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VELLER C ANADIAN TRA
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25
VELLER C ANADIAN TRA
Y YearS OF canadian traveller
Table of
Contents CT 25th Anniversary Souvenir Edition March 2012
page 12
25
exciting new deStinatiOnS The world of travel is wide open these days, in fact, the only limit on where to go, what to see, even how to get there (a seat on the next spaceship anyone?), is your imagination. Need some ideas? Check out the New 25 – travel ideas guaranteed to satisfy anyone’s bucket list. Underwater Hotels 12 Underground Cave Motel 13 Ice Hotels 13 Rainforest Canopy Eco Lodge 13 North Pole 14 Northwest Passage 14 European Arctic 15 Antarctica 16 Save Sea Turtles 19 Community Development 19 Protect Mangroves 19 Sub-Space Travel 20 Air Cruising 20 River Cruising 22 Camel Trek 22 Culinary & Wine Tours 24 Spiritual & Faith Based Journeys 24 100th Anniversary of World War I 27 Birdwatching 27 Literary & Music Tours 27 Brazil 28 Myanmar (Burma) 28 Qatar 30 Wales Coast Trail 31 Guatemala 33 Croatia 33
6
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
page 34
25
dO it nOw vacatiOnS
Don’t be an armchair traveller – be a “no regrets” traveller. Engage your mind, challenge your body and lift your spirits with these 25 experiences. It’s time to turn your dreams into reality. Do it now! Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro 34 Amazon Rainforest 35 Gorilla Trekking 35 Observe Polar Bears 35 Elephant Rescue Camp 36 Serengeti Animal Migration 36 Galápagos Islands 37 Great Barrier Reef 38 Jerusalem 41 Mayan Civilization 41 The Camino de Santiago 42 Singapore Spice Markets/Food 45 Flower Festival 45 Mardi Gras 45 Great Wall of China 46 Great Pyramid of Giza 49 Machu Picchu 49 The Acropolis 49 Petra 50 Venice 52 London 54 Paris 54 Tokyo 56 New York City 56 Istanbul 56
page 58
25 clOSer tO hOme
nOrth american travel ideaS From the frozen tundra to the tropical rainforest, North America is the only continent that has every kind of climate. North America hits a home run when it comes to spectacular scenery, culture, history and adventure. You don’t need to travel far to satisfy that desire to experience something different. Québec City 58 Niagara Falls For Wine 59 Riding the Rails 59 Oh Canada! 59 A Whale of a Time 59 Insider’s Vegas 60 Pride Rules 60 A Grand View 60 A Hula Of A Time 61 Politics Aside 61 Ticket To Ride 61 Diver Delights 62 No Hats Here 62 Nature Calls 63 Dive Right In 64 Mexico City 64 Into The Deep 65 Pretty In Pink 65 Beyond Grand 65 Decisions, Decisions 66 Cruisin’ & Schmoozin’ 66 I’ll Drink To That 66 The Beat Goes On 66 Twin Peaks 68 Carnival! 68
25
VELLER C ANADIAN TRA
Y YearS OF canadian traveller
page 70
cOnteSt
Table of
Contents page 37
remember when...
People Booked Travel Months in Advance?
page 15
Future trendS
What will travel be like 10, 25, 50 years from now? Will you be zipping around in your minispaceship like the Jetsons? Heading off to the transporter room and beaming onto another planet like Captain Kirk? Probably not in our lifetime. But pilotless planes, ultra high speed trains, personalized hotel rooms and virtual agents are coming – some of them very soon. The Mobile Tour Guide 15 Flying On Autopilot 16 Faster than A Speeding Bullet 19 Pick A Room, Any Room 20 The Missing Link 20 Rating Your Holiday 22 What’s Your Specialty? 24 Your Virtual Agent 27 The Road To Good Health 28 A Room With A Mood 30 The Panoramic Plane 31 It Came From The Aquarium 33 Sorry, You’re Not My Type 33
ON THE COVER: Snorkeling in the pristine waters off Crawl Cay, Bocas del Toro, Panama. Vilainecrevette/shutterstock.com Photos credits for TOC: Shutterstock/mypokcik; Uroš Medved; Nataliia Natykach Photos credits for Publishers Notes: Kahlil Yeats; Heather Ryall Photo Credits for the feature 25 NEW: 1. Atlantis Dubai 2. Shutterstock/fritz16 3. Xdachez.com 4. Shutterstock/ Eduardo Rivero 5. Quark Expeditions 6. Shutterstock/Wild Arctic Pictures 7. Shutterstock/jele 8. Dave Ellis 9. Shutterstock/Idreamphoto 10. K.Dafalais 11. Virgin Galactic 12. Shutterstock/Vladimir Sazonov 13. Shutterstock/Chris Douglas123 14. Shutterstock/Philip Lange
8
Plan and save. People would book their vacation months, even years, in advance through their travel agents, whether it was a driving trip or a getaway to Florida. Last minute travel became part of the lexicon and way of life. Even a Last Minute Club started. Cheap prices rule. Now we are willing to live on the edge to score the best deal. It’s a battle now between yield management and the last minute whims of travellers.
FOr twO in France!
This beautiful region in the heart of France is famed for its vineyards, historical cities, mountains, skiing (these are the French Alps after all) and scenic valleys of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Mont Blanc, highest peak in the Rhône-Alps region, draws visitors from around the world to its natural beauty. And the area is a three-time host of the Winter Olympics.
page 72
YOur panel OF
expertS Phil Sproul 72 Chris Robinson 72 Bruce Poon Tip 72 Zeina Gedeon 72 Corey Marshall 72 David Redekop 72 Joni Rein 74 Mélanie Bois 74 Anthony Pollard 74 Christine James 74
There Was More Legroom And Free Booze? 38 “LGBT” Were Just Four Letters In The Alphabet? 41 9/11 Happened? 42 Taxes And Fees Were Minimal? 42 Inflight Services Were Free? 45 You Could Bring Your Luggage For Free? 46 Cruise Ships Were Small? 49 We Went Supersonic? 50 You Could Smoke On An Airplane? 50 There Were No Points? 53 Getting Tickets In the Mail? 53 There Was No Internet? 53 Travel Agents Worked In An Agency Store? 53 People Travelled To Paris To See the Eiffel Tower? 54 You Could Climb And Touch Attractions? 56 Green Was Just A Colour? 56
15. Shutterstock/Natalie Adamov 16. Shutterstock/ Akaphab 17. greatwarphoto.com 18. Shutterstock/Uryadnikov Sergey 19. HP Studio Tour PR 20. Shutterstock/ Val Thoermer 21. Shutterstock/Zzvet 22. Shutterstock/ Hashim Pudiyapura 23. Shutterstock/Gail Johnson 24. Shutterstock/J Loveland 25. Shutterstock/Bertl123 Photo Credits for Future Trends sidebars in order of appearance: Shutterstock/olly. Shutterstock/dvande. Shutterstock/Martin Trajkovski. room77.com. Crystal Cruises. Alexander. Shutterstock/Sergej Khakimullin. Shutterstock/EDHAR. Shutterstock/ARZTSAMUI. Shutterstock/VlLevi. Shutterstock/Snezana Skundric. Airbus. Shutterstock/Steve Mann. Shutterstock/CREATISTA.
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
win a vip vacatiOn
Photo credits for the feature 25 NOW: 1. Dr. Zsolt Zatrok 2. Shutterstock/Mariusz S. Jurgielewicz 3. Uganda Tourism 4. Gizelle Lau 5. Pantara Elephant Farm 6. Shutterstock/EastVillage Images 7. Shutterstock/Eskymaks 8. Tourism Australia 9. Flickr.com/Mockstar 10. Shutterstock/ Patryk Kosmider 11. Shutterstock/PHB.cz(Richard Semik) 12. Shutterstock/Johnny Lye 13. Flickr.comDee Vaugn 14. Shutterstock/Brian Nolan 15. Shutterstock/Raywoo 16. Shutterstock/WitR 17. Flickr.com/Rafael Estrella 18. SXC/ Lucretious 19. Shutterstock/Sergii Figurnyi 20. Shutterstock/maleevsw 21. Flickr.com/Trodel 22. Shutterstock/ Ekaterina Pokrovski 23. Flickr.com/luckygun 24. Arne Gulstene 25. Shutterstock/Mehmetcan
Photo credits for REMEMBER WHEN sidebars in order of appearance: SXC/sjtoh. Shutterstock/RetroClipArt. Shutterstock/Joshua Haviv. SXC/Allen P. Shutterstock/ Vereshchagin Dmitry. Shutterstock/graja. Shutterstock/Roman Sigaev. Flickr.com/Boston Public Library. Photo credits for the feature Close to Home: 1. Quebec Tourism 2. Shutterstock/Lana 3. Rocky Mountaineer 4. Ottawa Tourism 5. Shutterstock/ibsky 6. Shutterstock/Stephen Coburn 7. Shutterstock/Elzbieta Szpak 8. Shutterstock/Galyna Andrushko 9. Shutterstock/Boykov 10. Shutterstock/SFC 11. Shutterstock/jiawangkun 12. Shutterstock/Eric Lemar 14. Rio Secreto 15. Shutterstock/Dennis Sabo 16. Shutterstock/haak78 17. Rio Secreto 18. Shutterstock/Enfi 19. Shutterstock/Scott Rothstein 20. Gizelle Lau 21. Shutterstock/Kjersti Joergensen 22. Shutterstock/Silver-John 23. Shutterstock/Lisa F. Young 24. Shutterstock/Lucia Pitter 25. Shutterstock/Blacqbook
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25
VELLER C ANADIAN TRA
Y YearS
Notes from the
OF canadian traveller
&
Publisher Editor
“i met a lot of people in Europe. I even encountered myself,” said writer James Baldwin. The reasons we travel haven’t changed. Discovery and selfdiscovery - that’s why we do it, and why we’ll continue for years to come. What has changed – dramatically – is where and how Old “print” publisher Rex Armstead; young “digital” president Brad Liski we get information to help us decide where to go and what to do. And how we, the publishers, deliver it to you. Less than 40 years ago hot metal (lead!) linotype machines and telexes were still in use. Printing and publishing were among the first to benefit – and suffer – from the digital revolution. We’re continually asked: “Will magazines survive?” The answer is a definitive “Yes!” They’re interesting focal points and great sources of information, whether lying on a coffee “The reasons we travel or in the bathroom. haven’t changed. Discovery table However, once interest moves into and self-discovery.” action then online research takes over. Canadian travellers can draw on global resources, not least of them the social media. But who can you trust? That’s the role a good content provider – and travel agent – will play: well informed specialists to help you sort through the mass of (often) unqualified information now available. Equally important is how will we deliver the information to you? The role of online editorial (like our own, accessed at www.canadiantraveller.net) is already well established. And that hotel room book will be CT Editor, Janice Strong replaced by information tailored to you, pushed to your Smart Phone or iPad, based on your GPS location. Magic! CT editor Janice Strong and new, young, president Brad Liski are committed to entertaining you with information you can trust for at least another 25 years - through whatever channel you choose. Enjoy!
