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Save Up to 66% Off Sailing Adventures in Costa Rica & the Caribbean

I was telling a friend recently how much fun Star Clippers’ tall ship sailing adventures are. Then I spotted this great travel deal and had to share…

Trade your scarves and shovels this fall and winter for balmy breezes and palm-fringed shorelines with a tropical getaway to the Caribbean and Costa Rica aboard a glorious tall ship. On select seven-night sailings from November through March aboard all three Star Clipper ships, guests can take advantage of exceptional savings and book a SetSail cruise-only rate starting at just $1,299 per person, double occupancy. That represents 66 percent off brochure rates. 

 

Bookings must be made by Nov. 15, 2012, to take advantage of these savings, so don’t wait until the snow starts to fall to reserve your cabin. 

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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FAMILY TRAVEL: Kids Fly, Stay & Eat for Free in Costa Rica

Keep it all in the family this summer with Nature Air and Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality Family Travel Package.

From young eco-minded adventurers to more senior explorers who like a little pampering, Costa Rica has what it takes to cater to multi-generational families looking for more bang for their buck. During the Green Season (May to December) kids 12 years and under fly for free on any of Nature Air’s 74 daily  flights to 15 destinations across the country, AND stay and eat for free at some of the top eco-luxury accommodations in Central America.

Partnering with Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality, a company that manages a number of Earth-friendly lodges, hotels and inns in the Central American region, carbon-neutral Nature Air allows families to economically combine city stays with rainforest adventures, mountain and beach getaways for this summer’s vacation in one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in the world.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Save On Flights Across The U.S.

Whether you’re planning a family trip or a romantic getaway, American Airlines and American Eagle are offering some great deals with airfares as low as $87*, but you must purchase your tickets by May 31, 2012, to save. 

 
• Take off to cities across the U.S.
• Travel June 9 through October 30, 2012
• Purchase your ticket by Thursday, May 31, 2012
*Prices are each way, based on round-trip purchase.
Taxes included; conditions apply.

 

Learn more at AA.com

Source: American Airlines.

 

 

About Ellen Barone: Consumer travel expert Ellen Barone is the founder and publisher of TravelUpdatesbyEllenBarone.com and YourLifeIsATrip.com. Learn more here and connect on Twitter at,FacebookGoogle+ and LinkedIn.

 

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Celebrate National Park Week With Summer Savings On Bike Raft Adventures

I’ve got a serious crush on our National Parks and now, Holiday River Expeditions, for choosing to celebrate National Park Week by making it easier, and cheaper, for travelers to enjoy one of their National Park rafting and biking adventures this summer.

Where Canyonlands National Park and Dinosaur National Monument.

Why go Ultimate access to the hidden treasures of our national parks.

The experience Adventure, exhilaration, natural history, kids activities, delicious meals, impeccable gear and expert guides. 

Deal details Book select Cataract Canyon Rafting,  Combo Cataract Rafting & White Rim Trail Mt Biking, Yampa River or Combo Yampa Bike & Raft trips and save $200 OFF the Adult Fare. Or if you just want the ultimate mountain biking adventure you can save $100 OFF the Adult Rate on their White Rim Trail Mt Biking trip. National Parks Week Special Ends April 27, 2012.  

For booking and information, visit http://www.bikeraft.com/great-deals/

 

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Spring Special at Lake Yellowstone Hotel Cabins

Spring in Yellowstone National Park means the arrival of newborn wildlife and colorful wildflowers and a discounted price on Frontier Cabins at the Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins. Concessioner Xanterra Parks & Resorts has reduced the rate on Frontier Cabins to $99 through May 24. The Lake Yellowstone Hotel opens for the summer season May 11.

Built in the 1920s, all of the Frontier Cabins have been renovated within the last few years. All cabins – some freestanding and others duplex-style units – include two double beds and a private bathroom with a shower. The cabins, normally priced at $135 per night, are just a short walk from the main hotel building.

The cabin discount occurs in advance of the park’s busiest months of June, July and August and is a good choice for travelers who prefer to visit the park when there are fewer visitors. 

Springtime in Yellowstone is also a popular time for wildlife viewing because it is when newborn elk and bison calves, wolf pups, bear cubs and other animals make their debuts.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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SAINT LUCIA: Spring Savings Just In Time for Easter & Mother's Day

Looking to relax and unwind with a Caribbean escape this Spring that won’t break the bank? Take advantage of value-packed specials at Bay Gardens Resorts this Spring for Easter, Mother’s Day and Saint Lucia Jazz at two of its three Saint Lucia properties - The Bay Gardens Hotel and Bay Gardens Inn.

