Candyland Travel

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TOP 5 LAS VEGAS BUFFETS FOR UNDER $10

Any Las Vegas local will tell you…the best thing about living in Las Vegas are the buffets. And Vegas has scores of them, from the over-the-top elaborate to inexpensive and traditional. Whatever you fancy, Vegas has you covered.

The only problem with Buffettown, USA? Choosing. Short of trying every buffet in town, it is hard to know which are truly “the best”. And, there are undoubtably a variety of way to categorize the different types of buffets and rank them accordingly. For the purposes of this Top 5 list we chose to focus on the three most important factors according to our readers, food quality, food selection, and price.

1. Main Street’s Garden Court Buffet

Main Street’s Garden Court Buffet is our top choice for a number of reasons. Garden Court usually has a vast selection of food to choose from in a variety of different regions. They offer a fresh breakfast spread, ranging from biscuits and gravy to pizza. Little ones won’t be disappointed either, as they offer an mind-numbing amount of sweets, pastries, and ice cream. This is our “go to” buffet when we crave great food and decent prices. *Note: Don’t forget to take your parking ticket with you and get it validated with the Cage Cashier prior to leaving. Parking downtown is no joke, get it comped.

GARDEN COURT BUFFET www.MainStreetCasino.com [phone]

HOURS M-TH 7AM-9PM F-SU 7AM-10PM

BREAKFAST M-F 7-10:30AM $7.99

LUNCH M-F 11AM-3PM $8.99

DINNER SUNDAY 4-10PM $11.99 MONDAY 4-9PM $11.99 TUESDAY 4-9PM $14.99 (BBQ) WEDNESDAY 4-9PM $11.99 THURSDAY 4-9PM $11.99 FRIDAY 4-10PM $25.99 (SEAFOOD) SATURDAY 4-10PM $14.99 (PRIME RIB & SCAMPI)

CHAMPAIGN BRUNCH $11.99 S-SU 7-3PM

2. Green Vally Ranch’s The Feast Buffet

If you want delicious food and quiet ambiance, you have to try The Feast at Green Valley Ranch. Overflowing with all things fresh and scrumptious, The Feast is sure not to disappoint. My favorite meal at The Feast has to be breakfast, where, for only $6.99 I can choose from an array of fresh cut meats, eggs and handmade omelets, bread and bagels, hot and cold cereals, bakery goods, and so much more. Lunch and dinner are also worth trying.

FEAST BUFFET www.GreenValleyRanch.sclv.com 2300 PASEO VERDE PKWY HENDERSON, NV 89052 [phone]

BREAKFAST M-SA 8-10:45AM $7.99

LUNCH M-SA 11AM-3PM $9.99

CLOSED 3-4PM

DINNER M-TH 4-9PM $14.99 FRIDAY 4-9PM $27.99 (SEAFOOD) SATURDAY 4-9PM $17.99 (PRIME RIB & SHRIMP)

CHAMPAIGN BRUNCH SUNDAY 8AM-3PM $15.99

3. Red Rock’s The Feast Buffet

Similar to Green Valley’s The Feast (the resorts are part of the Station Casino’s chain) and worthy of just as much praise, Red Rock’s The Feast is just as delicious and noteworthy as its sister buffet. The only slight difference between the two buffets is the slightly higher price of Red Rock’s Feast, which is usually about $1 more. Choosing between Red Rock and Green Valley simply comes down to your location preference, Summerlin or Green Valley.

FEAST BUFFET www.RedRock.sclv.com 11011 W CHARLESTON BLVD LAS VEGAS, NV 89135 [phone]

BREAKFAST M-SA 8-11AM $6.99

LUNCH M-SA 11AM-3PM $8.99

CLOSED 3-4PM

DINNER SU-TH 4-9PM $13.99 F-SA 4-9PM $17.99 (PRIME RIB & SHRIMP)

CHAMPAIGN BRUNCH SUNDAY 8AM-3PM $13.99

4. South Point’s Garden Buffet

Another local favorite is South Point’s Garden Buffet. In Henderson, just off of the expressway, Garden Buffet is conveniently located and offers a great selection of appetizing choices freshly prepared. Probably the best thing about this buffet, though, has to be the bottomless drink days, including all breakfasts, dinner on Monday and Wednesdays! And, don’t miss Luau nights!