there’s a travel revolution going on – not only in how we research and book travel, but also where and how we travel. Canadian Traveller magazine has been reporting on the travel industry and destinations since 1987. In this 25th “We want to engage and anniversary souvenir edition we take a look interact with the locals back but more importantly and destination.” we take a look forward. Paper air tickets are now an e-document on your mobile phone. A bottle of pop is now seen as a potential explosive device in an airport security line. A helpful travel agent is only a Skype computer screen or e-mail away. Travel was simpler 25 years ago. Holidays for many meant lying on a beach. That won’t cut it for most of us today. The world has opened up. Now we venture off to Africa, Middle East and other exotic regions. No longer do we want to observe. We want to engage and interact with the locals and destination. In this issue we present 25 “Do it Now,” “The New 25” and North American top travel spots. Let’s just agree to disagree. We asked our experienced panel of experts, conducted extensive research, sourced other lists and debated amongst ourselves. The key element – what can you experience at that destination? No doubt some will ask why a particular destination wasn’t included. We want you to think about travel and what you can experience. Let the debate begin! French writer Marcel Proust wrote: “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” We hope in this special edition it will shed new light on popular destinations and inspire you to discover new destinations and experiences. Keep travelling and experiencing,
rex armStead
chriS rYall
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER
EDITOR, CANADIAN TRAVELLER 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION
CANADIAN TRAVELLER – Delivering Destination Information
Editor-in-ChiEf/PublishEr Rex Armstead Editor Janice Strong souvEnir Edition Editor: Chris Ryall Writer/Editorial Assistant: Gizelle Lau Copy Editor: Chris Potter
dEsign and Editorial ProduCtion Fusion FX Design & Marketing Inc. www.fusionfxdesign.com
rEgional rEPrEsEntativE mExiCo Leticia Garcia Tel: (55) 5683-5569
assoCiatE PublishEr Brad Liski
ProduCtion managEr Bryan Nikkel
assoCiatE PublishEr EastErn north amEriCa Jennifer Prendergast Tel: (416) 907-7524
intEgration managEr Kahlil Yeates
EastErn rEgion salEs managEr Toni DeFino Tel: (416) 907-7524 aCCount managEr – vanCouvEr Myles Armstead Tel: (250) 860-9096
10 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
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25 NEW
25 New places to go & things to do For those who have been there & done that
By Chris Ryall, Gizelle Lau and Michele Sponagle
The world of travel is wide open these days, in fact, the only limit on where to go, what to see, even how to get there (a seat on the next spaceship anyone?), is your imagination. Need some ideas? Check out these 25 travel ideas guaranteed to satisfy anyone’s bucket list.
12 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
Unusual
Places to
Sleep Do you like the top (a forest canopy) or the bottom (under ground)? Discover new places for sleeping around.
no.1
underwater hOtelS Why not go under? Water, that is. Forget the traditional ocean view room, at resorts like Dubai’s Atlantis The Palm, you can enjoy a real ocean view when staying at the resort’s underwater Lost Chamber suites, innovative luxury guest suites submerged in the resort’s Ambassador Lagoon. This elaborate underwater world brings to life what the lost city of Atlantis could have been, based on the real-life ruins discovered here during the resort’s construction. And hopefully you’re not shy. Your neighbours – 65,000 marine animals – will be watching day and night. WWW.ATLANTISTHEPALM.COM
no.2
undergrOund cave mOtel If you’re going to the land Down Under, why not sleep down under? Coober Pedy, in South Australia, is known as the “Opal Capital of the World.” It could also be the Underground Capital of the World. Not because of its nefarious inhabitants (they’re not), but because hotels and homes are underground to escape the repressive heat. Natural air is pumped in through air shafts and the outside world is accessed through a veranda. The cave dwellings have all the comforts of home – even Wi-Fi! Going underground has never been more comfortable. WWW.COOBERPEDY.NET
no.3
ice hOtelS Ice hotels have come a long way since the first one built in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden in 1989. Now they’re cool, sexy and even futuristic. Bring your parka, mitts and someone you have very warm relations with to Quebec City’s Hotel de Glace, open between January and March annually. The temporary structure, rebuilt each season, is made completely of ice and snow – from the rooms and the beds, to the artwork, the bar and the glasses in which specially created ice-themed cocktails are served. The Nordic spa, complete with hot tub and sauna is a popular hang-out. Just chill. WWW.HOTELDEGLACE-CANADA.COM no.4
rainFOreSt canOpY ecO lOdge A Belize forest canopy eco lodge rewards you with a truly natural experience. Wake up to a symphony of bird song as you look out over a dense, green rainforest teeming with flora and fauna. Head for the shower – it’s outside overlooking the forest canopy and nature preserve. Kayak along the Rio Grande, a marine reserve, explore the jungle’s critters big and small or take a guided tour to nearby Mayan ruins. At the end of the day contemplate how fortunate you are to be at Mother
Nature’s doorstep.
WWW.TRAVELBELIZE.ORG
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 13
25 NEW
Cool
Adventure There’s cool travel and then there’s really cool travel. Travel to the ends of the Earth for the coolest travel of all.
no.6
no.5
nOrth pOle Every year only a small number experience the top of the world – are you next? Aboard Quark Expeditions’ 50 Years of Victory, the most powerful icebreaker on earth, you plow through thick ice to 90 degrees north – the North Pole. Celebrate with a tethered hot air balloon flight (you’ll appreciate the hot air), get out and stand at the pole, walk on the ice or even enjoy a real polar bear swim. If you really want bragging rights run in the North Pole marathon – you aren’t running on land but on ice – the Arctic Ocean is only two-to-three metres below! WWW.QUARKEXPEDITIONS.COM
nOrthweSt paSSage The legendary Northwest Passage has claimed many victims who dared to explore the fabled route between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. The passage is still adventurous, but, fortunately for us, modern ship technology and comforts have made it safe, too. Cruise this fascinating route past historic sites, ceremonial grounds and ship graveyards. But this passage is also full of life – birders delight in 26 species of sea birds that migrate and nest here. The highlight? A glimpse (from a safe distance) of the mighty polar bear as he navigates his own passage on the ice floes. WWW.POLARCRUISES.COM
14 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
no.7
eurOpean arctic Not just top of the world, Greenland and the European Arctic are top of the travel list for many. Begin your voyage off the coast of Norway at the archipelago of Svalbard, a prime spot for polar bear viewing. Visit the land of Vikings and see the massive icebergs of North East Greenland National Park – the largest icebergs in the world. It’s one of the most isolated places in the world with only 500 visitors per year. Now do you feel special? Iceland and its glaciers, volcanoes, wildlife and geothermal spas like the famous Blue Lagoon is journey’s end. WWW.HURTIGRUTEN.US
FUTUReTRENDS
The
Mobile... Tour Guide
Frustrated when you can’t hear the tour guide or the pace is too quick or too slow? You will love the next generation of mobile phone guided tours. Download an app that features a tour of Rome. A built-in GPS unit will be able to pin point your location and can give a running commentary. You can rewind, fast forward – it’s your own personalized tour at a fraction of a cost of a group tour.
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 15
25 NEW no.8
FUTUReTRENDS
antarctica Why not head south for the winter?
Way south. One of the harshest, most pristine places on earth, Antarctica is actually the more accessible and affordable of the two polar destinations. Sign up for G Adventures’ 11-day cruise out of Ushuaia, Argentina, the southern-most city in the world and sail aboard a purpose-built vessel through Drake Passage to the South Shetland Islands and then to the edge of the Antarctica Peninsula. Stunning and imposing blue-tinted icebergs tower like skyscrapers while penguins waddle back and forth. Stark and magnificent, Antarctica is unforgettable. WWW.GADVENTURES.COM WWW WW.GADVENTURES.COM
Flying... on
autopilot.
Flying usually requires one essential element – a pilot! perhaps not. The technology for Unmanned Aerial vehicles (UAVs) does exist and is presently in military use in hotspots like Iraq and Afghanistan. There are two types of UAVs: ones controlled remotely (even thousands of kilometres away); and ones that fly autonomously on pre-programmed flight plans. Don’t be nervous, today’s commercial aircraft are on auto-pilot for most of the flight anyway. UAVs are not really expected to fly in the near future, but don’t be surprised it they test them out on cargo planes in the coming years – boxes are fearless.
7
Another world
AwAits on the
th
Continent Begin your Adventure now. Call 1.888.752.0553 or visit us online at QuarkExpeditions.com 7.125x4.875_7thContinent_Creative.indd 1
16 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
12-02-17 8:51 AM
G. Lebois ; P. Smit ; OT Annecy / B. Voisin; JL Rigaux; P. Fournier; M. Perrin / OT Lyon; Alliaé
Rhône-Alpes en plein écran Rhône-Alpes in full technicolour
Voyage, Sport, Culture, Montagne, tout Rhône-Alpes en images sur : www.rhonealpes.tv Travel, Sport, Culture, Mountains, the whole of Rhône-Alpes in images.
Le bouquet des chaînes thématiques de Rhône-Alpes
25 NEW
Feel Good Travel
no.10
Do good and you’ll feel good. Help those around you and you help yourself. We’ve all heard it, now let’s live it. Here’s how. no.9
Save Sea turtleS It’s a blessing and a curse to be a sea turtle: blessed with an
incredibly long life span (up to 100 years); cursed because of man’s encroachment on nesting sites and habitat. Never mind natural predators that feed on eggs and young turtles, industrial fishing fleets take many sea turtles in bycatch. Make a difference by joining one of many save the sea turtle organizations like the Sea Turtle Restoration Project. You can help create and expand nesting areas, release baby turtles into the sea and document abuse by fishing fleets. Be vigilant.
cOmmunitY develOpment Want to make a real difference? Try voluntouring with companies like Hands Up Holidays. Become a guest of the community, not just a tourist; it’s your time, skills and compassion that count here. Join a trip to Zambia, where two-thirds of the population lives on less than one dollar a day. Teach at the school, help care for patients at the medical clinic, or put your handyman skills to the test and assist in building homes in the village. Your reward – a glorious smile. What else to you need? WWW.HANDSUPHOLIDAYS.COM
prOtect mangrOveS Mangroves have become a disappearing act. But this act has devastating consequences for nature and man. Mangroves reduce the impact of severe storms and cyclones. In some areas they are a key source of food and building materials. Shrimp farms, pollution and dynamite fishing have all contributed to the disappearance of mangrove forests along the coasts of Latin America, Africa and Asia. Wetlands International and other mangrove protection organizations are fighting back. Help them restore mangroves in coastal communities – you’ll get wet, dirty and work hard but make a valuable contribution to the earth’s future. Do it.
FUTUReTRENDS
Faster...
than a speeding bullet.
it’s a bird, it’s a plane, no it’s an ultra-high-speed maglev train. Maglev is short for magnetic levitation, and put simply, it’s a system of transportation that uses magnetic levitation to suspend, guide and propel vehicles with magnets rather than the oldfashioned way – wheels, axles and bearings. High-speed trains are “lifted” off their guideway and operate smoother, quieter and faster. Currently the highest speed recorded for a maglev train is 581 kph. Some experts predict these trains could reach up to 6,440 kph in a couple of decades. Imagine New York to Los Angeles in three hours. Super. 25TH CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY ANNIVERSARY MARCH SOUVENIR 2012 | EDITION CANADIAN MARCH TRAVELLER 2012 19
25 NEW
Incredible Journeys They always say it’s not the destination that counts but the journey. In these cases it really is the trip that is the adventure. no.11
Sub-Space travel Space is no longer the final frontier for ordinary travellers thanks to Sir Richard Branson and the team at Virgin Galactic, a company specializing in sub-orbit space travel for the public, albeit a public with deep pockets. The flight duration is 3.5 hours and includes a six-minute period where you experience zero gravity; you can float about the cabin and show the folks back on earth. The price tag starts at $200,000 per person. Flights have yet to begin but are expected to blast off in the next year or two. The countdown is on. WWW.VIRGINGALACTIC.COM
FUTUReTRENDS
Pick...
a room, any room.
You can’t wait to stay in your spacious, smoke-free, wellappointed room with stunning views. At least that’s what the website and brochure said when you booked it. Reality, however, was a broom closet-sized room with a view of trash bins, the smell of stale smoke and a cheap clock radio. Room77.com brings room choice to a new level. Searches go beyond the normal parameters of pool, Wi-Fi, parking, etc., adding more preferences like room size, noise levels and views. You decide what’s important and the Room Concierge at Room77.com will forward your preferences to the selected hotel – free. Now that’s room service.
