monotony of everyday life and substitute it with fun and relaxation. Traditionally summer has been viewed as the ideal time to take a breather from the ordinary--schools are out for break and the weather is warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities and events.

If you are one of the many to vacation during the summer season. you will be no stranger to sweltering heat, congested crowds, endless lines and snail-like traffic jams.

Wouldn't it be nice to enjoy your vacation during a time when life moves at a slower pace, the weather is still warm but bearable and the rates are cheaper? Try traveling during the fall season instead.

Tourist flock to Florida to enjoy the sun and the sand, but the heat and humidity can make a summer day at the beach an unpleasant experience. Visit the sunshine state during the months of September, October or November instead and avoid the broiling temperatures.

While you're there, take advantage of the short lines and thinner crowds, which are unheard of in June, July or August, and visit some of the country's most famous theme parks and museum in Orlando, Tampa and Miami.

Just as winter begins to creep into your town, make an escape out west to California where fall temperatures range anywhere from warm in the southern part of the state to spring-like conditions up north.

Stop by Hollywood and schmooze with the stars, take pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, taste the wine in Napa Valley or simply take in the scenery as you drive along the coast. The possibilities are endless!

Arizona, an area that easily averages 100 degrees in the summer time, is another great place to make a fall getaway. Pleasant days in the mid- to high-80s on a lush golf course in Scottsdale or by a poolside at a luxurious resort in Phoenix can be yours by simply booking a flight and making a reservation. Fall is also an ideal time to visit the city of New Orleans, where you can take a stroll through the French Quarter and have a bite of catfish or gumbo to eat while listening to the smooth sounds of Jazz.

Are tropical beaches, cool breezes off the ocean and swaying palm trees more your style? at a surprisingly reasonable cost your daydreams about the islands of Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Jamaica can become your reality. Have your travel agent check for trips to the Caribbean that offer package deals and all-inclusive rates during the off-peak season.

Autumn is just around the corner, so use this time wisely to compare airlines and car rental agencies to see which offer significantly lower rates to these hot spots during the fall season.

Tips For Protecting Your Money While On Vacation

It's finally here. Vacation season. The reward for all the days you dragged yourself into work, sneezing and coughing, refusing to give up valuable sick days.

But before you make a beeline for that airport or cruise liner, beware of a sneaky stowaway called identity theft.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, identify theft crimes have skyrocketed from 31,117 in 2000 to a whopping 161,819 in 2002.

Travelers, particularly those who venture abroad, are the most likely victims because of the huge paper and electronic trails they tend to leave behind. However, learning how identity thieves operate can significantly decrease your chances of being victimized. And you'll have a lot more time to enjoy the vacation you've earned.

How ID thieves operate

Skilled identity thieves wait for every opportunity to snag some bit of your personal information. While you are on vacation, they rummage through your mailbox or trash cans, searching for pre-approved credit offers, bank and credit card statements, new check and tax information. With pre-approved credit offers especially, they can use your information to complete change of address forms, which then reroute the bogus account information to their address--leaving you in the dark indefinitely.

Away from home, identify thieves prey on tourists by snatching wallets or purses containing ATM cards and checkbooks.

How Thieves Use Your ID

Once identity thieves have your information, they can really begin to wreak havoc on your credit.

They pen counterfeit checks to sap your bank account. They open new credit card accounts with your name, date of birth and social security number. They even establish phone, Internet wire services and auto loan accounts with your information. After this damage is done, they can file for bankruptcy under your name to avoid paying off debts they've incurred. Then, it's off to the next victim.

How to Protect Yourself

To prevent identity theft on your vacation, pack lightly.

Do not include extra items such as gasoline station and department store credit cards or account numbers for your home bank. This gives the thief more options. Bring only two major credit cards on your trip and you'll have fewer telephone numbers to call if you must report the card lost or stolen.