GARDEN BUFFET www.SouthPointCasino.com 9777 S LAS VEGAS BLVD LAS VEGAS, NV 89183 [phone]

BREAKFAST M-F 7-10AM $7.95 (INCL BOTTOMLESS MARYS)

LUNCH M-F 11AM-3PM $9.95

DINNER SU/TUE/THR 4-9PM $14.95 MONDAY 4-9PM $14.95 (BBQ) WEDNESDAY 4-9PM $14.95 (LUAU NIGHT/INCL UNLT MAI TAIS) F-SA 4-10PM $24.95 (INCL 1 GLASS OF WINE)

CHAMPAIGN BRUNCH SUNDAY 8AM-3PM $15.95 (INCL BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS)

5. The Orlean’s French Market Buffet

The Orlean’s French Market Buffet is the priciest of the buffets on the list, but definitely deserving of the praise. Their food is always delicious and fresh, their staff is always courteous, and the selection is always overwhelming. French Market is great for those that like a lot of variety and at a reasonable price. French Market Buffet is also ideal for those staying on the strip, but that don’t want to pay “strip buffet” prices. They also offer a reasonable all day pass you’ll want to purchase if you will be eating one meal at French Market.

FRENCH MARKET BUFFET www.OrleansCasino.com 4500 W TROPICANA LAS VEGAS, NV 89103 [phone]

BREAKFAST M-SA 8-10AM $9.99

LUNCH M-SA 11AM-3PM $11.99

DINNER SU-TH 4-9PM $18.99 (PRIME RIB & SHRIMP) F-SA 4-9PM $25.99 (SEAFOOD)

CHAMPAIGN BRUNCH SUNDAY 8AM-3PM $20.99

ALL DAY PASS M-TH $28 F-SU $31

So if you’re looking to venture off the strip and visit some of the local’s favorite buffets, try one of these spots…you won’t be disappointed (especially since you will save a ton of cash).

**INSIDER TIP: Do want to pay the higher lunch or dinner price? Simply arrive at the buffet 15-30 minutes prior to the meal switch and you will pay the previous meal’s price. As long as you pay before the next meal starts you receive the lower price. If you time this right you have both breakfast and lunch to choose from.

…DON’T FORGET YOUR PLAYER’S CARD! If you don’t have one, get one. It entitles you to the above listed discount prices.

Have a favorite Vegas buffet? Let us know about it! We’d love to hear the great places you’ve tried, or even the places you avoid. Let us know in the comment section below

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"Peace cannot be kept by force, it can only be achieved through understanding." -Albert Einstein

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Why I Love LA: The Last Bookstore

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Ready to Travel to Diagon Alley?

Although Universal Studios has not officially released a Grand Opening date for their newest addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Diagon Alley, the hype has definitely begun. Allowing USA today cameras behind the scenes, viewers are given a sneak peak at the long anticipated Diagon Alley.

After watching the video we're sure you can't wait to take your family, just be cautious when choosing your travel dates. Despite the large amount of press it is receiving, Universal Studios has yet to confirm the exact opening date of the new park. Luckily, there are a handful of people tracking the

park's progress

and providing up-to-date guesses as to when the park will open, that can help make vacation planning slightly easier. 

Another addition to the Universal Vacations family is the newest partner hotel the Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This hotel boasts two huge pools with a lazy river coming soon, pool bar, countless cabanas, a bowling alley, arcade, and several on-site dining options.

We can't wait to visit Universal's newest additions. Updates, pictures, and video to follow.

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Disneyland Has Yet Another Price Increase

As travel agents we obviously have a lot of clients that visit Disney's many parks regularly. However, with Disney's recent price increase it is a wonder so many fans stay loyal to the brand. As far as quality of parks, most of our clients would agree that Universal Studios, the slightly lesser priced adjacent parks in both LA and Orlando, far exceed the Disney parks. It seems that most families visit the Disney parks more out of childhood nostalgia than for what Disney parks offer visitors in comparison to other theme parks.

If you are in LA or Orlando and are choosing between Disney or Universal, we would highly recommend visiting Universal Studios theme parks. That is, unless you have small children or die-hard Disney fans. We often hear complaints that Disney does not keep up with their rides and parks as well as Universal and the Six Flags parks. We have personally noticed famous rides such as "It's a small world" and the "Peter Pan" ride in desperate need of repainting and fixing. We haven't yet visited these parks this year, so we'll be sure to update you with some pictures and video footage.

Another great bonus of the Universal Parks is the front-of-the-line access for those staying at one of their partner hotels. The benefit of this bonus cannot be stressed enough. If you've ever stood in line at a theme park you know, it sucks! This allows a limited number of guests front of the line access. For this reason, and this reason alone, we stay at a Universal partner hotel every time we visit Orlando. It saves us countless hours spent standing in line. By the time other families are jumping on their third ride our family had ridden every ride at least twice and are headed toward the awesome hotel pools! 

