AN ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS SUPPLEMENT
March 2012
• Barcelona Is Rich in Culture and Fun • American Airlines New Gateway to Tokyo • Long Islander Turns Lost Luggage Into TV Show • Travel Channel: Advice Before You Check-In
Photos Courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Board
Save up to $100* on already-reduced cruises & tours plus: s FREE onboard credits s FREE upgrades s Discounted theme-park tickets s Airline service fees waived** s & much more!
AAA’S TRAVEL SALE MARCH 22-24, 2012
AAA B est P Guarraicne te promise s TH e
E price fo r you best or to r cruise guaran ur— teed! †
BONUS OFFER: s SAVE 20% on all name-brand luggage including: Samsonite, Delsey, American Tourister***
Book your next vacation with AAA Travel
Call 516-873-2382 Click AAA.com/Sale Visit 299 Seventh St., Garden City *Valid on new vacation package bookings of $3,000 or more made at AAA New York with AAA preferred tour operators. Sale ends 3/24/12. Other restrictions may apply. Coupon code: TS0312. **Airline service fees will be waived for all airline tickets purchased in conjunction with the vacation package or cruise. ***Not valid on clearance items. †AAA Best Price Guarantee: Bring us a legitimate cruise or vacation package quote for one of our preferred cruise or tour operators for any cruise or land vacation 3-nights or more. If we cannot match the price, we’ll give you $100 upon receipt of appropriate documentation showing completed travel. Not valid on internet or group bookings.
Non-members welcome. AAA savings can pay for your membership.
79887
2
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
Destiny
I N T E R N AT I O N A L
R E A LT Y
Beachfront Luxury in Antigua
Boat and Beach Lover’s Paradise This spacious beachfront villa is situated on a beautiful white sandy beach just a few steps away from the calm, turquoise Caribbean Sea. At the front of the property is 90’ of bulkhead and your own private boat dock on the deep water of Jolly Harbour.
Villa Sull Oceano The Italian-style Villa on the Caribbean Sea • Beachfront • 90 Feet Bulkhead (Deep Water) • Private Boat Dock w/20,000 lb. Lift • Gated Community • 18 Hole Golf Course • 13,300 Sq. Ft. Lot • 4,000 Sq. Ft. Living Space • 4 Bedrooms 4.5 Bathrooms • Freshwater Swimming Pool w/Hot Tub • Four Tennis Courts / Squash Court • Four Restaurants, Three Bars, Olympic-size Swimming Pool, Supermarket, Bank, Full-service Marina... All Accessible By Golf Cart From The Villa.
Offered at: $3,500,000 Jolly Harbour, Antigua CONTACT US
Contact: Grace Slezak Phone: + 1.516.768.1000 Email: grace.slezak@gmail.com 79846
3
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
Check Out This Advice Before You Check In Escape the Winter Host of Travel Channel’s New Show Has Advice for Travelers By Ronald Scaglia otel general managers may not appreciate it, but Anthony Melchiorri is going to let an industry secret slip for the benefit of Anton readers. He has some advice on how to get the very best rate for a hotel room. “If you want to get the best rate, make the reservation at 6 p.m. on the same day if the city is not busy,” said Melchiorri. Just as a container of milk or a carton of eggs has an expiration date, so do hotel rooms. Simply put, the further along it is in the day, the less likely it is that a vacant hotel room will be booked and the more likely it is that the room will remain empty and not generate any revenue. When it comes to knowing the inner working of hotels, Melchiorri is definitely a person to speak with as he has been in the hospitality business for 20 years managing some of the most famous hotels. Currently he runs his own company, Argeo Hospitality, consulting on hotel projects for private owners and investors and he will be hosting a new show on the Travel Channel called Hotel Impossible, which premieres on Monday, April 9 at 10 p.m. In the new show, Melchiorri visits hotels that are struggling and examines what needs to be improved. Sometimes his manner can be rough but he says he always maintains a level of respect. “I’m a nice guy,” said Melchiorri. “You’ll never see me take someone’s spirit or curse them out.” However, what you will see is Melchiorri determining what is wrong and how management and staff can fix those issues. For the premiere of the show, Melchiorri stayed right here on Long Island, going out to Gurney’s Inn in Montauk. So what other advice does Melchiorri have for travelers? For those seeking the best rate, he suggests speaking with a supervisor when making the reservation. According to Melchiorri, by asking for a supervisor and then asking for the best rate, the traveler is most likely to get those savings. Melchiorri says that another stress for travelers is changing rooms because of an error in booking. Therefore he says that the front desk should confirm the room accommodations such as the size of the bed, the view and whether the room is smoking. If the front desk doesn’t confirm the information, the guests should so they do not bring their luggage up to their room only to bring it back down to the front desk. Melchiorri said this situation is also burdensome for hotel staff, as they have to once again prepare the first room. If the staff fails to do so, when a later guest goes into that room it creates another issue if the room does not look well prepared. Another mistake that hotels make is not maintaining confidentiality. Melchiorri said that the front desk representative should point to a hotel room number and the rate but not speak it loudly so that others might hear as he said this creates two is-
Blahs Without Leaving Nassau County
H
round this time of year, cabin fever becomes rampant. Even though this winter has been relatively mild, Long Islanders have had enough of the lack of light and the long hours spent at home, and they’re looking to escape from the mundane. Fortunately, they don’t have far to go to get away from it all. Right in Westbury, the Viana Hotel and Spa offers a decadent, romantic getaway that will chase the winter blahs from the moment of arrival. A member of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the property offers an enticing staycation package that includes lodging, a prix-fixe dinner, full breakfast buffet and massages for two. Built a year ago, the Viana was designed based on the principles of feng shui. From the plush bedding and robes in the guest rooms to the Zeninspired, full-service spa, the property’s blend of luxury, natural décor and balanced elements envelop guests in tranquil rest and relaxation. With the staycation package, guests are presented with a complimentary bottle of house wine in their choice of red or white upon arrival. Couples can reconnect over dinner at the hotel’s upscale restaurant, Marco Polo, where East meets West in an inventive confluence of Italian, Asian and fusion dishes offering a full menu of specialty cocktails and organic wines. Our adult-only game room allows you to reconnect with friends offering a pool table or a game of chess to play at your leisure. Included in the package is a 50-minute couples massage, which is sure to rejuvenate the body and spirit. Guests can also take a dip in the pool or work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center. Like all good things, the staycation must come to an end, but guests are guaranteed to leave in a state of mind that is vastly different from the one in which they arrived. The staycation package starts at $499 per couple per night. Standard rates at the hotel start at $200 per night.