The
Missing... link. it’s time to hook up. britain started it in 1994 with the opening of the chunnel making travel between paris and london a two-hour high-speed train ride. In the next 25 years we should see a fixed link (bridge) between Panama and Colombia at the Isthmus of Panama – finally linking North and South America. And then there are Morocco and Spain – two neighbours less than 15 kilometres away but continents apart. Look for both sides to bridge the gap and hook up in the future.
no.12
air cruiSing Kiss long check-in and security lines goodbye and say hello to personalized air travel. Air cruise companies, popular in Europe, North America and Australia, fly into regional or private airports; they even serve in-flight meals – remember that? Check-in and depart 15 minutes later – now that’s civilized. Why spend the time in an airport line-up when you can spend it sipping wine in the Napa Valley, horseback riding in Arizona, or relaxing on a beach in the Caribbean? Your time is sacred. 20 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
25 NEW FUTUReTRENDS
Rating...
your holiday.
before you book your hotel you want to find out what their community impact rating is right? Or how they rate on the cultural immersion metre? Hotels, tour packages and cruises have traditionally been rated on level of services, comfort, activities and amenities. In the future these will still be in place but you will see a more holistic approach to rating travel suppliers. Their carbon rating, impact on local communities, interaction with locals, and level of organic food and locally produced items will become increasingly important.
no.13
river cruiSing Mega-ships and 5,000 fellow cruisers not your thing? Get off the floating cities and hop on a river cruise and go places the big guys can’t. Like the Mekong Delta in Southeast Asia. Discover an intriguing mix of Cambodian, Laotian and Vietnamese culture while sailing along the Mekong River. Shore excursions include the French Colonial architecture of Phnom Penh and the mysterious jungle-shrouded Angkor Wat dating back to the 12th century. Small ships allow you to personalize your cruise experience – get to know fellow passengers and cruise personnel. The ships may be smaller but the demand for river cruises is getting bigger.
no.14
camel trek Channel the spirit of Lawrence of Arabia on a Moroccan camel trek across the Sahara Desert. But, unlike Lawrence, the only battle you will have will be directing your cantankerous camel. The Erg Chigaga is a remote desert wilderness where the nomadic Ait Atta Berber tribe live. Share stories and meals with the locals. Sleep under the stars in a nomad tent. Bask in the tranquility of the desert at night. Now you understand Lawrence’s passion for the desert and the Bedouin lifestyle. 22 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
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25 NEW
FUTUReTRENDS
What’s... your specialty.
Local
Flavour
it’s all in the details. tomorrow’s traveller isn’t looking for an agent who asks “Where do you want to go?”, but one who wants to know what they want to experience. Specialization will become the key. Golfing travellers will be looking for an agent who knows which golf courses are female-friendly, appropriate for high handicap duffers and have narrow fairways. Or an agent who specializes in finding hotels and destinations that are less dangerous to severe allergy sufferers. And specialties will beget specialties – adventure travel will sub-divide into Central American land adventure, for example. Travellers will go beyond their local agent and contact agents from around the world to book their specialty travel. Globalization meets specialization.
What better way to experience other cultures than to do as the locals do? Worship, taste, listen and watch. You’ll be surprised what you can learn.
no.15
culinarY & wine tOurS Nonna knows best.
And she says one of the best places in the world to eat is Tuscany. Culinary tours like Tasty Tuscany offer a onestop culinary and cultural adventure. Bed down in a picturesque Italian villa then venture out with your chef/guide to source fresh vegetables, herbs, wines and cheeses and meet local producers. Home cooking never tasted so good. Along the way discover the locals’ home-made and genuine hospitality. WWW.TASTYTUSCANY.COM
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no.16
Spiritual & Faith baSed JOurneYS Hundreds of years ago before Eat, Pray, Love, people travelled to ashrams in India, or monasteries in Tibet. Places where you could find meaning, purpose or a connection to the divine. In Japan, a handful of Buddhist monasteries offer a place of retreat and the chance to learn about Japanese culture and history. Participate in daily monastery activities like cooking and cleaning; learn the discipline of meditation or zazen. A bonus: monasteries are some of the few places in the world where you can taste traditional shojin cuisine. WWW.JNTO.GO.JP
For Special Rates and Promotions, please contact your Preferred Tour Operator. Visit Sonest.com/stmaarten or Call 1-800-SONESTA
Join Sonesta St. Maarten on Facebook | facebook.com/SonestaStMaarten
Give your family the star treatment in Mexico.
Wave pool at Iberostar Paraiso Maya and Iberostar Paraiso Lindo, Mayan Riviera.
Treat your family to the ultimate in setting and service. Gracing the most breathtaking shores of Cancún, Riviera Maya and Cozumel, in Mexico, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts offer the Caribbean’s best hospitality, endless amenities, all inclusive dining, extended programs for your kids and a huge variety of recreational options. From wave and sparkling pools to the stunning beaches, from challenging golf courses to relaxing spa, Iberostar has created one –of –a kind, all inclusive playground where every member of your family will be treated like a star.
Iberostar Cancún
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Iberostar Paraíso Beach
MEXICO · JAMAICA · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · CUBA
iberostar.com - contact your travel professional
Enjoy being a star
25 NEW
no.17
100th anniverSarY OF wOrld war i The Great War, as it was called, claimed the lives of nine million combatants from the Allies and Central Powers and 21 million casualties during its four long years. Lest we forget, preparations are being made by various organizations and all levels of governments to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its start in 1914. Three museums in particular showcase the sacrifice made by so many and ensure we understand the war’s significance: Museum of the Great War located in Meaux, France which opened in November 2011; the popular Imperial War Museum in London; and the lesser known National World War I Museum in Kansas City. Sadly, World War I was not the war to end all wars.
FUTUReTRENDS
Your... virtual agent. no bricks, no mortar just software. Welcome to your friendly and knowledgeable virtual travel agent. There will still be travel agents as we know them, both office- and home-based, but technology for real time video interaction will be much more advanced in the next 10 to 20 years. Connect with an agent 24/7 locally and internationally who will instantly be able to pull up live images of the destination, hotel, beach or downtown to help you make a decision. Research and booking is done in minutes.
no.19
literarY & muSic tOurS There are almost too many places to go to satisfy your lust for literature and passion for music. Shakespeare’s timeless plays and poignant words come alive in Stratford-upon-Avon. Mozart’s perfect music rings through the streets of his hometown, Salzburg. On a more whimsical note, muggles the world over have fallen for Harry Potter, star of one of the largest literary and movie franchises in the past decade. This year fans can book the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour on the outskirts of London and go behind-the-scenes to view the costumes, props, animatronics and the actual film sets like Hogwarts’ Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office and Diagon Alley. Alohomora. WWW.WBSTUDIOTOUR.CO.UK
no.18
birdwatching Meeting birds is easy in Costa Rica. Spotting them is even easier. Costa Rica boasts nearly 900 species of birds – more than the United States and Canada combined. Even a virgin birdwatcher will like their chances here. One of the best spots to spot is the Le Selva Biological Station, home to more than 300 species. Kayak down the Rio Tempisque Basin for a glimpse at jacanas, the purple gallinule or the umbrella bird. The country’s diverse habitats house a variety of species and its diverse terrain allows you to meet birds while hiking, walking, mountain climbing, kayaking and even ziplining. Or maybe you’ll meet one eyeing your drink at a seaside bar. WWW.VISITCOSTARICA.COM CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 27
25 NEW
Radar
On the
Once a destination gets too popular certain travellers move on to the next best thing. Here’s where they’re going.
no.20
brazil Brazil isn’t afraid to show its sexy side – in this case its collective backside on display in (or maybe that’s out of) Brazilian beauties’ itsy bitsy bikinis. Eye candy is plentiful during the continent’s biggest party, Carnival, in Rio de Janeiro. After the party relax on the famous Copacana Beach under the watchful eye of the Christ the Redeemer statue perched above. Patriotism rises to a fever pitch when Brazil hosts the 2014 FIFA World Cup, soccer’s premiere event and the Summer Olympics in 2016. Set your travel compass due south and experience Brazil’s sizzle. BRAZILTOUR.COM
FUTUReTRENDS The
Road...
to good health.
Ordering off the menu at a medical spa can be a mix of pain and pleasure. Why not have an aromatherapy massage to relax before your tummy tuck operation? In these medical palaces cold and sterile hospital rooms are transformed into luxurious, brightly coloured patient-friendly suites. Swimming pools, spa facilities, fitness and wellness areas and gardens create a tranquil but energizing environment. Medical tourism is expected to soar in the next couple of decades due to inadequate health care facilities, long waiting lists and a rapidly aging and obese population around the world. Thailand and India are leading the way in medical tourism but more countries are jumping on the bandwagon. Recuperating never looked so good.
28 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
no.21
mYanmar (burma) The secret
is out. Myanmar, an unspoiled destination that charms visitors with dramatic mountain vistas, pristine jungle, tiger tracking on the back of an elephant and world-class diving in the Mergui Archipelago, is open to visitors. The capital city of Yangon blends cosmopolitan amenities with old-world charm, its skyline dominated by the golden Shwedagon Pagoda. The markets tease shoppers with a mix of precious jewels, Chinese street food, and hand-made crafts. Restrictions on foreigners have been relaxed and there are more tourism related services now to make it easier to travel within the country. WWW.MYANMAR-TOURISM.COM
25 NEW FUTURe eTRENDS
Room...
A with a mood.
no.22
Qatar Go south of Doha and sign up for the wildest ride of your life. 4WD vehicles take you through the desert at speeds of 140 kph.
Your skilled driver tempts fate as you ride on the edge of the vertical sand dunes. Qatar’s sand dunes are the perfect spot for sand skiing, too. You heard right, sand skiing. Swish down the dunes and brag to your friends later. And then there is camel racing, the country’s most popular sport. It’s not unusual to see billionaire oil and gas sheiks visiting Qatar to be at the races. Go wild in the desert. WWW.QATARTOURISM.GOV.QA
in the 1970s there were mood rings. in the very near future we’ll see mood rooms. what? Hotel rooms in the future will boast chemical wallpaper that can change colour to suit your mood. Hop into bed and it automatically senses the contours of your body and adjusts accordingly. Walk into the perfect temperature - it will already be set according to your preferences on the guest profile. Some hotels will totally customize your in-room experience from amenities and lighting to special additions like fitness or business communication tools set up for your arrival. It really is all about you.
More Ways To Experience Europe With Tauck
Our Yellow Roads of Europe trips showcase daily life along the scenic byways, off the beaten path... with tastings at private vineyards, chef-hosted cooking classes, dinners at family-owned châteaux and palaces, concerts and lectures, with a choice of small group trips averaging 24 guests and epicurean-themed departures. Small Ship / Riverboat Cruises aboard intimate yachts in the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean and Baltic seas and on custom-crafted riverboats along inland waterways ensure uncommon access, personalized service and club-like advantages on land and sea, with virtually every cruise expense included. Culturious Trips take small groups of about 20 guests on four culturally immersive trips in France and Italy that are all about sight-doing, not just sightseeing, with hands-on activities that inspire new discoveries and recharge your spirit for adventure. Tauck Bridges Family Vacations are designed for families
of all generations to share together on five fun-filled inclusive trips that explore Italy, London, Paris, the Alps and the Danube River, with scavenger hunts, spy walks, mask-making, biking, train rides, rope climbing, jet boating, pizza-baking and more included.
For more information contact your travell professional
30 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
no.23
waleS cOaSt trail Do you like to walk? Really walk. Put on your most comfortable shoes (bring extras) and begin a 1,400-kilometre trek along the Wales Coast Path following the entire coastline of the country. Linger over a pint or two with a local along the way. Or take a dip in the sea. The hardest part isn’t walking the trail – it’s pronouncing some of the towns and villages you pass along the way – a rest stop at Dinbych y Pysgod or Caerdydd anyone? WWW.WALKINGVISITWALES.COM
For a second they just might forget they’re related.
