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ISSUE NO. 263
MAY 2010 executive office
28 Knight Street Norwalk, CT 06851-4707 Voice: 203.286.6679 • Fax: 203.286.6681 i n t e r n e t
w e b s i t e
www.travelworldnews.com publisher
Charles Gatt, Jr. charlie@travelworldnews.com editor
Carol A. Petro editor@travelworldnews.com design production manager
Linda Rogers linda@travelworldnews.com
Maria Rebello • a c c o u n t i n g m a n a g e r Shawn Hebert • I T m a n a g e r Cindy Johnson • c i r c u l a t i o n m a n a g e r cruise editor
Michael Iachetta southeast regional correspondent
Joan Gonzalez western regional correspondent
Connie Skoog
INDUSTRY EVENTS ITB Berlin Expands Roll as Global Market Leader
CALENDAR OF EVENTS INDUSTRY NEWS INSIDE TRACK What’s in Store For You
NORTH AMERICA EUROPE 5-Star Hotels in Malta
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INSIDE TRACK / WHAT’S IN STORE FOR YOU - page 12
FAM ANNOUNCEMENTS For complete and current list please visit: www.travelworldnews.com/fams
CARIBBEAN Two Personalities of the Dominican Republic
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“Girls Golf Getaway’ at Breezes Runaway Bay
25
Brac Reef Beach Resort Reopens on Cayman Brac
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MEXICO Sandos Caracol Adds Eco Activities to All-Inclusive Vacation, Wins Sustainable Hotel Certification
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Solmar Hotels & Resorts Announces Appointment of Ricardo Orozco Arce as Managing Director
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contributing editors
Mona Birch • Ann Charles • Gail P. Dubov Judith Glynn • Barry Goldsmith • Peggy Hageman George Hairston • Al Haut • Marjorie Klein • Peter Lowy
LATIN AMERICA Metropolitan’s Finch Bay Eco Hotel in Galapagos Nominated for 2010 World Travel Awards
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Tierra Atacama in the Northern Altiplano of Chile Great to Visit Year Round
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My Exclusive Journeys Offers Affordable Luxury Trips to South America
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Nancy Marcantonio • Anita Mason D.O. Christian Rieger • Knox Robinson • Mary Ellen Schultz Helen Kitti Smith • Robin Swados • Diane Terry Travel World News (ISSN 1044-4602) is published monthly by Travel Industry Network, Inc., 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. The cost of a subscription in the USA is $25, in Canada $40. For subscribers outside USA or Canada, the rate is $80. Please send check or money order in U.S. dollars payable to Travel World News. For change of address, please enclose your mailing label and send to: Circulation Department, Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Periodicals postage paid at Norwalk, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Address advertising inquiries and/or editorial copy to: Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Printed in USA. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission. All advertising in Travel World News is based on data submitted to the Publisher by the advertisers. The Publisher shall not be liable for the accuracy or inaccuracy of any information contained in Travel World News and shall not be liable, including but not limited to consequential or special damages, to any party for any products or services advertised or reported upon herein. The Publisher shall not be responsible for typographical errors. All information contained herein is subject to change without notice by the parties providing such products and services. The Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising that has been submitted at his sole discretion. Upon providing a refund of any amount paid to the party whose submittal was rejected, the Publisher shall not have any liability to any party for such rejection.
CARIBBEAN / DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - page 18
AFRICA South African Tourism Launches Ubuntu Awards to Honor Trade Partners
40
Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation Sets High Standards
42 AFRICA / NIGERIA - page 42
Friendly Planet Travel’s $1,799 Nine-Day Tour Explores Treasures of Morocco
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TANZANIA Message from Hon. Shamsa S. Mwangunga, MP Minister of Natural Resources & Tourism, The United Republic of Tanzania
49
Tanzania’s Treasures Reveal Gems in the South as Well as Its Famed North
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Historic Songea Town in Tanzania Declared a Tourist Site
59
COVER PHOTO CREDITS: Chile by Sportstour; Taiwan, Robin Swados
AFRICA/TANZANIA - page 51
INDUSTRY EVENTS
ITB Berlin Expands Role as Global Market Leader The major think tank for the global travel industry attracts concerned visitors from every venue, with highest number ever of senior execs and political figures to date attending.
Media and dignitaries in great numbers ITB Berlin was an international media event, with approximately 7,200 journalists from 89 countries covering the fair. Politicians and members of the diplomatic services from around the world attending included 95 foreign national delegations and four royal highnesses, as well as the President of the Republic of Maldives, the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, and the Vice-President of the Seychelles. Ambassadors (111), three general consuls, 17 foreign presidents and prime ministers, 76 ministers and deputy ministers and a number of foreign state secretaries visited the fair. Politicians from Germany were also there. Federal Minister of Economics and Technology Rainer Brüderle and Federal 4 • MAY 2010
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orldwide, ITB Berlin is the only travel trade show that continues to grow in the international marketplace—and the 44th edition, challenging economy notwithstanding, confirmed this emphatically. Based on early after-show figures, exhibitor attendance and stable trade visitor numbers from both Germany and abroad held: 11,127 companies from 187 countries (2009: 11,098) exhibited the international travel industry’s entire range of products and services, and trade visitors from 180 countries numbered 110,953, equaling last year’s figures. As in 2009, 45 percent of the trade visitors came from abroad. David Ruetz, Senior Manager ITB Berlin, noted, “One welcome development is the fact that the proportion of foreign trade visitors from Asia and Africa has more than doubled. This is largely attributable to the impending FIFA World Cup in South Africa, and to the ITB Asia.” Another observation from Ruetz: “bosses are coming back again.” Early in the show, the proportion of trade visitors occupying senior management positions had already risen from 53 to 67 percent. Locals thronged the exhibition grounds, with 68,398 members of the public (2009: 68,114) seeking wide-ranging information from tour organizers and niche market providers. A total of 179,351 visitors attended. Due to a well-chosen range of topics, the ITB Berlin Convention once again emphasized its role as the travel industry’s foremost forum. Attendance rose yet again, with 12,500 delegates taking part. At the ITB Future Day topical issues such as Web 2.0 best practices and the latest market analyses attracted such high attendance that for the first time available room capacity reached its limits.
Discover America Pavilion at ITB 2010 ribboncutting. From left: Björn Bieneck, President & CEO, B-FOR International; Rita Hille, President, Visit USA Germany; and Roger Dow, President & CEO, U.S. Travel Association.
Minister of Transport, Building and Urban Development Peter Ramsauer spoke to exhibitors. State secretaries representing the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology and the Ministry of Defense, Governing Mayor of Berlin Klaus Wowereit, 17 ministers from German Federal States as well as senators learned about travel products and trends.
Success for partner Turkey Hüseyin Cosan, Cultural Attaché of the Republic of Turkey in Berlin, stated, “Germany represents our foremost source market. More than 4.4 million tourists travel to Turkey from Germany. ITB Berlin is the world’s leading travel trade show and also the largest. For us, to be the partner country of ITB Berlin is something special. Turkey has created a new partner country concept. We set up a program of cultural events with numerous activities that took place outside the grounds. We wanted to demonstrate our country’s diversity, and from my point of view that was the highlight of our presentation. All our co-exhibitors were highly satisfied.”
ITB Berlin more important than ever Taleb Rifai, General Secretary of UNWTO, commented, ”As the world is experiencing a period of profound change— ranging from the economy to the environment—tourism as a truly global activity can make a meaningful contribution in these times of transformation. Against this backdrop, ITB 2010 has again proven to be the ideal setting to showcase the resilience and innovation capacity of the tourism industry. CONTINUED ON PAGE
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
Photo Provided By India Dept of Tourism
Destinations Uncovered. Opportunities Exposed. Relationships Forged.
September 27-28, 2010 Palm Springs Convention Center Palm Springs, California www.destinationsymposium.com
The Event for North America’s Top Producing Agents Uncover the latest destination and niche travel trends and product information in only two days! + A Conference Program Focused on Selling Destinations and Niche Travel + Hosted Agent Program Rewards You for Being an Influential Top-Producing Agent + 1-on-1 Appointments Create Unlimited Business Opportunities for You
Interested in Exhibit or Sponsor Opportunities? Contact: info@unicomm.org Trade Partner:
Interested in Attending as a Hosted Agent? Visit www.destinationsymposium.com
INDUSTRY EVENTS ITB BERLIN
FROM PAGE
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UNWTO is happy to partner with ITB and together contribute to a stronger and more responsible tourism sector.�
Discover America at ITB With its over 220 U.S. exhibitors reporting positive results, the ITB Berlin 2010 Discover America Pavilion proved increased confidence in the travel industry and the U.S. market. With state and local governments experiencing their worst fiscal crisis since the Depression, the presence of most of the leading U.S. international destinations at this year’s ITB gave a clear signal to the travel and tourism world that the U.S. is as open for business as ever. U.S. Travel Association’s President & CEO Roger Dow opened the Discover America Pavilion and answered questions about the Travel Promotion Act recently signed into law. At a press conference co-hosted by NYC & Company and the U.S. Travel Association, he informed media and many U.S. exhibitor representatives about the Act and its implications for travelers to the United States and the industry itself.
BTW and DRV hailed promising new decade Klaus Laepple, President of the German Tourism Industry Federation (DRV) and the Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry (BTW) stated, “Once again, the world’s largest travel trade show has demonstrated how important exchanging opinions and meeting people is, particularly in times of crisis. The rise in the number of exhibitors and visitors who attended ITB Berlin shows that in economically difficult times those representing the tourism industry need to keep in touch.â€? The very positive assessment of Dr. Christian GĂśke, Chief Operating Officer Messe Berlin, summarized the success of this year’s show: “ITB Berlin 2010 broke records despite the difficult overall economic situation. More than 11,000 exhibitors placed a total of more than six billion euros worth of orders. The industry demonstrated resilience and placed its trust in the strong brand that is ITB Berlin, which once again
was able to gather all the leading players in the market. ITB Berlin is the trade show where senior executives do business.� The next ITB Berlin will take place from Wednesday, March 9, to Sunday, March 13, 2011. The partner country will be Poland.
ITB Berlin, www.itb-convention.com, www.itb-berlin.com
FITA 2010 AT MEXICO CITY TO FEATURE DISCOVER AMERICA PAVILION Scheduled for September 23–26 this year, FITA 2010 Mexico City has been added to the worldwide Discover America Pavilion Program offered by B-FOR International in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association. The program provides U.S. travel and tourism companies and organizations unique opportunities to present the United States as the world’s premier travel destination. According to the USDOC Office of Travel & Tourism Industries (OTTI), in 2008 Mexico contributed the second largest increase in the number of travelers since 2000 (3.1 million), to 13.7 million, accounting for a 23.6-percent share of 2008 visitor volume. Over 1.7 million arrivals by air were recorded and the Mexican market is forecasted to grow by five percent from 2008 to 2013, setting a new record in 2013. Exhibitors from over 50 countries will gather this September at FITA 2010. The International Tourism Fair of the Americas in the avant-garde Exhibition & Convention Center, Expo Bancomer Santa Fe in Mexico City, to showcase their destinations and introduce their products and services to buyers from Mexico and other countries. FITA’s mission is to create the perfect setting conducive to the meeting of buyers and sellers of tourism products in a high-tech environment, resulting in the promotion of tourism at national and international levels. Discover America Pavilion applications may be made online. B-FOR International, mwalsh@exhibitpro.com, b-for@exhibitpro.com, www.discoveramericapavilion.com
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INDUSTRY EVENTS CANCUN TRAVEL MART MEXICO SUMMIT TO TAKE PLACE OCTOBER 13–15 The Cancun Hotel Association is preparing the 23rd Annual Cancun Travel Mart Mexico Summit to be held October 13–15 this year at the Cancun Convention Center. The Summit’s ‘Strictly Business’ format includes two full days of pre-scheduled appointments with VIP travel industry buyers and meeting planners. Last year 2,300 appointments were pre-scheduled at the Cancun Travel Mart, and every one of these appointments meant potential business. Over 225 qualified travel industry buyers delegates attended the 2009 Summit, and the number of these executive decision-makers attending continues to increase. Cancun Travel Mart Mexico Summit participation is productive and cost efficient. Buyers and suppliers receive the exclusive William H. Coleman, Inc. “Hassle Free Guarantee:” registration is processed quickly and easily—on the website, or by fax or telephone; registrants receive a personal briefing at the time of picking up their credentials; and best of all they receive their pre-scheduled appointments at their office the week before leaving. Supplier registration fees are: $1,460 for up to 28 pre-scheduled appointment periods, or $1,860 for up to 56 appointment periods. Additional delegate fees are $225 per delegate. Registration fees are higher for suppliers who are not members of their local Hotel Association: $1,660 and $2,060. Registration fees include: one delegate, pre-scheduled appoint-
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ments summary faxed one week prior to the event; private stand/office (approximately 10 by 6.5 feet); table; chairs; sign, CD computer-ready Directory of participants; a personal meeting guide and appointments schedule; attendance at all business sessions; Summit Cafe admittance; working lunches; Destination Update presentations; and VIP hospitality at all social functions. Supplier participation is limited. There is always a wait list, so it is important to register early. Cancun Hotel Association, Cancun Travel Mart Mexico Summit, www.cancuntravelmart.com