Nestled in the heart of Saint Lucia’s entertainment capital, Rodney Bay Village, both properties offer superior accommodations, traditional Caribbean cuisine, and the finest in service and hospitality. Within walking distance of the world famous Reduit Beach, dozens of restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and the recently opened Treasure Bay Casino, Bay Gardens is perfectly situated to offer the best of what Saint Lucia has to offer.

Celebrate Easter, Mother’s Day and Saint Lucia Jazz on a Budget at Bay Gardens Hotel and Inn.

Easter Savings

Easter is a great time for a family escape. Bay Gardens Hotel and Bay Gardens Inn doubles the fun for parents and children with their Easter Savings package where children under 16 stay for free. Mom and dad can receive a Couples Massage at La Mer Spa or a romantic three-course dinner at the Trios Caribbean Fusion Restaurant, both located at Bay Gardens Beach Resort & Spa, including complimentary babysitting service. Children can take part in a day of fun with an Easter egg hunt, special Easter Sunday Brunch at the Beach Resort, and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Rates for a five night package start at US$689 for a family of four in a Superior room including daily Caribbean buffet breakfast – a savings of 60 percent.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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SPRING SKIING DEALS: Save On Lodging and Lift Tickets

Hit the slopes and save with these late season package deals from resorts in some of North America’s top ski destinations.

Perfect for spring breakers looking to save on lodging and lift tickets. 

1.       Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa, Avon, Colorado - With the Sunshine on Sale package, make a reservation before April 15, 2012, at Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa and get an extra night of luxurious accommodations for FREE at the magnificent chateau-style Vail resort.

2.       Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole, Wyoming – The luxurious ski-in/ski-out Four Seasons Resort in Wyoming’s Teton Mountains features world-class dining, full-service spa retreat, unforgettable service & signature amenities, along with incredible access to epic ski terrain & winter adventures. With their Ski Jackson Hole package, guests booking a minimum of two night stay at the resort will receive daily lift tickets for two

3.       Four Seasons Resort Whistler, British Columbia, Canada –  With easy access to the slopes at Whistler Blackcomb, featuring exceptional dining experiences, lively après ski scene, a rejuvenating spa & endless outdoor adventures, the Four Seasons Resort Whistler is offering free daily lift tickets for two with their Ski Whistler Package.  Minimum of two nights stay at the resort required.

4.       Destination® Hotels & Resorts Mountain Collection – Save up to 40% off your stay at select properties within the DH&R mountain collection, including Aspen, Snowmass, Squaw Valley, Stowe Mountain, Tahoe, Telluride and Vail. The sale is exclusive to Destination Delivers loyalty program members, which is free to join.

 

About Ellen Barone: Consumer travel expert Ellen Barone is the founder and publisher of EllenBarone.com and YourLifeIsATrip.com. Learn more here and connect on Twitter at,FacebookGoogle+ and LinkedIn.

 

 

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Last Minute Zambia Safari Deal from Wildland Adventures

Last minute deal for an African Safari? No single supplement?  Too good to be true?

Wildland Adventures offers amazing deal for green season safari to Zambia

For travelers who can pack their bags and take advantage of last minute deals, Wildland Adventures is offering a six-night green season safari to Zambia for just US$2995.00 per person with no single supplement for single travelers, a savings of more than $1,000 per person. The one caveat is that travel must take place prior to March 31, 2012.  

 

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Free Admission To National Parks

Start your new year with a free visit to a national park! All 397 national parks across the country will offer free admission from January 14 - 16 to commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, plus 14 other days in 2012.

You can literally walk in Dr. King’s footsteps at Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site  in Georgia, the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trailnbsp; in Alabama, or the Lincoln Memorial

Other parks that will hold special events honoring Dr. King that weekend include the new Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, DC, Morristown National Historical Park in New Jersey, Fort Donelson National Battlefield in Tennessee, and Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, DC.

“Dr. King led the fight to realize his dream of a nation free of discrimination, where every citizen was able to enjoy the inalienable rights promised to all Americans,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis.  “Dr. King’s story and those of so many others whose efforts changed our country are preserved in the national parks, places where history happened.  I hope every American can take advantage of the upcoming fee free weekend and visit their parks to experience their history firsthand.”

