Dream Trip: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Real Trip: Shenandoah Valley, VA
Distance from DC: Approximately 2 hours

Full disclosure- Jackson Hole it one of my favorite places on earth. Alas, my budget and vacation time doesn't allow me to get out there as much as I'd like, so I'm constantly looking for ways to recreate the unique combination of western charm and pristine nature that Jackson Hole has to offer. From Washington, you can get a taste of it by taking the 2 hour drive out to Shenandoah National Park, where wildlife, nature, and cowboys, all come together just outside of the Beltway.

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park boasts 500 miles of hiking trails, 101 of which are part of the famed Appalachian Trail. Compared to the 200 miles of trails of Grand Teton National Park in Jackson, its Virginia's counterpart is a hiker's mecca. If you'd prefer to tour the Park sitting down, the renowned Skyline Drive is 105 mile of winding roads through the entire Shenandoah National Park, offering stunning panoramas and ample photo ops.

Besides the trails and views, Shenandoah National Park has lots of other options for outdoorsy activities- just like Jackson Hole. You don't need to be in Wyoming to lasso your inner cowboy spirit- the Shenandoah offers 150 miles of horseback riding trails with guided trail rides departing from Skyland Resort. Cool off with any of the numerous water activities including swimming, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Cyclists are welcome on any of the paved trails, including the picturesque Skyline Drive.

While you can certainly make it a day trip, the Shenandoah also has numerous lodging options in the park including campgrounds, Skyland Resort, Big Meadows Lodge, and Lewis Mountain Cabins. In the peak season, March-November, entry is $15 per vehicle. Really looking to save some $ on your local "Wild West" experience? Visit during National Park Week (April 17-25) and entry is free. Yee haw!

Dream Trip: Walt Disney World

Real Trip: Williamsburg, VA

Distance from DC: 2.5 hours

The Wonderful World of Disney never loses its appeal, but without Mom and Dad paying for a family vacation to Orlando, it sure loses its feasibility. Luckily, you can get all the rides, entertainment, dining, and fun of a Disney trip with a car and a tank of gas. Willliamsburg, VA, located just 2 1/2 hours south of Washington, offers the same theme park thrills with a side of history.

You won't find Mickey Mouse at Williamsburg's Busch Gardens, but you will find something you might appreciate just as much- beer. Owned by Anheuser Busch, the on-site brewery and clydesdale horses are sure to delight beer fans. In addition to ample opportunities to satisfy one's thirst, the theme park also offers plenty of exciting rides including the newest rollercoaster, Griffon, which involves an initial 90 degree drop and a water splash. In addition to their long list of amusement rides, Busch Gardens, like Disney World, boasts a number of shows, including a 4-D pirate show and Kinetix, and acrobatic thrill show. Built around a European theme, the dining options are indicative of a variety of tastes influenced by Germany, France, Ireland, Scotland, and Italy. Of course, they still have the standard amusement park fare of funnel cake and cotton candy- but with more options for discerning tastes as well.

Look online for coupons ahead of time- they are everywhere! And Virginia residents can order a season pass for around $60 for unlimited visits. A great deal if you plan to go more than once!

Busch Gardens isn't the only thing Williamsburg has to offer- Colonial Williamsburg offers visitors the opportunity to experience life during the American Revolution with historical reenactments and live actors serving as living history. The best part about this step back in time? It's free! There's no admission charge to get into what is, essentially, a 300 acre museum including 500 buildings, taverns, and stores restored to their colonial appearance.

Had enough churning butter for one day? Williamsburg is also home to William & Mary College, and the area surrounding the campus offers nightlife and restaurant options perfect for a college student- like budget. Much better prices than you'll find in any of the tourist attractions, no doubt. And, if you still haven't gotten your fill of amusement rides, Water Country USA is also in Williamsburg and offers a wet alternative in the midst of the hot Virginia summer.

With a fuller wallet and a shorter trip home, you won't miss Mickey too much after all.

Dream Trip: Niagara Falls

Real trip: Great Falls, VA

Distance from DC: 25 minutes

If you haven't been near the Canadian border since turning 21, it is likely that one of the things that will lure you back now that you can legally drink in the US is one of the other things you can't get here- Niagara Falls. But, hold on to your passport because you can get a sense of it without leaving the country- or even the beltway. Great Falls Park, located in McLean, VA, is the perfect American alternative.

Offering a whopping 800 acres of unspoiled nature, it's hard to believe that you are only 15 miles outside of the nation's capital. Situated along the Potomac River, the park offers numerous outdoor activity options including hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Observation areas throughout the park give multiple angles for photo ops with the falls as a dramatic background. The 20 foot waterfalls are the steepest of any eastern river, and are impressive enough to pass as the famous Niagara Falls in strategically angled pictures. Fool your friends!