WOMEN IN TOURISM INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE SELECTS VITERBO AS SITE FOR UPCOMING EDUCATIONAL TOUR The Italian region of Viterbo, the northernmost area of Lazio province, has been selected as the destination for the upcoming 2010 WITIA Educational. This yearly gathering brings together WITIA members and their guests from six continents for networking sessions, the annual general meeting of the Alliance, and a member-generated familiarization opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in an exciting cultural experience. This year’s Viterbo tour has been put together by WITIA member Roberto Melaragno, President of Driver in Italy. Participants will be based at the historic Domus La Quercia hotel, a former Renaissance convent just outside the city of Viterbo, called the “City of Fountains.” Viterbo region itself has a reputation among Italians as being “the new Tuscany without the tourists,” Beyond its spectacular scenery and millennia of history deeply rooted in religion and arts, its rich soil creates a veritable cornucopia of produce including grapes, olives, nuts, and fruit. Located just 60 miles north of the hustle and bustle of Rome, Viterbo has served as a peaceful source of inspiration for Italian writers and a backdrop and getaway for filmmakers. It beckons visitors with medieval architecture, handmade treasures, expertly interpreted cuisine and divine thermal springs. The tour offers a kaleidoscope of the region, from historically important palazzos to lush manicured gardens, from the medieval alleyways of San Pellegrino to lovely Lake Bolsena, from Etruscan ruins to a walking tour through a walled medieval mountain town in Umbria. There are charming shops for handicrafts and sampling of locally made and grown products. Registrants paying in full by July 6, 2010, can take advantage of Early Bird pricing starting at approximately $1,180 ppdo standard, including group airport transfers, five nights’ accommodations at Domus La Quercia, daily buffet breakfast, private coach with English-speaking guide, and various meals. WITIA (Women in Tourism International Alliance), president@witia.org, www.witia.org/content/view/41/89/, www.witia.org www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
INDUSTRY EVENTS VACATION.COM MEMBERS ENROLLING AT RECORD PACE FOR CONFERENCE CLASSES Vacation.com® recently opened class registrations for its 12th International Conference & Trade Show, to be held at the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort & Convention Center from June 27 to July 1, 2010. Four days of learning seminars will include classes on social media, client referral and post-sale marketing, and search engine optimization. Based on registrations received, popular classes are Increase Your Google Rankings, Integrate ClientBase and Engagement Select, and Google Maps & the Customer Experience. More than 150 hours of classes are available, featuring 120 training venues, 46 preferred supplier/destination classes, three popular think-tank sessions, and the chance to earn up to 35 CLIA credits. All registered member agents receive customized emails inviting them to personalize their Conference experience by registering for classes, Preferred Supplier seminars, general sessions, the trade show and evening events that meet their personal learning goals. Additional elements this year include keynote speakers Richard Fain and Kay Urban, a ship inspection and luncheon aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Freedom of the Seas, a three-night postConference Caribbean cruise opportunity, and evening events at Pointe Orlando, Universal Orlando and CityWalk. Vacation.com, 800-843-0733, www.conference.joinvacation.com, www.joinvacation.com, www.vacation.com
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
BRAND-NEW DISCOVER AMERICA PAVILION DESIGN LAUNCHED AT TUR 2010
The redesigned Discover America Pavilion at TUR 2010 in Gothenburg, Sweden, March 25–28 this year, organized by B-FOR International in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association and in cooperation with Discover America Sweden and the U.S. Commercial Service Sweden, created quite a buzz. Sweden and Scandinavia are some of the strongest U.S.-inbound markets in Europe, and the interest in the U.S. exhibitors in the Discover America Pavilion at TUR was intense. Swanson’s Travel, a perennial Discover America Pavilion exhibitor at TUR and a leading Swedish tour operator, saw a surge in interest in their U.S. products and ran out of catalogs before the show was over. TUR 2011 is scheduled for March 24–27, 2011. Discover America Pavilions, www.discoveramericapavilion.travel, www.discoveramericapavilion.com; B-FOR International, bbieneck@exhibitpro.com, www.b-for.com
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2010/2011 • CALENDAR OF EVENTS DATE EV JUNE 2-4 2-6 3-6 10-11 14-17 23-27 27-Jul 1 JULY 1-2 21-23 AUGUST 8-11 SEPTEMBER 8-10 8-10 13-25 14-17 19-21 19-22 21-24 22-24 21-24 23-26 27-28 OCTOBER 2-3 4-7 6-8 6-8 8-10 12-14 13-18 20-22 20-22 20-22 20-22 22-24 22-24 22-24 25-27 NOVEMBER 5-8 8-11 8-11 13-17 17-20 18-20 18-21 18-21 18-21 30-Dec 2 30-Dec 2 30-Dec 2 DECEMBER 6-9 10-12
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LOCATION
Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2010 CLIA's Cruise 3sixty KOTFA 2010 Green Travel Summit Asia Luxury Travel Market BETEX 2010 Vacation.com International Conference
Bangkok, Thailand Vancouver, BC Seoul, Korea Washtington, DC Shanghai, China Belize City, Belize Orlando, FL
www.thailandtravelmartplus.com www.cruise3sixty.com www.kotfa.co.kr/eng www.unicomm.org www.altm.com.cn www.betex.bz www.vacation-corp.com
BTC 96th DMAI Annual Convention
Rimini, Italy Hollywood, FL
www.btc.it/en-en www.destinationmarketing.com
NBTA Intl. Convention & Expo
Houston, TX
www.nbta.org
La Cumbre Ecotourism & Sustainable Tourism Conf. The Trade Show PATA Travel Mart 2010 16th World Route Development Forum Texas Travel Summit Travel Media Showcase TravelMart Latin America MATIW/Leisure 2010 FITA 2010 Travel & Destination Symposium
San Diego, CA Portland, OR Las Vegas, NV Macau SAR China Vancouver, BC, Canada Galveston, TX Irvine, CA Lima, Peru Moscow, Russia Mexico City, Mexico Palm Springs, CA
www.lacumbre.com www.ecotourism.org/estc2010 www.thetradeshow.com www.pata.org www.routesonline.com www.ttia.org www.travelmediashowcase.com www.travelmartlatinamerica.com www.tourismexpo.ru/en www.fita2010.com www.unicomm.org
Travel & Adventure Show Adventure Travel World Summit 2010 Ukraine International Travel Market MITM Americas 2010 CATM 2010 The Motivation Show 2010 IGLTA Symposium ABAV 2010 Discover America Pavilion at ABAV 2010 ITB Asia Discover America Pavilion at ITB Asia 2010 TTG Incontri Discover America Pavilion at TTG Incontri 2010 Montreal International Tourism and Travel Show
New York, NY Aviemore, Scotland Kiev, Ukraine Quito, Ecuador Guatemala City, Guatemala Chicago, IL Beirut, Lebanon Rio de Janerio, Brazil Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Singapore Singapore Rimini, Italy Rimini, Italy Montreal, Quebec, Canada
ATS Conference
Pristina, Kosovo
www.adventureexpo.com www.adventuretravelworldsummit.com www.autoexpo.ua www.gsamark.com www.catm2010guatemala.com www.motivationshow.com www.beirut2010.com www.feiradasamericas.com.br/en/ www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.messe-berlin.de www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.ttgincontri.it www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.montreal-travelguide.com/ Downtown/Salon-InternationalTourisme-Voyage-Montreal/ www.americantourismsociety.org
Taipei International Travel Fair (ITF) World Travel Market 2010 Discover America Pavilion at WTM 2010 NTA Convention DEMA 2010 Global Tourism Industry Expo Philoxenia CITM 2010 Discover America Pavilion at CITM 2010 EIBTM 2010 Discover America Pavilion at EIBTM 2010 Seatrade MED
Taipei London, England London, England Montreal, Quebec, Canada Las Vegas, NV Rome, Italy Thessalonika, Greece Shanghai, China Shanghai, China Barcelona, Spain Barcelona, Spain Cannes, France
www.taipeiitf.org.tw/ www.wtmlondon.com www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.ntaonline.com www.demashow.com www.gtiexpo.it www.philoxenia.travel www.citm.com www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.eibtm.com www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.cruiseshippingmiami.com
ILTM 2010 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace
Cannes, France New Orleans, LA
www.reedexpo.co.uk www.ustoa.com
JANUARY 2011 11-16 Vakantiebeurs 16-18 Caribbean Marketplace 2011 18-21 Blossom Japan TO LIST YOUR EVENTS EMAIL : editor@travelworldnews.com • 10 • MAY 2010
CONTACT
FOR
Utrecht, The Netherlands www.vakantiebeurs.nl Montego Bay, Jamaica www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com Tokyo, Japan www.blossomjapan.com ADDITIONAL EVENTS VISIT: www.travelworldnews.com/calendar www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
INDUSTRY NEWS TRAVELSAVERS APPOINTS LAUREN BEARDSLEY ITS NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR TRAVELSAVERS has appointed Lauren Beardsley, CTIE, ACC, its Business Development Director for Western U.S. She is responsible for increasing agency membership and bringing the group’s strategic businessbuilding programs to independent travel agencies throughout the region. Lauren joins TRAVELSAVERS with more than 20 years of sales and marketing success in the travel industry. Most recently, she served as Director of Group Sales and Director of Marketing for two consortia owned by Sabre Holdings. She also was part owner of Trip Shop, LTD (a large retail agency) and Caribbean Concepts (a national Caribbean wholesaler), and later joined the travel consortium CruiseLink as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Finally, she ran a consulting company with clients in the retail, wholesale and consortia travel arenas. “We’re so pleased to welcome Lauren to our team,” said Kathryn Mazza-Burney, Executive Vice President, LAUREN BEARDSLEY Sales and Service for TRAVELSAVERS. “She has walked in the shoes of the travel agency owner and thoroughly understands their challenges. And her strong background in sales and marketing will be a great asset as she works hand-in-hand with our agencies to build their businesses. Lauren will personally deliver the tools from TRAVELSAVERS’ extensive portfolio that will help them increase revenues and profits.” TRAVELSAVERS, www.travelsavers.com
MATTHIAS SCHULTZE NAMED NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR OF GCB Matthias Schultze begins duties as new Managing Director of the GCB German Convention Bureau as of this month, having been unanimously elected by its executive board. “Matthias Schultze is well-known even beyond Germany as an expert of the meetings and conventions industry and, in our opinion, his experience in the hotel sector and association work makes him the best possible choice for the post of Managing Director. We look forward to our cooperation very much,” said executive board members Petra Hedorfer and August Moderer on signing the contract. Schultze previously served as Managing Director of the World Conference Center Bonn, consisting of the former plenary chamber of the German parliament and the waterworks. He is also Vice President of the European Association of Event Centres. He has a degree in business management and has held various national and international tenures in hotel and MATTHIAS SCHULTZE congress management, among others for Hilton International. In the past six years Mr. Schultze was responsible for operating and marketing the World Conference Centre Bonn. The Bureau, with headquarters in Frankfurt/Main, markets Germany as a destination for conventions, meetings, events and incentives both on a national and international level, and is the place to contact for all customers who are planning events in Germany. GCB German Convention Bureau e.V., info@gcb.de, www.gcb.de; (New York) gcbny@gcb.de, www.germany-meetings.com
GOWAY’S HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME OFFER UNIQUE, FUN THEMES Only Goway offers an escorted tour series branded Holidays of a Lifetime. To substantiate this claim, Goway’s destination product managers draw on years of experience to carefully select hotels and sightseeing experiences. To enhance the series further, Goway includes Fun Themes on each of their departures. Departures are allocated a specific Fun Theme that gets incorporated into the experiences. These themes provide an opportunity to highlight aspects of the destination. Sample themes include “Lifestyles and Native Culture” which may introduce the indigenous peoples such as the Zulus and Xhosas on the 20-day Magic of Africa tour to South Africa, Botswana and Victoria Falls. The “Cuisines and Food” theme includes trying an Aussie Meat Pie “Floater” on the 22-day Waltzing Matilda tour of Australia and New Zealand. During the Splendours of China 18-day tour, the “Cuisines of the Region” theme offers the opportunity for travelers to try Sechuan, Shanghainese, Hot Pots and other types of Chinese food. And for travelers on the 17-day Splendours of South America tour to Chile, Argentina and Brazil, one of the themes, “Lifestyles and Native Culture” introduces Spanish and Inca Civilizations and the story of the Rio Carnival. Goway’s professional North American tour directors accompany the groups and know these destinations intimately, having been there repeatedly. Goway’s South Pacific, Asia, Africa or Latin America travel planners are available by calling their toll-free number or by visiting their website. Goway, 800-387-8850, www.goway.com/brochure, www.goway.com/hol, www.goway.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
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TRAVEL TIPS BARRY GOLDSMITH
The Inside Track BARRY GOLDSMITH
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henever I travel, I enjoy visiting stores. I don’t particularly enjoy the shopping, I just enjoy the architecture, the history and the decoration of stores around the world. I enjoy window shopping in England – looking at stores with windows that are picturesque – windows comprising many small, interconnected-framed panes found in towns all over the Cotswolds and Cornwall. The most famous of this genre of “Ye Olde Shoppes” is in London – Dickens’ Curiosity Shop (1668). Some of the world’s top museums were “Green” centuries before that movement. Moreover, some storefronts are so artistic they look as if they belong in museums. And in many major museums, they are: Paris’ Museum Carnavalet preserves ancient storefronts as does New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, York’s Castle Museum etc. Great antique pharmacies are a store type that has survived in cities all over Europe and the USA, including Beaune, Bruges, Dubrovnik, New Orleans, Rome, Salzburg, Strasbourg, Wurzberg and Williamsburg (Virginia). Another category of elegant, beautiful and historic store is the upscale food emporium. The two most elegant in the world are the Elyseev stores in Russia. St. Petersburg’s Elyseev store on Nevsky Prospect showcases a stunning Art Nouveau interior and exterior. The Moscow Elyseev store is in an 18th-century building with an even more dramatic Art Nouveau interior. My favorite Art Deco market is Riga’s enclosed market – which used to be a zeppelin hanger. Riga Airport has stores representative from that city’s downtown establishments. Emihls Gustvas chocolate store at Riga Airport is where I had my best hot, thick dark- chocolate drink, which enticed me to duplicate that experience at their downtown store. Markets that sell many different products under one roof are found in exotic locations such as the Khan El Khalili Bazaar (Cairo). I always visit the Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, which has some great values for those who wear leather above the ankles. There are also great bazaars in the “old city” of Jerusalem, Damascus and Aleppo. (Hopefully in the near future, you will be able to visit them on the same trip.) And let’s not forget antique markets, flea markets, night (food) markets in Taipei, Beijing (and other Asian cities) and the unique floating markets of Thailand. The worlds’ most famous stores hangout on “Main Street” – which the Brits call “High Street.” There’s London’s Bond Street and Knightsbridge Road; Rome’s Via Condotti; Milan’s Via Montenapoleone; Paris’ Rue Faubourg St. Honore; St. Petersburg’s (Russia) Nevsky Prospect; New York’s Fifth Avenue; Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive etc. The first half of the 19th century saw the introduction of the 12 • MAY 2010
The elegant Art Nouveau Elyseev Store St. Petersburg, Russia.