FUTURe
TRENDS
The
Panoramic...
plane.
in 2050, cabin classes are out and personalized zones are in. Aircraft manufacturer Airbus has unveiled its “Concept Cabin”, offering tailored onboard experiences. Join an interactive conference, hit the links in a virtual golf game, talk to the family back home, or energize in a “vitalizing seat”. Birdlike in how it operates, the aircraft’s bionic structure optimizes the strength and allows for an intelligent wall membrane which controls air temperature. The body of the aircraft can even become transparent offering panoramic in-flight views. And those uncomfortable airplane seats are a thing of the past. Morphing seats change according to your body shape. Cabins are split into zones like the revitalizing zone with vitamin and antioxidant enriched air, mood lighting and aromatherapy treatments. Or the interactive zone with virtual pop up projections and holographic gaming. Who would have thought flying could be this much fun!
PLAY VIDEO
Give your family great memories that will last a lifetime. With a treasure chest of kid-sized fun, lots of dining choices, and a giant slide and waterpark that will thrill even mom and dad, TradeWinds has what you need to
Travel Professionals, visit us at JustLetGoTravel.com | 800.808.9823
Canadian Traveller Mar 2012b.indd 1
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 31
2/15/12 2:08 PM
The
eal RSouthwest
For group tours, contact Judy Wood at jwood@visitTucson.org
visitTucson.org
25 NEW
FUTUReTRENDS
Came...
no.24
guatemala The Mayans knew a good thing when they found it in Guatemala. And the ruins here hold many of their cultural secrets. At the colossal Tikal stroll
from one ancient temple to another
in a rainforest maze with butterflies and squealing monkeys to accompany you. Lago de Atitlan or Lake Atitlan is surrounded by Mayan villages against a backdrop of misty volcanoes. Put your negotiating skills to the test in the markets here. With new resorts and hotels, it’s a place to go for those in the know. WWW.VISITGUATEMALA.COM
no.25
It from the aquarium. the world is not yet running on empty when it comes to fossil fuels but all agree alternatives must be found. Enter the slime from your fish tank. This just could be the next new fuel. Air manufacturers and airlines are under pressure to come up with environmentally sound fuel practices that are also economically viable. By 2040 those Airbus 380s and 787 Dreamliners will be retired and replaced by twinfuselage aircraft. Carbon-free flying is expected by 2050. Right now research is pointing to second-generation biofuels derived from algae and the jatropha plant. Talk about green fuel.
crOatia
Whether you are looking for a beach with a party crowd, family atmosphere, water sports or dare to bare all, Croatia has it covered – or uncovered. Beyond the beach, tour castles, churches and fortresses dating back to the 9th century. Journey from seaside villages to valleys to mountains and discover centuries-old traditions and a slow pace that contrasts with the business-like bustle of Zagreb or Dubrovnik. Surf’s up but prices down in this affordable destination. CROATIA.HR/EN-GB/HOMEPAGE
Sorry...
you’re not my type. admit it – you think about it as you wait to board the plane. You dread sitting next to a family with crying babies or an obnoxious, drunk person. You dream, however, about being next to that pretty lady or handsome guy. Picking your mate, your seatmate that is, may be one of those technological advances that is too much of a good thing. Travellers will soon be able to use their Facebook and Linkedin profiles to find passengers with similar interests on that same flight. Mutual consent in viewing personal information must be given of course. So if you are a high-octane business flyer who likes doing origami in your spare time maybe you’ll find your perfect match. It gives new meaning to the mile high club.
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 33
25 now
Don’t be an armchair traveller – be a “no regrets” traveller. Engage your mind, challenge your body and lift your spirits with these 25 experiences. It’s time to turn your dreams into reality. Do it now!
Don’t
Wait Man’s careless approach to the environment puts these experiences on the endangered list. Don’t delay – do it now.
Do It
Now 25 Things All Canadians Should Experience Before Too Long By Chris Ryall & Gizelle Lau
34 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
No.1
CLimB mT. KiLimANjAro Climbing the world’s tallest “walkable” mountain, towering 5,898 metres above the plains of Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania, is not for the faint hearted. It is a six-to-eight day arduous trek. You feel breathless in the thin air. Your legs feel like cement – each step more gruelling than the last. No special mountain equipment is required – just an abundance of perseverance. Along the way experience five different climate zones starting in the tropical zone and ending at the gradually melting snow-covered Uhuru Peak – the highest point in Africa. Climate change is making the snows of Kilimanjaro a thing of the past so don’t delay. www.tanzaniaparks.com
No.3
GoriLLA TrEKKiNG This is no
ordinary walk in the park. Deep in
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwest Uganda, the mountain gorilla is the king of the jungle. Tread carefully; this is their world and you are fortunate to be in it. Watch families forage for food, play games and nurse their young, all under the watchful eye of the allpowerful male silverback. And remember, they study you as much as you study them. Less than 800 mountain gorillas remain in the world. Relish, respect and honour Uganda’s wild side. www.bwindiforestnationalpark.com
No.2
AmAzoN rAiNforEST Venture down the mighty and mysterious Amazon River in a dug-out canoe and you will quickly come to appreciate the
wonder of the surrounding rainforest.
Paddle carefully as giant anacondas, black caimans and piranhas lurk below. The dense jungle’s silence is broken from the shrill sounds of spider monkeys and macaws. Experience the rainforest’s sounds and scents at an eco-lodge run by one of the 200 tribes who call the rainforest home. The Amazon rainforest is home to the largest collection of living plants and animal species in the world. Protect and preserve this key ecological paradise. www.amazon-rainforest.org
No.4
oBSErvE PoLAr BEArS Don your Canada goose parkas and merino wool long johns and make your way to Churchill, Manitoba, the unofficial Polar Bear Capital of the World. It’s not the howling winds that will send shivers down your spine, it’s the sound of immense paws crunching on hard-packed snow as you come face-to-face with these Arctic giants. Look into his eyes. Although he may be one of the fiercest, mightiest animals on the planet, he is also terribly vulnerable. Global warming threatens their natural habitats and population. Head to Churchill and see for yourself. www.travelmanitoba.com
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 35
25 now No.5
ELEPhANT rESCuE CAmP
Check the poop. That’s important at an elephant rescue camp in Thailand, where the focus is on the learning and not the photo op. You’ll sweat, smell, get dirty and wet here – and love every minute of it. After introductions at this day-long bonding exercise, you’ll conduct a medical check-up of your new friend: analyze her poop (did we mention that’s important?), check her ears and feet. Feed her clumps of bananas. Brush off dirt and pesky bugs and wash her in a creek. Head out on a jungle trek. It’s animal care and bonding as it should be. www.tourismthailand.org
36 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
Wild About
Nature Come face to face with some of nature’s most incredible inhabitants in the most intimate and the most spectacular settings on earth.
No.6
SErENGETi ANimAL miGrATioN The greatest show on earth is not the circus but the annual migration of more than a million wildebeest, 500,000 Thompson gazelles and 200,000 zebra across Tanzania’s Serengeti Plains to Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. See, feel and hear this annual migration spectacle – the animals’ incessant pounding across the plains reverberate for hundreds of kilometres. The sheer mass of animals brings out predators in droves. This is no Lion King production. It’s real and it’s raw. Crocodiles lie in wait in the rivers while hungry lions and hyenas track the herds across the plain. This is nature’s fury and beauty at its most spectacular. www.serengeti.org
No.7
GALáPAGoS iSLANdS Your arrival on the Galápagos Islands will go largely unheralded. Step off the boat and you are greeted by a colony of marine iguanas and sea lions who ignore you as they go about their business. There is no fear of man in this protected archipelago of volcanic islands where close proximity and observance rule. Sea lions may rub against your belly while you swim in the open sea. Blue-footed boobies, sea turtles, giant tortoises and penguins attract your camera’s lens. No zoom required though – the inhabitants are only inches away. The animal kingdom whether in the air, on land or in the sea, doesn’t get any closer or better than in the Galápagos Islands. www.ecuador.travel
R ememb
er W H E
People B Travel M ooked Advan onths in ce? PLAN A N
N...
d SAvE their vac . People ation m would b onths, e through ook ven yea the rs, in ad driving tr ir travel agents, vance whether ip or a g etaway it was a travel be to Florida. came pa Last min rt of the life. Even ute lexicon a a Last M nd way in prices ru u te of C lu b started le. Now we are w . Cheap edge to illing to sco live on th between re the best dea e l. yield ma It’s a ba ttle now n minute whims o agement and th e last f travelle rs.
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 37
25 now No.8
GrEAT BArriEr rEEf You don’t need to be an expert diver to experience the Great Barrier Reef; the world’s largest reef system is accessible to all. Swim, surf, sail or snorkel to see 400 types of protected coral, 1,500 species of tropical fish and 200 types of birds. Appreciate its fragile beauty from the air in a helicopter, seaplane or hot air balloon. Board a cruise and look for humpback whales; the warm waters are one of their prime breeding grounds. Stretching 3,000 kilometres along the Queensland coast you can experience the Great Barrier Reef from the comfy confines of a 5-star resort or sleep under the stars camping on a beach. www.australia.com
R e m e mb er W H EN . . . There Was More Legroom And Free Booze? fifty years ago we had the glamorous Pan Am age, a time when luxury, legroom, personal service and non-plastic utensils were the norm. Today, unless you are in business or first class, peanuts are a luxury. Strike that – peanuts aren’t allowed due to nut allergies. As the population added weight the airlines decreased seat pitch and leg room. Now we know what sardines feel like.
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38 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
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Culturally
25 now
Speaking
We are not all alike. Never have been and never will be. Let’s celebrate our differences.
No.9
jEruSALEm Take a walk on the spiritual side. Some call Jerusalem home, many call it holy, and others come to discover their faith. Whether your visit is for religious interests or not, the city’s rich history and spirituality is present everywhere you go. The “Wailing Wall” grabs your attention (and emotions) as people of all faiths reconnect with their god or loved ones. Day or night the streets are filled with pilgrims, locals and visitors searching for meaning. Stroll the city’s collection of synagogues, mosques, churches and monasteries and observe religious tolerance in action. www.goisrael.com No.10
mAyAN CiviLizATioN It’s a new era for the Mayans: 2012 marks a new time period on their
calendar and a new focus on this mysterious culture. Renowned for mathematics, architecture, art and a fully developed written language, the civilization flourished through parts of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador and Honduras between 250 and 900. Chichen Itza on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula was most likely one of the civilization’s largest cities. Its pyramid, “Kukulcan”, is a World Heritage Site and a masterful example of a solar calendar as well as a ceremonial temple and sporting ground. Check out the games rules etched on wall around the site – losing was lethal. www.visitmexico.com
R emember W H
EN . . .
etters In L r u o F t s u J “LGBT” Were bet? in the rights The Alpha advancements ge hu en tations. be ve nsgender orien ars there ha in the past 25
tra ye an, bisexual or a lucrative e with gay, lesbi os were ignoring th ey of Th ce . an up ke wo y all and accept ns and fin tio rs hotels, destina d travel supplie have operators, Destinations an we s. y fit da ne To be t. llar marke and reap the multi-billion do travel segment ket to this key ar m at th ls va festi CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 41
25 now nATIOnAL PARK
No.11
ThE CAmiNo dE SANTiAGo Follow the way. For centuries, the Camino de Santiago devout Christians have made the 770-kilometre pilgrimage across northern Spain to the Cathedral of Santiago do Compostela in Galicia. You don’t have to be religious to embody the spirit of the trek as you meander through the French and Spanish countryside and meet
fellow pilgrims
Two hours north and a million miles away from Las Vegas, this National Park favorite will amaze and inspire you! Explore miles of hiking and biking trails; enjoy horseback riding, jeep tours, rappelling, atv excursions and more. Don’t forget your camera!
along the way. Parts of the route are now paved, but many choose traditional transport – foot, horse or donkey. However you make the journey this is one of the most culturally and spiritually satisfying walking adventures in the world. Challenge your body, mind and spirit. www.spain.info
EveryThing from A To Zion
...