Inspired by Jim and

Pam's Niagara nuptials? Great Falls Park is also a hot wedding spot, with permits available for those wanting to tie the knot in the great outdoors, while still be within a short drive of downtown Washington. For day trippers and the city dwellers, Great Falls Park offers an urban oasis for a mere $5 entry fee per vehicle. Not sure where to go or what to do? The Visitors Center offers maps, information, a bookstore, and even a snack bar. Like the great Niagara Falls, Great Falls straddles a border- the one between Virginia and Maryland. The Maryland Side is part of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park. However, for the most part, the Virginia side offers more services and better views. With designated observation areas, ranger-led programs, miles and miles of hiking trails, and plenty of parking- the only thing missing from the waterfalls on the Virginia side is TLC.

Dream Trip: London, England

Real trip: Georgetown

Distance from DC: Nada!

Known for its high fashion, high tea, and highbrow population, London is a popular destination for sophisticated American travelers. While we share a language, popular culture, and Madonna, London offers a certain perceived level of class not found on this side of the pond. However, if you want to come close, put on your Vineyard Vines and head over to a section of Washington that is too classy even for the Metro- Georgetown.

Like London, shopping is a major activity in Georgetown. And, we're not talking about Walmart and cheap t-shirt shops. Rather, the shops in Georgetown cater to fashionistas eager to flex their plastic. From the shabby chic offerings at Anthropologie to the funky styles of Betsy Johnson, they've got something for every look imaginable. While most of the stores are high-end, you can shop here without blowing your budget. Budget-friendly options in

clude H&M, Gap, Zara, and American Eagle. If you're willing to do a little digging, Second Time Around is a great consignment store where you can get some terrific deals on designer duds. And, Urban Outfitters and J Crew often have some pretty plentiful clearance sections.

If you've ever heard of Amy Winehouse, you know that the British aren't all prim and proper- they can party. And, Georgetown is no exception. As home to Georgetown University, there's no shortage of nightlife catering to both students and young professionals. Just as London's nightlife spectrum ranges from quaint pubs to raucous clubs, Georgetown's bar scene covers everything. From the intimate and elegant Martin's Tavern (where JFK proposed to Jackie) to the glitzy and rowdy waterfront area, there's a little bit of everyone's scene.

Brits have a reputation for having an appreciation for the finer things in life and there's no shortage of fine goods and services in Georgetown. Whether it's fine wine at Bacchus Wine Cellar, gourmet items from Dean & Deluca, or an indulgent cupcake from the famed Georgetown Cupcake, Georgetown can go loafer to loafer with London's hoighty toighty offerings. Still not convinced? Visit the Georgetown University campus, admire the Gothic architecture of the buildings and serene hilltop setting, and try not to think of Harry Potter. And, Healy Hall, the University's signature building, includes a clocktower visible from the famous Key Bridge that connects Georgetown and Virginia, practically a "Little Ben".

Dream Trip: Las Vegas

Real trip: National Harbor, MD

Distance from DC: 20 minutes

If the draw to Sin City is slot machines and gambling, National Harbor won't cut it. But, if you are more interested in everything else Vegas has to offer (and that's a lot), then the glitzy National Harbor is a perfect alternative. The new waterfront development offers fine dining, entertainment, and enough shopping to rival the Strip. Its only lacking poker chips and Elvis impersonators- but with Disney soon joining the neighborhood, anything can happen.

Like it's Nevada counterpart, conventions and meetings comprises majority of the National Harbor's business. The vast Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, which opened in 2008, boasts 2000 guest rooms, 47,000 square feet of meeting space, seven restaurants, and a 20,000 square foot spa. Aiming to lure business travelers away from staying in DC, the National Harbor markets its accessibility (water taxi service to/from Old Town Alexandria and the Nationals Stadium), competitive rates, and brand new facilities. The Gaylord National Resort even runs shuttle service between the National Harbor and both downtown Washington and Reagan National Airport. Besides the Gaylord National, the National Harbor has five other hotels, and the highly-anticipated Disney resort on the way.

You won't find Wayne Newton serenading National Harbor audiences, but there's no shortage of entertainment options. The waterfront location, unlike the desert of Vegas, creates many different opportunities for outdoor activities. The Gaylord National offers jet ski and boat rentals for guests wanting to explore the Potomac and get their sea legs. Bike rentals are also available- perfect for the new bike lane on the Woodrow Wilson bridge leading in to Old Town Alexandria. The water taxi service also offers an alternative mode of transportation for those wanting to check out the restaurants and shopping in Old Town, or catch a Nationals game with a direct ride to the ballpark. Like the famous fountains at the Strip's Bellagio, the Atrium Fountain in the Gaylord National offers nightly shows best viewed from the swanky Belvedere Lobby Bar.

Of course, food is also a big part of any Vegas trip. Like the numerous options offered along the Strip, the National Harbor is quickly becoming a foodie hot spot. In fact, it will be home to this year's Food & Wine Festival in June. Casual and fine dining restaurants are popping up all over National Harbor, with current options ranging from the eco-friendly Elevation Burger to the glamorous Bond 45, there's something for every budget and palate. End the night at one of the many great places to grab a cocktail, minus the infamous Vegas cover charges and guest lists. Kick back in blue jeans with a PBR at Cadillac Ranch, offering great music and a mechanical bull. Or, head to Bobby McKey's, the dueling piano bar that has live music every night of the week. Take the money you would have put into the slots and hit the sweets jackpot with a visit to the ever-popular CakeLove bakery or the newly opened Peeps store. Who needs bottle service when you have sugar-coated marshmallow chicks?