shopping arcade. Among the most famous: London’s Burlington Arcade, Paris’s Galerie Vivienne, Brussels’ St. Hubert, St. Petersburg (Russia) Passage, Prague’s Lucerna Galleria (designed by Vaclav Havel’s grandfather), Naples’ Galleria Umberto, Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the many arcades in Cardiff (Wales), etc. These were not created to replace main shopping streets – but merely to link them. That’s where they differ from shopping malls. Shopping streets are usually more historic and tourist friendly than enclosed shopping malls. (Unless you’re in a very humid environment such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Manila.) The newest trend in store for stores is the most “Green” application – recycling buildings that had a previous purpose and adapting them to store design – such as railroad stations in St. Louis, Providence, New York’s (Grand Central Station), Washington (Union Station), St. Petersburg (Warsaw Station). And this trend also goes the opposite way: A branch of Paris’ Printemps Department Store became a Holiday Inn. And a New Orleans department store became a Ritz Carlton. Department store cafeterias are a great way to sightsee the store and they’re reasonably priced. Many department store cafeterias offer unique, spectacular views. Galeries Lafayette’s cafeteria gives a rare bird’s-eye view of the Paris Opera's rear silhouette. Samaritane’s summer terrace gives you more choices of Paris views than food choices. Urban downtown department stores define Christmas. Paris’ Printemps and Galeries Lafayette not only decorate their store windows and giant inner, covered Art Nouveau courtyards, they also splashily and electronically light up their facades. My first view of Harrod’s was at Christmas. I loved the lit electric lights emphasizing its ornate Victorian architectural detail. When I returned the next summer, I then realized that it’s lit up every night! What a treat without even buying anything. Barry Goldsmith is a professor of architecture and humor. Goldsmith is a television host of travel-related TV series in the USA and UK. And he is a regular on a new syndicated radio show, Let’s Travel Radio. www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
NORTH AMERICA ‘PRIDE ROMANCE PACKAGE’ AT MAUI’S MAKENA BEACH & GOLF RESORT
The Makena Beach & Golf Resort has announced a special package for the gay and lesbian community called the Pride Romance Package. Priced at just $95 ppdo per night, the package includes guestroom accommodations featuring stunning views of the Pacific, the Maui countryside and 10,000-foot Mt. Haleakala; breakfast for two, a map of famed Little Beach located less than a mile from the resort, and a Hawaiian sarong. The package is good through December 23, 2010, based on availability. (Resort fee, room tax, incidentals and gratuities are extra.) Guests on the Package can select from a host of activities, including lounging at two swimming pools and two Jacuzzis, daily workouts at the Fitness Center and relaxing massages. There’s superb swimming in the crystal blue Pacific fronting the resort, beachcombing on Makena’s extraordinary white beach—or Big & Little Beaches close by, whale watching in season (December–May) when humpback whales migrate from the Alaskan waters, and taking in a festive island luau. Also, a specialty at the resort is Maui’s “Best Champagne Brunch” every Sunday. Adventures such as Eco Kayak Snorkel Tours, outrigger canoe excursions, stand-up paddleboard lessons, and sailing to Molokini Islet on the Kai Kanani catamaran are also available. The catamaran is conveniently located out front and transports guests to Molokini, with its world-class snorkeling in and around the crescent-shaped island once an ancient volcano. Mt. Haleakala is perfect for hiking, picnicking and walking excursions. The resort also features championship golf on the acclaimed Makena Golf Course, a Robert Trent Jones, Jr., 18-hole course along the Pacific coastline adjacent to the hotel. The resort is 30 minutes from Maui’s Kahului Airport. Makena Beach & Golf Resort is operated by Benchmark Hospitality International. Makena Beach & Golf Resort, 800-321-MAUI (6284), www.makenaresortmaui.com/brunch, www.makenaresortmaui.com; Benchmark Hospitality International, www.benchmarkhospitality.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
SUNSET KEY GUEST COTTAGES OPENS NEW SPA AND RESTAURANT A new spa and a full-service restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Mexico have opened at Sunset Key Guest Cottages, A Westin Resort, following its recent debut of two new four-bedroom luxury guest cottages. Sunset Key Guest Cottages is accessible by 10minute resort ferry from The Westin Key West Resort & Marina. Each two-, three- and now four-bedroom cottage is fully equipped. Guests enjoy attended beach services with tiki hut cabanas; a tropical free-form, zero-degree entry pool; two tennis courts; half basketball court, foot paths that lead guests around the island; and the new spa and waterfront restaurant. The new spa suites feature full private bathroom for each guest and individual patios surrounded by lush vegetation allowing seclusion for relaxation after treatments. Latitudes restaurant, on the west side of the island steps from the boat landing dock, has an open plan ensuring every table a view. Its innovative menu features local fish and fresh produce, a selection of traditional meats, poultries and pasta plus favorite breakfast and lunch items. Additionally, ‘small plates’ are available all day in the lounge. There’s an extensive cocktail menu and a wine list of more than 100 varietals from $25 to $450. The new four-bedroom guest cottages feature gourmet kitchens, private plunge pools, oversized porches and private washer and dryer. Kitchen, dining, living room with flat-screen television, one bedroom and one bathroom are downstairs. The upstairs master suite’s private bath has a soaking tub with ocean views. Two additional bedrooms and a bathroom are upstairs also. Each guestroom has a king-size Westin Heavenly Bed® and flat-screen television. Sunset Key Guest Cottages, 888-447-7786, www.westinsunsetkeycottages.com
LEGENDARY CHEECA CLUB UNVEILS EXPANDED SERVICES AND NEW ROOFTOP LOUNGE Cheeca Club has completed its new rooftop lounge with expanded services for club members, offering access to a rooftop deck for sunbathing, shaded cabanas, special passed amenities, and an exquisite oceanfront function room with floor-to-ceiling windows that accommodates up to 180. Located on the rooftop of the second floor, guests enjoy vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, beach and the resort’s historic 525-foot fishing pier—the longest in the Florida Keys. An exclusive members-only program, Cheeca Club allows members access to all of the amenities and services of the resort year round. Members-only events, unique member services and benefits including a Club Concierge and preferred pricing throughout the resort are also awarded to members. In addition to the extensive privacy of the private club deck, members enjoy exclusive wine tastings, a themed monthly party, and preferred pricing on all Cheeca retail and service outlets. Cheeca Lodge & Spa, 800-327-2888, www.cheeca.com MAY 2010 •
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NORTH AMERICA AMELIA RIVER CRUISES ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL EXTENDED TRIPS FOR THIS SPRING
three returns trips out of St. Marys, Georgia Thursday through Sunday, March through August; and Thursday through Saturday, September through February. The ferry is an 80-passenger capacity, bicycle and pet-friendly, bathroom-equipped vessel offering the history of Amelia Island, Cumberland Island and St. Marys, Georgia with views of wildlife along the way. Lori Hoerl, Director of Marketing and Operations, can be contacted for itineraries, pricing, private charters and other details. Amelia River Cruises, lorbell1@aol.com, www.ameliarivercruises.com
SOUTH FLORIDA HAS NEW GOURMET GETAWAY IN THE SEAGATE HOTEL & SPA
Amelia River Cruises has announced two unique extended trips to open the Spring/Summer season. On Saturday, May 8, 2010, Amelia River Cruises will offer a full-day trip out of Fernandina Beach, Florida, to allow passengers the opportunity to enjoy the lively narration of owner/captain, Kevin McCarthy, on the way to a day’s worth of history and culture including a tour of Kingsley Plantation and Fort Caroline. Lunch will be served aboard, compliments of Nicole’s on the River. Pricing can be obtained by contacting Director Lori Hoerl, as this will be a fundraising event with the Amelia Island Museum of History. On Saturday, May 15, 2010, Amelia River Cruises will sail passengers to Jekyll Island to enjoy both a narrated, historic and wildlife sightseeing tour along the way; as well as a package of activities to include lunch at the grand dining room, a trolley tour of the historic downtown; as well as entry into the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Return transportation via Coastal Georgia Charters and Tours and taxes, tips and gratuities are included in the all-inclusive $100 per-person fare. Amelia River Cruises offers three narrated, historic and wildlife sightseeing tours a day, seven days a week during spring and summer; and Monday through Saturday in the fall and winter. Tours highlight the history and wildlife of Amelia Island and Cumberland Island with views of dolphins, manatees, alligators, exotic birds and the wild horses of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Boats are 49-passenger capacity, pet-friendly and bathroom-equipped. The Cumberland Sound Ferry offers an 80-passenger, bicycle and pet-friendly narrated ferry service out Fernandina Beach connecting the two historic waterfront towns of Fernandina Beach, Florida and St. Marys, Georgia. The ferry offers three departures out of Fernandina Beach and 14 • MAY 2010
Boasting upscale modern cuisine with a beach-inspired hotel experience, The Seagate Hotel & Spa in Delray Beach, Florida, is mere steps from the ocean. Its Atlantic Grille dining is the inspiration of Executive Chef Adam Gottlieb, expressing his passion for fresh local ingredients amid relaxed style and warm accommodations. Chef Gottlieb is no stranger to the best in South Florida cuisine, having spent five years at the Palm Beach Yacht Club in West Palm Beach before joining Seagate. Having opened along with the hotel in November 2009, Atlantic Grille serves up an authentic regional scene for guests and locals alike. Just past the restaurant’s 400-gallon jellyfish tank is seating both indoors and outside on the terrace, where street-level proximity to Atlantic Avenue adds a dash of Delray Beach energy to any dish. A special Seagate Gourmet Package is currently on offer, featuring deluxe room accommodations at The Seagate Hotel & Spa, a four-course dinner for two with wine at Atlantic Grille, and a savory wine-and-cheese amenity delivered to the room on arrival. The package is available for $395 ppdo per night May 1 through September 30, 2010, excluding taxes—a savings of 30percent (subject to availability). The Seagate Hotel & Spa’s 162 spacious guest rooms and suites feature marble baths, tropical mahogany woodwork, in-room entertainment systems and private bars. Each is adorned with custom-designed furnishings drawn from palettes of white, ecru, and espresso brown. Egyptian cotton linens provide crisp tailored lines that counter the British tropical offerings. The Seagate Hotel & Spa is a luxury boutique resort with 162 rooms. The beach-inspired property offers upscale dining options, an 8,000 square-foot on-site spa and beach club privileges at the Seagate Beach Club, less than a mile from the hotel. Its Atlantic Grille features contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced seafood. The Seagate Spa has seven treatment rooms and an array of services, including the signature Hot Shell Massage. Three meeting rooms total over 2,000 square feet. The Seagate Hotel & Spa, 877-577-3242, www.theseagatehotel.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
EUROPE
The Malta and Gozo 5***** Hotel Circuit
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espite its small size, Malta comes out on top in the 5-Star accommodation choices for those looking to spend a relaxing holiday on this island gem surrounded by the clearest waters of the Mediterranean Sea. An archipelago comprising of three larger islands and a small number of uninhabited outcrops, the Maltese Islands were home to the Knights of St John who left a legacy of impressive buildings amongst which includes the UNESCO World Heritage fortified city of Valletta – a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen. It comes as no surprise therefore that the tradition of a luxurious and comfortable ‘Home away from Home’ for visitors is evident from the minute you check-in in any of the hotels here. Working our way down from the Northern Island of Gozo it comes as no surprise that Kempinski San Lawrenz have positioned themselves as the leader in luxury & beauty spa/wellness packages on the very island where Calypso was thought to have seduced Ulysses into remaining for 7 years. The resort invites you to indulge in the endless list of services available here, including Indian Ayurveda treatments, Yoga or Pilates sessions, Thalgo Beauty Treatments or relaxing at the Spa Terraké. Residents can also choose to lounge by the amazing Mediterranean pool or discover the Islands’ Myths & Folklore with secluded beaches, quaint towns & colourful fishing villages rich in culture, traditions & hospitality. www.kempinski-gozo.com The Hotel Ta’ Cenc, set close to the imposing cliffs of Munxar, Gozo offers 83 unique accommodation options in double rooms, suites, bungalows, trullos and family apartments each with a private terrace or small garden. All built from Maltese Limestone, the rooms or suites are accessed from the reception area via the lovely surrounding gardens decked with traditional Mediterranean flora. www.vjborg.com/tacenc A short 25 minute Ferry crossing from Gozo to Malta brings you to two Radisson Hotel locations, the first being the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Golden Sands enviably set on a hilltop directly over the red sandy beach on the North West of the main island. The Resort offers 329 rooms forming part of two collections known as the Serene Rooms & Zenith Suites, which enjoy incredible views of Golden Bay and the Mediterranean Sea or overlook the uniquely beautiful countryside of the northern part of Malta. This resort is set in the perfect location if you want to get away from all the hustle & bustle of daily life, yet is still within incredibly short distances of all cultural, historical & entertainment options on the island. www.goldensands.com.mt The Radisson Blu Baypoint Resort in St Julians, is located in the heart of Malta’s prime entertainment & dining area. It Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
Overlooking Balluta Bay from a private terrace at Bay Le Meridien St. Julians Hotel & Spa.
is perfectly situated next to the sea where sunrise can be enjoyed from one of the 224 spacious deluxe rooms, 20 Junior suites or 8 Executive suites; all with balconies and sea views. The Hotel is within walking distance of the coastline promenade that stretches from Sliema, Ta Xbiex, Msida and eventually Valletta, the fortified City built by the Knights of St John in 1566. While this area is mostly a rocky coast, one can still enjoy St George's Bay with its sandy beach which is only a 5min walk away from the Resort. www.radisson.com.mt Continuing on the Eastern coast brings you to the Corinthia Hotel St Georges’ Bay & The Marina Hotel (at the Corinthia Beach Resort). Together with the first Hotel of the now international chain, the Corinthia Palace Resort & Spa, centrally located in the Maltese Islands in Attard, the Chain offers top 5 star amenities in all of its resorts, with a fantastic selection of international or Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurants. While the Corinthia Hotel St. George’s Bay & The Marina Hotel are destinations that dreams are made of, with rooms that enjoy generous terraces & beautiful sea views, the Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa contrasts with equal yet different beauty in the beautifully landscaped gardens of a 19th century restored villa. www.corinthiahotels.com The Westin Dragonara Resort on the other hand, is situated on a peninsular outcrop in St Julians and while being in the heart of the entertainment center of Malta, it still enjoys complete isolation & serenity of being on the seafront with it’s own beach club, a PADI Dive Centre and the advantage of having the Casino Dragonara just a stone throw away. www.westinmalta.com Set in the heart of fashionable Portomaso waterfront in St Julians, the Hilton Malta awaits you. A short 15 minutes' drive from the capital City of Valletta and centrally positioned to enjoy many of the top restaurants on the Maltese Islands, CONTINUED ON PAGE
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wine bars and shops, while enjoying its own Merkanti Beach Club, Water Sports Club and Diving Center. The Hilton is host to the internationally acclaimed Thai Blue Elephant Restaurant, besides offering four more restaurants and the exclusive Bottega del Vino wine bar overlooking the private yacht marina. With sumptuous suites to choose from, as well as luxury deluxe & executive rooms and too many services to mention, one always finds the ‘welcome home’ feeling that has become synonymous with the Hilton family of International Hotels. www.malta.hilton.com The line-up would not be complete without the Inter Continental Hotel in St Julians Bay. Once again ideally located in the prime area for Malta’s entertainment & dining choices, the Intercontinental brings you avant-garde hospitality, services and amenities that have become synonymous with the brand. www.intercontinental.com.mt Complimenting Malta’s luxury Hotels in the St Julians’ is the Le Meridien St Julians’ Hotel. Le Meridien is located on the grounds of a 19th century Villa in St Julians, overlooking pretty Balluta Bay and again completely centrally located on the island offering business as well as personal visitors the ultimate in luxury accommodation and Spa/Wellness packages. www.lemeridienmalta.com The Fortina Spa & Resort, situated in the heart of Sliema & only 300 metres away from shopping at your favourite branded shops, is Malta’s newest 17 Storey 5 Star Hotel. It offers unrivalled views of Marsamxett Creek, Manoel Island & the imposing bastions of Valletta across the bay. The Resort proudly introduces you to the World’s 1st Therapeutic Spa bedrooms. Whether in the comfort of your Suite or in the Spa itself, one can indulge in numerous varieties of Spa treatments, international cuisine in this resort that boasts 4 Spa Centres, a State of the Art Dental Clinic, Cosmetic Surgery, a Fully Equipped Fitness Centre and a Body Control (UK) Pilates Studio. www.fortinasparesort.com Also located in urban Sliema is a stylish Deluxe Boutique Hotel called The Palace. The Palace offers superior facilities from Designer Suites to a Spa Centre. This Luxury Hotel combines comfort with elegant luxury in cosmopolitan surroundings. www.thepalacemalta.com Heading toward the Capital City of Valletta two 5 Star Hotels invite you through their doors into a world of hospitality and luxury surroundings. The Phoenicia Hotel can be described as a national treasure. Since it first opened in 1947, the Hotel has played a key role in Malta’s social and cultural history. Stars, socialites and the crowned heads of Europe have enjoyed this Valletta 5 star hotel whose décor is reminiscent of old English elegance for over 60 years. www.phoeniciamalta.com Also ideally located on the doorstep of Valletta is The Grand Hotel Excelsior. The hotel prides itself in offering the discerning traveller accommodation with unique breathtaking 16 • MAY 2010
The well-appointed St. Julians Hilton Malta lobby awaits.
Northern Island of Gozo’s Kempinski San Lawrenz pools.
views of Sliema Seafront, Marsamxett Harbour & Manoel Island from its 439 suites & deluxe rooms, together with platinum service & a private yacht marina. The unique opportunity of staying at one of these two Hotels are their proximity to major museums & attractions, art treasures and the historical architectural gems inside the fortified capital city of Valletta. www.excelsior.com.mt Finally the Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, nestled inside the Silent City of Mdina, may be small in size but it is certainly overwhelming in its services & elegant hospitality. The Boutique Hotel is a glorious 17th Century Palace located within the fortified town Mdina, the second UNESCO World Heritage town & former capital of the Maltese Islands. The exclusive Chateaux has been meticulously but sensitively restored to reflect its former noble standing. Renaissance décor graces the interiors & fine furnishings throughout the premises and peaks in the intimacy of your royal suite, complete with plush soft linens in this romantic noble medieval city. www.xarapalace.com.mt For a full listing of hotels that grace the 122 sq miles that make up the Maltese Islands, log on to the website and search through the Hotel Directory with direct links to any of the above 5 Star resorts.