EN H W r e b m Reme ned? e p p a 9/11 Hmost
in the cidents horrific in de Centre, d n a t n Tra significa e World the changed acks at th one of ars: the terror att . How we travel ar of travelling, ia ye an g fe ty, past 25 Pennsylv underlyin htened securi n and in y. It created an . Heig d . y e a lt d u Pentago s a is d ts to th lly that ictions re apon is a tr x c s e ti a re ll ti m n s e dra , that thal w , carry-o lly by air d ssible le canners especia red a po s decimated an y body s e a -r id x s n d o le c a g w e n b y fa tr w ld s e u n co el indu of water The trav again. A bottle thpaste. o growth t to a f th o p e u b o tu c a re r o rs to ken yea it has ta
A year round golf destination that has lots of options for every golfer’s skill level, schedule and pocketbook! Ten conveniently located courses and lots of lodging options. Book six months out with no fees at RedRockGolf.com.
Fly direct! Delta via Salt Lake City or United via Los Angeles
42 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
Taxes And Fees Were Minimal? it didn’t used to take a mathematician to figure out the cost of a plane ticket. There was the fare and a bare minimum of taxes. Since 9/11, governments have poured on the fees and taxes. Some worthwhile and others nothing more than a money grab – travel has become the target for all kinds of ancillary fees. It’s not unusual for the fees and taxes to cost more than the base fare.
Just one stay and you’ll see what makes us
SUPER! ALBERTA
Calgary/ Shawnessy 60 Shawville Rd. S.E. 403-254-8878 Edmonton/South 3610 Gateway Blvd. N.W. 780-433-8688 BRITISH COLUMBIA
Castlegar 651 18th St. 250-365-2700
MAnITOBA
nOVA SCOTIA
Dauphin 1457 Main St. S. 204-638-0800 Swan River 115 Kelsey Trail 204-734-7888 nEW BRUnSWICK
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A Journey of Four Stories
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Only a short drive from New Orleans, these historic plantations, gardens and restaurants of Plantation Parade symbolize the wealth and culture of Louisiana’s past. Come tour, dine, sleep and enjoy the full richness of Plantation Parade.
Call for itineraries or visit:
www.PlantationParade.com
25 now No.14
mArdi GrAS Leave the inhibitions and rules at home.
Beads, booze, beignets and boobs
No.12
SiNGAPorE SPiCE mArKETS/food Blend English, Indian, Chinese and Malaysian cultures and you end up with intoxicating Singapore where the tropical weather can be as steaming hot as the chili crabs served waterside at Long Beach. Street market stalls exude delicious aromas like basil and lemongrass. The city’s famous hawker centres bring “food court” fare to a higher and deliciously exotic level. Need a luxury break? Head to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands in the Central Business District and its Louis Vuitton “island”. Indulge your spicy side. www.yoursingapore.com
are Mardi Gras fixtures in New Orleans. Beignets and what? The latter is the appreciation female revelers show for the purple, gold and green beads thrown out by the Krewes on floats during the parades. Talk about a crowdpleaser. The spirit continues on Bourbon Street, where the drink of choice is actually the Hurricane. A few of these sweetly deceptive cocktails and your brain will feel like it’s in a hurricane. Decadence continues with the popular, but never nutritious, deep fried beignet. Eat, drink and be merry. www.neworleansonline.com
No.13
fLowEr fESTivAL You don’t need to be a flower child to appreciate the sights and smells of the annual Chiang Mai Flower Festival. Thailand’s most impressive flower festival is a celebration of yellow and white chrysanthemums, roses and orchids, held the first week of February. Beautiful Thai women are adorned with meticulously decorated floral outfits. Elaborately decorated floats with various floral motifs slowly make their way down the parade route accompanied by dancers and hill tribespeople. Your digital camera will be shooting fast and furious in this extraordinary landscape. Here’s to flower power.
R e m e m b e r W H EN . . Inflight Services Were Free?
.
The meal
wasn’t Michelin rated but at least it was free. Co mplimentary glass of wine sir? Thank you . Now I can sit back, relax, watch a movie and get comfy with my free blanket and pillow. Those days are long gone in economy . Earphones, blanket, pillow and a meal – for free! What planet are you on? Ante up . Now sit back and relax – your wallet will feel lighter too.
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 45
25 now
Monumental Attractions
Some of man’s most significant architectural and engineering feats stand witness to our enduring ingenuity. And our love of grandeur.
No.15
GrEAT wALL of ChiNA More than 2,000 years after its construction began, the Great Wall of China is a source of mystery and intrigue and a testament to perseverance. Stretching an incredible 8,851 km across China it’s an engineering feat with no equal. Most of the Great Wall was completed during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). But the Great Wall is not just a wall. Designed for military purposes with forts, passes and beacon towers it housed soldiers and armouries. Its sheer size and length will take your breath away as will the stories of the thousands who built it. www.cnto.org
R e m e mb er W H EN . . . You Could Bring Your Luggage For Free?
Who would have thought 25 years ago that airlines would start charging for the most basic of things – your luggage? Appa rently now that is a luxury item and airlines shouldn’t have to carry it unless you want to pay a $25-to-$50 fee. And that’s just for the first bag! But most of us do bring clothes, shoes and other personal hygiene items that might not all fit in a carry-on bag for a two-week holiday. Maybe we should all start visiting nudist colonies.
EVERYDAY IS A GOOD DAY TO BE OUTDOORS
Located deep in the heart of South Texas, Harlingen is a great place to explore the outdoors — Texas style. Come see for yourself why everyday is a good day to be outdoors. 1-800-531-7346
46 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
V i s i t H a r l i n g e n Te x a s . c o m
, N U F S Y . A e k i D l e S r a E If T U S D N E K ine what WEE are this
imag
k. of the wee every day ay d es Tu t eans, it’s Fa jazz and the In New Orl birthplace of e th is ty ci nd because the delight arou Perhaps it’s amuse and to g in h et ntact here’s som rmation, co cocktail. T r more info Fo . er rn lestoned co vb.com. every cobb eworleansc n a@ ll ze an lla at mm Maria Manze
We’re ancient
We’re young
We’re Egypt
Hi, As an Egyptian, I think the Pyramids are more than an ancient world wonder that you see on postcards. The only remaining Old World Wonder is about glorious sunsets, relaxing walks, horseback riding and vitalizing energy. I’m sure you’ve seen millions of pictures of the Pyramids, right? Well, being here at sunset is like jumpstarting your soul. Now, what picture can do that? Still, it wouldn’t hurt to bring a camera. Cheers! Youssif
See you in GIZA
www.egypt.travel
25 now No.18
No.16
GrEAT PyrAmid of GizA The icons remain. Egyptian politics may be changing, but it’s oldest and most intriguing attractions remain. Including the king (or is that pharaoh) of them all, the Great Pyramid of Giza. One of the oldest attractions in the world, it was also one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built over a 20-year period and completed around 2560 BC, the Great Pyramid stood 146.5 metres and was the tallest man-made structure in the world for more than 3,800 years. Climb the steps to the entrance and explore passageways, the Grand Galley and the chambers of Egyptian royalty. The icons remain. www.egypt.travel
ThE ACroPoLiS If Greece is considered the cradle of civilization – of democracy, philosophy, poetry and literature – then the Acropolis of Athens is its symbolic heart. Rising high above the city of Athens, the flat topped rock is a remarkable tribute to Athens, its people and an engineering wonder. The Parthenon built in the 5th century BC seems hollow during the day. But when lit up at night, life and vitality return to its dominating columns, recalling the age when this temple of Athena was the pinnacle of ancient Greece. The ravages of time, pollution and weather have taken their toll, but this World Heritage Site still stands as an example of architectural perfection. www.visitgreece.gr
No.17
mAChu PiCChu The “Lost City of the Incas” was built in the mid-1400s but abandoned a century later. What really happened here? No one knows. The ruins high above the Urubamba Valley north of Cusco showcase the Inca’s distinct architectural style of polished dry-stone walls where blocks of stone are cut to fit together – without mortar. Today visitors marvel at this engineering feat. There are recent efforts to limit the number of visitors in what is Peru’s most visited attraction to preserve the ruins. It’s a mystery worth exploring. www.visitperu.com
Remem ber W H EN . . . Cruise S Were S hips mall? Over th e past h 2
as seen 5 years, a the cru ise indu Sovereig renaissance. Cruise stry n (late ships li 80s) cla beginn ke the ss ship ing of th m e age o arked th Oasis o f f the Se e as (laun mega-ships li cities o ke the ched in n water 2 0 o 0 9). Thes ff to golf, e shoppin er everything fro g, spa, b of resta ars and m tennis urants a d n ozens passen d can c gers at a one tim rry over 6,000 from th e. Cruis e alway es ha sp Pole ad venture opular Caribb ve evolved ean to style cru Pole to ises.
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 49
25 now
R emember
No.19
PETrA Dusty, rose pink rock faces command your attention. This is the famous Al-Khazneh or Treasury of Petra. Visit at twilight.
Candles light the way
through the kilometer-long Siq as the rock face blushes in the setting sun – a truly mystical experience. The ancient city of Petra was build by the Nabataeans and is rich with many architectural wonders and centuries-old tombs, theatres, temples, and sacrificial altars. All testament to the power of commerce in the desert. www.visitjordan.com
W H EN . . .
We Went Supersonic?
ma
ny a tear was shed when the Concorde was put to rest. Flying from New York to Paris on a Concorde? 3.5 hours was a genuine thrill even for the most seasoned traveller. Imagine flying at 60,000 feet at Mac h 2.02. Today, regular commercial jets take seven to eight hours for the same flight. Progress!
You Could Smoke On An Airplane?
Smoke filled
the aircraft cabin’s already dry, stale air. After a flight you r body and clothes felt like you were just locked up at a cigarette manufacturer’s product test ing room. Smoking sections on some airlines wer e a movable object – just take the Smokin g section sign and move it forward or bac kyard. We still have the dry, stale air but airlines, some reluctantly due to their well paying first and business class passengers, have ruled smo king is a no-no when flying.
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Covered Bridge Festival
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J.R. here from the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency. Congratulations on your 25th anniversary, CT! We know a thing or two — or 50 — about anniversaries.
1.866.927.4969 • VisitWashingtonCountyPA.com
25 now
No.20
vENiCE Ahh, Venice. City of romance, city of passion. A city guaranteed to get all your senses fired up.
World
Cities
Treat your love to a stroll along the narrow streets, past cozy restaurants and piazzas with lovers in passionate embraces. Or while away the hours on a leisurely ride through Venice’s intricate system of canals. The sometimes cheesy gondolier’s singing and music is a bonus. The annual Carnival showcases frivolity, meticulously crafted masks and fantastical costumes. Go soon though. Venice, however magical, may have only a short time left as water levels continue rising due to global warming. www.venice-tourism.com
Bright lights, big personalities. These cities are proud, loud and absolutely must-see destinations.
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R e m e mb er W H EN . . . There Were No Points?
have i got a point for you! Elite? Super Elite? Platinum? What category are you in? Sign up and here’s 10,000 miles for your loyalty. In its infancy 25 years ago, loyalty programs are now common as hotels, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators all use reward points to keep your brand loyalty. It’s a type of marketing that exploded in the 90s and shows no signs of letting up.
Getting Tickets In the Mail? Planning a trip 25 years ago meant visiting a travel agent. Faxing was the revolutionary communication tool in the late 80s and early 90s. Long distance calls were made to the hotel or airline for booking rooms or flights. Plane or rail tickets in stylish wallets filled with coupons were sent by mail or picked up at the travel agency. It was personal and classy.