A
Anthony Melchiorri hosts a new show called Hotel Impossible, which premieres Monday April 9 on the Travel Channel at 10 p.m.
sues. First, guests may not want the others in the area to know which room they will be in and, secondly, if a guest is getting a better rate than another guest it could create some friction. Melchiorri also said that guests and hotel staff should be diligent about the quality of service offered. “Don’t accept bad service because you’re paying a lower rate,” said Melchiorri. “If you’re in a three star or five star hotel, the only things that should separate them are amenities, size of room and maybe location. Not service and not people.” One more suggestion that Melchiorri offers to both travelers and hotel managers is to check the reviews that are posted online about hotels. While some may think that the reviews may just be the reaction of someone who had a bad experience, Melchiorri finds that the reviews posted online tend to be accurate. “If the majority are good or bad, listen to the reviews,” he said. “I use them when I travel.” Melchiorri also said that general managers should be extremely diligent about reviews posted online. Not only do bad reviews turn away business, they also indicate what problems need to be fixed in a hotel. “If a general manager doesn’t have the reviews popping on his Blackberry every time one is written, that general manager probably shouldn’t be employed as a general manager,” he said. And then the hotel might have to call in Melchiorri to fix those issues on his new show.
Vineyard Produces Fine Wine and Rescues Horses By Ronald Scaglia visit to Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard is the perfect one-day getaway for those looking to enjoy a quick day trip on Long Island. The vineyard, located in Baiting Hollow and the first vineyard on the North Fork Wine Trail, has the distinction of also being a horse rescue farm, which is home to 24 horses including 21 that were rescued from the slaughterhouse. “We’re all huge animal lovers in our family,” said Sharon Rubin Levine, one of the owners and a member of the family which operates the Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard. Founder Sam Rubin bought land in Suffolk in the 1980s to produce organic food for his family. He soon was growing grapes and the natural progression was to produce wine and its popularity took off. “We decided to make some wine and people really liked it so we made more wine,” said Rubin Levine. With the wine business growing, the family decided that a tasting house was needed and so the process of restoring a house to serve in this capacity was begun. At the same time, Rubin Levine, an animal lover, was receiving numerous emails regarding horse slaughter in the United States. Her brother, Richard Rubin, who is also an owner, suggested that when the tasting house was opened, the family could also rescue a horse. And then a very young filly that was about to be slaughtered changed everything. “As soon as I started looking into it, up pops this picture of a one and a half year old thoroughbred filly,” Rubin Levine said of the first horse rescued by Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard. “She was in the kill pen and the truck was leaving with her in a few hours. I was so horrified that there was a baby in the kill pen.” That filly would eventually be named Angel. Now six years of age, she is a well-trained equine that does dressage. Rubin Levine said that unlike cats and dogs, being young
A
Sultan, an Arabian Egyptian gets some tender loving care from Sharon Rubin Levine at Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard Horse Rescue which is now home to 21 horses that were destined for slaughter.
could actually hurt a horse’s chances of being rescued. “People don’t want to invest in training as it’s a tremendously long period of time,” Rubin Levine said. Not that there’s anything wrong with older horses. Rubin Levine said that some horses live to be 40 years of age. Therefore horses in their teens and 20s have a lot of life left to live and plenty of enjoyment to share. “We’re a dog society so we think that a 15-year-old horse is an old horse,” said Rubin Levine. “It’s not an old horse. They are awesome at that age.” While Rubin Levine and her family are doing their part to save individual horses, she is also trying to call attention to the larger issues of American horses being sent to slaughterhouses mostly to be consumed as meat in foreign countries.