Malta Tourism Authority, info@visitmalta.com, www.visitmalta.com © Francesca Vincenti, Malta Tourism Authority www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
EUROPE EUROPEAN WATERWAYS ANNOUNCES ‘LA BELLA VITA’ LUXURY HOTEL BARGE CRUISING European Waterways has announced that La Bella Vita, a luxury 20-passenger hotel barge, is joining their fleet this year to offer a cruise along some of Italy’s most charming waterways between Venice and the Renaissance city of Mantua. After she has been refitted to very high standards, La Bella Vita will embark on her inaugural voyage on Sunday, September 5, 2010. This special voyage gives passengers the opportunity to enjoy the diverse landscapes and nature en route, from picturesque lagoon islands with their colorful houses, to wild beach dunes and pine woods with an abundance of birdlife; from the charming Venetian port of Chioggia via the River Po and Bianca Canal to the captivating lakeside setting of the Renaissance city of Mantua. Highlights of the cruise are a guided tour of historic Venice with its hidden gardens and the Pavilion of the Gondolas, a tour of the colorful port of Chioggia and its famous red fish market, private wine tastings at renowned local producers, a tour of ancient Adria including the opera house and cathedral, and visits to the Ducal Palace in Mantua and Estense Castle in Ferrara. Every six-night/seven-day cruise aboard La Bella Vita includes comfortable accommodation in air-conditioned, en suite cabins, gourmet meals, an open bar, fine wines, daily escorted excursions, entrance fees, local transfers and the use of barge facilities such as bicycles to explore the towpaths and a large sundeck to laze on. Prices for a six-night cruise are from $3,490 per person for individual bookings and from $57,000 for a full boat charter. European Waterways, 800-394-8630, sales@gobarging.com, www.gobarging.com
trademark exclusive features and enriching tours. Highlights include two nights on board docked in Moscow, followed by a sixnight cruise along Russia’s historic waterways. Passengers will visit the enchanting Golden Ring cities of Uglich and Yaroslavl, then transit across Europe’s two largest lakes, Onega and Ladoga, to one of the world’s most beautiful cities. The tour concludes with three nights on board the vessel in St. Petersburg. AMAWATERWAYS, 800-626-0126, www.amawaterways.com
DUBROVNIK TRAVEL’S SEASTAR READY TO SAIL FOR EVENTS AT SEA NEXT SEASON Dubrovnik Travel, keeping with a tradition of innovation, has partnered with a local passenger ship line to bring to the Adriatic the first event boat of its kind. The SeaStar, approximately 148 feet in length and a little under 33 feet wide, is a motor boat that was specially designed as a floating venue. Arriving this spring, it will undergo a full facelift and will be available on the market from summer 2010. This unique ship can be transformed into a banquet hall for 350 people with full catering amenities, a fully equipped conference facility, a floating lounge bar with dance area or an a la carte excursion boat with water sports center. This one-of-a-kind product, to be available along the whole of the Croatian Adriatic, will be in a position to offer clients truly memorable events hosted at sea. Dubrovnik Travel, www.dubrovniktravel.com
Gateway to Europe
AMAWATERWAYS WILL INTRODUCE MS AMAKATARINA IN RUSSIA AMAWATERWAYS is adding the MS AMAKATARINA to its fleet as of May in 2011. The AMAKATARINA will be offered in the popular “Russian Waterways” program. Her inaugural sailing will take place May 10, 2011, and thereafter she will sail a total of fourteen 11-night voyages for the 2011 season. The completely renovated 212-passenger ship will be the largest and most luxurious vessel sailing the Volga-Baltic Waterways. With 24,025 square feet of space dedicated to 106 cabins (76 with balconies), passengers can choose from 10 categories spanning four decks to meet their personal needs. Four different suite categories offer spacious accommodations ranging in size from 280 square feet to a luxurious 432 square feet. “From the time that we first launched our Russian Waterways program, it has proven to be one of our most popular and successful itineraries. Now, we are taking Russian Waterways to the next level of luxury and comfort with the AMAKATARINA. ,” said Rudi Schreiner, president of AMAWATERWAYS. For 2011, the “Russian Waterways” program will feature an 11night itinerary from Moscow to St. Petersburg, filled with the line’s Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
Malta, Gozo & Co mino The
M editerranean’ s
best kept s ecret
MAY 2010 •
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CARIBBEAN
Two Personalities of the Dominican Republic First in new world history, & first in the sheer number and choice of all-inclusives on endless beaches. D . O. C H R I S T I A N R I E G E R I V
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
FABRICE RAMBERT
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ou step out of a building built in 1502 and turn to the left, walk about 100 paces and to the right across the street is the French Embassy. Besides having one of the best French chefs in the Western Hemisphere, more importantly, the building is the original home of Hernando Cortez, the conqueror of Mexico and one of the Conquistadors who arrived with Columbus on his second voyage. Step out of the building and walk to the right instead, and in about a minute you are looking at what was for 150 years the New World home of the descendents of Christopher Columbus. You are in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. The place is eye-ball One of the interior courtyards of the Hotel Nicolas Del Ovando, in the historic district of deep in history — the Grand Dame of New World Santo Domingo. Part of its structure consists of a house that is more than 500 years old. Colonial cities. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the 2010 Cultural Capital of the The Nicolas de Ovando and its sister hotel, the Hotel Americas. Frances, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, both are in the Magaly Toribio, the Dominican Republic’s vice minister of historical zone, and both are part of the MGallery chain of international promotion says, “We are honored by this presti- unique international hotels, a brand name started in 2009 by gious recognition. Santo Domingo is a modern, yet very his- the Accor hotel company. toric city founded in 1496 by Christopher Columbus’ brother, The MGallery hotels are upscale and located in historic disBartholomew. The city’s tourism assets are especially unique tricts and particularly scenic locations around the world. They and offer a living testament to the past that formed us as a na- make a point, inside and out, of giving their guests a sense of tion and was the base of Spanish exploration of the New place. In the case of these two hotels, rent a room here and World.” guests will literally and figuratively bathe in history. Of historic significance is the first cathedral in the New The Nicolas de Ovando is 5-star, with swimming pool, World as well the first university and the first hospital. And the restaurant, bar, gym, free WIFI and secured parking. Guests city has a wealth of restaurants, monuments and museums. have a choice of colonial or contemporary room decor lookCulturally, there is an abundance of theater and music. ing to the river, over the gardens, the central patio, the swimDefinitely worthwhile is a stroll through the newly estab- ming pool or Calle Las Damas. My personal preference is lished and on-going arts & crafts fair at Plazoleta Fray Calle Las Damas, this way when you wake up in the morning Bartolome de las Casas. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and look out the window, you look at where the Americas from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, people can view and buy a variety began: at the heart and soul of the New World. of Dominican-made fine arts and crafts. Its La Résidence restaurant serves French food combined with the flavors of the Caribbean with sophisticated service. MGallery Hotels in the Colonial Zone The separate Cigar Bar has a variety of cocktails, high-end The building you stepped out of above is the oldest stone rums and excellent Dominican cigars. residence in the Western Hemisphere, bar none. It was built Hotel Frances is the former home of the royal treasurer of for Fray Nicolás de Ovando y Cáceres, the first governor of the Spanish Court and has been standing since the 16th centhe Americas. Today, it is part of the 104-room Hotel Nicolas tury. The hotel is built around a central patio surrounded by de Ovando, which is on the first named street in the New stone pillars and pink brick vaults. Within this is the Patio World, Calle las Damas, which got its name in 1510. Older Restaurant and Bar serving gourmet cuisine in a romantic atthan the trees, and younger than the mountains. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
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CARIBBEAN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
FROM PAGE
18 CORAL HOSPITALITY GROUP, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
mosphere. The hacienda-style, ex-residence has 19 lavish rooms and a multilingual staff. The rooms are fully equipped with upscale amenities including individually controlled air conditioning, direct-dial phone, Internet access and cable TV. www.mgallery.com/gb/home/index.shtml Though rich in history, the Dominican Republic is a diverse destination having Dominican and European accents to more than one million yearly United States vacationers. Most of them visit the other Dominican experience: its excellent beaches and constantly innovating, all-inclusive resorts.
Resorts of the Dominican Republic’s East Coast The Palladium resorts in Punta Cana, which include The Royal Suites Turquesa by Palladium, the Grand Palladium Palace Resort Spa & Casino, the Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa and the Grand Palladium Bávaro Resort & Spa, comprise one of the largest and most complete collection of all-inclusive resorts on the Dominican Republic’s east coast. The feature property is its 372-unit, adults only Royal Suites Turquesa by Palladium. There are three suite choices, junior, honeymoon and presidential. The last group is two stories with an oceanfront location, a king size, four-poster bed with decorative mosquito net, and a private outdoor Jacuzzi on the upper-level balcony. If what constitutes a luxury vacation is living a standard you do not have at home, these units are it. Linda Scaperotto, marketing director of the Fiesta Hotel Group, owners of the Palladium Brand, says, “There are many features that set this apart from the rest. These include a relaxing, club-like, private, air conditioned VIP lounge with 24 hour concierge service, a private lobby bar serving premium international liquors and snacks, international digital newspaper, DSL and WiFi free internet access, butler service, and the personalized attentions of a multilingual staff. “We have 24-hour room service, daily-refilled in-room minibar with choice of four varietal options, DVD player and a inroom DVD library. Guests in this sector have unlimited and guaranteed reservations to any table service restaurant and, of course, the private, air conditioned Royal Gourmet restaurant with its choice of buffet or table service. Additionally, we have not one, but three private pool bars and bar service at the pools and beach. We aim to pamper.” Guests can use the facilities at the rest of the resort sections as well. This includes an additional seven table-service restaurants; three air conditioned international main buffet restaurants; three beach-side open-air buffet restaurants; 14 bars; two theaters with live entertainment nightly; one of the newest and most complete Spas and Health Clubs in Punta Cana; a casino; a complete sports center; a wide variety of water sports; organized activities; day and evening entertainment along with a 24 hour Sports Bar with snacks. The Royal Suites Turquesa by Palladium summer season 20 • MAY 2010
Ocean-front & cliff-top, the Coral Vista Mare in Samana, Dominican Republic.
rates start at $240.00 ppdo. www.fiestahotelgroup.com
Princess Hotels Princess Hotels has four resorts in Punta Cana: Tropical Princess Beach Resort & SPA, the Caribe Club Princess Beach Resort & Spa, the Bávaro Princess All Suites Resort, Spa & Casino and the Punta Cana Princess All Suites Resort & Spa. (Caribe Club Princess Beach Resort & Spa was in the April issue of Travel World News.) Bávaro Princess All Suites Resort, Spa & Casino is also situated in an area renowned for its beauty, the quality of the sand and the clarity of the water, the famous Bávaro beach. It has a variety of 96 suites, 40 honeymoon spa suites, 82 junior suites, and 590 spacious and fully equipped bungalow suites. Out-of-the-routine amenities include special meals, including children's meals, and early meals on request. Summer rates start at $128.00 ppdo. The adults-only Punta Cana Princess All Suites Resort & Spa has 263 luxury suites and seven honeymoon suites. As well as five restaurants, it has what they like to call a “functional” snack bar — more than just hot dogs, burgers and fries — plus a large gym and spa. The summer rates start at $118.00 ppdo. The full service of the Caribe Club Princess Beach Resort & Spa in its suites and superior rooms provide the perfect complement to various leisure and entertainment activities available day and night which include a variety of beach and poolside activities, water sports, The Children's and Teenagers' Clubs, and Gran Casino, to create a vacation filled with distractions from everyday life: as it should be. Summer rates start at $109.00 ppdo. www.princess-hotels.com
Coral Hospitality Group Coral Hospitality Group manages four resorts located in different destinations in the Dominican Republic. StanzaMare, CONTINUED ON PAGE
22
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC RESOURCE DIRECTORY The
Palladium
Experience
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Princess Hotels & Resorts is a hotel chain specializing in holiday and urban hotels in top class tourist resorts, which, from the start, has enjoyed the prestige, confidence and consideration of our customers. A chain with a business philosophy and methodology in the management of large hotels.
$82 USD PER PERSON PER NIGHT ALL-INCLUSIVE. Call Center: +1888 237 1226 (Toll Free) GEPPGIRXIV EQIVMGE$½IWXELSXIPKVSYT GSQ
www.Ă„LZ[HOV[LSNYV\W.com
*Restrictions apply.
princess-hotels.com CHOOSE YOUR SOSUA HOTEL The Sosua Bay Resort is the number one beach resort for families, couples, weddings and business travelers in Sosua.
IFA Villas BĂĄvaro Resort & Spa, is a spectacular hotel complex well situated in the best zones of Punta Cana: the heavenly Playa Bavaro. It is considered as one of the ten prettiest beaches in the world, Playa Bavaro has turquoise crystalline water, shining white sand, a magnificent natural coral reef and a long coastline.
877-553-0202
www.ifahotels.com
Welcome! To Paradise... ...here we wait for you. Enjoy your vacation on wonderful beaches of gold sand. Palms offering shade and one will be able to bathe in the turquoises waters of our Atlantic Ocean. We offer different options of housing but the amusements are the same ...
Comprised of Coral Hotels & Resorts, Coral Comfort Serviced Residences and Coral Elite Serviced Residences...we bring over 20 years of experience in Resort Operations, Sales & Marketing and Development. Within these areas we will custom design a program that will suit the resort, its location and its consumers.
info@sosuabayresort.com
www.coralhospitalitycorp.com
www.sosuabayresort.com
Turinter, a travel agency specializing in business travel, was created in 1979 by a team of professionals with a great deal of sector-specific experience. We have been part of the worldwide travel agency chain Lufthansa City Center since 1996. This give us an excellent position to negotiate prices, which in turn lets us offer the best market prices to our clients. We are also partners and the founders of the Travel Advisors Group, a business and professional travel agency association. For individual holidays, Turinter’s staff will make your dreams a reality, giving you unforgettable, very high quality holidays.
CASA BONITA TROPICAL LODGE
Tell us your wishes, dreams, possibilities and needs and we will do the rest.
www.tropicalclubs.com
www.turinter.com
The Sosua Bay Beach Club is the most affordable beachfront lodging in Sosua, a B&B for single travelers needing economy accommodations. Victorian House is an elegant resort with classic architecture set on the Sosua beach, with excellent views and first-class customer service.
Located in Barahona, in the still unspoiled and secluded southwest region of the Dominican Republic, adjacent to the only biosfere reserve in the country. CASA BONITA sits on a hilltop with an impresive view of the Caribbean Sea, nestled within a vast tropical forest surrounded by rivers and mountains. This former private vacation retreat, still family-owned, provides twelve rooms caba a style, that dramatically overlook its surroundings.
www.casabonitadr.com
CARIBBEAN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
FROM PAGE
20
located in Punta Cana, brings the privacy and comfort of a summer home, with services of a favorite hotel. The all-inclusive Sol de Plata Resort for adults, singles and families, located in Cabarete, has the largest swimming pool on the Dominican Republic’s north coast. The recently renovated Coral Costa Caribe is on the sandy, white beaches of Juan Dolio on the Dominican Republic's south coast. It is surrounded by exotic tropical gardens and located near several signature, 18 hole golf courses. Very casual, beach-house style comfort is the key phrase for Velero Beach. This boutique beachfront resort condo/hotel is on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic in Cabarete, a town marked by uniqueness in the fact that the nearby restaurants, bars and discos are strung along the waterfront with all the character and dining variety New York’s Greenwich Village. Few resorts are at a truly unique location. Coral’s Vista Mare on the Atlantic side of the Samaná Peninsula north coast is one of those few. The units are one, two, three and four bedroom with full kitchens and all the standard amenities. Vista Mare restaurants feature an a la carte menu with local and international meals. Guests have excellent gastronomical fare, from fine appetizers to tasteful main dishes and delicious native coconut desserts. “The highlight units,” says Nelson Ledesma, sales execu-
“Most Romantic Resort in the World” TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice, 4th consecutive year
Located on one of the Caribbean’s top 10 "Dream Beaches of the World", the sophisticated and stylish Bucuti and Tara Beach Suites offer Aruba's only refined and tranquil boutique resort experience. Exchange your vows on our magnificent white sandy beach. Let us make your honeymoon a celebration that you will cherish for a lifetime...