There is truly no other way to visit a theme park and it will spoil you. You will never have the patience to stand in line again. That being said, Disney does offer a somewhat similar bonus for Disney hotel patrons. Sorta, but not really. They have what they call "Extra Magic Hours" at their parks. Which simply means that one or two Disney parks are open an extra couple hours only to hotel guests. But they have a lot of hotels. And this often means getting the kids up at 6 am to be at the park in time to race to stand in line with other Disney hotel patrons for an hour before the regular gates open.

We'd love to hear your thoughts and recent vacation experiences with any of the theme parks, especially Disney and Universal. Are these theme parks still worth it? Do you still visit them or have you and your family found fun alternatives?

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Swanky Girl's Guide to LA: The Flower District Ever wondered where to get mom the best flowers in LA at wholesale prices? We have the Industry secrets on when and where to  get the freshest, most beautiful flowers for Mother's Day in LA.

Did you know the LA Flower District is open 24 hours a day for Mother's Day?

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FOOD CORNER

DINING IN THE MARINA

Restaurant: The Warehouse

Type: Seafood

Rating: 8.5/10.0

You'll immediately feel the marina's ambiance as soon as you pull into the parking lot. Have some cash on you thought because their parking is valet only which can seem a bit annoying because they have their own private parking lot and very easy for you to park your own car, but we were there on a weekday lunch. Perhaps, on their busier nights it seems more beneficial.

But you'll soon forget the parking situation as you walk through looming palm trees and thick flora, the wooden deck creaking quietly under your footsteps. As you continue to make your way closer to the entrance, you'll find yourself being trailed below by some beautiful koi and other fish companions. If you're as captivated by the stellar little ecosystem as we were, you won't miss the turtles either. If you end up waiting for a table, you'll have an excellent place to linger and enjoy.

The inside keeps up the nautical theme perfectly with a vintage elevator to the second floor, wooden crates, dashes of plant-life, and naval artifacts.

The staff was exceptionally friendly and offered us a table on their outside deck. It was a tad chilly so we declined, but with the right temperature and the right timing, you can score a Cali sunset and bobbing sailboat collection as your dessert. Basically...stunning.

Feeling in the burger mood, my girlfriend ordered the Warehouse Tenderloin Burger, and I ordered its seafood equivalent, the Alaskan Salmon Burger. Both were tender and delicious to the last bite. The buns were fresh, and the fries were crisp. We had planned on getting some dessert after seeing our neighboring table receive huge ice cream chocolatey desserts, but the burgers are super filling. As tasty as they were, I do think that they are a little overpriced ($12-13, I've had better for less.), and if you go for dinner, expect to drop more, but it may be worth it if you happen to go on an entertainment night. Salsa dancing to standup comedy? Take your pick! (Event Calendar)

Overall, The Warehouse provides a great dining experience whether you're bringing the family or indulging in one of their Sunset Dinner Specials. If you're a fan of great seafood, this is the place for you.

Be sure to follow us on twitter and instagram! @candylandtravel

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THE FOOD CORNER

SUSHI SUNDAYS!

Restaurant: Rock N Roll Sushi

Type: Sushi

Rating: 7.0/10.0

Don't you hate it when you have those late-night sushi cravings? We feel your pain, and we can help you out.

Rock N Roll Sushi is your savior. After 4PM and until 2AM, they tuck away their regular prices (which are a little steep in contrast to other local favorites of ours) and present their Happy Hour menu to you, all the same sushi choices and select alcoholic beverages HALF OFF.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Well, they've gotta be pretty darn pricey if they can offer half off sushi every night." I won't argue you on that. At their regular price hours, Rock N Roll Sushi wouldn't be my first recommendation, but the food is certainly flavorful enough, the staff is extremely friendly, and if you're lucky to land a booth by the window or snag an outside table on the balcony, coming here at night is definitely worth it.

The sushi is fresh and the hand-cut rolls are pretty big. Plus, the miso soup is probably the best I've had in LA, not too salty with yummy bits of tofu. The California Roll is pretty small, so it's a great one to start off with, especially for the first-timers (Yes, everything in it is cooked.). Their Crunchy Roll is our favorite tempura roll, but if you want to try a little variation, their Calamari Tempura Roll is also very good. Occasionally, their rolls are not as firmly pressed and look like they're coming undone before my sloppy chopstick-handling has even touched them, but overall, the presentation is nicely artistic.

