Boston is the cradle of patriotism, the site of Paul Revere’s historic ride and home to the USS Constitution.  The combination of old and new, historic and trendy, gives Boston its personality - and provides limitless opportunities for a visit that doesn’t require help from one of the city’s leaders in venture capital.

For more information on Boston, check the Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, www.bostonusa.com.  If you plan to stay in Boston, there’s no need to rent a car. The city’s public transit - known locally as “the T”, is an easy to follow color-coded system that is safe and inexpensive, just $2 per ride, with children riding free.

In good weather, the most affordable and efficient way to navigate Boston is on foot. And the best way to see the most historic sites - for free - is along the Freedom Trail.

One of the newest ways to enjoy Boston is with a stroll along the Rose Kennedy Greenway (www.rosekennedygreenway.org), which was officially dedicated in October. This string of parks and fountains replaces a giant eyesore of an elevated highway, which was taken down and buried beneath the city in the nation’s largest public works project known as the Big Dig.

Grab an ice cream, burger or fried foods at Sullivan’s on Castle Island in South Boston. From there, you can watch the boats heading in and out of Boston Harbor, feel the rumble of planes flying remarkably close overhead, and allow the children to let off some steam running around the playground.

Next best thing to Broadway?  Get half-price sameday tickets to shows in Boston’s theater district at the BosTix booth at Copley Plaza or Faneuil Hall. The tickets also are listed online at www.artsboston.com.

Cheap Eats?  If you can’t decide between Italian, Chinese, seafood, steak or virtually anything else, take a walk through Faneuil Hall Marketplace, where nearly every food or drink craving can be sati9fied. To save some dough, grab your food-to-go at one of the more than 40 restaurants and enjoy some people-watching instead of eating at a sit-down restaurant. There is seating available inside the hall (www.faneuilhallmarketplace.com).

Visit Haunted Boston.  Some of the most intriguing figures in the nation are spending their eternal rest in the Boston area. Just one free visit to the Old Granary Burying

Ground provides a history lesson for the thousands who come each year to see the graves of noted patriots John Hancock, John Adams and Robert Treat Paine - who all signed the Declaration of Independence. Also buried here are Paul Revere and victims of the Boston Massacre. Established in 1660 in what used to be the southernmost portion of the city, the burial grounds are now in the heart of the downtown bustle, just steps from the Boston Common and the Park Street subway station. It’s one of three cemeteries on the Freedom Trail (www.thefreedomtrail.org).

There’s nothing more invigorating than a dip in a cool, blue spring on a sultry summer day.   And there’s no shortage of springs in north Florida, which has one of the highest concentrations of first-magnitude freshwater springs in the world.   Why not combine a trip to one of Florida’s natural springs with your stay in a Florida Hostel.

IchetuCknee Springs, just north of Fort White in Columbia County, is always a winner. Information: (386) 497-4690; www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings/. But if you don’t like crowds or want to try something new, check out these hidden gems:

In the depths of Troy Springs just outside of Branford, you will find the remains of the Civil War-era steamboat Madison, which was scuttled in the spring run in 1863 to keep it from being captured. Swim, snorkel or scuba dive in the crystalline blue, 70-foot-deep spring waters, or paddle a canoe or kayak across the spring mouth to get a glimpse of the wreckage. The park has picnic tables, restrooms, a walkway and a riverside dock for canoeists and boaters on the Suwannee River.  Located off County Road 425, 1.3 miles north of U.S. Highway 27. 674 N.E. Troy Springs Road, Branford.   Information: (386) 935-4835, www.floridastateparks.org/troyspring.

Hart Springs outside of Bell in Gilchrist County is one of the largest spring-fed swimming areas in the state. The county-owned park features a half-mile boardwalk through the pristine cypress hammock, a volleyball court, boat rentals, RV and tent camping, covered picnic areas, and two air-conditioned pavilions for family gatherings. 4240 S.W. 86th Ave., Bell.   Information: (352) 463-3444, www.hartsprings.com

Juniper Springs, with its clear blue waters and generous swimming area, is one of the hidden gems of the Ocala National Forest. Visitors can camp, swim and canoe at the site, which also offers canoe rentals, restrooms, concessions, a visitor center, museum, picnic facilities and showers.  Juniper Springs is five miles west of the junction of State Roads 19 and 40 on the north side of State Road 40. Information: (352) 625-0546; www.floridaparks.com/floridafederalpark.

Rainbow Springs State Park, the state’s fourth largest spring, is southwest of Ocala and feeds into the scenic Rainbow River. You can swim or paddle in the cool spring waters, picnic in the park, take a hike or go birding along the nature trails.  Information: (352) 465-8555, www.floridastateparks.org/rainbowsprings.