There Was No Internet? if you wanted
information about a destination it used to mean a trip to the library, travel show or the travel agent. Brochures were printed, not apps on your iPhone and you relied on your travel agent to navigate through the travel choices and booking process. Today, thanks to the Internet, a new, savvy and empowered generation has taken on the unofficial role of travel agent. People research destinations, where to stay, what to do and where to eat on thousands of websites like TripAdvisor.com, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s or WikiTravel.org. Through online travel booking sites like Expedia or Travelocity as well as hotel, resorts, airlines and even tourism board websites, you can now make your own bookings. You can access flight information before leaving home; pull up boarding passes on your smart phones or even check-in on the way to the airport. With social media and online travel communities, it’s easy to reach out to other like-minded travellers and connect, meet and “tweet up”.
Travel Agents Worked In An Agency Store Not At Home? home sweet home is the mantra of many travel agents these days. Booking travel is no longer the bricks and mortar set-up it was 25 years ago. No consumer would take you seriously back then unless you had a storefront with sun destination posters plastered in the windows. In the past 10 years home-based agents and agency associations have flourished and now make up a large part of the agency landscape
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CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 53 glp_Traveler_ad.indd 1
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25 now
Remem
H EN . . . Peop le To Pa Travelled ri Eiffel T s To See the ower? Twen ty
No.21
LoNdoN The 2012 Summer Olympics, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee – London is definitely where it’s at, whatever your “cup of tea” might be. The Jubilee celebrations culminate with the pageantry of a 1,000-boat flotilla along the River Thames in early June. Oh, and it’s the bicentennial of Charles Dickens birth this year. Fans can celebrate the acclaimed author at street festivals and special exhibitions. Favourite attractions are still there: both historic like Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace; and modern like the London Eye, Piccadilly Circus and the Tate Modern. I say, what a year! www.visitlondon.com
ber W
No.22
PAriS
-five would decide years ago
A beautifully complicated city, on a v for the p eople ac destin ation’s ation destin interes Paris. It will seduce atio sak ts decisio and travel s e. Not now. n and surprise you tyles in Today, ns; the fl uence d is seco travelle ndary. estination with its And to rs’ operato ur rs and sophistication, have c supplie ott rs offerin oned on, culture and g spec ialized packag sensuality. es bas ed on interes ts like Sophistication along fo LGBT, multig od, wine, the Champs Elysees and e neratio weddin nal, gs at Versailles; culture at snowb , soft adven ture, irds, in de travel Notre Dame and the and ec pendent o-touri sm. Lourvre. Sensuality? Wander into a boulangerie and buy a baguette, some cheese and a bottle of wine, then head to a local city park. Observe. Let Paris
daily life unfold:
children playing with their dogs, lovers engaging in a French kiss and ladies parading by in hot-off-the-runway fashions. This is the real and brochure- free Paris. The Eiffel Tower, Moulin Rouge and Montmartre can wait another day. en.parisinfo.com
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54 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
Wednesday
SEVEN DAYS. LUCKY YOU.
Monday
Tuesday
Thursday
Saturday day Sunday
Friday Mile after mile of Florida’s best beaches. Day after day of fun. VisitStPeteClearwater.com
25 now
No.24
NEw yorK CiTy Boisterous, proud and unrepentant. NYC is a city of opportunity and cultural diversity. Skyscrapers and tall-in-thesky attractions like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty battle for attention with low-to-the-ground theatres, cozy bars and loud deli shops. New York is sensory overload with cabs honking, Times Square lights shimmering and throngs of people yelling. Catch a Broadway show; dine at a celebrity chef’s eatery. The energy and panache of the Big Apple is palpable. www.nycgo.com
No.25
No.23
ToKyo There’s something fishy here. Especially at Tsukiji, the world’s largest fish market where commerce and tradition meet at a blistering pace. Get there before dawn when the daily catch comes in – from potentially deadly puffer fish to tuna, snapper and more exotic species. Soak in the sights, sounds and the
iSTANBuL There is no continental divide here. Well, actually there is. Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus with one foot firmly planted in Europe and the other in Asia. The Grand Bazaar in the old part of the city is simply grand. The world’s oldest, and one of the world’s largest covered markets, it teems with 4,000 shops all wanting your money. Test your willpower and negotiating skills with the sly rug merchants. Less expensive and definitely more aromatic is the Egyptian Spice Bazaar – a fragrant journey that will leave your senses humming. Istanbul’s mosques, hammams and historic heart all reflect is colourful history as the heart of the Ottoman Empire. http://english.istanbul.com
pungent, but intoxicating, smells.
Vendors shout out their wares. Tranquil and more pleasantly scented places exist as well. Stroll around the landscaped gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace. Relax at a traditional hot spring or soak up the silence at one of Tokyo’s ornate temples. www.tourism. metro.tokyo.jp/ english
R e m e mb er W H EN . . . You Could Climb And Touch Attractions? over the past 25 years we’ve come to understand the sometimes devastating consequences mass tourism or industrial-related disasters can bring to precious heritage, historical and cultural sites around the world. Today there is a greater awareness to preserve and protect so that man-made attractions like the pyramids, Mayan and Inca ruins, the Parthenon and many others around the world can be enjoyed and appreciated by generations to come. 56 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
Green Was Just A Colour? Today, green means being environmentally responsible and supporting sustainable practices. For tourism, one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the world, this means protecting ancient ruins and natural ecosystems as well as making better choices. According to the WWF, aviation accounts for four-to-nine per cent of the impact of human activity on climate change. Choosing efficient aircrafts, staying in environmentally friendly accommodation and avoiding tourist activities that are damaging to the environment are just a few ways we’ll have to adapt so that the next 25 years can be as rewarding as the last.
25 NA
Canada
25 North
American must-do Travel ideas
By Chris Ryall & Gizelle Lau
From the frozen tundra to the tropical rainforest, North America is the only continent that has every kind of climate. North America hits a home run when it comes to spectacular scenery, culture, history and adventure. You don’t need to travel far to satisfy that desire to experience something different.
58 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
Sweet as maple syrup, fresh as Rocky Mountain air, fine as Niagara ice wine and daring as mountain heli-skiing, Canada connects culture and adventure coast to coast to coast.
No.1
QuéBEC CiTy Discover a distinct French culture and joie de vivre in the only fortified city in North America north of Mexico, where European appeal blends harmoniously with North American culture. History is around every corner – no wonder the Old City was named a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, bistros and intimate bars make romance a natural state of affairs, so it’s no miracle people fall in love with Québec City. But if you are in need of a miracle, visit the Sainte-Anne-deBeaupré Shrine, the oldest pilgrimage site in North America and place of miracles for more than 350 years. www.bonjourquebec.com
No.2
NiAGArA fALLS for wiNE For more than a century the Niagara region and its natural wonder, Niagara Falls, has been attracting honeymooners. Now it’s attracting lovers of the grape. A short drive from the Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake boasts 28 wineries. Oenophiles can visit Canada’s only winery devoted to ice wine. Take a wine tour by bike and stop for a picnic in beautifully landscaped parks along the Niagara escarpment. Dine in style at the town’s award-winning restaurants. Catch a performance at the world acclaimed Shaw Festival featuring the works of famed playwright George Bernard Shaw. www.tourismniagara.com No.3
ridiNG ThE rAiLS Rediscover Canada by riding the rails from one coast to another. One of our country’s greatest achievements is its transcontinental railway, built chiefly by the Canadian Pacific Railway in the late 1880s. Today, rail travel offers a relaxed and scenic glimpse into Canada’s vast landscape and diversity. On the east coast, Via Rail’s Ocean train travels from Montreal to Halifax while the new Canadian, launched in fall 2011, takes passengers on a memorable journey from Toronto through the Prairies into western Canada and on to Vancouver. For the ultimate in rail comfort and spectacular scenery take the legendary Rocky Mountaineer as it travels through the jaw-dropping Canadian Rockies in Alberta and British Columbia – one of the world’s greatest train journeys. www.viarail.ca; www.rockymountaineer.com
No.4
oh CANAdA! On Canada Day in Ottawa we stand on guard for fun and frivolity. Every Canadian needs to experience this explosion of unabashed patriotism at least once. Let loose your inhibitions and wave your Canadian flag with fellow Canucks through the party-filled streets. During the day, Parliament Hill is marked with a rousing rendition of the National anthem and a thrilling fly pass of the legendary Canadian Snowbirds aerobatic team. Nosh on beaver tails at the Byward Market. Discover Canada’s rich history at the Canadian War Museum and National Art Gallery. A spectacular fireworks display over Parliament Hill and spirited concert by Canada’s best musicians cap off the day. It’s not only patriotic – it’s great fun. www.canadascaptial.gc.ca
No.5
A whALE of A TimE Guilty as observed. Whales on all three of Canada’s coasts are guilty of the following behaviours: breaching, spyhopping, lobtailing, slapping and lunging. You can watch these giant marine mammals and their “unruly” behaviour from the safe confines of a tour boat. While British Columbia boasts the highest killer whale population in the world and the north offers encounters with narwhals, it’s Newfoundland that offers diversity with over 22 species available for your spotting pleasure. From May to September, belugas, humpbacks, sperm, minkes and pilots display their acrobatic talents. Visit in June and you may be able to catch whales against a backdrop of massive icebergs. Feeling brave? Put on your snorkeling gear and get up close and personal with humpbacks. www.oceanquestadventures.com
CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 59
25 NA
United States Be neighbourly and go big on culture, adventure and scenery whether you are visiting the Big Apple, the Big Island or Big Sur. All states are united in making you want to visit America the beautiful. No.6
iNSidEr’S vEGAS Given its history, it’s only fitting to find a museum devoted to the mob in Las Vegas. The Mob Museum opened on Valentine’s Day in 2012 (how romantic!) with artefacts and exhibits that show the tools of the trade for their greatest hits – guns, shovels and baseball bats. Some are even donated by mobsters themselves. On the other side of the action is CSI–The Experience. Use your detective skills to solve a murder in this totally interactive experience. Neon and Vegas have also had a long relationship – neon signs don’t die they live on in the Neon Museum. After a background check visit the National Atomic Testing Museum. Vegas has never been more real or scary. www.visitlasvegas.com
No.7
PridE ruLES And tolerance goes right along with it in San Francisco. The largest LGBT parade in the United States hits the streets every June (June 23-24, 2012) when families and couples of all ages and persuasions celebrate. The GLBT History Museum opened in 2011 – learn about the decade’s long struggle for acceptance. Relive your hippie and flower child days in Haight Ashbury. Hop on a cable car for an exhilarating ride through hilly and architecturally diverse neighbourhoods with the infamous Alcatraz prison looming in the distance. Wander through the sights, aromas and attractions of Fisherman’s Wharf. www.sanfrancisco.travel 60 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
No.8
A GrANd viEw Get your “ass” moving on an exhilarating mule ride into the Grand Canyon. It’s just one way to experience and discover this World Heritage Site and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Hike down to the Canyon floor where the rocks date back two billion years – they definitely aren’t showing their age. The roaring Colorado River beckons adventurous rafters on one-day or multi-day whitewater rafting trips. Book well in advance for these thrilling river rides. Gain a perspective from the air on a flightseeing tour. If you prefer to be grounded and like riding the rails take the Grand Canyon Railroad from Williams on Route 66 to the Grand Canyon. No matter how you experience the Canyon it will be grand. www.nps.gov/grca
No.10
PoLiTiCS ASidE Is it possible to visit Washington, DC and skip the politics? Absolutely, when there are so many museums to keep you occupied. The Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum and research complex with 19 museums and galleries. Best of all most are free admission. Outside of the Smithsonian, spy wannabes can snoop around at the International Spy Museum and even take part in an interactive spy experience. After that, head over to the National Museum of Crime and Punishment to see exhibits on the history of crime in America. If you still need a political fix then take a White House tour and observe this political “museum” in action. www.sashington.org No.9
No.11
A huLA of A TimE Hawaii teases and
seduces you. Rhythmic hula dancing, a traditional luau feast and a non-stop beach parade of eye candy – Hawaii and its six distinct islands certainly stimulate the mind and body. Hawaii is not technically located in North America but is included since it is a U.S. state. Take a walk on the volcanic side but keep a safe distance – you don’t want to be part of the lava flow. Sit back and
TiCKET To ridE Experience the ride of your life at Orlando’s bonanza of theme parks. Fan of Harry Potter? Escape to the Hogwart’s castle and take the Forbidden Journey state-of-the-art ride at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure Theme Park. Head to Walt Disney World Resort, the birth mother of theme parks, and go on safari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Or experience the world’s cultures in a day at Epcot. Building a popular following is Legoland, which opened in October 2011 near Orlando. Cool off and make a splash at SeaWorld Orlando and discover life underwater. For the big kids the theme parks have added lots of eclectic restaurants, dazzling nightclubs and cozy cafes. Enjoy the ride. www.visitorlando.com
relax on popular Waikiki beach and observe the surfing acrobatics or try it yourself. Discover the teeming marine life underwater on a diving or snorkeling excursion. www.gohawaii.com
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Central America
It’s a jungle out there and these undiscovered countries want you in it. Nature and wildlife is your bedside, seaside, and mountainside companion where adventure not crowds reign. No.12
divEr dELiGhTS Dive right into Experience “Local Style” Aloha on Kauai! Belize’s warm turquoise waters and Tour the 30-acre garden then join the imu ceremony where we unveil the cooked pig explore the second largest barrier reef from the underground oven. Indulge on “ono” in the world. On any diver’s checklist 25th EdITION (delicious) foodCT & drink before Anniversary immersing in is experiencing the Great Blue Hole culture at the “Rhythm Aloha” luau show. Fileofname: Plantation Hale upof Lighthouse Reef, near thepick centre
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a small atoll, just one of 200 islands off the coast of Belize. The Great Blue Hole can be seen from outer space. It is almost 300 metres in diameter and 123 metres deep. Encounters with giant groupers, nurse sharks and various reef sharks are common here – friendly encounters that is. Take the plunge into Mayan culture as well. Hike through lush rainforest to well-preserved Mayan ruins like the Caracol Maya site. Camp and see the sun rise on the spring and summer solstice and vernal and autumnal equinox – truly special occasions in 2012, the first year of the new Mayan calendar. www.travelbelize.org No.13
No hATS hErE E You won’t find Panama hats (sorry, made in Ecuador) in Panama but you will find one of the world’s most impressive engineering feats – the Panama Canal. Completed in 1914 it remains one of the greatest
engineering marvels ever. More than 14,000
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Great journeys begin with Aston. vessels from all over the world pass through each year between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The Canal is getting a $5.25 billion facelift so a third laneway can be put in and will be completed in time for its centennial. Enjoy the 80-kilometre canal cruise while making your way through the three locks. It’s complexity will astound you as your floating cruise ship rises 25 metres above sea level and goes back down again – with only inches to spare on either side. www.visitpanama.com
Whether your clients are hiking Kalalau Valley, combing the beaches of Poipu or exploring the Wailua River, Aston offers quality accommodations to get every Kauai adventure off to a good start.