Eagle Beach • Aruba • Dutch Caribbean info@bucuti.com • 888-4-BUCUTI www.bucuti.com
22 • MAY 2010
tive, “are the four bedroom units out on a natural, high-rock promontory jutting into the ocean. Guests have unimpeded views of the coast and the ocean out to the horizon. The sound of surf crashing on the rocks below drifts up to the units and the ocean breeze cools the rooms at night. For people who love the ocean, this is hard to beat. If you want to relax, read a book or stare into the navel of nature, this is the place. And the price is reasonable. Through December 22, the rate, not including meals, is $275.00 per night or $1,725.00 per week for eight people. When guests buy five nights they get another for free. “These units are a bargain and located in astounding beauty, that’s a combination hard to beat.” www.coralhospitalitycorp.com Contact the writer at: dochristianrieger@gmail.com
DESIRES HOTELS INTERNATIONAL WILL OPEN THE CLIFFS OCEAN RESORT IN DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Miami-based Desires Hotels has announced the latest addition to their modern boutique collection, The Cliffs Ocean Resort, situated between Puerto Plata and Samana along the stunning north coast of the Dominican Republic. The project is the first in the Dominican Republic to be LEED-certified and is set to open Summer 2011. Room amenities at the eco-chic luxurious resort include large living areas and private terraces with views to the ocean and the mountains . The Cliffs Ocean Resort’s initial 102 rooms mark the first phase of development in which guests will enjoy proximity to great golf at the Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed Playa Grande Golf Course, called the “Pebble Beach of the Caribbean.” In an area that sees few tourists, the resort is just five minutes from the pristine whitesand beaches that were named to Conde Nast Traveler’s “Top 10 Beaches in the World.” Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy short exploration trails to tropical waterfalls, lagoons, and mangroves. Built on 25 acres of ocean-side property, The Cliffs Ocean Resort will include a luxury spa featuring Asian treatments that soothe mind, body, and soul. There will be two salt-water infinity pools overlooking the Caribbean Sea along with a Beach Club that offers another respite in the bar and cigar lounge; the club also consists of a food and beverage outlet and area for teenagers. The resort has 24-hour room service, a Fitness Center, helipad, and commercial shopping area. For those seeking a more active holiday, there’s a golf practice facility, sports center with tennis courts, and equestrian center. “Desires Hotels International is excited to bring this property into the collection,” says Gary L. Sims Executive VP/Partner of Desires Hotels International, “Its unique location and tremendous amenities for guests make The Cliffs Ocean Resort an outstanding Caribbean destination.” The Cliffs Ocean Resort, thecliffsoceanresort.com; Desires Hotels, 866-593-4330, www.desireshotels.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
JAMAICA RESOURCE DIRECTORY
2007 The best source for information on rental villas in Jamaica is Villas by Linda Smith. ~ Condé Nast Traveler
2008 and 2009 Named the Top Villa Rental Specialist for Jamaica based on competency, business practices, honesty and product knowledge. ~ Condé Nast Traveler
HALF MOON MAKES IT HAPPEN. Half Moon’s 400-acres and two miles of white sand beach off er something everyone can enjoy including luxurious accommodations, championship golf course, award-winning spa and more. halfmoon.com On-site call centre: 888-830-5969
877-764-6852 sales@pointvillage.com www.pointvillage.com
Email linda@jamaicavillas.com
www.jamaicavillas.com Green Globe certified
Chukka Caribbean Adventures At The Spanish Court...comfort, convenience and effortless luxury is our signature trademark
is the number one land-based nature adventure tour provider. Chukka offers a wide variety of experiences such as Horseback Ride n' Swim, Zion “Bob Marley” Bus Line, 4x4 Off-Road Safaris, Jungle River Tubing, Cave Tubing, Zipline Canopy Tour, ATV, Hiking, and Airboat experiences.
a perfect destination for elegant and unforgettable weddings Jamaica
877-424-8552 info@chukkacaribbean.com
The Spanish Court philosophy...functional design infused with unmatched elegance
www.courtleigh.com
info@spanishcourthotel.com
www.spanishcourthotel.com
the Courtleigh is a sister property
www.chukkacove.com The
Palladium
Experience
A boutique, beachfront, all inclusive resort that exudes good old fashioned Jamaican hospitality, culture and flavor. From friendly, caring and interactive staff, including your family’s own Vacation Nanny, our all-inclusive vacation packages include the best of food, drinks, accommodations and activities for families.
800.654.1337 | 888.337.5437 FDRinfo@FDRholidays.com
www.fdrholidays.com
Luxury property - villas, condominiums, penthouses and suites for sale in Montego Bay Jamaica. The Palmyra Resort & Spa offers pure indulgent living and a great opportunity to invest in some prime Jamaican real estate. 866.725.3969 info@thepalmyra.com
www.thepalmyrasolis.com
Call Center: +1888 237 1226 (Toll Free) GEPPGIRXIV EQIVMGE$½IWXELSXIPKVSYT GSQ
www.ÄLZ[HOV[LSNYV\W.com
CARIBBEAN SECRETS RESORTS & SPAS OPENS FIRST JAMAICA PROPERTY, SECRETS WILD ORCHID MONTEGO BAY
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay First Guests Amy Block and Charles William Koebler (center) from New York had the honor of cutting the ceremonial ribbon alongside AMResorts President Alex Zozaya (left).
Secrets Resorts & Spas, the award-winning resort brand offering Unlimited-Luxury® vacations for adults only, opened Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay recently, joined by the Secrets St. James Montego Bay shortly after. The two-resort $180 million project has infused $100 million into the Jamaican economy and created 1,500 jobs during construction with an additional 950 resort operations jobs created by the end of this year. Within the first year, the two properties are projected to receive over 52,000 guests. “AMResorts’ consistent growth is directly linked to our continued search for opportunities in the travel market,” said Alex Zozaya, President and CEO of AMResorts. Not only has Jamaica consistently remained strong during these tough economic times, but its natural beauty, premium tourism offerings and consistent appeal made it a destination of choice for Secrets Resorts & Spas.” Guests of Secrets Wild Orchid enjoy eight international gourmet á la carte dining options; seven bars and lounges including swimup; free-form swimming pools and beachfront Jacuzzi; a worldclass spa featuring indoor and outdoor facilities and hydrotherapy circuit; The Promenade, a main plaza shared by the resorts offering a host of activities, boutiques and entertainment/dining; Seawind Beach Club with couples cabanas, palapas and a gourmet restaurant; on-site sports—tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, soccer and non-motorized water sports; yoga, aerobic and introductory SCUBA classes; and over 16,000 square feet of meeting space. In-room amenities include oversized four-poster beds, full entertainment systems with LCD flat-screen televisions and CD/DVD players, a Jacuzzi for two, private furnished balconies, 24 • MAY 2010
luxurious bath amenities, and Secrets’ signature discreet 24-hour room service. Guests of Secrets Wild Orchid may enjoy many offerings of the Secrets St. James resort and vice versa, including access to restaurants, lounges, spas, open-air theater and more. Within minutes of the resorts are Montego Bay’s famous Rose Hall Great House, The Hip Strip and The Doctor’s Cave Beach Club; and five renowned championship golf courses including the White Witch, Half Moon, Tryall, Three Palms Ocean Course at Wyndham Rose Hall and Cinnamon Hill Secrets Resorts & Spas currently has three resorts in Mexico’s Riviera Maya region, one in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, and is slated to open additional properties in Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta Mexico and the Caribbean by the end of 2012, and also has plans to enter the Aruba market. Secrets Resorts & Spas, 866-GO-SECRETS (467-3273), www.secretsresorts.com
HALF MOON EXPANDS HEALTH & WELLNESS MONTH ACTIVITIES Over 15 health and fitness experts are scheduled to present at the third staging of Half Moon’s annual Health & Wellness Months activities. The upcoming eight-week festival in August and September will bring together international experts from the U.S. and Jamaica to conduct free workshops and classes for guests at the 400-acre resort. Additionally, fitness experts from the U.S.-based fitness professional organization Fit Bodies, Inc. will stage their annual FitBeach program at the luxury resort located in Rose Hall, Jamaica. “Celebration” will be the theme, encouraging a focus on good health and mind/body balance. Each week of the two-month program will feature different experts covering topics spanning mental health, healthy lifestyle, relationships, yoga and men’s issues. Additionally, this year’s FitBeach program will include classes in Spinning®, pilates, Thai yoga, aquatic fitness, nutrition, TRX suspension/balance training, Beam Fit™, bodybuilding and dancing. “We are delighted with the program we have developed for this year’s Health & Wellness Months and with the caliber professionals that will be presenting during this year’s celebration,” said Stephen Phillips, Half Moon’s Spa and Wellness Director. “Guests can take advantage of these complimentary classes to either begin their wellness commitment to themselves or enhance the fitness journey they’ve already begun.” To participate in Health & Wellness Months, guests can take advantage of Half Moon’s special Summer Break. The Summer Break is valid for travel May 1 through December 15 and provides $150 resort credit per room, full breakfast daily and round-trip airport transfers in Montego Bay. Rates for the Summer Break start at $250 per room per night and a minimum stay of four nights is required; tax and service charge are additional. Half Moon, 800-626-0592, www.halfmoon.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
CARIBBEAN ‘GIRLS GOLF GETAWAY’ AT BREEZES RUNAWAY BAY
Girls rule the course with the new Super-Inclusive “Girls Golf Getaway’ at Breezes Runaway Bay presenting a honey of a package for gals who’ve always wanted to learn how to play golf, or sharpen up their game. The five-night offer for $1,065 ppdo includes a one-hour private lesson at the resort’s 18-hole, PGA-quality golf course. Gal pals who book the “Girls Golf Getaway” will also receive: a one-hour Native’s Touch massage, featuring tropical ingredients to boost the immune system, as well as a manicure and pedicure at the full-service à la carte Blue Mahoe Spa, plus a night pass to the neighboring Hedonism III, including round-trip transfers. The “Girls Golf Getaway“ is valid for travel from May 1 through October 31. Ladies seeking a longer retreat can combine “Girls Golf Getaway“ with the recently launched “Every Fifth Night Free“ promotion for travel through August 21, where they may stay nine nights and receive the 10th free for additional savings of up to $350 per room. Breezes Runaway Bay boasts Jamaica’s first golf school, offering daily lectures and private lessons with PGA and CPGA certified instructors. Visual learners of all skill levels will enjoy a wellequipped lecture room, where personalized video analysis is available to help improve their swing. They can put the new advice into practice at the 72-par course, which was recently given 3.5 stars in Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play.” Women looking to bring home a new skill can opt for a scuba diving certificate from the resort’s very own Gold Palm 5-Star PADI facility, sign up for private tennis classes, or take windsurfing lessons on the pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea. Breezes Runaway Bay, 877-BREEZES (273-3937), www.breezes.com/resorts/runaway-bay, www.breezes.com; SuperClubs, (800) GO-SUPER (467-8737), www.superclubs.com
its third year, the event is also rated second best in the sub-category of “Best Vacation Triathlons” awarded by Triathlete Magazine. The triathlon has seen the participation of European duo Nicolas Becker and Isabelle Ferrer alongside Olympians Australian Greg Bennett and his wife Laura, who are ranked among the top five racers in the world. The on-road event with the option of a sprint course is planned for October 23- 24, 2010. It takes place at the 18-hole Robert von Hagge, Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, located at the Rose Hall Resort, A Hilton Resort and Spa, along the newly constructed North Coast Highway. The course is two laps of a lightning-fast bike course, each with a sheer climb in the middle. The run is also two laps on the spectacular Cinnamon Hill course ending with the steepest final 200 meters of any triathlon—now known as “The Witch.” The schedule of activities is as follows: October 22, early packet pickup/organized bike ride; October 23, Rose Hall Bolt 5k Run/Kids Triathlon; October 23, Race Jamaica Expo packet pick up/reggae party; October 24, Rose Hall Triathlon starting at 6:30 am; and October 24, post race reggae party at the Rose Hall Great House with Margarita and beer tents open all day. Interested participants are urged to register now online in order to get the best rates, as limited spots are available. Rose Hall Triathlon 2010, www.rosehalltriathlon.com
JAMAICA’S ROSE HALL TRIATHLON REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Registration is now open for one of the top 100 triathlons in the world—The Rose Hall Triathlon in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Now in Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
MAY 2010•
25
CARIBBEAN GRAND CASE BEACH CLUB OFFERS SUMMER SEASON ‘HONEYMOON MAGIC’ For honeymooners, second honeymooners and incurable romantics, the Grand Case Beach Club in St. Martin is offering a summer season “Honeymoon Magic” package ranging from three to seven nights through October 31, 2010, according to General Manager Steve Wright. Included are air-conditioned accommodations with private balcony or terrace, continental breakfast daily, use of tennis court, Grand Case beach bag, welcome cocktail, bottle of red or white wine, match-play casino vouchers, island floral bouquet on arrival, one-day car rental (plus gas and insurance), picnic basket for two (one day), and use of all non-motorized water sports equipment. The three-night package for garden accommodations is $530 per couple for a studio and $575 for a one-bedroom. For ocean, $575 for a studio, $620 for a studio with loft, and $665 for a onebedoom. For seven nights, garden studio is $1,150 and one-bedroom $1,255. For ocean, a studio is $1,255, studio with loft $1,360, and one bedroom $1,465. The Grand Case Beach Club has a wide range of facilities for its guests. These include the Sunset Cafe, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner plus Happy Hour seven days a week; water sports center; swimming pool; tennis court; and in each unit (larger than standard hotel rooms) is a fully equipped kitchen and satellite flatscreen TV. Grand Case Beach Club, 800-344-3016, info@gcbc.com, www.grandcasebeachclub.com
BREEZES RESORTS LAUNCHES ‘BAGGAGE FEE INCLUDED’ PROMOTION Though checked-baggage fees may be soaring, Breezes Resorts guests can have an overweight or second bag and check it in too— without breaking the bank. The innovators of the Super-Inclusive concept just elevated their encompassing offerings with the announcement of a “Baggage Fee Included” promotion. With every seven-night minimum stay May 1 through October 31, travelers can trade-in their checked-baggage fee receipt for up to $100 spa credit per room (up to $50 per person credit, to be used during their stay). Guests must show original checked-baggage fee receipt from day of arrival. Available at eight Breezes Resorts in Jamaica, Panama, Curaçao, Brazil and the Bahamas, Super-Inclusive rates start at $120 ppdo. The spa credit ensures a rejuvenating vacation where each Blue Mahoe Spa at Breezes Resorts, as well as the Miraflores Spa (only available at Breezes Panama), uses island ingredients to relax and pamper. Breezes Resorts‘ all-star line up in Jamaica includes the all-suite Breezes Grand Negril, named one of Travel + Leisure‘s “Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas“ in 2008 and Breezes Trelawny, a favorite for all ages with four swimming pools, a rock-climbing wall and a circus workshop featuring flying trapeze lessons. 26 • MAY 2010
The “Baggage Fee Included“ promotion is also available at Breezes Resorts beyond Jamaica. The brand new Breezes Panama opened last October as Breezes’ first Panamanian property. Breezes Curaçao, the island’s only Super-Inclusive resort, beckons world-class divers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Breezes Bahamas’ beachfront accommodations are a perennial close-tohome favorite on legendary Cable Beach in Nassau, while those seeking an extra exotic escapade will enjoy Breezes Costa Do Sauípe in Bahia, the perfect spot from which to delve deep into the region’s natural wonders with tours to the Amazon and incredible Iguazú Falls. Breezes Resorts, 877-BREEZES (273-3937), www.breezes.com; SuperClubs, 800-GO-SUPER (467-8737), www.superclubs.com