And don't worry about being rushed out of the door when you're leaning back and enjoying the view of flickering house lights of Laurel Canyon as its resident fall to sleep. The staff here will happily clear your table and let you savor the meal and those last few swigs of wine without that feeling that you need to leave.

One thing though, I happened to stumble across this hidden gem after looking at its neighbor, Crunch Fitness, for a possible gym membership because crazily, when you try searching for Rock N Roll Sushi on your smartphone Google Maps, it doesn't show up. That being said, it's also unfortunate that they do not have a website, but trust us, they've got all the sushi you can dream of.

All in all, Rock N Roll Sushi is an excellent place to end your night with, whether it be a post-movie date idea or a girl's night out. Aesthetically pleasing and sushi-popping, you'll be sure to impress with this suggestion.

**X marks the spot! Here's their address: 2nd floor terrace at 8000 West Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90046-2439

Be sure to follow us on twitter and instagram: @candylandtravel

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India Bans Dolphin Shows and Creates Cetacean Bill of Rights

As an Animal-friendly agency, we have long been supporters of campaigns to end the captivity of animals. We have taken a stance against animal abuse and have refused to support any tours, excursions, hotels, or agents that participate in animal captivity and abuse. One area of animal exploitation that many people are just now becoming aware of is the use of marine animals for entertainment. You can imagine our excitement, then, when we read that India has declared dolphins and whales non-human persons.

In the wake of Blackfish, a documentary about the cruel reality behind Seaworld's animal exploitation, many people have taken action and refused to contribute to the continued exploitation and abuse of these wondrous creatures. For decades, corporations have systematically made millions by exploiting dolphins and whales for entertainment. These animals are forced to perform daily, are often abused and neglected, all while being kept in tanks that are not sufficient for their size and numbers.This inhumanity has not only caused harm to the animals, but has also put the safety of those that come in contact with these animals at risk. From trainers being killed to patrons being injured, it is clear that these animals do not enjoy being held captive and forced to perform.

One country that refuses to sit idly by as these animals are exploited, is India. In an unprecedented act, India's Ministry of Environment and Forests (MEF) has declared dolphin and whales non-human persons and banned their captivity. India's MEF have even gone so-far-as to create a Declaration of Rights for Cetaceans. Among the rights granted are the right to life and freedom. They contend that these animals shall not be exploited by corporations or individuals for profit and grant them many of the same basic rights as humans. We applaud India for their bold stance against animal cruelty and hope that this is only the first among many steps toward freedom for all animals in captivity.

To learn more we suggest you check out organizations like The World Society for the Protection of Animals, Plight of the Capitve Dolphins.

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CANDYLAND TRAVEL turned 3 today!

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Destination: Grand Floridian Resort, Walt Disney world

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Le Méridien Bora Bora has glass-bottom floors, ideal for nighttime fish gazing.

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Destination Spas: the Ultimate Vacation

Looking for an escape that will tantalize your senses, alleviate stress, and help you achieve your life goals? If you're in the mood for something different, that will allow you a moment of tranquility and inner peace, you should consider a Destination Spa Vacation.

These unique experiences and completely customizable to your preferences and are in the most exotic, beautiful, and serene locations across the globe. These All-inclusive resorts offer first class dining, unparalleled activities, lavish spas, superior accommodations, and much more. Many of these resorts also offer Wellness Programs that are customizable to your particular needs and goals. Destination Spas are a great place to get started on a new goal or rejuvenate an old one.

Destination Spas are unlike any vacation you've experienced in the past. Many of these resorts work within local farmers to purchase fresh, organic food for guests, and make every effort to be as green as possible and maintain Eco-friendly properties. They are often holistic and focus on the a better quality of life for visitors. Many work with weight loss counselors, therapists, personal trainers, yogis, and various other health and wellness professionals. Outside of goal planning, there are a range of classes and activities available to guests, ranging from yoga to rock climbing. Guests are typically provided with a packet of services available to them both included in their package, as well as those options available at an additional cost.

Spa vacations can range from lavish and indulgent to fitness focused; the experience you choose is up to you. And, like the properties themselves, the package prices vary significantly, so even those with the tightest of budgets can afford the vacation of a lifetime! Many resorts also offer hefty discounts for return guests, as well as to those that bring a family member or friend. Spa Vacations are perfect for Bachelorette party trips, mother & daughter getaways, and even solo adventures.