“Let’s face it, we’re a country (where) we don’t consume horse meat,” said Rubin Levine. “We appreciate the fact that horses settled this nation; that they’ve carried us into wars and yet we let 100,000 of our horses end up on foreign dinner plates.” She further said that horses are not used as an inexpensive source of meat for those who are hungry. Rather, she said that horsemeat is an expensive delicacy in some areas. “It’s a $20 per pound delicacy in Europe and Asia,” said Rubin Levine. Recently, legislation was approved which paves the way for slaughterhouses to be re-opened in the United States. Proponents of this claim that the same number of horses are being slaughtered, only now they are being sent to Mexico and and Canada are are encountering far less humane conditions, but Rubin Levine strongly disagrees. “The new legislation is allowing them to re-open slaughterhouses in the U.S,” said Rubin Levine. The lobbyists who are working to do this – they’re saying it’s because they have more humane methods of slaughter but the realty is it’s dollars and cents. For those who want to help horses in danger of suffering this fate, and for those who enjoy a nice glass of wine, Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard is the place to go. The vineyard offers 13 varietals of wine, with 3 of those specifically used to support the costs of caring for the rescued horses as well as other horse rescue efforts. “We have really nice wines,” said Rubin Levine. “They’ve won awards.” In addition to the wines, visitors can also enjoy a nice day in a picturesque setting. Visitors can take a tour and meet the horses. Live music is also played on Saturdays and Sundays from 2 p.m. through 6 p.m. “Coming out to the vineyard year round is a lot of fun,” said Rubin Levine. “People love coming out to us.”
4
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
PURE...
Luxury
‘Lost Opportunities’ : Long Islander Profits from Lost Luggage By Ronald Scaglia ave you ever lost your luggage when traveling? Did you wonder what ever became of your property? Is someone in Kansas wearing your lucky hat which you left in your suitcase? Did it simply disappear into a mysterious black hole to never be found again? The truth is, missing luggage does end up somewhere and opportunists like Mark Meyer are able take advantage of someone else’s misfortune. Although only 25, Meyer is very experienced in finding undervalued items at auctions and then reselling those items at a profit. He is bringing his expertise to a new show called, Baggage Battles, which will premiere on the Travel Channel on Wednesday, April 11 at 10 p.m., with a second episode following at 10:30 p.m. The show follows Meyer and other “auction specialists” as they travel to auctions across the globe trying to snag treasures that others deem worthless. “We’re letting people know about the small cottage industry,” said Meyer of his show in which teams of auction professionals try to find items worth significantly more than they’re being offered for. For the show’s premiere, Meyer and the other treasure hunters went to Miami International Airport, which services about 35 million passengers per year. According to Meyer, only a very small fraction of 1 percent of travelers who travel through that airport will not receive their luggage, either because it was misplaced or because passengers failed to claim it. However, because of the sheer volume of travelers passing through the airport, it still amounts to about 10,000 unclaimed bags just at that one airport. And then when you take into account how many airports there are in both the United States and throughout the globe, it is easy to understand how savvy opportunists like Meyer can swoop in and find these unclaimed valuables. “A year ago, I purchased a set of 18inch rims and tires for a Cobra Mustang for $100,” he said. Meyer said that airlines do attempt to do everything possible to return lost luggage to its rightful owners. However, he said, it is sometimes impossible because bags simply do not have any tags or identifying marks and there is simply no way to find the owners. After this unclaimed baggage stays in a lost and found for 6 to 12 months, it goes to an auction block, and Meyer and others try to capitalize on it. For Meyer, his interest in the field began at the age of 16, when he purchased a model at a yard sale. He asked his parents to place the model on an online auction site. When the model was purchased for $70, an interest was piqued and a new career was born. “Ever since then I had to work my way to pay for school,” said Meyer. Meyer graduated from SUNY Old Westbury in 2009, with a degree in finance. He further said that he spent two years working in the corporate world, which he said taught
H
Feng Shui Design • Luxurious Accommodations Ultra-Modern Fitness Facility • Asian Fusion Bar/Restaurant Banquet/Meeting Facilities • State-of-the Art Spa & Salon
2012
Best Spa for Weddings. Voted #1. Best Accommodations for Weddings.
LONG ISLAND’S GREEN-BUILT FENG SHUI HOTEL 3998 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, NY 11590 516-338-7777 • 516-333-5013 (Fax) www.vianahotelandspa.com 79830
Mark Meyer, a Long Islander, is featured on the Travel Channel’s new show, Baggage Battles, which premieres April 11.
him to buy and sell. However, the interest developed by that profitable purchase when he was a teenager never dwindled and Meyer continued his work in the field until he opened his own store in West Babylon called Nifty Thrifty. And now in addition to his store, Meyer will be on the new television show. “Now that I’ve gone to the top of my field, it’s quite exciting,” said Meyer. Along that ride, Meyer has encountered tremendous opportunities. As an example, he spoke of finding a vintage Charlie Chaplin purse which was worth $1,000 and a jackhammer being sold as a power tool which he was able to resell for almost $800. Meyer said that he has finds a variety of valuable items up for auction such as high end electronics, jewelry and tools. Meyer does not limit himself simply to airline auctions. He said that he attends auctions conducted by Suffolk County Police and by U.S. Customs in New Jersey and he added that some of the best deals he has gotten have come at these auctions. So what advice does Meyer have for travelers to avoid losing their luggage so that their belongings do not end up at an auction where savvy business people like Meyer can snatch them? He said the most important thing to do is make sure that luggage is labeled with the owner’s name and current contact information. He said that most unclaimed luggage does not have any identifying markings, hence the difficulty in returning it to its owner. He further said that many pieces of luggage are very similar looking, which causes travelers to misidentify their luggage and pick up the wrong bags. “Put a piece of tape on the inside and outside of the bag,” said Meyer. “Make your bag distinguish out. Make sure you have labels on the bag.” Otherwise, your luggage could end up featured on Baggage Battles, and Meyer and the other professionals could turn it into an opportunity to make themselves a profit.
