Television personality and AZfoothills.com columnist Nadine Toren is scouring the area, finding savvy Valley features, bringing readers “on the scene.” Every day she’ll introduce you to celebrities, athletes, and give you an inside look into local events and hot spots. She'll touch on topical issues, and keep AZ fans posted on all the big talkers around town.

Happy November...now it's totally time to book your holiday getaway.  Here are the top travel tips you need to know.

There’s nothing like a white Christmas, but for us desert divas, waking up to December snow is downright doubtful.  However, if you want to skip town for the holidays, consider doing so savvy and smart.  To be a vacationing vixen, you’ll definitely want to take into consideration the following travel tips.

According to Travelzoo, you might want to play hooky during the work-week.  That’s because hotel prices vary based on certain days.  For example, in New York’s Financial District, hotel rates drastically increase Monday through Thursday because of visiting business men and women, making weekends a lot more vacant and affordable.  This is usually the trend for other major cities. 

But if you prefer water over land, book a cruise.  Ahhh, there’s nothing like relaxing at sea, that is, if you don’t get sick.  However, if you do tend to get a bit nauseous, stock up on dried gingerroot.  Yep, some doctors say 1,000 milligrams of the root helps ease motion dizziness.  Make sure to eat it before setting sail, and if need be, every four hours.

Here’s a tip that speaks right to my heart: make a detailed packing list.  Truth be told, I’m OCD organized, constantly creating lists for just about everything.  Travel experts suggest compiling lists of essentials for any type of trip—weekend getaways, week-long ventures, or months away exploring somewhere exotic.  And to make sure you don’t misplace your beloved list, store the forms in your suitcase.

And if you’re frustrated looking for flight deals, consider this: book on Monday or Tuesday.  According to wejustgotback.com, Tuesday afternoon is the best time to scour the web for flying sales.  And when your departure day does arrive, dress accordingly.  To avoid lengthy security screenings, wear simple sweaters, pants, and slip-on shoes.  Note: you’ll also want to memorize the carry-on rules—3-ounce bottles plastic bagged!  (Oh, and if Fido is joining you on vacation, pack something familiar in his crate.  Something comfortable, like one of your t-shirts, will be reassuring to your dear dog or cat.)

Next, when you make it to your destination, pretend you’re a local.  Frommer’s travel guides suggest asking around—hotel workers usually suggest the typical pricey place for tourists.  Plus, they’re often paid to drive customers to specific restaurants.

And if you’re traveling somewhere far-and-away, learn to love yogurt.  That’s because the creamy culture helps fight bacteria that is possibly lurking in your exotic dishes.  Yogurt also curbs your appetite, allowing you to maintain energy between meals.

Finally, do what you can to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowds.  If you’re all about attractions, opt for off-days.  Many travel experts say Disney World is busiest on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Epcot peaks on Tuesday and Friday; Hollywood Studios on Sunday and Wednesday; and the Animal Kingdom on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. So if you’re heading to the happiest place on earth, be sure to plan ahead.

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