SANDS AT GRACE BAY OFFERS 25% OFF-THE-RACK DISCOUNT PLUS TRANSFERS FOR ‘RACE FOR THE CONCH’ The Sands at Grace Bay is encouraging guests and travelers to take part in the first-ever “Race For The Conch,” a one-mile EcoSwim race scheduled for July 10, 2010, that will take place along the calm, turquoise waters of world-renowned Grace Bay Beach. With the resort’s current 25-percent off the rack rate offer (valid for travel now through December 21, 2010) plus roundtrip resort transfers to and from the race, The Sands at Grace Bay is the ideal place to stay for race attendees, or simply those who support the reef protection initiatives the race proceeds will benefit. Slated for Saturday, July 10, “Race for the Conch” will be the first organized open water swim race held in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos. This eco-swim race has been created by the Turks & Caicos Open Water Swim Committee to raise awareness of the valuable ocean and reef systems surrounding the island, highlighting our collective responsibility to protect and be good stewards of the sea—with race funds supporting local ocean and reef protection charities. The race is open to all competitive or simply enthusiastic swimmers—with an entry fee requirement of $44, or an on-island registration fee of $35. On the day of the event, the registration fee will be $50. Olympic and world-class swimmers will make special appearances, and professional swim instructors will provide a threehour swim clinic the day before the race at the Seven Stars Resort. The Sands at Grace Bay’s current 25-percent rack rate discount is valid for new bookings on all room categories, for travel to the resort from now through December 21, 2010. The offer is subject to availability, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or promotions, and is not applicable for groups. With this 25-percent discount, rates start as low as $139 per night for Studio Courtyard accommodations for travel this summer and fall. More information about the race including a course map, schedule and registration sign-up page is available on the website listed at end. The Sands at Grace Bay, 877-777-2637, www.thesandstc.com; www.ecoseaswim.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
CARIBBEAN LAID-BACK BARBEQUES AND TASTING MENUS AT MALLIOUHANA, ANGUILLA
LADERA IN SAINT LUCIA OFFERS VACATION PLEASURES FOR FAMILIES With summer right around the corner, St Lucia’s beautiful Ladera is offering a vacation that gets families and kids (10 and up) outdoors, and most importantly, keeps everyone together. From the comfortable aerie of 1,100 feet above the Caribbean Sea, kids can stargaze at night, using Ladera’s sky maps to connect the dots and find more constellations than they ever knew existed. Then, they can get into the private plunge pool to plan the next day’s beach excursion. With Ladera’s summer low-season rates, entire families can afford to spend a truly exciting vacation together. Rates begin at $380 ppdo per night in a Petit Piton Suite with plunge pool. This price includes breakfast, afternoon tea, beach shuttles, snorkeling equipment and full use of resort facilities. Ladera, 866-290-0978, www.ladera.com
Following the appointment of noted chef Frederic Cougnon last December, Malliouhana Hotel & Spa, the award-winning luxury resort on Anguilla, is introducing two new guest experiences that further highlight the resort’s culinary edge: a festive Anguilla Night at Le Bistro near the beach and a special Chef’s Tasting Menu at Michel Rostang at Malliouhana, the resort’s acclaimed fine-dining room. Offered weekly, the two events illustrate Cougnon’s striking culinary range. Malliouhana also introduced a daily prix-fixe lunch menu in April. Accompanied by the live music of Dumpa and Company, the resort’s gourmet Anguilla Night Thursdays from 7 to 10 pm at Le Bistro features a wide selection of dishes served buffet style and fresh-off-the-grill favorites, accompanied by plentiful desserts and side dishes. It is priced $85 per person ($45 per child under 10 years old). Offered on Mondays at Michel Rostang at Malliouhana, the Chef’s Tasting Menu is a five-course culinary tour de force pairing classic French-influenced cuisine with four superb wines from the resort’s celebrated 25,000-bottle “Le Cave” wine cellar (largest in the Caribbean and holder of the Wine Spectator Grand Award). The seasonal menu, featuring an assortment of locally grown and internationally sourced ingredients, is an imaginative, ever-changing blend of Caribbean, French and Mediterranean flavors. Priced at $125 per person, the menu includes specially selected wines to complement each course. In keeping with the resort’s elegantly casual style, no jackets and ties are required in the restaurant. Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, the picturesque 55room Malliouhana Hotel & Spa is owner-managed by Leon and Nigel Roydon. The resort is a member of Small Leading Hotels of the World; it’s one of the prestigious hotels listed in the Condé Nast Traveler 2009 Gold List and the only hotel in the Caribbean to be named Best Hotel for Food in the 2010 Gold List by Conde Nast Traveller UK. Malliouhana Hotel & Spa, 800-835-0796, reservations@malliouhana.com, www.malliouhana.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
BRAC REEF BEACH RESORT REOPENS ON CAYMAN BRAC The iconic dive resort Brac Reef Beach Resort in Cayman Brac has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation that has resulted in new, expanded accommodations, a new fine-dining restaurant and an expanded spa. After being damaged by hurricane Paloma in November 2008, owners the Tibbetts family, who have been on Cayman Brac since the 1830s, were undaunted and completely redesigned the resort. Set among white sandy beach, sea grape trees and swaying palms, the resort has a brand-new main building and lobby, new oceanview accommodations featuring 10 junior suites, and 27 standard rooms, and three fully handicapped accessible rooms to accommodate adaptive divers and other guests. Also new is The Grand Palm, with its internationally trained chefs and five-star cuisine which complements The Palms buffet restaurant and Tipsy Turtle Beach Bar. There is also an expanded Tropic Touch Day Spa, Island Shapes Fitness Center, and free wireless Internet throughout and in each room. Brac Reef still offers full diving facilities with the well-known, onsite Reef Divers II dive shop. Reef Divers provides first-class “valet” service, top-rated equipment, a modern fleet of specially designed dive boats, and teams with Dive Pirates Foundation to offer adaptive diving for divers with disabilities. Guests enjoy a choice of 120 dive sites dotting all 26 miles of the Caribbean Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. World-renowned Bloody Bay Wall, the Russian Frigate wreck dive “MV Capt. Keith Tibbetts” and numerous little-known pristine dive sites of Cayman Brac await. While diving is a specialty, family-owned Brac Reef caters to divers and non-divers alike, welcoming families, small conferences, wedding and honeymoon guests. Brac Reef Beach Resort, trudyviers@yahoo.com, www.bracreef.com MAY 2010•
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MEXICO HONEYMOONERS SPECIAL, MANY CUISINE CHOICES AT VALENTIN IMPERIAL MAYA RESORT
SANDOS CARACOL ADDS ECO ACTIVITIES TO ALL-INCLUSIVE VACATION, WINS SUSTAINABLE HOTEL CERTIFICATION
Valentin Imperial Maya Resort, one of Riviera Maya’s newest adults-only, all-inclusive resorts, transports their guests from the white beaches of Playa del Secreto to explore the gastronomy of Italy, France, Japan and more through the signature dishes of their nine restaurants. Ginger fuses traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences. Il Olivo’s specialty is authentic Mediterranean. Lobster Pot offers casual dining at the beach. L’Alsace has a traditional French cuisine spa menu. Taman Sari offers Indonesian-inspired cuisine. La Hacienda combines traditional Mexican gastronomy with contemporary touches. Restaurant Mar & Tierra presents a fresh menu at beachside by day and becomes a classic steakhouse at nightfall. Le Márche is the resort’s top choice for breakfast and lunch with its traditional Mexican and American dishes. In additional to these restaurants, a popular dining option for couples is a romantic dinner on the beach complete with private wait staff. One such dinner (with reservation) is currently being offered by Valentin Imperial Maya as part of a special complimentary “honeymoon” amenities package exclusively for newlyweds. It includes also a welcome letter from the General Manager, a welcome fruit basket and sparkling wine on arrival, honeymoon in-room breakfast the day after arrival, honeymoon turn-down service each night, and discounts on all spa treatments. These amenities are available to couples presenting a copy of their marriage certificate within a maximum 90 days after marriage. A seven-night minimum stay is required, packages are subject to change and prices may vary. Valentin Imperial Maya Resort, www.valentinmaya.com
Recognizing the resort’s commitment to protecting biodiversity and the fragile ecosystem of the Riviera Maya, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa has received the prestigious Mesoamerican Reef Tourism Initiative’s (MARTI) Sustainable Hotel Certification. “We’re extremely proud that our efforts to sustain the Riviera Maya were recognized and we will continue to implement new projects and programs that will benefit the environment,” said Jacques De Paep, Director of Sales and Marketing, Sandos Hotels & Resorts. Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa is one of the first eco resorts on the Riviera Maya, featuring self-sufficient structures, designated wildlife areas, and complimentary eco activities for guests. A variety of activities are offered to engage guests in ecological practices and techniques. To further enhance the experience, the resort has added a complimentary Snorkel Tour, allowing visitors to explore one of the region’s natural treasures known as cenotes (underwater caves). Guests can sign up for one of two complimentary Snorkel Tours held daily with the Sandos animation team where they can explore the resort’s largest on-property cenote and discover three unique caves below the surface that connect to other cenotes throughout the resort. Each cenote is filled with crystal-clear turquoise waters and is home to a few small fish species. In ancient times, these underwater caves were used by the Mayans as a place to communicate and contact their gods. When Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa began its eco transformation in 2008, they uncovered these natural wonders while clearing out overgrown fauna.In addition to the Snorkel Tour, guests can also engage in a complimentary Eco Tour where guides will lead participants on an interwoven path to discover indigenous animals and exotic fauna on-site. The idea of having separate areas for each indigenous animal is to create a center for reproduction of the same species and provide an environment where newborns can be raised under supervision and protection until they are strong enough to be released to the wild. Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandoshotels.com
28 • MAY 2010
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
MEXICO RESOURCE DIRECTORY The
Palladium
Experience
The most beautiful place in paradise infoisla@prodigy.nex.mx
USA: 877-545-6221 MEX: 800-426-9772 info@ceibadelmar.com
www.isla-mujeres.travel Call Center: +1888 237 1226 (Toll Free) GEPPGIRXIV EQIVMGE$½IWXELSXIPKVSYT GSQ
www.ÄLZ[HOV[LSNYV\W.com
www.ceibadelmar.com
Yucatan Holidays is a visionary company committed to providing inspiring and sustainable travel experiences throughout the Yucatan Peninsula.
In the heart of Playa del Carmen, you’ll enjoy our hotels’ high quality service at affordable rates.
www.tukanhotels.com reservations@tukanhotels.com
AN APPLE VACATIONS PARTNER
THERE ’ S NO BETTER TIME
- All Deluxe Junior Suites - Up to 2000 ft. white virgin beaches - Concierge Service - Seven Thematic Restaurants - Botanic Garden - Lazy River reservations@sirenishotels.com
GRAND VELAS ALL SUITES & SPA RESORT RIVIERA NAYARIT, MÉXICO Contact info: reservas@grandvelas.com
Toll Free US & CA 888 210 9590 www.vallarta.grandvelas.com
THERE ’ S NO BETTER PLACE
www.sirenishotels.com
MEXICO SOLMAR HOTELS & RESORTS ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF RICARDO OROZCO ARCE AS MANAGING DIRECTOR Solmar Hotels & Resorts has announced that Ricardo Orozco Arce is its new Managing Director. Mr. Orozco oversees the entire collection of Los Cabos properties including Playa Grande Resort & Grand Spa, The Ridge Luxury Villas, Solmar Resort, Quinta del Sol by Solmar and the launch of the newest property, Grand Solmar Land’s End Resort & Spa, scheduled to open in 2011. RICARDO ARCE OROZCO Over the past 23 years, Mr. Orozco has been an innovator in the hospitality and service industry. This experience has given him the ability to generate and create new business models, successfully manage timeshare properties as well as run the various operations that are needed to make the projects run successfully. Prior to his position at Solmar Hotels & Resorts, Mr. Orozco assisted in launching the new luxury boutique property, La Mision in Loreto, Mexico and was previously the Corporate Director for The Villa Group properties in Los Cabos. He has also vast domestic and international expertise in sales and marketing, food and beverage and property management. Solmar Hotels & Resorts, www.solmar.com
APPLE VACATIONS OFFERS DISCOUNTED AIR-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES TO SANDOS HOTELS
Apple Vacations is offering discounted three-, four- and sevennight packages at the all-inclusive Sandos Hotels & Resorts, giving families the chance to enjoy a “chore-free” vacation with threenight packages (including airfare) starting at $700 per person. As part of this package, up to two children under the age of 12 will stay, play and eat for free when sharing accommodations with two 30 • MAY 2010
paying adults. Roundtrip airfare for children starts at $500 per child and varies based on departure date. Travel agents can offer their clients a hassle-free holiday with no cooking, cleaning, or laundry through Apple Vacations. All packages include roundtrip airfare, accommodations, all meals and beverages, sporting activities, Kids and Teen club, access to the spa and fitness facility, daily activities program, nightly entertainment and entrance to the disco. Sample prices are as follows: Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa—Three nights from $700 per person, plus taxes, for select July and August departures. Sandos Playacar Riviera Hotel & Spa—Four-night packages start at $800 per person, plus taxes, for select July and August departures. Sandos Playacar Beach Resort & Spa—Guests spend five nights in the Riviera Maya with rates starting at $900 per person, plus taxes, for select July and August departures. Roundtrip airfare is based on travel from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Gateways are available nationwide and rates vary based on departure city. Rates quoted are ppdo, plus taxes, for new bookings. Rates vary based on travel dates and certain restrictions may apply. Apple Vacations, www.myappleonline.com; Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandoshotels.com
VELAS RESORTS OFFERING AUTOMATIC UPGRADE AND KIDS & TEENS FREE FOR SUMMER TRAVEL This summer, travelers and families alike receive an automatic upgrade when booking the lowest-priced suite category at the allinclusive Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. From a studio to a one-bedroom suite with kitchen at Velas Vallarta Suite Resort or from a master suite to a suite with private plunge pool at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, guests will enjoy expansive luxury. A family of four can save up to $270 a night since kids and teens up to 16 years of age stay and eat for free. All-inclusive rates range from $165 ppdo per night at Velas Vallarta Suite Resort; $240 ppdo at the adults-only Casa Velas Hotel Boutique; and $290 ppdo at both Grand Velas All Suites & SPA Resorts in the Riviera Maya and Riviera Nayarit. Velas Resorts’ all-inclusive rates include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals at a choice of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, kids’ club, evening entertainment, activities for adults and children, taxes and gratuities and more. A choice of a round of golf or 25minute spa treatment is also included in the rate at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. This offer is valid from June 1 until August 31, 2010. Upgrades are based on availability, a minimum of three nights is required and restrictions apply depending on the resort. Velas Resorts, 888-309-5384, www.velasresorts.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
ECUADOR RESOURCE DIRECTORY
unforgettable experiences with responsibility Arashá is much more than the exotic fruit of this fragile region and more than Ecuador´s Eight times award-winning and internationally acclaimed tropical resort and spa.
M/V Galapagos Explorer II and Ecuador Programs
It is a state of mind offering its guests a glimpse at the richness and tranquility of this most fragile region through:
1.800.613.6026 0059.34.228.5711
– Multiple rich experiences and activities – Impeccable personalized service – Exquisite cuisine – Finest tropical comfort
cdiez@arasharesort.com
www.galapagosexplorer.com
www.arasharesort.com
Hacienda Cusin – 400 Years of Welcome
What Make Us Unique We at Enchanted Expeditions are proudly into our fourth decade of operating high quality tours in the Galapagos Islands and throughout mainland Ecuador. As a result of our experience, coupled with our in-depth knowledge and special expertise in the field, we have been able to nurture an intimate and trusting relationship with the people of Ecuador and our clients.
Hacienda Cusin is a restored, 17th-century Andean estate in Ecuador. Furnished with antiques and select Andean craft, and all have log-burning fireplaces, beamed-ceilings & gardens..
info@enchantedexpeditions.com
800 670 6984
www.enchantedexpeditions.com
www.haciendacusin.com
“Respect the fragility of the earth. Realize that unless all are willing to help in its preservation, unique and beautiful destinations may not be here for future generations to enjoy.”
Come to the Galapagos Islands, the age-old dwelling place of unique species of wildlife and plants, where you can hike along the trails of the islands to learn about the origin of Darwin’s theory of evolution while enjoying the luxuries of Kleintours’ three ships: M/V Galapagos Legend, M/V Coral I and M/V Coral II.