Dream Trip: Napa Valley, CA

Real trip: Charlottesville, VA

Distance from DC: 2.5 hours

Now that St. Patty's Day is over, it's time to get classy again and fill the wine glass. While I adore the beverage, I admit that when presented with a wine list- I generally opt for whatever is cheapest. It is not too long ago that much of my vino came from a box- but I've moved on. However, much like my aspirations to be a foodie, I would like to know more about wine then the price tag. Unfortunately, I have neither the bank account or vacation time to take an official Wine Country vacation to California's famed Napa Valley. I can, however, swing a tank of gas or a train ticket out to lovely Charlottesville, Virginia.

Home to the University of Virginia, designer boutiques, historic buildings, and some of Virginia's best restaurants, the charming town offers the best of both worlds- a vibrant downtown with easy access to the picturesque Virginia countryside. Better yet, if you anticipate taking full advantage of all the wine "tastings", there's no need for a DD. Both Greyhound and Amtrak provide service to Charlottesville from Washington.

Thomas Jefferson is to Charlottesville what Bruce Springsteen is to Freehold, NJ (my hometown)- a local hero. Monticello, Jefferson's estate, remains one of the town's biggest tourist attractions. His impact is apparent just about everywhere you turn, but I'm most appreciative of his contributions to Virginia's wine industry. Since

Jefferson's time, the quality of Virginia wine and number of vineyards has increased. Now known as the Monticello Wine Trail, the numerous wineries in and around Charlottesville are proof that Jefferson's dreams have come true. There are 21 wineries in the Monticello region, and they have been conveniently been grouped geographically into four separate trails. Since most of the vineyards on the trail are just outside of Charlottesville, you'll need to either driver or sign up for one of the many wine tours that depart from the center of town.

If you've dragged a gentleman with you on the wine trail, reward him by ending the day at Charlottesville's classic college bar- Miller's. Best known as the place where the Dave Matthews Band got its start, Miller's is a former drug store that hosts local musicians and fills up quickly every night. Or, if you're interested in a different kind of trail, take advantage of being so close to the Shenandoah National Park and explore one of the many hiking trails off of Skyline Drive. Refuel with dinner at one of the many, many great restaurants downtown. In fact, Charlottesville's restaurant scene has become so renowned that they now offer their very own Restaurant Week, with $26 three-course meals. Wine isn't included, but I think you will have already had your fill. No Franzia in sight.

Dream Trip: Aran Islands, Ireland

Real Trip: Assateague Island, MD

Distance from DC: 3 hours

It's that time of year, when everyone with a green article of clothing in their closet becomes Irish, and Guinness sales go through the roof. While this annual revelry is fun and good for pub business, the celebrations on this side of the pond seem to reinforce the stereotype that Ireland is all about booze and bar brawls. The truth is, the Emerald Isle has more to offer than pubs- and you can get a taste of the other side of I

reland without a passport.

While Dublin offers a bustling city with tons of shops, restaurants, and- of course, pubs- one must venture out of city limits to see the real deal- rolling countryside, herds of sheep crossing the road, and nothing but green for miles and miles. No where is more definitively Irish than the picturesque Aran Islands, located in the Galway Bay off the west coast. Here, the sheep outnumber the people and Gaelic is still the dominant language. Accessible via ferry service, the Aran Islands epitomize traditional Ireland w

ith distinctive Irish charm- and not a "Kiss Me I'm Irish" temporary tattoo in sight.

The secluded shorelines, miles of trails, campsites, and untouched natural beaut

y is reminiscent of a place much closer to home- Assateague Island. Split between Virginia and Maryland, the it provides an option for an island getaway on a tank of gas. The Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park, located on the Maryland side of the island, boasts numerous campsites for both tents and RVs with the the Atlantic Ocean in your front yard. At around $30 a night, this is likely the cheapest oceanfront room with a view you're ever going to get.

No lions and tigers and bears, but you'll likely run into some wild animals during your visit- the wild ponies that make their way to neighboring Chincoteague Island in July for the annual

auction. Like the high population of horses on the Aran Islands, Assateague's wild pony population is upwards of 300. You can catch a glimpse of them roaming the beaches and forests throughout Assateague. If the Tinker spirit moves you, feel free to shout "Tir Na Nog!".

Besides camping and taking in all the natural beauty of Assateague, the Island offers plenty of options for activities. Explore the National Wildlife Refuge on foot or bike via the miles and miles of nature trails. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular ways to travel around the Island, and take it all in. If bird-watching is your thing, this is the place to do that too. You might not come home with a new wool sweater, but this trip will undoubtedly leave you relaxed and refreshed- as long as you don't hit traffic.