Take wing to scenic locations
HOLIDAY destinations in the United States are a long plane ride away, but it is possible to enjoy a visit on an extended weekend break.
Just two hours east of Los Angeles, in California, is Palm Springs. Most visitors ride the aerial tram up Mount San Jacinto for a panoramic, and chilly, view. It is also easy to take a jeep tour.
Florida boasts Sanibel island, which is actually two islands, Sanibel and Captiva.
Sanibel, connected by causeway to the mainland, is famous for its shell-strewn beaches and a wildlife refuge featuring alligators and egrets.
The famous South Seas Plantation is on Captiva, with its unique attraction, the ''Sun Kats'' - floating lounge chairs with propellers.
Honolulu has a reputation for being touristy, but as the visitor floats in the warm waters off Waikiki beach, it will feel like paradise.
Then there's Mexico and the resort of Ixtapa, which manages to mix stretches of white sand beach with some modern developments, a golf course and a marina.
There are also opportunities to go fishing, snorkelling or para-sailing.