Las Vegas is a feast of architectural curiosities, vintage neon, modern design, and street theater. Simply walking the Strip is an artsy experience, though you’ll also want to explore some of the city’s interesting museums and galleries.   Delve into Las Vegas’ quirky history at the Liberace Museum, which pays homage to the late, great showman and displays his costumes and pianos, including a rhinestone-encrusted Baldwin grand. The Neon Museum celebrates the city’s iconic signs, and while the facility is a work in progress, you can take a walking tour along Fremont Street to view restored gems like the 1966 Aladdin’s Lamp from the Aladdin Hotel.

For culture with an international flair, visit the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum in The Venetian, where masterworks from New York’s Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and the State Hermitage Museum of St. Petersburg, Russia, are displayed

in special exhibits.  American Modernism is the focus of an engaging show at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art (through October 15, 2008), which features works by 20th-century greats like Georgia O’Keeffe.

Contemporary artists strut their stuff during First Friday celebrations, a once-a-month art event in Las Vegas’ historic downtown neighborhood. Galleries, shops, and restaurants welcome visitors as street performers add a festive ambiance.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, while Las Vegas is renowned for its man-made wonders, the great outdoors is equally enthralling.  From desert terrain to deep canyons to resplendent lakes, the region is a haven for nature lovers.

Nearby Mt. Charleston (35 miles) is part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and is a splendid spot to hike, camp, ski, and go birding. Look for wild horses, burros, and hummingbirds while taking in the panoramic views.  Even closer to the city (13.2 miles) is Red Rock Canyon with its breathtaking, other-worldly sandstone formations. Try the 13-mile scenic drive or get your adrenaline pumping on a rock climbing excursion along one of the designated and rated routes.

To experience the mesmerizing desert up close, travel a little farther (60 miles) to the Mojave National Preserve, a 1.6 million-acre park that’s home to sweeping sand dunes, twisting Joshua trees, and mesas of spring wildflowers (when there’s adequate rain). Death Valley National Park (135 miles), another desert wonder, is the lowest point.

Many travelers have stayed away from Naples (Napoli), Italy in recent years.   Tour companies have bypassed this cultural center from ancient Greek and Roman heritage, owing to reports of crime, and hectic daily Neapolitan life.   But, we decided to make this interesting and cultural city a centerpiece of our recent travels in Italy.

It is true that life and traffic in Naples can be frenetic and tricky to navigate.   However, the historic center of the ancient Kingdom of Naples is truly a gem not to be overlooked.   Exploring the narrow streets on foot can be an enchanting experience.   The medieval cathedrals and churches are excellent locations to explore some of Italy’s greatest artistic wonders.

Sitting in the shadows of Vesuvius, the volcano that erupted in 79 AD, burying Pompeii in a virtual time capsule under 6 feet of ash, Naples carries on its daily life complacent about the prospects of another eruption at some unknown future point in time.   We encountered a number of older and younger travelers, enjoying the unique charms of the city, not the least of which is the local Neapolitan cuisine.   A seaside kingdom, Naples is famous for its abundant seafood, and the cuisine reflects this heritage with some of the best Italian fare in southern Italy.

Naples can be an excellent base for exploring surrounding areas of interest, including Pompeii, Herculaneum, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and others.   For the more adventurous, join a tour of the crater of the active volcano Vesuvius.   Within the city limits, exploring the historic city center can afford days of exciting finds.   The National Archeology museum not only contains the ancient Roman treasures of Pompeii, but also other rare antiquities from the Greek and Roman periods, and far-flung civilizations including ancient Egypt.   Also native to Naples are the many street vendors and shopfronts which produce fine hand-made Nativity scenes.

As far as lodging, there are a wide range of hotels and hostels that can be booked at any time of the year.   We like to experience the local hospitality and chose a moderately priced bed and breakfast bordering on the historic center, named Il Giardino Segreto (The Secret Garden).   With tongue in cheek, this B&B’s website advertises to stay in Naples, and “don’t die.”   While somwhat humorous, the owners are beckoning for travelers around the globe to visit their fascinating city, and actually find that it is pleasant and safe to stay.   In fact, entering at Via Foria 216, one would never recognize that a private bed and breakfast exists behing the iron gates, bordering apartment buildings and storefronts.   Entering behind the gate (which is accessible 24 hours), one enters into a serene refuge with large and surprisingly quiet guestrooms.   To the rear, a private door enters onto the Secret Garden, which is a hidden botanical paradise with tropical flora and palm trees found elsewhere in places like Florida or Mexico.   The bed and breakfast’s owners are at your service, and will offer advice, touring recommendations (and maps), and an excellent Italian breakfast.

Along Via Foria, which borders the north end of the central historic district, it is safe to stroll day or night.   And there are several fine sidewalk dining options offering local fare.   One notable option is the Sailor’s Daughter, which for half the price of a high-end tourist restaurant, will serve up a feast of local pasta and seafood favorites.   Don’t forget to end the evening with a glass of the local favorite, Limoncello, a lemon-based liquor, made from native lemons the size of grapefruits.