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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PACK YOUR WOOLIES: Winter Deals From 4 Top North American Ski Resorts

Tis’ the season for a winter adventure. Hit the slopes and save with these package deals from resorts in some of North America’s top ski destinations.

1. Sign up for the The Best of Winter in Four Days Flat package at Moonlight Basin in Big Sky, Montana, and get three nights lodging, two days of resort skiing, one day of self-guided snowshoeing with free snowshoe rentals, a day of dog sledding, and a round of happy hour drinks, for up to four people. Offering a vast amount of terrain and an escape from long lift lines, this ski resort in Montana’s Rocky Mountains combines luxury with affordable rates and features an exceptional spa, dining options & a variety of lodging, along with the Biggest Skiing in America.

2.  At the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole in Wyoming, their five-day and five-night skiing/snowboarding Ultimate Untracked Trio includes resort skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain, snowcat skiing, back-country skiing, and heli-skiing. The luxurious ski-in/ski-out resort in Wyoming’s Teton Mountains features world-class dining, full-service spa retreat, unforgettable service & signature amenities, along with incredible access to epic ski terrain & winter adventures.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Can't Afford A Vacation? Yes You Can. 5 Ways To Save For Travel.

“I’d love a vacation, but I just can’t afford it.”  

I hear this often. I’ve said it myself. But even as the words are rolling off my lips, I know it’s a lie.

Do I really need $4 lattes? 700 TV channels? Another pair of shoes?

Could I pay my monthly bills with an airline credit card and use points to fly free?

Are there off-season deals, vacation packages, or wallet-friendly destinations I’m not considering?

Talk to travelers - wealthy and not, employed and unemployed, boomers and backpackers - and more than likely they’ll tell you that saving for travel is easier than you think. 

Think you can’t afford to travel? Think again. Check out these insider tips in my recent article: 5 Ways to Save For Your Next Vacation

Better yet, how do you save for travel? Share your advice below. 

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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FAMILY GETAWAY: Enjoy Up To $100 Daily Resort Credit With The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa Love Your Family Package

Families who plan their next family escape with The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa through December 31, 2011 will enjoy:

  • Guaranteed connecting rooms or suite where available
  • Up to a $100 daily resort credit
  • Rates from $289 per night

Book online, or call 866-716-8147 and reference rate code FAM50 or FAM100.

Now kids 12 and under can enjoy food and drink on an all-inclusive basis during your stay. learn more

click here to learn about the family activities at the westin hilton head island resort & spa

click here for more special offers.

 

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Get in Shape and Save 25% at New Luxury Wellness Retreat at Nisbet Plantation

Here’s a budget-friendly last-minute travel deal perfect for anyone looking to get away, get in shape, and get a great deal.  

As part of the launch of a new line of luxury, all-inclusive wellness retreats offered by Purescapes at Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, guests can save 25 percent on the first week-long retreat held November 5 – 12, 2011.

The week-long retreats are tailored to each individual and combine cardio and strength training, yoga, organic cuisine and cultural exploration on the island of Nevis.

Read on for details…

Far away from everyday stresses on a tranquil white sand beach on the unspoiled island of Nevis, the acclaimed Caribbean resort is an ideal setting for the first Purescapes Caribbean wellness retreat. Amid this paradise, guests can reconnect with nature and revitalize their well-being.

Ideal for beginners and athletes, the Purescapes Wellness Retreat at Nisbet Plantation is designed to introduce positive life changes by teaching guests how to eat properly, move effectively and improve their overall health. A well-balanced agenda includes:

 

·          Morning yoga on the resort’s white sand beach

·          Outdoor fitness classes with cardio workouts and strength training

·          Island excursions such as kayaking, mountain biking and hiking to explore the beauty of Nevis

·          One-on-one coaching from fitness and nutrition experts

·          Time to relax with a massage or afternoon swim in the oceanfront pool

·          Local natural and organic cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Costa Rica Travel Deals and Flight Specials from Nature Air

Since 2004, Nature Air, based in San Jose, Costa Rica, has been synonymous with a 100% carbon neutral aviation program. Now, from unlimited flight passes, to free flights for kids, and convenient fly-drive packages, they’re offering some pretty tempting wallet-friendly travel deals to help you save big on your next adventure. Read on for details.