VACATION & TRAVEL Published by Anton Community Newspapers 132 E. Second St., Mineola, NY 11501 – 516-747-8282 www.antonnews.com Angela Susan Anton Publisher
Frank A. Virga Director of Sales & Marketing
William M. Delventhal, Jr. General Manager
Lisa Schiavone Production Manager
Cary Seaman Managing Editor
Iris Picone Classified Manager
Ron Scaglia Special Sections Editor
Lucia D’Onofrio Page Designer
5
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
Rendezvous Travel Specializing In Group Travel NYCB Theater at Westbury 2 pm Matinee Show “St. Joseph’s & St. Patrick’s Day Show”
“USO Show”
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Only $30 Per Ticket
Only $30 Per Ticket Packages Including Meals & Bus are Available
Featuring Irish Comedian George Casey and Christopher Macchio & Friends Performing Italian American Songbook
Hosted By Mr. Lynn Roberts Appearing as Bob Hope
Fireworks Spectacular
Lobsterfest Getaway
Carnival Cruise-The Miracle
Harrah’s Casino, Atlantic City
Connecticut
Eastern Caribbean/Bermuda
July 4 & 5, 2012
June 10 – 12, 2012
July 17 – 24, 2012
388 Per Person Twin
Call for Price
9/11 Memorial Trip
Closing Day at Saratoga
Woodloch Pines
Wednesday, June 20, 2012 Licensed NYC Guide Chelsea Market High Line
Staying at the Georgian Hotel
Award Winning Resort
Lake George on the Lake
Hawley, PA
September 3 – 5, 2012
November 26 – 30, 2012
$
189 Per Person
$
55 Per Person
$
$
399 Per Person
Call for Price
Call for Full Itineraries. Visit Our Website for Additional Trips.
www.rendezvous.travel
516-867-8747
80076
6
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
Barcelona Is Rich in Culture and Fun f your vacation wish list includes outstanding art, architecture, nightlife and beaches, then Barcelona may be the place for you. A visit to this magical city reveals a distinctive, intriguing side of Spain. Facing the Mediterranean, Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, a state in the country’s northeastern sector. Catalonia traces its singular culture to the Middle Ages, and, over the centuries, the region even developed its own language – Catalan – that is still spoken by many in Barcelona. In fact, on American Airlines Flight 66 from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Barcelona, the onboard announcements are given in both Spanish and Catalan. That daily, nonstop flight uses a Boeing 767-300 seating 28 in Business Class and 195 in Coach. It departs JFK at 5:15 p.m., arriving at Barcelona at 7:10 a.m. the following morning. There is much to see and experience in Barcelona. Begin
I
Platja de la Vila Olímpica is one of 7 beaches available to sun worshippers along Barcelona’s nearly 3 miles of coastline. Photo: Courtesy of Turisme de Barcelona
with a stroll along Las Ramblas, the vibrant central boulevard that cuts through the heart of the city. The city’s first landmark for many visitors, Las Ramblas offers such attractions as hotels, restaurants, shops and live street performances. Traffic flow is limited so pedestrians rule. At Las Ramblas’ midpoint, discover the Liceu Theater, and walk over a remarkable circular mosaic in bold, colored tiles, created by the world-renowned Catalan artist, Joan Miro. At the northern end of the promenade, is the Placa de Catalunya, at Barcelona’s center. It is a large square populated by neoclassical and avant-garde sculptures and flocks of pigeons. There is an important cultural side of Barcelona that defines this city. For an authentic taste of Catalan culture, a visit to the magnificent National Art Gallery of Catalunya is a must. Visitors can lose themselves in works of Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century. At the Picasso Museum, the paintings of the legendary Pablo Picasso are on display — from his early days to his final works. And those dazzled by the Miro mosaic on Las Ramblas, will want to partake of a full serving of his work at the Miro Museum. This outstanding collection dates back to 1914 and includes not only Miro’s paintings, but many of his sculptures, tapestries and early sketches as well. But to discover the artistic achievement most strongly associated with Barcelona; visitors must behold the work of Antoni Gaudi – the giant of Spanish architecture. His most famous work is Sagrada Familia (Holy Family), a huge church with a complex design representing the birth, death and resurrection of Christ. Gaudi dedicated his life to this immense structure, which was begun in 1883 and left unfinished when he died in 1926. If seeking some lighter, fun things to do, go to the Barcelona Aquarium – especially those traveling with children. It has 35 tanks, with 1,000 sea animals representing 450 different species, and it’s one of the most important educational centers for Mediterranean marine life. Then, as darkness descends, the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, has a display of color, light, motion, music and water acrobatics combined in a spectacular show. There are even scheduled “performances”. With so many things
SIGN OF SUCCESS TOURS
Evening visitors to the Magic Fountain of Montjuic will witness a spectacular display of color, light, motion, music and water acrobatics. Photo: Courtesy of Turisme de Barcelona
to do, it is easy to be late for supper but that’s fine, as dinner in Barcelona doesn’t normally begin until 9 p.m. After that there are a number of clubs offering music for all tastes – from jazz, to discotheque to techno rock. There are also plenty of places to dance – but they don’t really get underway until 2 a.m. And who could forget the beaches. Barcelona is ideal for sun worshippers, with seven beaches arrayed along nearly 3 miles of coastline. But be warned – Barcelona is at about the same latitude as Miami, and that Mediterranean sun is powerful, so beachgoers should wear a sun hat and use high SPF lotion. After taking in all of Barcelona’s attractions, it’s time to catch American Airlines Flight 67 back to JFK. Sit back and savor the amenities on the return flight. And, if reserved in American’s Business Class Cabin, travelers will enjoy the fully adjustable lie-flat seats, personal, in-flight entertainment devices, great food, and award-winning fine wine. For further information about Barcelona, please contact Barcelona Tourist Information: www.turismedebarcelona. com, 212-265-8822.