Leaving Lasting ImpressionsSM
No.14
NATurE CALLS Honduras is a secret hideaway for those wanting authentic adventure and cultural experiences. A place where unruly crowds are the fish swimming by you on a reef dive. Visit the Acropolis not in Athens but at the Copan Ruins in southwestern Honduras. Copan is seen as one of the most spectacular cities of the ancient Maya civilization. After visiting Mayan ruins, respond to the call of nature – in this case the high pitched sounds of macaws, toucans, parrots and their friends at Macaw Mountain Bird Park. Or Parque Nacional Santa Barbara. Kick back at an ecolodge along Rio Cangrejal – the site for your next day white-water rafting adventure through challenging rapids and lush jungle. Nature is calling your name in Honduras. www.letsgohonduras.com
866.774.2924
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25 NA It’s not just the tamales that are hot in Mexico. Mayan cultural experiences, colonial city discoveries and eco-adventures will satisfy your holiday cravings.
Mexico
No.15
divE riGhT iN You never know who, or what, you’ll meet in the Sea of Cortez. Perhaps a blue whale (the largest animal in existence) sperm, humpback, killer and gray whales that all show off their acrobatic skills. Or the “flying” mobulas, part of the ray family, that burst out of the water and fly with abandon. And then there is the playful but critically endangered Vaquita porpoise – found only in the Sea of Cortez. This 4,000-kilometre aquatic playground is not just a diving and sportsfishing paradise, the 900 islands dotted along the coastlines are favourite nesting sites for thousands of seabirds. Grab your binoculars for sightings of pelicans, masked boobies, vultures and snowy egrets. Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez the “Galapagos of North America” – high praise for one of Mexico’s natural treasures. www.visitmexico.com
No.16
mExiCo CiTy Visually and culturally stimulating Mexico City enables you to create your own holiday canvas. Explore the city’s museums – there are more here than anywhere else in the world. Admire the works of artists from world famous Mexican muralists at the Colegio de San Ildefonso Museum to contemporary artists at the Museo del Arte Moderno. Visit the House of the First Print Shop in the Americas dating back to 1539 when the first printing press came to the New World. Known as the “City of Palaces” Mexico City has World Heritage Sites – the Historic Centre and the Xochimilco Ecological Park. This “Venice of Mexico” park is a romantic and tranquil retreat with its floating gardens and canals. Colonial architecture and pre-Hispanic ruins like the Templo Mayor co-exist with modern and cosmopolitan areas such as Soho-hipstyle La Condesa. www.visitmexico.com
Affordable Luxury,Comfort and Beauty… The West Bay Club is an intimate luxury resort on Grace Bay featuring forty-six luxuriously appointed suites with breathtaking views. The resort has a fitness center, infinity pool and spa. Complimentary use of kayaks, snorkel gear and a hobie cat is included. The resort service is impeccable… the club concept. Studio apartments to 4-bedroom suites available.
Fodor’s Choice 2011
Congratulations Canadian Traveller on your 25th anniversary. For information and/or reservations, call toll free 1-866-607-4156 Reservations@TheWestBayClub.com | www.TheWestBayClub.com
WBC-12-109 CanadianTraveller Ad.indd 1
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No.18
PrETTy iN PiNK Gold and silver were mined here, but pink stone rules in the city of Zacatecas, a World Heritage city with centuries-old colonial and
Baroque architecture and narrow streets lined with buildings resplendent in pink stone face. Zacatecas has a long and treasured history as a mining camp. Take a tour of the 16th-century El Eden mine. Stroll along the impeccably clean streets and visit the Church of Santo Domingo, Palace of Justice and the Calderón Theater. Discover legend-filled alleys off the city centre like the Callejón del Indio Triste – a story of the obsessive love of a sad Indian. You might not find gold or silver but your journey to Zacatecas will certainly have a rosy hue. www.visitmexico.com
No.17
iNTo ThE dEEP Your miner’s hat headlamp guides you
into the cenote, one of the mysterious underwater caves that dot the Riviera Maya. No mining for gold here, you’re searching for the portal into the Mayan underworld. Discover Mayan culture while experiencing a range of adventure activities along this region just south of Cancun. Get your thrills at Xel Ha, Xplor and Xcaret. Dive and explore underwater caves; kayak through the many meandering lagoons and mangrove forests; soar like a bird on a zip line; and jump in the water with the sea’s gentle giants, the manatee. Adventure and culture are a package deal when it comes to the Riviera Maya. www.rivieramaya.com
No.19
BEyoNd GrANd Size does matter. Especially when you are talking about Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre). Slashing across northwest Mexico between Chihuahua and Los Mochis in the state of Sinaloa, Copper Canyon is deeper and about seven times larger than the most popular canyon on earth, the Grand Canyon. Take the Chihuahua al Pacifico (El Chepe) train on an exhilarating 625-kilometre journey through the Sierra Madre Mountains rolling by 39 bridges and 86 tunnels. Meet the locals at numerous indigenous communities that maintain centuries-old traditions. Hike, horseback, raft and even rappel down the copper green lined canyon walls. Truly appreciate this natural wonder without the crowds.www.visitmexico.com
Antarctica Vast, remote and extreme, nothing compares to the wonder of Antarctica. Embark on a grand voyage of discovery to encounter wildlife, icebergs and glaciers…
Call 1 866 915 1511 intrepidtravel.com CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012 65
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Caribbean Life’s a beach. At least it is in the Caribbean. But venture beyond the beach and you’ll find treasures like festive carnivals, spicy cuisine, nature trails, duty free shopping and a warm, no-worries way of life.
No.20
No.22
dECiSioNS, dECiSioNS Will it be a Dutch treat or a
French croissant? St. Maarten/St. Martin is an island divided: one part of the island is Dutch (St. Maarten) and the other side is French (St. Martin). This is a hassle-free border. Just walk, cycle or drive between the two islands – no formalities. Try your luck at the Casino Royale or other casinos on the Dutch side. Continue the entertainment in Maho Beach area with dozens of beachside bars, nightclubs and shows. On the French side, water activities include parasailing, diving and snorkeling. Shed your inhibitions at the nudist beaches. Shopping is not just a passion; duty-free goods can make it a real bargain. Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, the island’s Euro-Caribe and other ethnic cuisines satisfy any palate. Go Dutch or go French. Go to Saint Martin. www.stmartinisland.org No.21
CruiSiN’ & SChmooziN’ Try the Caribbean cruise sampler – the cultures, cuisine, beaches and scenery you’ll experience on a Caribbean cruise. There are so many options – from weekend getaways to two-week cruises that call in at up to 10 different islands. Some focus on the Eastern Caribbean islands while others do a mix. Today’s cruises are more specialized – some cruise lines are more focused on luxury and romance, others on families or even specialty cruises for LBGT passengers. Activities galore range from tennis courts, pools, spas, fitness classes, theme nights, games room to amazing excursions from island ports.
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No.23
i’LL driNK To ThAT Follow Ernest Hemingway to his two favourite Havana haunts where he declared he liked “My mojito in Le Bodequita, my daiquiri in El Floridita.” These literary landmarks capture Cuba’s spirit. And there is plenty of spirit – you could consider Havana the cocktail capital of the world with its famous mojitos, daiquiris, and Cuba libres – rum, coke and lime juice. Indulge in a few cocktails and dishes like mixto (Cuban sandwich), pastalitos (puff pastry) congri (red beans and rice). Soak up Cuban culture, history and colonial architecture in Old Havana (Habana Vieja). You can drink to that. www.gocuba.ca
ThE BEAT GoES oN Head to Jamaica and get “Jammin’” with the locals to the infectious reggae sounds of Bob Marley & the Wailers. February is Reggae Month but music is a year-round celebration here. Journey to Nine Mile, the birthplace of Marley and pay your respects at the mausoleum where his body lies. Looking for adventure? Head to Dunn’s River Falls, a 182-metre, stairlike cascading waterfall you can climb. Or get your heart pumping on a white water rafting trip. Hungry? Get your taste buds dancing with Jamaica specialties like ackee, salt fish and jerk chicken. Fun never loses a beat in Jamaica. www.visitjamaica.com
energy
adventure is everywhere warmth
light
Go deep inside Alaska, where the unparalleled meets the unexpected. From tours featuring transportation from yesteryear - sternwheelers, bush planes, narrow gauge railroads and sled dog teams - to gold mining excursions offering a hands-on experience, everyday life in Fairbanks continues to provide unforgettable experiences for our visitors. Let us help you and your clients discover the best of what Fairbanks has to offer. Emanating a quality of light, energy and warmth found nowhere else on Earth, Fairbanks truly is the unexpected Alaska. For your free Visitors Guide and more information on Fairbanks and Interior Alaska call 1-877-551-1728 ext. 3771
w w w . e x p l o r e fa i r b a n k s . c o m
25 NA No.24
TwiN PEAKS Everyone wants to see the twins: Gros Piton and Petit Piton, two imposing volcanic plugs that are a World Heritage Site. Get a guide and hike up Gros Piton, Saint Lucia’s second largest peak at 796 metres. After the five-to-six-hour hike quench your thirst with the country’s favourite beer, Piton of course, in bustling Rodney Bay – the hub for restaurants, bars and shopping. If you’re still looking for fizz, head over to Soufriere where you can view the active geothermal Sulphur Spring. Go green with eco-adventures in the rainforest like nature discovery hikes and treetop ziplining adventures. www.stlucianow.ca
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No.25
CArNivAL! Chase away the Canadian winter with the heat of the Caribbean’s Carnivals. And there is no better time than Carnival time to mingle with the locals. The biggest, best and brightest of them all is Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival, known as “The Greatest Show on Earth.” Parades of carnival bands, floats and elaborate masqueraders fill the streets and public spaces. Junkanoo, is a celebration carried out on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day in the Bahamas. The streets in Nassau are filled with the sound of cowbells and conch shells while different floats parade on by. Join the party.