If you are interested in learning more about Destination Spa Vacations and which properties might help you reach your personal goals, please visit our site or call us directly.

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Why We Boycott Mega-Ship Cruise Lines

As citizens of the planet, as well as travel planners that work to provide others the opportunity to experience this vast and spectacular wonderland of Earth, we are dedicated to maintaining a low-carbon footprint and providing services that are Eco-friendly. Unfortunately, for the avid mega-line cruiser, this may be annoying and even prevent them from booking their wedding or vacation with us. We apologize to those travelers in advance for any inconvenience this may cause them and are disappointed to lose their business. However, we are so overwhelmingly disappointed by the environmental impact that some companies within the travel industry are having, we refuse to support them in any way.

After reviewing the impact the Cruise Line Industry is having on the environment we have chosen not to promote, nor provide services for any of the major cruise lines. While we are aware of the recent changes made by many lines to become more environmentally friendly, the EPA standards are set so incredibly low to exceed them means little to the environment.

Sadly, while these cruise lines are meeting and exceeding EPA standards, coral reefs are disappearing, tons of "black water" or sewage is being pumped into the ocean, and more pollutants than that of between 12,000 and 350,000 automobiles (based on the size of the ship) is being pumped into the air, According to Resource UK. These articles point out the undeniable and alarming havoc these mega-liners are inflicting on the planet and it is impossible to contribute to them in good faith.

We will, however, continue to work with cruise lines that are committed to providing services that are Eco-friendly. We have relationships with a variety of cruise lines across the globe that are environmentally conscious and responsible. We hope you, too, will join us in Boycotting Mega-Ship Cruiselines, especially those that EPICALLY FAILED Friends of the Environment's Annual Cruise Line Report Card, such as Carnival, Silversea, and Celebrity Cruises, to name just a few.

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RECORD STORE DAY

April 19, 2014

Happy Record Store Day everybody! Being recent transplants to Los Angeles, my girlfriend and I were excited to participate in Record Store Day. Not knowing what to expect, we didn't make it out to the first store until 11AM. To all you future-first-timers, if you want to secure you walk home with the vinyls you really want, we suggest you get ready to spend your early wee-hour morning in line. Selections go down exponentially after the doors open.

Though we didn't make any purchases, we still had fun visiting these three record stores:

1) Vacation Vinyl: 3815 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026

A fairly small store off Sunset in SilverLake, but don't let that fool you. The staff was supremely friendly and in a celebratory mood. A steady flow of customers kept Vacation busy, but things never got backed up or overcrowded. Record Store Day vinyl releases were nicely displayed right in front of the store so customers knew exactly what was left in stock after the morning rush. Very nice, and we plan on visiting back.

2) RockAway Records: 2395 Glendale Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90039

Not too far from Vacation Vinyl, you'll find this little hidden treasure. If you like The Beatles, you'll definitely feel at home here. There's a huge inflatable Yellow Submarine hanging from the ceiling as well as tons of other really awesome vintage memorabilia for sale. Their Beatles vinyl sections is the biggest we've seen so far. But if you're not a Beatles fan, no worries. RockAway has tons of other great selections. Very little Record Store Day releases left, but we took that as a good sign. A pretty popular spot that is a must see.

3) Amoeba Music: 6400 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

This wasn't our first time visiting Amoeba Music. In fact, we've made a lot of purchases from there before. We expected it to be packed even at 4 o'clock, and it was. As soon as we walked in, the heavy buzz of customers whizzing through aisles of endless records sang in the air. After navigating the store a bit, we still couldn't find the Record Store Day releases. When I asked an associate passing by where I could locate them, she grudgingly told me there was a line on the other side of the store waiting to see what was left. What struck me was how righteous she was. She didn't even make eye contact nor stopped walking; she just moved passed me as swiftly as possible like I was annoying her. I shrugged it off, and we followed her directions to where the line was forming. Another associate was standing with a huge "End of the Line" sign. Now, the line was long, and they had the Record Store Day release section blocked off so we couldn't see what was available still. My girlfriend asks the girl for an idea of what was left because we weren't about to stand in a line if there wasn't anything worth waiting for. AGAIN, we were met with a frustrated attitude like this was knowledge we should already have. We're not psychic nor do we have Superman eyesight, reading the titles of vinyls a dozen aisles away from us. We decided to just leave at that point, disappointed by the sour moods of Amoeba's employees. This is your Christmas, for goodness sake! Although, Amoeba is the biggest record store you'll find in LA, customer service is still something to think about when choosing where to shop.