PASSPORT HEALTH
®
The Vaccine People
Springtime in Washington D.C.
$
100 Deposit Will Hold Your Space
double occupancy
We specialize in Travel & Adventure medicine:
single
Trip Includes Coach Transportation 3 Nights Lodging Sheraton Hotel/ 6 Meals Marine Corps Band and Silent Drill Team Pentagon 9/11 Memorial Smithsonian of Your Choice Attractions and Monuments Arlington and Tour Mobile Guides If possible, we will try for a visit to the White House but very tentative...
CALL FOR RESERVATIONS
516-599-3578
Don’t Forget to Take it With You Whether you’re traveling internationally for business or pleasure, or staying home call Passport Health for your immunization needs.
Friday, May 18th to Monday, May 21st per person/ $
529 +$ 90
GOOD HEALTH:
Yellow Fever and Japanese Encephalitis Immunization Site • Country-Specific Travel Counseling, Immunizations & Medications • On-site service available for group travel. A full line of hard-to-find travel supplies (water purification, oral rehydration, insect repellents and sterile syringe packs) • Country-Specific Security and Intellegence briefings • Travel Medical Evacuation/Insurance
Immunization Clinics and Routine Vaccines: On-site clinics available • Flu • Rabies • Meningitis • Yellow Fever • Hepatitis A and B • PPD (TB skin testing with reading)
200 South Service Rd. Suite 212 Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 516.626.2004 Flu Vaccine Available www.passporthealthny.com
79990
80131
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
7
Take a Trip to
Italy
Right Here in New Hyde Park
79878
8
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
ALL ISLAND TRANSPORTATION # 1 Taxi Company in Nassau County
NEWEST FLEET ON LONG ISLAND ~ 24-Hour Service ~
Hawaii currently has attraction and events to lure vacationers to the summer like climate. Photo courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Board
$ 00 OFF
$ 00 OFF
$
TO THE AIRPORT
FROM THE AIRPORT
ANY PASSENGER VAN
Name ________________ Address _______________
Name ________________ Address _______________
Name ________________ Address _______________
Cash Only. Exp. 5/1/12
Cash Only. Exp. 5/1/12
Cash Only. Exp. 5/1/12
5
5
2500 OFF Say Hi to Hawaii; The Islands Offer a Taste of Summer
A 79873
Locations: East Meadow (516) 489-3333 • Freeport (516) 223-0000 Garden City (516) 746-2500 • Hempstead (516) 481-1111 Island Park (516) 431-2222 • Lynbook (516) 599-1600 Merrick (516) 379-9999 • Mineola (516) 742-2222 New Hyde Park (516) 481-1111 • Rockville Centre (516) 536-3333 Valley Stream (516) 599-1600 Westbury (516) 746-2500
Website: Website: www.allislandtransportation.com www.allislandtransportation.com
WEEKEND GETAWAYS AND STAYCATIONS
Call for Details!
Minutes from Jones Beach... Mention This Ad and $ ave On Your Next Stay...
@EconoLodgeLI
FREE Deluxe Continental Breakfast FREE Wi-Fi in Every Room
and Receive a
FREE GIFT
www.econolodge-hicksville.com 429 Duffy Avenue, Hicksville, NY 79802
(at Wantagh Parkway and Old Country Road)
516.433.3900
trip to Hawaii can be a pleasant experience. The islands offer beautiful sights and gorgeous weather, so while many of Long Island golfers have still been able to squeeze in a few rounds during the unseasonably warm winter, the chance to play 18 holes of golf while basking in temperatures that average around 80 degrees is awfully appealing and Hawaii has more than 80 golf courses on its six major islands. For those who are not inclined to chase a little white ball around all day, there are still many other activities to enjoy. For example, a visit to Hawaii offers the chance to lie on the beach, soak up some sun and read a good book. So even though the winter has been bearable, those longing for summertime activities can get a head start. Here are some events and attractions provided by the the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau. • The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites on Oahu recently introduced the Passport to Pearl Harbor, a new two-day ticket option to help visitors experience several distinct historic sites that are often too challenging to cover in one day. The “passport” is available exclusively for purchase at the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center for $65 per adult and $35 per child and includes: the official Pearl Harbor Audio Tour; USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park museum admission and submarine audio tour; Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor admission; and Battleship Missouri Memorial admission and the choice between four tours. Passport holders can return to Pearl Harbor within seven days of their initial visit at no additional charge. For more information, visit PacificHistoricParks.org. • Step off the beaten path and join Wild Hawaii Ocean Adventures on Hawaii Island for a five-hour excursion south along the Kona coast to an isolated green sand beach accessible only by boat. Guests will relax, soak up the sun, and have lunch at the private beach before heading back on a Fast Boat Ride near the shoreline for views of lava tubes, blow holes, incredible rock formations, and other points of interest. For more information, visit Wild-Hawaii.com. • Get a behind-the-scenes view of Maui’s pineapple heritage during an exclusive experience with Maui Pineapple Tours. The tour begins on the pineapple farm where guests will observe the harvesting, packing and shipping process, then enjoy a pineapple-themed lunch at Maui’s acclaimed Haliimaile General Store featuring the sweet Maui Gold pineapple. For more information, visit AdventureMaui.com/Pineapple_Tour. • Save money on admission to 10 of Hawaii Island’s best-known cultural, historical, and science centers with the Big Is-