California’s
Central Coast
Of all the world’s great coastlines, none can compare to California’s
— for its truly unique combination of beauty, variety, and accessibility and the extraordinary range of ways to enjoy the landscape. These are only a few of the reasons that California’s Central Coast is known as the home of The Original Road Trip.
Boasting 350 miles of the world’s most gorgeous coastline,California’s Central Coast stretches from Ventura County just north of Los Angeles to Santa Clara County south of San Francisco. Visit here and you’ll find that the Central Coast’s four regions offer everything you desire from a California vacation—unspoiled coastline, rolling vineyards and golden hills. The regions of Channel Islands, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey Bay encompass everything you expect from the California coast, with miles of rocky shoreline, dreamy beaches and panoramic views of the Pacific.
Each of the four regions has busy and thriving wine industries and gorgeous towns notable for their classic architecture, history, and contemporary dining and shopping scenes. Anyone who loves the outdoors will find plenty of things to do on the Central Coast including surfing, kayaking, biking, and fishing. For that matter, the Central Coast’s food scene is as diverse as its outdoor recreation, with fresh seafood restaurants in harbor towns and sophisticated bistros.
So if you’re looking for the real California—unspoiled coastline, rolling vineyards, and golden hills—then the Central Coast is the place for you. Visit TourTheCentralCoast.com!
The Original Road Trip
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VELLER C ANADIAN TRA
wiN A viP vACATioN wi
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Stay in Luxury in Lyon, Capital of the Rhône-Alps Region
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70 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
This beautiful region in the heart of France is famed for its vineyards, historical cities, mountains, skiing (these are the French Alps after all) and scenic valleys of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Mont Blanc, highest peak in Western Europe, draws visitors from around the world to its natural beauty. The area is also a three-time host of the Winter Olympics. History, wine and food converge in the region’s capital Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a mouthwatering array of fine restaurants and bistros, home to some of France’s greatest chefs. (Visit a bouchon and try Lyonnaise cuisine.) The region is also home to the terroir of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. History buffs enjoy poking around ancient sites like the Theatre on the Fourvière and the ruins of the Amphitheatre of the Three Gauls, both dating back to the Roman occupation. Art lovers will enjoy browsing in the Museum of Fine Arts with works by the world’s greatest artists, in the Textile Museum reflecting Lyon’s prominence in the silk industry and in the Lumière Museum honouring the Lumière Brothers who, in 1895, pioneered France’s movie industry.
Our contest winner will fly – with a companion – via Air France to Lyon. Air France and its partners KLM, Delta and Alitalia, serve 15 cities in Canada with more than 50 flights per week, giving Canadian travellers unparalleled access to France, Europe and the world. In Lyon, the winner will stay at the Grand Hotel des Terreaux, a classic Lyon treasure in the heart of town with an indoor pool built beneath ancient vaults, reminiscent of Roman baths. During your stay you’ll enjoy an exclusive lunch and wine tasting at the renowned Maison M. Chapoutier, where you will be introduced to the wines of the Rhône Valley and the Hermitage appellation. A Citroën C3 from Eurocar TT will make it easy to explore this wonderful region for seven days. (Eurocar TT is the exclusive provider of the Citroën buy-back program in Canada.) To enter, fill out the Official Entry Form and fax or mail it to the addresses shown. Or, visit www.canadiantraveller.net/Contests and enter online. Good luck!
CT’S 25 ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CONTEST
Enter to Win
France
a VIP Vacation to
THE PRIZE
• Return travel for two in Economy class from Montréal, Toronto, Calgary or Vancouver to Lyon, offered by Air France. • Seven nights accommodation at the Grand Hotel des Terreaux, a heritage gem in the heart of Lyon • A visit to Maison M. Chapoutier including Hermitage vineyard tour and Rhone Valley wine-tasting and wine-pairing luncheon with their sommelier. • Use of a Citroen C3 from Eurocar TT for seven days. To enter, answer the questions (all the answers are in the 25th Anniversary Souvenir Edition) and complete the entry form.
QUESTIONS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
25 Now – Which European capital will surprise you with its sophistication, culture and sensuality? _______________________________ 25 New – Where can you see the largest icebergs in the world? ___________________________________________________ 25 Now – What famous pilgrimage starts in the centre of France, crosses the Pyrenees to end in northern Spain? ______________________ 25 North America – What Caribbean city could be considered the“cocktail capital of the world”? _____________________________ Contest – In which city is the Lumière Museum located? ___________________________________________________
COMPLETE ALL INFORMATION AND FAX TO THE NUMBER BELOW OR ENTER ONLINE AT HTTP://WWW.CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET/CONTESTS/2012-25THANNIVERSARY Name:
Postal Code:
Company:
E-mail:
Address:
Fax:
City:
Prov:
Telephone:
Signature:
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VELLER C ANADIAN TRA
Yes, I want to receive information from Club France and its partners Air France/KLM, Rhône-Alps and Eurocar TT. THE RULES 1. To enter the contest, the entrant must be a resident of Canada who has reached the age of majority in the province in which he/she resides, who is not an employee of, a member of the immediate family of, or domiciled with, an employee of ACT Communications Inc., its agents or distributors, or any of the prize donors. Note: Contest is not valid in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law. Odds of winning are contingent upon the number of entries received. No purchase necessary. 2 Entrants must complete all questions, and include their name, telephone number, e-mail and signature. 3. Mail or fax entries to “25th Anniversary Contest”, Canadian Traveller, 201-2080 Hartley Avenue, Coquitlam, BC V3K 6W5. Fax: 1 (866) 562-4405. Or enter online at www. canadiantraveller.net. Entries must be received by 11.59.59 pm on December 31, 2012. 4. The draw will be made the week of January 7, 2013 from all correct entries received.
All questions must be answered. The solutions can be found in the 25th Anniversary Souvenir Edition of Canadian Traveller published on www.canadiantraveller.net and in print. 5. One Grand Prize will be awarded consisting of two( 2) Air France or KLM roundtrip Economy class tickets, including all surcharges and taxes, from Montreal, Toronto, Calgary or Vancouver to Lyon in the Rhone Alps, seven (7) nights accommodation at Grand Hôtel des Terreaux, an afternoon of wine and “bistronomic” dining with Chapoutier and seven days car rental from Eurocar TT. Some restrictions apply. 6. The prize must be taken between June 1, 2013 and September 30, 2013 and the prize must be accepted as awarded, is not redeemable for cash and is not transferable. 7. The winner will be advised by telephone during the week of January 14, 2013 and will be required to answer a skill testing question. The winner’s picture will be published in the March 2013 issue of Canadian Traveller.
8. All entries become property of Canadian Traveller which assumes no responsibility for printing error or lost or misdirected entries. No communication will be entered into except with the winning entrant. 9. One entry per person per opportunity, ie, through the magazine in print or online, or by attending a CT seminar or TravXchange Event (both trade only). Duplicate entries will be disqualified. 10. If more than one agent in your office or member of your family wishes to enter, please photocopy this page or go online at http://www.canadiantraveller.net/Contests/201225thAnniversary
Fax: 1-866-562-4405
Your Panel of
experts
DA
NA
Phil Sproul
Chris Robinson
Travel Industry Consultant
Host – Chris Robinson Travel Show – CFRB/CJAD
Former President - Travel Professionals International Phil Sproul has seen the industry from the tour operator, airline and agency chain side. Stepping down recently as president of Travel Professionals International (TPI) his keen insight and management skills steered TPI’s rapid growth. He now acts as an consultant to TPI and to the industry. Sproul’s favourite destination? He loves observing birdies and eagles - his own - on a golf course.
Chris Robinson switched from the boardroom as a tour operator executive to the soundbooth as host of a weekly travel radio show. Leaving no rock unturned (he’s a self-confessed rock hound) Robinson shares his passion and insight for travel with his loyal listeners. Rocks, cultural attractions, running paths and tasty marmalade would make Robinson’s favourite destination.
Bruce Poon Tip Founder G Adventures Bruce Poon Tip’s vision has created a hugely successful, socially connected and environmentally conscious adventure company. He has personally travelled to more than 100 countries yet retains an insatiable first-timer curiosity to discover and explore. Favourite spots – Tibet, northern Quebec (fall colours), Africa, Queen Charlotte Islands, Galapagos Islands.
David Redekop Travel Industry Analyst The Conference Board of Canada Zeina Gedeon President & CEO Air Canada Vacations Zesty Zeina Gedeon is an industry veteran who only knows one direction – forward. Gedeon is a mover and shaker who actively seeks out new technology, ideas and adventure. Driving sports cars and swimming with sharks in the Great Barrier Reef are adventures this feisty lady embraces. 72 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
Corey Marshall President & CEO Anderson Vacations Corey Marshall brings a welcome injection of youth to the executive level in the industry. No box-like thinking for him - Marshall has quickly become an innovative and listened-to force. Catch Corey running around his favourite islands – the Cook Islands, Samoa and New Zealand.
David Redekop is the stat and trend guru for all things travel. He’s the ultimate stat collector and distributor who deciphers all those pie charts and graphs and makes sense of them. No rest for the stat guy so his son is filling in for him and visiting some favourite European destinations.
Joni Rein Vice President – Worldwide Sales Carnival Cruise Lines Joni Rein is a sales dynamo in the cruise industry. She needs to be. Rein oversees a sales force that works with 30,000 travel agencies around the world. Water, travel and cruise blend together in some of Rein’s favourite spots – Tahiti, Australia, Dubrovnik and closer to home, New England.
Mélanie Bois Research & Development Manager Transat Tours Canada Inc. Mélanie Bois relishes her Montreal-based role at Transat. It’s her job to discover and analyze what’s next on the holiday destination horizon. Bois is passionate about experiential travel and one of her favourite spots is Vietnam. She hopes more Canadians visit this culturally stimulating destination.
Anthony Pollard President Hotel Association of Canada Anthony Pollard knows politics and politicians. Which is a good thing since his role includes lobbying and policy making. Pollard initiatives like the Green Key Global Program have far reaching effects worldwide on hotels. Favourite spot? He’s not saying but he’s a happy camper if the hotel is Green Key certified, technologically up-to-date and provides excellent service.
Christine James Vice President – Canada, Vacation.com Christine James is a pillar of support for Vacation.com’s Canadian member agencies. Her enthusiasm and shrewd business acumen have helped agents succeed and have earned her many accolades. James’ favourite vacation spots with her hubbie reflect her romantic nature – Bora Bora, Venice and Rio de Janeiro.
74 CT 25TH ANNIVERSARY SOUVENIR EDITION MARCH 2012
consider your batteries recharged. sail along a coastline of majestic cliffs. hike to a secluded waterfall. or simply sit and watch the sunset from a pier. it’s all here on Kaua‘i.
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