 

Nature Air Unlimited Flight Pass

1 week pass for unlimited domestic flights: $222 with taxes included
2 weeks (15 days) pass for unlimited domestic flights: $399 with taxes included

For use before Nov. 30, 2011. Learn more>>

 

Special Deals for Family Vacations

Up to two children 12-years-old and under fly free, when traveling with two adults that pay round trip FLEX fare. Save on your entire vacation when staying with participating hotels that are offering free stays for children.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Save in St. Kitts with Fall and Winter Hotel and Island-Wide Deals

With the official start of autumn behind us and winter on its way, the Caribbean island of St. Kitts is encouraging travelers not to let their vacation planning “fall” through the cracks by offering some wallet-friendly fall and winter deals, plus a “Fall in Love with St. Kitts & Nevis” value-added program designed to help visitors save on their stay.

Here are a few of the offers from individual hotels now available on St. Kitts:

  • Bird Rock Beach Hotel – Low season rates begin at just $90 per room, per night based on double occupancy from now through December 19, 2011.  Plus, on stays of at least 4 consecutive nights, the 5th night is free. 
  • Ocean Terrace Inn – From now through November 30, 2011, the property’s “August Specials” provide three low-cost options for accommodations: Room only rate of $89 based on single occupancy; Room only rate of $100 based on double occupancy with up to 2 kids 12 and under able to stay free; or a Bed & Breakfast rate of $118 for a standard room based on double occupancy with up to 2 kids 12 and under able to stay free.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Groups Save Big On Utah and Idaho River and Bike Trips

Vacationing with friends and family is a great way to spend quality time together. And it doesn’t hurt when the company your clan chooses to travel with says thank you with hard cash savings. 

Wondering where to go next year? For adventurers who plan ahead, here’s a wallet-friendly group deal* that does just that. 

Book 12 people on one of Holiday Expeditions’ 2012 Utah and Idaho River or Bike trips by October 31st and you’ll save 20% off 2011 rates. 

To learn more, call 800-624-6323 or visit their website at www.BikeRaft.com.  

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Fall In Love With Savings On Breezes Resorts & Spas Super-Inclusive Autumn Getaways

Book by September 30 to Save Up to 55 Percent Off Breezes Resorts & Spas in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Curacao

 

The summer months may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the sun and fun have to fade too. At Breezes Resorts & Spas, guests can look forward to bright days ahead with savings of up to 55 percent on travel through December 23 at properties in Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Curacao when booked by September 30.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Enjoy End-of-Summer Special Savings at One of Mexico’s Top-Rated Resorts

Head to one of Mexico’s most exclusive beach spa resorts and enjoy the last remaining days of summer with special savings from Ceiba del Mar, an award-winning property in Mexico’s exotic Riviera Maya.

Now through the end of September, spend one night at the boutique Ceiba del Mar and get the second night free. Accommodations include 88 plush and intimate ocean-view rooms and suites, including junior and master suites with private terraces and a penthouse with a plunge pool. Each guest residence at Ceiba del Mar is beautifully decorated with Mexican painted tiles and hardwood furnishings from Guadalajara. Room and suite amenities include:

A balcony or terrace and hammock.

Large sitting areas.

Walk-in showers and separate bathtubs.

Organic bath products.

Complimentary wireless Internet.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Hawaii Fall Fare Sale from Alaska Airlines

Low fares starting at $149* from the West Coast

 

Alaska Airlines launched a sale today with low fares to Hawaii from several West Coast cities and Alaska. One-way fares start at $149* from the West Coast and $179* from Alaska.

Tickets must be purchased by Aug. 22 for travel starting Aug. 23 from the state of Alaska and beginning Sept. 12, 2011, from the West Coast. Travel must be completed by Oct. 31 from Alaska and Dec. 13, 2011, from the West Coast.

Sample one-way fares* between:
  • Anchorage, Alaska, and Honolulu $179
  • Bellingham, Wash., and Honolulu $149
  • Oakland, Calif., and Kauai$189
  • Portland, Ore., and Honolulu $179
  • San Diego and Maui $189
  • San Jose, Calif., and Kona $189

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".

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Galapagos Winter Break For Under $2000 From ROW Adventures

For those of you who don’t believe the old saying, “once in a lifetime opportunity,” this offer from ROW Adventures may make you want to reconsider…

Check out this wonderful 6 and 7-day trip aboard the M/S Encantada to the Galapagos Islands with adventure travel company ROW Adventures on highly-desirable winter vacation dates, December 24th and 28th. The 6-day trip is priced at just $1890 and the 7-day trip is only $2080 per person*. It’s the perfect way to spend your winter break. *Round-trip airfare from Ecuador to the Islands is included along with two hotel nights in Guayaquil. Booking deadline August 25, 2011.

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Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".