It was my good fortune to go to the small city of Ubud recently. Its natural beauty, friendly people, exotic views, culinary delights, rice terraces and spiritual aspects fascinated me.

The Maryland Port Administration announced this week that approximately 167,000 passengers embarked on 81 homeport cruises from the Port of Baltimore in 2009.

The weather outside may be frightful, but those looking for a family-friendly place to come in from the cold can’t go wrong with a Great Wolf Lodge getaway. And don’t forget your bathing suits because it’s always 84 degrees at the lodge’s water park.

Looking for a new place to go this year? How about planning a romantic getaway for Valentine’s Day? Here are a few suggestions that are sure to cure cabin fever!