Our advice to anyone who is planning a trip to Southern Italy, is to not bypass the cultural gem of Naple (Napoli).   You can  book a variety of excellent hostels, hotels, and B&B’s by clicking here:  Naples Hotels and Hostels

If you have interesting experiences or recommendations on traveling to Naples (Napoli), Italy, please post them here, and share with your fellow travelers to Italy.

Visiting the United States?   Plan a trip to America’s tropical paradise:   Florida.   There are an endless array of exciting activities and places to visit in Florida.   Looking for some tips?   Here are the top 40 places to visit and things to do in Florida:

1. 1) Take a guided tour and explore Miami’s Art Deco  district
2. 2) Visit Aquatica, the new water park in Orlando
3. 3) Florida’s  oyster capital in Apalachicola  
4. 4) Thomas Edison and Henry Ford winter estates in Fort Meyers
5. 5) Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of America Art in Winter Park
6. 6) Antique stores in Mt. Dora and popular Renninger’s Antique Center
7. 7) Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront mansions and shopping at Las Olas Boulevard
8. 8 ) Take a surfing lesson at Cocoa Beach
9. 9) Ghost Tours in St. Augustine
10. 10) Visit the new Jungala, an interactive experience at Busch Gardens Africa
11. 11) Bike the Tallahassee - St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail
12. 12)  Fort Walton Beach’s annual Billy Bowlegs Pirate Festival
13. 13) Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge off Melbourne Beach
14. 14) Universal Orlando Resort
15. 15) Explore the Everglades National Park and it’s 1.5 million acres of subtropical  landscape
16. 16) West Palm Beach’s Sunfest Music Festival in May
17. 17) John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota
18. 18) Silver Sands Factory Outlet Stores in Destin
19. 19) Enjoy stone crabs at Joe’s Stone Crab in Miami
20. 20) Victorian village of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island
21. 21) Big Cypress Seminole Reservation in the Everglades
22. 22) Ybor City, Tampa’s Latin Quarter
23. 23) Jacksonville Museum of Contemporary Art
24. 24) Experience race driving at the Richard Petty Driving Experience, Daytona 500 Experience
25. 25) Caladesi Island State Park
26. 26) Collect shells at Sanibel and Captiva islands
27. 27) Enjoy interactive experiences at the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola
28. 28) Swim with the dolphins at Dolphin World   in the Florida Keys
29. 29) Take a houseboat ride on the Suwanee River
30. 30) Try the Shuttle Launch Experience at the Kennedy Space Visitor Complex
31. 31) World Golf Hall of Fame in St. Augustine
32. 32) Take a classic wooden roller coaster ride in Winter Haven’s Cypress Gardens Adventure Park
33. 33) Walt Disney World in Orlando
34. 34) Shop flea markets at the Big Cypress Market Place in Naples
35. 35) Enjoy a nightly outdoor celebration of sunset at Key West’s Mallory Square
36. 36) See manatees at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
37. 37) Kayak or canoe on Grayton Beach State Park in Western Lake
38. 38) Watch a sunset at Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach
39. 39) Re-live the golden age at Henry Morrison Flagler Museum in Palm Beach
40. 40) Learn about life as an early settler in Florida at Spanish Point in Osprey

Welcome to HostelTraveler.com’s Hostel Corner.   Here we invite our partners far and wide, including youth hostels, budget hotels,  inns and guesthouses to post their comments.   Whether you’re in the modern or medieval cities of Europe, the mountains or beaches of South America, or the far reaches of the Far East, tell us about your hometown, and the unique charms you have in store for our travelling guests.

Join in our travel expert blog, and share with us your local customs, traditions, and  attractions.   Do you have any seasonal events or festivals?   What about expert travel tips for visitors to your city?   Transportation and how to get around?   Oh, and don’t forget your best travel deals.

Share what’s best about HostelTraveler.com and the Instant World Booking network.   Tell your guests what’s unique or great about our service, and how we help you keep your guests happy and coming back year after year.

Youth hostels, as the name suggests, are meant to be hostels which are restricted to accommodating youth. Well, this is not true. Initially started as an exponent of the ideology of the German Youth Movement to let poor, city youngsters breathe fresh air outdoors; youth hostels have become a choice of everyone worldwide, today.

These wonderful youth hostels don €™t just cater to teenagers, but also cater to travelers who intend to learn new cultures. Along with providing a scope for exploration of different cultures and places, many youth hostels also provide accommodation for outdoor pursuits such as hill walking, climbing and bicycle touring. Located in delightful environments, these youth hostels are indeed a pleasure to stay in. Having checked out various accommodations, I as a traveler am happy to say that living in these youth hostels is an experience of its own kind. Located at delightful spots worldwide, the sheer energy and youthfulness that move within these youth hostels are a pleasure to be in.

In the present day world there are more than 4,000 youth hostels in 65 countries, with more than 600 in Germany alone. So, looking for youth hostels isn €™t a difficult job today. And if you are still unable to find one, let www.hosteltraveler.com do it for you.