Ecuahotel Experience hospitality, authenticity and quality
www.ecuahotel.com
sales@kleintours.com.ec
LATIN AMERICA METROPOLITAN’S FINCH BAY ECO HOTEL IN GALAPAGOS NOMINATED FOR 2010 WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS
Metropolitan’s Finch Bay Eco Hotel in the Galápagos Islands has been nominated in two categories in the 17th Annual World Travel Awards for 2010: Ecuador’s Leading Resort and South America’s Leading Green Hotel. World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in the world’s travel and tourism industry in different categories. It has become one of the highest honors a travel product can receive; the Wall Street Journal dubbed it the “Travel industry’s equivalent to the Oscars.” The other nomination—as South America’s Leading Green Hotel, goes hand-in-hand with the hotel’s Smart Voyager certification, which guarantees environmentally-oriented operations, community support and best sustainable practices, and applies rigorous environmental, social and safety standards throughout its operation. The Finch Bay Eco Hotel, has now entered the final round of online voting, open to 183,000 registered travel agents and professionals worldwide, who submit votes independently via the World Travel Awards website. Voting for Latin American nominees closes September 24 and can be performed online. The results will be announced at the South America Gala Ceremony on October 20 in Rio de Janeiro. Finch Bay Eco Hotel, www.finchbayhotel.com; World Travel Awards, www.worldtravelawards.com/vote, www.worldtravelawards.com
GALEXTUR PROVIDING THEIR OWN OPERATION WITH DIVECENTER SILBERSTEIN Land-based diving is one of the main attractions the visitor of the Galapagos can experience. A big advantage is that the fabulous close-by spots can be visited in one-day trips and the afternoon is spent on the Island with free time and several activities such as biking, hiking or just relaxing organized by the Hotel Silberstein can be undertaken. This guarantees individuality and freedom of choice. In the last year the Diving activities have been the object of control. Special emphasis was put on the embarkations that were taking guests for diving, as most of them were operating illegally. After months of struggle and uncertainty, Galextur is now considered as legal again and their dive yacht Venecia has been honored with permission to offer daily diving tours. This means DiveCenter Silberstein is one of the few with the offi32 • MAY 2010
cial permission of the GNP to operate. With the international and bilingual professional team behind it, a smooth operation is guaranteed. Soon, also a member of the German-speaking owner family will be at the Islands and assisting German guests in their native language. Overnights are offered to book at the Hotel Silberstein where also combined programs with diving, land tours and hotel are available. Galextur in Quito has any kind of trips on the mainland in their repertoire. Galextur, info@galextur.com, dive@divingalapagos.com, www.galextur.com
RED MANGROVE GALAPAGOS LODGES HAS PADI CERTIFICATION Red Mangrove Galapagos Lodges has announced certification as a member of PADI’s International Resort and Retailer Associations. The property is the only resort in Galapagos offering Lodge-to-Lodge Island hopping tours integrating land-based scuba diving and land tours with the highest standards of safety and service. Whether visitors have been diving for most of their life or never tried scuba diving, Red Mangrove has the facilities to cater to every need including PADI certification classes from beginner to professional. Inspirational virtual trips are available online at their website. The unique chain of lodges in the enchanted islands invites travelers to explore the Galápagos in a special way. Red Mangrove Galapagos Lodges, www.redmangrove.com/videos/index.html, www.redmangrove.com
CANODROS S.A. OFFERS SAVINGS ON COMFORTABLE CRUISES TO GALAPAGOS Ecuadorian tour operator Canodros offers Galapagos cruises onboard the M/V Galapagos Explorer II that welcome lots of young explorers and their families. The all-suite 100-passenger vessel is an ideal way to explore the Galapagos in style. Many travelers choose to combine a Galapagos with a stay on the Ecuadorian mainland. Canodros offers excellent packages that include a stay at any of the four different regions in Ecuador. M/V Galapagos Explorer II remodeled the restaurant, coffee station, and its Jacuzzi areas last October, and also added a balcony to eight of the suites. Explorer II can offer 24 balcony suites. Canodros’ itinerary allows travelers to perceive Galapagos through different perspectives: from underwater experiences to wildlife observation. During May 2010, Canodros is offering Albatross rates starting at $1,267, discounts from $224 up to $666; for families there is a great discount from June to September—75-percent discount for the second child; and for the fall season (October to December) the Green Galapagos rates start at $1,431 with discounts from $149 up to $444. Conditions apply to all promotional rates. Staff should be consulted for Rabida promo rates beginning at $1,240, available all year. Canodros S.A., lmontalvo@canodros.com, www.canodros.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
LATIN AMERICA METROPOLITAN TOURING INTRODUCING CASONA DE SAN MIGUEL IN DOWNTOWN QUITO
its central patio: with a wood-paneled library, solarium, glassroofed central patio, the bar, and ground-floor 24/7 café and restaurant perfectly located for watching everyday life in the Plaza. Gardens display flowers, orchids and ornamental plants and the rooftop terrace provides wrap-around views of Quito’s Old Town. The preliminary brochure is available in digital format online. Casona de San Miguel, www.taxiltech.com/publication.aspx?pid=56&pkey=yyludczgi; Metropolitan Touring, www.metropolitan-touring.com
ADVANTAGE TRAVEL CATERS TO ITS TRAVELERS WHILE RESPECTING NATURAL SURROUND
Metropolitan Touring has acquired a mansion in the geographical and spiritual heart of downtown Quito, which is being redone as a 31-room boutique-hotel to be called Casona de San Miguel. The house has been classified as a Historic Heritage of the city and is located at a privileged corner of Plaza San Francisco. Casona de San Miguel, Boutique Hotel will open its doors a year from now and promises to be an ideal starting point to exploring Ecuador’s dazzling capital. On the land originally granted to one of the Spanish conquistadors after the founding of the city in 1534, a large house—Casona de San Miguel—was built and inhabited for over 200 years until 1840. Due to the importance of the Plaza San Francisco in the centuries that followed, various wealthy families built their homes around it, and a beautiful mansion replaced the original Casona de San Miguel in 1915. It later became the residence of several Republican-era presidents, but disaster struck and the house suffered a calamitous fire. It was completely rebuilt in 1926 by its last owners, the Gangotenas, one of the capital’s leading families. The current house was built on the same corner in 1926 as a Renaissance-inspired building combining neoclassical elements. Its sophisticated interior includes painted tin ceilings and woodwork lovingly and painstakingly restored. The present classic design with touches of contemporary chic takes full advantage of the mansion’s elegant, tall windows, drawing bright Andean light into every suite, while providing exceptional views of the Square, the Panecillo hillside and the interior patio. These windows continue to respect the style of the era while being double-glazed for soundproofing. Casona de San Miguel, the boutique hotel, is designed around Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
Advantage Travel’s Manatee Amazon Explorer has a new look, having undergone a complete renewal of both in and outside areas—giving the vessel a softer blend with its surroundings, and more comfortable areas for guests to rest and enjoy after a full day of activities from complete, carefully planned itineraries. The cabins now have new beadspreads and linens, and also feature new reading lights, and wooden blinds for its big panoramic windows. New floors have also been installed and walls redone. The bathrooms are now equipped with new, comfortable shower cabins with acrylic doors that feature multiple and mobile showerheads, internal lights, and a small stool. There are also new shelves, and redone floor and walls. The restaurant too has new floors and its walls have been redone with tasteful wall coverings. Soon there will be new linen and chairs for a more comfortable and chick dining area. The eight-day/seven-night tours have been proven to be the best itinerary in the area. Advantage Travel works hand-in-hand with local communities and have in place a sustainable and carefully planned operation to reduce their footprint. The incredible natural wonders and the breathtaking sights combined with unmatched service and comfort on board create the perfect blend for unique experiences. The Amazon Rain Forest has incredible importance in the world, and it has been nominated as one of the 7 Wonders of the World. Advantage Travel is interested in the protection and conservation of the area. Their naturalist guide team is working on studying the ecosystems that exist in its itinerary route, to find new ways to protect and conserve the natural beauty that the flora and fauna offer. The company desires for future generations to be able to enjoy and be marveled by the wonders of the Amazon Rain Forest that is available to everyone today. Advantage Travel, info@advantagecuador.com, www.mantarayalodge.com, www.manateeamazonexplorer.com, www.advantagecuador.com MAY 2010 •
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LATIN AMERICA SPORTSTOUR JOINS OTHERS IN CHILE TO OFFER LOADED PACKAGES For decades, Sportstour has been developing tailor-made itineraries that promote the exclusive and unique experience of visiting Chile. This year the company decided to unify efforts with a group of companies dedicated to offering the best of Chile—resulting in the Best by Sportstour campaign. Twenty-three companies have joined the campaign in this first step—exclusive brands and specialists in the art of luxury tourism. The team, devoted to developing unique experiences with special attention to details, has pronounced as its goal delivering memories that will last a lifetime. From the driest desert in the north to enchantment in an exotic island, wine valleys, historic coastal cities, a trendy capital in the central region, unexplored forest, lake or river in the south—to the extreme of Patagonia and Antarctica, Chile has much to show. Sportstour takes care of details, landscapes and tools to give agents’ customers the best of what the country has to offer. The best way for clients to live the Sportstour experience is the ski and winter sports season, which is already around the corner, starting June 19. With the overwhelming Andes Mountains as a backdrop, five excellent ski resorts as a setting, guests can take a helicopter and be dropped in a virgin top or practice snowboard
surrounded by forest, volcanoes and magnificent views, Chile is a prime ski destination. Other activities are riding a dog sled, swimming in a pool surrounded by mountains and snow, thermal waters and treatments in a world-class spa, discovering the magic of cooking and wine tasting, or an enhancing day at the beach. And this is what makes Chile so utterly amazing: the possibility of mixing skiing in the Andes with a sunny day at the beach. Chile has it all, for a well-rounded, beautiful vacation experience. Sportstour, www.sportstour.cl
TIERRA ATACAMA IN THE NORTHERN ALTIPLANO OF CHILE GREAT TO VISIT YEAR ROUND Chile’s recent earthquake has luckily had no effect on Northern Altiplano. Santiago airport and all other regional airports are fully functional, operating on normal schedules. Vacationers are encouraged to experience the Atacama Desert, one of the many outstanding destinations Chile has to offer. Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa is offering until June 30, 2010, a special rate for agents and up to one guest of $149 per night per person (single or double) for a special program that includes transfers to and from Calama airport, accommodation, all meals and one excursion daily. The price doesn’t include alcoholic beverages or spa treatments. The hotel will donate $20 per night per person for each reservation to “Un Techo Para Chile,” the country’s charity equivalent to Habitat for Humanity. Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, 800-829-5325, reservas@tierraatacama.com, www.tierraatacama.com
CHILE TO UNDERTAKE AMBITIOUS INVESTMENT PLAN FOR PORT INFRASTRUCTURE The Ministry of Public Works in Chile has announced a $400million investment in passenger and cargo port infrastructure from 2010 through 2013. That complements private investments in infrastructure and equipment made by several ports in 2008 that totaled $340 million. Some of the projects included consist of the expansion of the Port of Valparaíso, development of a new pier at Port Williams, expansion of the Port of Punta Arenas and enhancement of passenger facilities at the Castro Port in Chiloe Island. The aim is to increase the capacity of cargo transfer and commerce, doubling it to 200 billion tons by 2020 from its current 100 billion tons. The fishing and aquaculture sectors also will be helped by these investments. With connectivity around the country important, the government plans to link 45 percent of the national territory by providing and constructing terminals, updating ferries and optimizing collaboration between public and private sectors. ProChile, www.chileinfo.com 34 • MAY 2010
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
CHILE RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Our mission is that each one of our visitants feels at home, based on the unique particularity that the hotel presents, passengers can take the option for... a traditional hotel service, an apart-hotel one, or both at the same time. www.hoteldiegodevelazquez.com
Darwin’s Trails – created to provide the best experience in tourism and nature travel, and to demonstrate the most authentic aspects of each place visited. We are convinced that Chile is a great destination and we have the challenge to provide services at the highest level so the experience of travelling with us will be memorable for our visitors…If you are fit and active, love unspoiled natural beauty, wish to escape from your “normal life” for a time, are seeking authentic people and cultural experiences, wanting to discover remote and not over-run places and you are curious and concerned about the environment, then Darwin's Trails Chile is for you...
www.darwinstrails.com
www.loslingues.com
With a vast experience developing all inclusive arrangements through a reliable network of in-house resources, local representatives and multilingual staff with courteous and prompt attention to every detail.
THE SPIRIT OF THE ANDES
Portillo is the oldest ski area in South America, and its history holds an important place in the legend of skiing. It is a history of adventurers and the Andes, and of dreams and accomplishments in the wonderful world of skiing.
Tour the Rapel Wine Route® (Colchagua and Cachapoal valleys) and Curicó Valley; tour through El Teniente and Sewell mines; enjoy sport activities: Golf and Catch & Release fishing. Inside the Hacienda, take the cultural tour, see horse exhibitions, ride horses, play tennis, ride mountain bikes or swim in the pool.
It ‘s location is unbeatable: just 60 kilometers from Santiago International Airport, at an altitude of 3,025 meters, in the midst of the most spectacular landscape of our Andes Mountains.
Since 1962, a reliable partner providing high quality service. for further information and/or reservations email:mailbox@sportstour.cl
www.sportstour.cl
800 669 0554
www.skiportillo.com
With responsible, off-the-beaten-track excursions, Las Torres offers a different vision, emphasizing respect for nature and conservation in its efforts to maintain pristine nature untouched.
www.lastorres.com
www.vallenevado.com
Isla Seca is located in Zapallar, the fifth region of Chile, 170 km. northwest from Santiago and about 60 km. from Valparaiso and Viña del Mar. It’s reachable by safe and rapid highways.
www.hotelislaseca.com
LATIN AMERICA METROPOLITAN TOURING’S EXPANSION TO CHILE A JOINT VENTURE WITH EXPLORA HOTELS With over five decades of service to guests, Metropolitan Touring’s accumulated hands-on experience has made it a prime operator for planning and managing travel in Latin America. The company, under a joint venture with Explora Hotels, has expanded to Chile. This partnership marks the common vision of both companies about the future of travel to the region and of the careful preservation of its unique cultural heritage and environment. Chile is a long ribbon of land between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes that boasts a variety of landscapes and climates—from the driest place on earth, Atacama Desert, to vineyards, volcanoes, lakes and rivers, and the amazing rainforests of Patagonia. Isolation from the rest of South America gives the country an atmosphere as unique as its geography. The country of extremes reaches Antarctica and Easter Island. Almost every type of special-interest tourism is available in Chile. From hiking in the Atacama Desert or flyfishing in Yelcho, from exclusive wineries to the best spa resorts, from mountain climbing to cruising into glaciers and untamed forests—it’s hard to believe that all this exists in one country. Chile is indeed one destination that has it all, from its haunting, windswept deserts in the north, the ancient mysteries of Easter Island, all the way down to breathtaking Patagonia. And along the way, guests enjoy renowned cuisine, including Chile’s awardwinning wines. Metropolitan Touring, info@metropolitan-touring.com, www.metropolitan-touring.com; explora, reserve@explora.com, www.explora.com
SOUTH STAR TOURS OFFERS ADDITIONAL 3% COMMISSION PLUS $50 COUPON ON SOUTH, CENTRAL AMERICA South Star Tours is offering a high-quality trip to Recife and Porto de Galinhas, in the northeast of Brazil, two best beaches in Brazil. The price starts at only $639 and includes two nights of hotel accommodation at the Manibu Hotel in Recife, five nights at the Hotel Armacao in Porto de Galinhas as well as a half-day city tour of Recife and nearby colonial monument of Olinda. Additional tours and activities in Porto de Galinhas are available, such as snorkeling, buggy rides, jet skiing and the uniquely “jangada” sail and sandboarding. The special offer is valid for travel dates during May and June. South Star has its own Stimulus program: an additional threepercent commission to all bonafide agents for all bookings under deposit or fully paid until the end of May plus a $50 coupon usable for every booking over $1,500 per passenger. This applies to travel anytime during 2010. 36 • MAY 2010
South Star Tours, Inc. specializes in custom-designed FIT and group packages throughout Central and South America. Low airfares are available with the tour packages from the U.S. South Star Tours, 800-654-4468, info@southstartours.com, www.southstartours.com
MY EXCLUSIVE JOURNEYS OFFERS AFFORDABLE LUXURY TRIPS TO SOUTH AMERICA My Exclusive Journeys reminds “North” Americans that it’s sunny, summery and in-the-seventies in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The new tour operator offers affordable luxury trips to Central and South America, with an experienced staff that arranges custom-designed trips, and also a number of “sample” itineraries with daily departures for travelers who want to escape winter quickly and in style. The seven-day/six-night Days of Wine and Tango package, for example, includes three nights’ accommodation in Buenos Aires, three nights in Mendoza, all airport transfers, hotel taxes and daily breakfast, MEJ’s exclusive “unwind program” on arrival in Buenos Aires (a greeting by and meeting with the personal guide, coffee/tea, rest and a soothing massage); a private, guided walking tour of historic BA’s diverse neighborhoods; a day in the Pampas with Argentinean cowboys or gauchos; and dinner with a fabulous tango show. In 449-year-old Mendoza, Argentina’s wine capital, MEJ provides a panoramic tour of this elegant city and a tour of the surrounding valleys’ pastoral landscape, cattle farms, small towns and family-run wineries (with wine sampling). The package price depends on the hotels chosen: The superluxurious Park Hyatt Palacio Duhau in BA and five-star Cavas Wine Lodge outside Mendoza cost $2,580; the boutique hotel Casasur Art in BA’s smart Recoleta neighborhood and the restored villa Club Tapiz on a Mendoza wine estate cost $1,645. My Exclusive Journeys’ shorter five-day/four-night Buenos Aires Escapade includes accommodations; airport transfers; daily breakfast; an “unwind program;” a historic walking tour from Plaza de Mayo to San Telmo; a day in the Pampas with the gauchos; and dinner with fabulous tango show. It costs $1,690 at the posh Park Hyatt Palacio Duhau or $1,180 at MEJ’s choice, the Casasur Art boutique hotel. My Exclusive Journeys also offers a Buenos Aires and Iguassu Falls package, as well as trips with exclusive features or smallship cruises in Brazil (Rio, beach resort Buzios or Salvador de Bahia), Costa Rica, and Ecuador (Galapagos Islands and Ecuadorean Highlands). All prices, subject to availability, are land-only ppdo and do not include flights or airport taxes. My Exclusive Journeys, 888-334-6905, www.myexclusivejourneys.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
BOOK LATIN
AMERICA WITH THE FOLLOWING DESTINATION SPECIALISTS
INSPIRING GLOBTROTTERS FOR YEARS
40
For thousands of top selling ideas plus the best airfares. Make up to 15% commission.
