where to celebrate the big 5-0 .....
 

Continuation of "need a suggestion" for the perfect trip for 4 women to ensure turning 50 is unforgettable. Decided against Paris because one in our group read that it will be very crowded. (I'm not ready to give up europe just yet - italy?) we are 'outdoorsy' - enjoy kayaking, hiking; want a little shopping, great food and wine. Don't care to be with a group; will pick up a vehicle. Budget-$3k each including air. looking at about 10 days including travel days; leaving from Philly or NY July or August. No desire for a cruise..Greece out becuse of the Olympic games.

Suggest Hawaii 5-0 (Though Maui would be ideal island, I only recall houses for rental within your budget on www.vrbo.com on the Big Island of Hawaii) :S-

Since you're into outdoors activities, but also sound like you want a good choice of restaurants and a bit of shopping, what about Vail or Aspen?

Have you considered an African Safari? I went to Kenya for 10 days for my 30th and it was unbelievable! I had a balloon ride over the Maasai Mara on my actual birthday. And yes, it is possible to do it within your budget. I visited the Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, Lake Nakuru and a treelodge flying the large distances and the cost was about $1600pp not incl. intl. airfare, staying at nice lodges with good meals too. August is prime time for the Great Migration.

Fly to Vancouver, drive through the Okanagan wine country (very good local wines) and over to Banff/Jasper national parks, for many fine hotels and amazing hot springs/spas to relax the kayaks out of your muscles. Then back to Van. for a couple more days of high-end civilization. Use Priceline for Vancouver hotels (too many rooms hence wonderful prices on good places.)

A shortened alternative is substituting Whistler for Banff/Jasper - less driving and lots to do in beautiful country with fab accommodations.