land Museum Pass now available for $8. The pass provides a savings of up to $54 for two adults and includes entry to the following participating museums: Lyman Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, Pacific Tsunami, Laupahoehoe Train Museum, Anna Ranch, Astronaut Ellison Onizuka Space Center, Hulihee Palace, Kona Historical Society’s H.N. Greenwell Store and Kona Coffee Farm, and Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden. For more information, visit DestinationHilo.com. • DFS Galleria Waikiki on Oahu has recently expanded its second floor dubbed Beauty World featuring a new Beauty Concierge to provide the largest retail space in Hawaii dedicated to beauty with more than 20,000 square feet. The new complimentary concierge service offers shoppers a one-on-one consultation with a licensed aesthetician who’ll provide a skincare analysis using a Skin Imaging Machine and Light Therapy Device then recommend products based on your skin assessment. Additional services include complimentary hand and foot massages, makeup applications and trend techniques, beauty tips, complimentary engraving, and beauty workshops and seminars. For more information, visit DFSGalleria.com. • For those who can’t get away until summer, Keauhou Beach Resort on Hawaii Island invites music lovers and Hawaiian cultural enthusiasts to a weeklong Aloha Music Camp on July 1-7. Guests can enjoy classes in ukulele, slack key guitar, hula, oli (chant), lei making, and instrument crafting. Instructors include world-class musicians • The Iolani Air Tour Company has two new lava specials: 1) Party of Two? Take advantage of the Deluxe Air Tour for two from Kona. Couples aboard can experience the entire Hawaii Island in the privacy and comfort of a brand new state-ofthe-art Skyhawk. It is the only full circle island air tour exclusively for two people priced at $325 each. 2) $99 Air Tours from Hilo! See the Volcano and Rainbow Falls in its Airvan at a price that cannot be beat. For more information, visit IolaniAir.com. • Visitors can enjoy an affordable Hawaii vacation full of convenience and value in Waikiki (Oahu) thanks to OHANA Hotels and Resort’s OHANA Waikiki Connection, a lineup of free amenities for hotel guests. The complimentary services include access to Waikiki Trolley’s Pink Line that provides transportation along Waikiki Beach Walk to Ala Moana Center, Wi-Fi Internet and long distance phone calls up to 15 minutes, and more. OHANA Waikiki Connection is available for guests at OHANA Waikiki East, OHANA Waikiki West, and OHANA Waikiki Malia. For more information, visit OhanaHotels.com.
9
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
It’s Okay if the Trip to a Backyard Paradise Takes a Little Longer By Charles H. Gamarekian omeowners are continuing to change plans from vacations to staycations as dreams of tropical islands become visions of transforming backyards into elaborate paradises, laden with creative features that can be enjoyed all year long. However, budgetary realities can often discourage homeowners from fulfilling their dreams for a total outdoor living experience. There is a solution for those who are deliberating over a budget or a start date. Think big, but start small – accomplish a grand design scheme one section at a time. Completing a project in several phases may require a crystal ball or relying on the talents of a professional contractor who just may have one in their tool bag. For example, if you are starting with an in-ground pool, think interlocking concrete pavers for your surrounding pool deck. Many hardscape contractors can handle your pool installation and the interlocking pavers as well. A paver system such as those offered by Cambridge, manufacturers of pavingstones, wallstones and a comprehensive line of outdoor living products in prepackaged kits, are ideal for poolside applications. The colors of Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec will not fade from the sun or harsh weather and the pavers can be easily removed and reinstalled in an area where future repairs of underground utilities may become necessary. Adding square footage at a later time is very doable. On the other end of the scale of things, you can start with a fire pit. It can be custom-built or again, ready-to-install. Prepackaged kits are available in an array of colors, styles and textures in square and round configurations. If roasting marsh-
H
It may take a little time to complete a backyard paradise, but it is well worth the wait.
