It's summer time, and that means for many families across the country, it's time to go on vacation.  This year may be a little more difficult than past years, since so many people have lost equity, lost money, lost jobs.  But for those who remain employed and in good financial standing, this is the best year to go on vacation.

I had heard so much about how pollution effects the great barrier reef that I had practically expected it to be gone by the time I got there. I was 13 at the time, and my parents were avid divers. They had been reef diving several times, but they had never been to tithe great barrier reef. The great reef was sort of a mecca for them – and for divers all over the world. Being the largest reef in the entire world, and being located in crystal clear, beautiful waters, made it a mecca for all kinds of tourists and travelers. My parents were unusual though. I think they cared more deeply about the Earth and its welfare than anyone else I have ever known. Going to the great barrier reaf was not only a way for them to relax and enjoy themselves, but a way to remind themselves about what they were fighting for.

Cheap hotels don't necessarily mean that they're roach motels or that they offer sub-par standards. In fact, a number of Madrid hotels in Spain charge you extra for things like receiving a newspaper in the morning, sleeping in a king size versus a queen size bed, an extra 100 square foot of space, living room/kitchenettes, flat-screen television sets with cable and marble bathroom fixtures. In all reality, these are all amenities that many people don't absolutely need while on vacation. They're nice, indisputably, but they're not essential. Imagine how much more you could see and do if you paid 75% less on your accommodations.

Madrid travel captivates tourists from all around the world. Whether you love art museums, architecture and historical sites or wild fiestas, trendy boutiques and delicious food, you will find what you're looking for in the capital of Spain. While many of the Madrid hotel options are upscale, with marble bathrooms, lobbies with huge chandeliers and sumptuous restaurants, there are hostels and budget hotels to be found in the city as well. This captivating and charming destination can morph into a completely different animal, depending on whether you're looking to experience metropolitan life or take a step back in history.