WARMING UP -----AAA MIDWEST TRAVELER ---SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2005

MAKE PLANS NOW FOR A WINTER VACATION WHERE YOU CAN DANGLE YOUR FEET IN THE GULF OR WARM YOUR TOES NEXT TO A FIRE AT A MIDWEST INN OR HOTEL.
BYTHERESARUSSELL

With autumn comes cooler temperatures, a welcomed change from a Midwest summer's heat and humidity. While enjoying sweater weather and biting into crisp apples, remember that Old Man Winter is around the corner. When cold weather hits, you may want to warm up in front of an inn's fireplace or find a tropical getaway and seek respite from sleet, snow and northern winds. Now is the time to start making your winter travel plans.

WARM AND EXOTIC
Deep in the south of Texas, McAllen has quickly earned its reputation as a premier birding destination. In fact, the nine World Birding Center facilities throughout the Rio Grande Valley attract thousands of migrating birds and birdwatchers. The center in McAllen is scheduled to open in October. Feathered finds aren't the only draw here, as many butterflies migrate through this area.
Located on city park property where deer, antelope and javelina once roamed, the Casa de Palmas Hotel (101N. Main St.) reflects typical Spanish style architecture with red roofing tiles and a stucco exterior. Palms border the whitewashed walls and large expanses highlight the entry into the hotel. The Casa de Palmas is an oasis in the heart of the valley and a destination for many snowbirds.
The Caribbean is a favorite destination for sun worshippers, and the United States Virgin Islands offer them comfort and security. St. Croix is the largest of the three islands and has many places for warming up.
Right on the harbor in Christiansted, the Hotel Caravelle is convenient to beaches, excursions and restaurants. Built in a simple colonial style, the hotel attracts many Danish visitors, as well as Americans. Friendly people and easy access to the island's amenities make it easy for guests to leave the rooftop pool area and see some of the sights.
Traveling to the Dark Continent is a bit of a misnomer. The sun shines brightly in Africa, and it is possible to not only forget the cold, but also to forget the realities of your world when you stay at the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in the Western Cape area of South Africa.
The exquisite rooms at the Khanni Lodge have an outdoor shower and a fantastic view of the reserve. Every night, the staff opens a star book to the page for viewing the heavens. If you are lucky, you may see wildlife from your room. Don't miss taking a game drive in the park where you can spot the amazing specimens that live on this reserve. An elephant family may nuzzle up to the jeep. An antelope hops in front of your path.
Most spectacular are the family of rare white lions, which are in a separate, large enclosure. This is the only spot in Africa where the white lion is in its natural setting.
Colorful and historic Oaxaca in Mexico enjoys warm weather year-round. Set in a valley surrounded by mountains, the state is known for colorful carved animals, pottery, excellent markets and its food.

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