mallows and frankfurters on a stick as well as grilling steaks, chicken, seafood and corn on the cob perks-up your taste buds, consider a barbeque and fire pit from Cambridge with cantilevering grills and you can do it all with one pit. Add a small paver area adjacent to the pit and perhaps a low wall for casual seating around the pit and you are off and running to phase one of a great outdoor lifestyle experience. Grade changes can present challenges especially when projects are completed in segments. But this should not stop your contractor from planning the completion of your backyard project in phases. In a multilevel patio design, he will probably
suggest starting at the lowest level of the grade, using perimeter walls to bring up the grades according to number of elevations in the plan. For instance, if a finished project embodied 100 cubes of Cambridge brand pavers and walls and totaled three levels when completed, an outdoor kitchen complete with a stainless steel appliance package and a pizza oven all from precut/prepackaged Cambridge Kits could be laid out on the top level for a convenient cooking and food preparation area. This could step down to a midlevel, comprised of a striking outdoor fireplace with the optional added features of dual wood storage boxes flanking each side. Sitting or dining elements and a
Cambridge Bar Module with a professional quality, stainless steel Bull Bar Center Package, sink, refrigerator and a Patio Pub & Bistro Table from a Cambridge would also work well on this level. All countertops in these precut/prepackaged kits are polished granite and include all of the hardscape materials needed. Working with kits such as those from Cambridge afford the homeowner a totally coordinated plan, which considers color, texture and overall style, while saving valuable project management and installation time. The bottom level, installed first, could be the smaller patio with a fire pit kit. Before beginning a project that is to be completed over an extended period of time, it is best to see a drawing that illustrates the full spectrum of the venture. The rendering can be prepared by a landscape architect or your contractor who can create one internally using one of the many digital software tools in the market such as the Cambridge DesignScape Visualizer, which will show you professional looking, computer-generated renderings with before and after views. The drawings help him pinpoint certain areas and develop a workflow in order to give you, the homeowner, a sense of reward after certain phases reach completion. So don’t hesitate to show your contractor a wish list — large or small. Tell him to bring along his crystal ball, and you will be surprised at how soon you will be enjoying your own piece of paradise‌ right in your own backyard, About the writer: Charles H. Gamarekian is the Chairman/CEO of Cambridge Pavers Inc., manufacturers of Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec, Cambridge Wallstones and a full line of products for outdoor living.
Make your own ADVENTURE.
2012 Impreza 2.0i
STAR â€
Test-drive the all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard and 36 mpg .
Schedule a test drive: (877) 864-5170
79886
SCAN QR CODE FOR ONLINE NEW CAR INVENTORY MUST BE APPROVED BY DEALER PRIMARY LENDER. SUBJECT TO BANK TERMS AND CONDITIONS. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS †EPA-ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY FOR IMPREZA 2.0I CVT MODELS. ACTUAL MILEAGE MAY VARY. IMAGE IS FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS. FID# 7071878
(877) 864-5170
10
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
Nassau County Executive ED MANGANO presents a
St. Patrick’s Day CELEBRATION Saturday th March 10
American Airlines will soon offer a new nonstop route from JFK to Haneda Airport, which is just half an hour from central Tokyo,
American Airlines New Gateway to Tokyo hether it’s for business or fun, getting to and from Tokyo will soon become easier than ever! Beginning on June 1, American Airlines will begin daily nonstop service from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. Haneda is just 30 minutes from central Tokyo, as opposed to the usual hour and a half from Narita International Airport. American will serve the new route with a 247-seat Boeing 777 aircraft, which can carry 16 passengers in First
W
12:00pm to 6:00pm Live Music by Finn’s Fury Traditional Irish Dancing
Class, 37 in Business Class, and 194 in Economy Class. Once in Tokyo, visitors will find attractions to please every taste – be it history, cutting-edge technology, cuisine, ancient or contemporary architecture, nature, shopping, or unique cultural pursuits. American is, in effect, substituting the new Haneda service for its existing JFKNarita route. New Yorkers who still want to fly from JFK to Narita, can do so by booking on American’s oneworld partner, Japan Airlines.
Traditional Irish Food & Spirits Irish Vendors Giveaways
FREE ADMISSION RAIN OR SHINE
Old Bethpage Village Restoration 1303 Round Swamp Road Old Bethpage, N.Y. s ,)% EXIT SOUTH MILE s /PEN -ARCH ST WEDNESDAY 3UNDAY AM TO PM
For more info
NASSAU COUNTY
516-572-0200
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, RECREATION AND MUSEUMS
www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks
NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE
www.nassaucountyny.gov 79637 80137
11
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
Directory Rendezvous Travel Specializing In Group Travel 516.867.8747 • www.rendezvous.travel
SENIOR GROUPS | RELIGIOUS GROUPS | STUDENTS SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS | FAMILIES
“St. Joseph’s & St. Patrick’s Dayâ€? NYCB THEATER AT WESTBURY 2pm Show - Wednesday • March 14, 2012
$
30
Per Ticket
ORCHESTRA SEATING
ITALIAN AMERICAN SONGBOOK ���������
Back “By Popular Demand� IRELAND’S FUNNIEST COMEDIAN
George Casey Christopher Macchio
Marissa Famiglietti
Jonathan Hare
Simona Rodano
And The Darah Carr Irish Step Dancers
BUY NAPLES FLORIDA
AAA’S TRAVEL SALE All locations
$POEPT )PNFT 7JMMBT
est AAA B Price e te n ra Gua best
es THE se promis ui r your cr price fo ur – or to !†ed te guaran
Save up to $100* on already-reduced cruises & tours plus: • FREE onboard credits • FREE upgrades • Discounted theme-park tickets • Airline service fees waived** & much more!
YACHT CHARTERS Professionally Crewed
MARCH 22 - 24, 2012
$BMM
XXX OBQMFTLFO DPN 1SFNJFSF 1MVT 3FBMUZ
BONUS OFFER:
Any size sail, power, or catamaran One week private cruises available in the waters of the Caribbean, Florida, Bahamas, Sea of Cortez and South Pacific, or other prime cruising venue of your choice. For first-time crewed yacht charters, we recommend the British Virgin Islands or the Grenadines.
Save 20% on all name-brand luggage including: Samsonite, Delsey, American Tourister***
NATIONWIDE & WORLDWIDE CHAUFFEURED SERVICES
The best vacation starts with Delux! Nonmembers welcome. AAA savings can pay for your membership. Book your next vacation with AAA Travel
Call 800-652-8329 Click AAA.com/Sale Visit a branch office * Valid on new vacation package bookings of $3,000 or more made at AAA New York with AAA preferred tour operators. Sale ends 3/24/12. Other restrictions may apply. Coupon code 1S0312. ** Airline service fees will be waived for all airline tickets purchased in conjunction with the vacation package or cruise. *** Not valid on clearance items, †AAA Best Price Guarantee: Bring us a legitimate cruise or vacation package quote for one of our preferred cruise or tour operators for any cruise or land vacation 3-nights or more. If we cannot match the price, we’ll give you $100 upon receipt of appropriate documentation showing completed travel. Not valid on internet or group bookings.
9 9 9 9
24/7 call center. Experienced corporate agents. Professionally trained chauffeurs. Large meticulous fleet of Executive Lincoln Town Cars, Luxury SUVs, 14 Passenger Vans, Stretch Limousines, and Coach Buses.
On-time performance & exceptional customer service.
CALL NOW TO BOOK: 516.883.1900 ™ 800.232.3358 www.deluxtransportation.com ™ reservations@deluxtransportation.com
For brochures, yacht websites and pricing, contact:
Trident Maritime Services P.O. BOX 186, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
516-674-1556 FAX: 516-624-6802 shelby@trimarcharters.com
WWW.TRIMArCHARTERS.COM
Croatia Travel Agency
Blue Odyssey Vacations Blue Odyssey Vacations is your expert at planning Caribbean sailing vacations, while providing unmatched customer service and advice on crewed and bareboat charter yachts on Monohull sailboats, catamaran and motor yacht charters with crew or bareboat.
WWW.ACRAMANOR.COM
1.800.933.ACRA
All Inclusive Family Vacation with Meals f or Only: $ 89 per adult / $55 per teen / $39 per child Three Day Minimum. Certain Dates Apply.
#FE BOE #SFBLGBTU BOE 4QB
3FMBYBUJPO BOE 3FOFXBM JO /PSUI 'PSL 8JOF $PVOUSZ
“SAILING VACATION THAT WILL RENEW YOUR SPIRIT!�
$0.& 45": 8*5) 64
Visit us at www.sailbov.com or call us toll free 1-888-706-7393
8FCTJUF XXX RVJOUFTTFOUJBMTJOD DPN JOOLFFQFS!RVJOUFTTFOUJBMTJOD DPN
Come Join Us on Facebook.com/sailbov
$SPBUJB USBWFM JT UIF GPSFNPTU USBWFM BHFODZ PGGFSJOH BJSMJOF UJDLFUT DBS SFOUBMT UPVST BOE DSVJTFT 'PS OFBSMZ ZFBST PVS FYQFSJFODF JO PSHBOJ[JOH WBDBUJPOT UP UIJT GBTDJOBUJOH DPVOUSZ IBT CFFO VOTVSQBTTFE $SPBUJB 5SBWFM "HFODZ JO /FX :PSL JT UIF HBUFXBZ UP POF PG UIF XPSMEÂľT CFTU LFQU TFDSFUT UIF OFX $SPBUJB B TNBMM DPVOUSZ MFTT UIBO POF IPVS BXBZ GSPN 3PNF BOE 7JFOOB 8JUI WBDBUJPO TFBTPO DPNJOH $SPBUJB 5SBWFM IBT BMSFBEZ TFUUMFE PO NBOZ USBWFM QSPHSBNT GPS UPVSJTUT 8F IBWF UIF CFTU QPTTJCMF GBSFT BWBJMBCMF GSPN BOZXIFSF JO UIF 6OJUFE 4UBUFT UP BOZXIFSF JO &VSPQF $SPBUJB 5SBWFM IBT CFFO JO CVTJOFTT GPS NPSF UIBO ZFBST XJUI B MPOH MJTU PG DMJFOUT 0VS BHFOUT XJMM IFMQ ZPV XJUI FWFSZUIJOH B USBWFMFS OFFET UP LOPX XIFSF UP TUBZ BOE XIFSF UP WJTJU 0WFS UIF ZFBST XF IBWF CVJMU TUSPOH SFMBUJPOTIJQT XJUI NBKPS BJSMJOFT $SPBUJB 5SBWFM BMTP TFSWFT BT BO BVUIPSJ[FE BHFOU GPS $SPBUJB "JSMJOFT PGGFSJOH TQFDJBM MPX GBSFT 8F XJMM NBLF TVSF ZPVS USJQ JT BO FOMJHIUFOJOH BOE IBQQZ FYQFSJFODF
7JTJU VT BU XXX DSPBUJBUSBWFM DPN PS DBMM VT UPMM GSFF
$0%& 26*/5
79684
12
VACATION & TRAVEL - ANTON COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS - MARCH 2012
MORE THAN JUST GREAT WINE Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard is the perfect setting for that special occasion or for an enjoyable outing on the east end of Long Island. A one-day vacation spot right in your own backyard.
Tastings | Vineyard and Horse Rescue Tours | Food Gift Shop | Live Music Weekends Year Round | Showers & Rehearsal Dinners, Special Celebrations & Weddings
2114 Sound Avenue, Baiting Hollow, NY | 631. 369 . 0100 | bhfvineyard.com | Located just 3.8 miles north of exit 71 on the LIE (495) 79993