1-800-387-8850 email: info@goway.com www.goway.com
adventure archaeology arts & crafts cultural
ecology incentives scuba diving ski in south america
email: milalatin@aol.com 800-367-7378
800) 654 4468 info@southstartours.com www.southstartours.com
www.milatours.com
Travel is our Passion – Latin America our mission!
COSTA RICA Indulge Yourself
Welcome to the lands of TaraTours a source for great service and tours to Central and South America with more excitement, contrast and mystery than you could experience in a lifetime of travel. We can take you there, with great service and tour programs, designed with your desires and budget in mind.
Come join us to discover Latin America!
Since 1980 serving the Travel Professional
800-327-0080
www.taratours.com
Nature and Wildlife...Family Vacations Honeymoons...Educational Tours
Welcome to a world of discovery. Enriching and inspiring travel experiences await in South America. Enjoy unsurpassed quality with Marnella Tours, America’s leading South American tour operator since 1981.
800-326-0202 reservations@albeeadventures.com
866-993-0033
www.albee adventures.com
www.marnellatours.com
Affordable
LUXURY INDEPENDENT TOURS
to Latin America Dear Traveler, Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Compare Caravan‘s fully escorted tours against anybody and everybody – polished, complete and fun! These quality tours feature complete sightseeing, professional Tour Directors and great itineraries,operated by one of the country’s oldest and most respected tour companies. Discover for yourself why smart shoppers and experienced travelers have chosen Caravan for over 50 years. Happy Travels,
www.caravan.com
The perfect fit, for your perfect clients. The clients who want exotic yet homey destinations, exquisite hotels, gourmet food and wine, expert guides, unique sightseeing, and who do not want a pre-designed group program. These are the clients we cater to. Contact us today to custom-design an extraordinary journey to Central or South America.
info@myexclusivejourneys.com 888-334-6905
www.myexclusivejourneys.com
Operating since 1990, Sea & Explore offers customized, individual and group travel to Belize. They offer a range of services, including moderate and luxury accommodations. Their expertise is the key to the Caribbean holiday every traveler dreams of taking!
800-345-9786
www.seaexplore.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
MAY 2010 •
37
LATIN AMERICA TARA TOURS OFFERS SUPER-SPECIAL PANAMA SALE
Tara Tours Inc. has announced a new “Fun in the Sun” program to Panama in conjunction with American Airlines. The new program “Panama—Super Special” will spend seven days/six nights at the fantastic four-star Beach Resort Royal Decameron—all-inclusive for $1,105, including airfare from Miami, (add $200–$350 from various Zones (detailed on website). The tour package includes round trip airfare from Miami to
38 • MAY 2010
Panama; six nights at Hotel Beach Resort Royal Decameron (fourstar hotel); transfers on arrival and departure (hotel is 1.5 hours from the airport); all meals at any of the eight restaurants (breakfast and lunch are buffet style, dinners a la carte); unlimited domestic and international alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; a daily activities program; non-motorized water sports (wind glider, kayaks, snorkeling, sailboats); beach towels, chairs; tennis courts, basketball, volleys; nightly entertainment; and unlimited drinks at the discotheque. Taxes and tips are also included. Not included are insurance, airport departure taxes (from U.S. $88, from Panama $20, tourist card $5) and any other service not specifically mentioned here. The program is detailed on Tara Tours’ website. Tara Tours Inc, 800-327-0080, www.taratours.com/panama.htm#superespecial, www.taratours.com
DELTA AIR LINES PLANS FIRST FLIGHTS BETWEEN DETROIT HUB AND SOUTH AMERICA Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) has announced plans to introduce the first-ever nonstop flights between its Detroit Metropolitan Airport hub and Sao Paulo, Brazil, bolstering the city’s position as a leading international gateway. Delta has requested authorization from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to introduce two weekly flights between Detroit and Sao Paulo beginning November 4, 2010. Delta already holds certain rights to operate Sao Paulo service, but requires DOT permission to fly from Detroit. The airline would operate the flights using 216-seat Boeing 767-300ER aircraft with 35 seats in BusinessElite and 181 seats in Economy Class. “Adding South America’s largest business market of Sao Paulo to Detroit’s wide array of destinations builds on our efforts to continue to expand service for both local and connecting Detroit customers,” said Andrea Fischer Newman, Senior Vice President–Government Affairs. The governments of the United States and Brazil have agreed to an expansion of U.S. carrier opportunities, and Delta has separately applied for new rights to increase Detroit-Sao Paulo to daily service as soon as permitted by Brazil. Brazil would be the latest addition to a long list of new services introduced from Detroit since Delta’s merger with Northwest Airlines last year. Other planned or recently launched nonstop routes from Detroit include Detroit to Shanghai, service expanded from five-times weekly to daily starting May 1; Detroit to SeoulIncheon, new five-times weekly service beginning June 1; Detroit to Hong Kong, new five-times weekly service beginning June 2; Detroit to Rome, new daily summer seasonal service, first introduced in June 2009 and returning June 1, 2010; and Detroit to Tokyo-Haneda, planned daily service pending U.S. Department of Transportation approval. Delta Air Lines, www.delta.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
AFRICA RESOURCE DIRECTORY WHY TRAVEL WITH NATURE EXPEDITIONS?
Crystal Safaris Ltd. is a fully registered company in Uganda and we are members of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and the Africa Travel Association (ATA).
“To give clients exceptional service, exemplified by courteous, professional actions while subscribing to the highest standards of morals and ethics in the tourism industry.”
We work hand in hand with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Uganda Tourist Board (UTB) in order to provide quality services.
CRY CRYSTAL STAL TR AVEL SERVICE SERVICE LTD LTD..
www.crystalsafaris.com
Discover Southern Africa Enjoy the beauty and delight of unspoiled Africa. Follow the sun on its travels across the southern tip. Each step you take is made in unparalleled comfort, enjoy all that three of the world’s premier 5-star hotels have to offer.
To discover more about the Route of the African Sun please call:
www.natureexpeditions.com
800 727 9930
www.suninternational.com
Your one-stop shop for customized tours to
WEST AFRICA
Visit Ghana! Ghana! Visit
Come fly to Timbuktu and back again! Our Mali-based company specalizes in cultural and adventure programs throughout our country, plus Benin, Burkina Faso, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Mauritania, Senegal and Togo. Owner-guided tours trace the history and mystery of West Africa, offering experiences of a lifetime!
Contact us now — we promise 24-hour or sooner response to inquiries: Tel: (221) 77 510 15 18 & (223) 7646 6124 Fax: (223) 20 28 52 32 Email: westair@afribone.net.ml & mariamaludovic@yahoo.com
GHANA TOURIST BOARD If you have any queries on Zambezi Queen or if you would like to inquire about booking, please e-mail us directly:
www.touringghana.com
info@zambeziqueen.com MSN: blueviews.accom@hotmail.com
www.touringmali.com
www.zambeziqueen.com
We offer exciting destinations and tour packages to our clients. Uganda, better known as the “Pearl of Africa, gifted by nature,” has a lot to offer and by choosing us to show you the country’s gems, we can guarantee and assure you that you will have made the right choice. The company takes pride in all its operations. We employ friendly, courteous and experienced tour guides/drivers who are well familiar with the terrain and the perfect spots of interest.
Wake up to a golden glow in the sky, mountains unveiling their mists, the air sweet and cool as it brushes your cheeks.
We look forward to serving you!
Discover Rwanda
Walk through a primeval forest bathed in green, thrill to the sight of that rarest of beasts, the mountain gorilla, look into the eyes and look into yourself. You’re here, you are in Rwanda and you’ve discovered a new African dawn. Discover a new place, a new adventure, new friends and unimaginable beauty.
Email: info@uwild.net
Under one Botswana sky
RWANDA TOURISM BOARD
www.uwild.net
www.chobesafarilodge.com
www.rwandatourism.com
AFRICA SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM LAUNCHES UBUNTU AWARDS TO HONOR TRADE PARTNERS South African Tourism honored trade partners with its first annual Ubuntu Awards at an elegant reception at the Plaza Hotel in New York City April 6. The theme was “Profitable Partnerships,” and South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, and Tourism Chairman Jabu Mabuza attended the event, hosted by Sthu Zungu, President of South African Tourism, North America. In his keynote address, Minister Van Schalkwyk noted the high value South African Tourism places on developing strong relationships with its global travel trade partners, and thanked members of the industry present for their continued support. “We are committed to the North American market, and to developing profitable destination marketing partnerships with you. I extend my heartiest congratulations to all the awardees this evening,” he stated. He went on to give an update on preparations for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, assuring the audience that South Africa is “ready to welcome the world.” Minister Van Schalkwyk presented South African Tourism’s Lifetime Achievement Ubuntu Award to industry pioneer Dave Herbert, President of African Travel Inc., in recognition of his exemplary work in building a sustainable tourism industry for Africa in general and for South Africa in particular, starting from the 1970s. Chairman Mabuza spoke of the importance of the 2010 World Cup to the African continent, in terms of its economic impact as well as the enthusiasm and elation shared by the entire continent. He then joined the Minister and Sthu Zungu in presenting awards. “We created the Ubuntu Awards to show our appreciation for the invaluable support we receive from our trade partners,” said Sthu Zungu. “It is important to recognize their contribution to the success of our industry, and the critical role they play in enabling us to achieve our goal of making South Africa the premier destination for business and leisure tourism”. The word Ubuntu connotes the essence of being human—it speaks to our interconnectedness, the fact that you can’t exist as a human being in isolation. The Ubuntu Award categories included Top Producing Tour Operator for 2009 (a tie), awarded to Lion World and Premier Tours; Best Priced Travel Packages, to SmartTours; Best 2010 World Cup Promotions, to Destination Southern Africa; Best Marketing of South Africa, to Ker & Downey; Best Online Tour Operator, to Travel Beyond; Best Airline Partner, to South African Airways; Best Promotion of Tourism to South Africa (another tie), to Association for the Promotion of Tourism to Africa (APTA) and the Africa Travel Association (ATA). There were three special categories. Robert (Bob) Whitley, President of USTOA, received the Dynamic Industry Leader Award, recognizing the integral role he continues to play in helping South African Tourism reach its goals by being a huge proponent of their marketing initiatives. Micato Safaris received the Best Trade Event award for their annual trade breakfast at the Virtuoso 40 • MAY 2010
Travel Mart; and Dave Herbert, Managing Director of African Travel, the Lifetime Achievement Award. Noted travel expert and special guest Peter Greenberg was on hand to emcee the ceremony and South African soloist Lorraine Klaasen and her quartet provided entertainment for the evening. South African Tourism (SAT), virginia@us.southafrica.net, dean@us.southafrica.net, www.southafrica.net
Dean Jacobberger, Trade Relations Manager, South African Tourism; Virginia Dionisio, Trade Relations Manager, South African Tourism; Sthu Zungu, President North America, South African Tourism; Hon. Marthinus van Schalkwyk, Minister of Tourism, South Africa; Dave Herbert, president of African Travel Inc. receiving a Lifetime Achievement Ubuntu Award; Jabu Mabuza, Chairman of the Board, South African Tourism and Peter Greenberg.
Third and fourth from left: Gregg Truman, VP of Marketing, South African Airways and Todd Neuman, VP of Sales, South African Airways accepting the Best Airline Partner Award.
A tie for Promotion of Travel to South Africa Award, presented to Kathy Monaco of APTA and Eddie Bergman of ATA. www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
BOOK
AFRICA WITH THE FOLLOWING DESTINATION SPECIALISTS “The first thing a gent should do, if he is safari minded, is put himself in the hands of an established firm with a reputation to maintain.” – Robert Ruark
INSPIRING GLOBTROTTERS FOR YEARS
40
For thousands of top selling ideas plus the best airfares. Make up to 15% commission.
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Vantage World Travel is a travel wholesaler specializing in international travel, with high service standards, designing travel itineraries that match unique destinations and activities with the personal interests and desires of the traveler. Extensive experience and the intimate knowledge of the areas, language and the local culture, including culinary specialties, has allowed Vantage to create the best contacts for the type of tours requested by our clientele
vantage@travelvantage.com
www.travelvantage.com
ESPLANADE TOURS info@esplanadetours.com 8 -628-4893
WE HAVE AFRICA COVERED! Customized Itineraries and Escorted Group Tours
Tour Highlights: Whether you are searching for the best airfares to Africa or experiences that lift your clients out of the ordinary and into the memorable.
Historical Background - Diverse Cultures Safari - Township Experience Indigenous Cuisine - Wineries - Golf Arts & Crafts - Musical Festivals Luxury Accommodation - Luxurious Trains Knowledgeable Tour Guides
SITA provides unparalleled quality service, as a preferred Tour Operator for exotic destinations. With internationally certified specialists ready to serve clients daily, customer care is elegantly handled from the peaks of Patagonia to the palaces of India
USA 800.421.5643 Canada877-689-7428 sitatours@sitatours.com 800 327 0373
www.sitatours.com
www.Karell.com
2AFRIKA, INC.
From its inception, DESIGN TRAVEL & TOURS has been the premier “go to” company for custom designed itineraries to exotic and exciting international destinations. They now offer set departure tours, module programs to build your own tour and sample itineraries to help choose. WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU!
Plan your African Safari with 2Afrika, Inc., an African Safari specialist engaged in every aspect of Safaris to Africa and travel planning of African Safaris and holidays to more than 18 African countries and Indian Ocean Islands
DESIGN TRAVEL & TOURS
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
800-543-7164
866-462-2374
www.designtraveltours.com
www.2afrika.com MAY 2010 •
41
AFRICA
Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation Sets High Standards
T
he Nigerian Tourism Development (NTDC) is the Apex Tourism Regulatory body in Nigeria. It is responsible for implementation of government tourism policies and programs in the country. The law, which established the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation empowers it to regulate the Tourism sector in Nigeria. The Corporation by its mandate is to: • Standardize and sanitize the industry through registration, inspection, classification and grading of the Hospitality and Tourism Enterprises (HTEs) to meet international standard and ensure customer satisfaction. • Publicize and promote Nigeria’s tourism endownments through print and electronic media/internet, production of quality brochures, flyers, guide maps, documentaries and participation at local and international fairs/exhibitions. • To plan, coordinate and assist in the development of the tourist sites and attractions throughout the country. • Provide technical and advisory services to public and private sector operators in the tourism industry. • Identification, assessement and documentation of tourism sites and attractions for investment and promotion purposes. • Publish contact addresses and telephone numbers of the Corporation’s headquaters, zonal offices and information desk at the airports. • Liase with relevant government ministries and agencies to ensure provision of necessary infrastructural facilities to tourism sites. The Nigeria’s investment climate is presently favourable to both local and foreign investors for the following reasons: • Political stability following enthronement a reliable democratic system in 1999 and improved international relations. • Rehabilitation and improvement of infrastructure and telecommunications services. • Liberalization of economic/monetary policies. • Privitization/commercialization of public enterprises to enhance efficiency, productivity and private sector’s participation. The Nigerian Tourism industry offer wide range opportunity to local and foreign entrepreneur to invest in the various sub sector of the industry.
A. Eco-Tourism The Eco-Tourism resources are found in the forest, savannah and mountainous areas of the country. Prominent eco42 • MAY 2010
Resting under a mango tree.
tourism sites in Nigeria include the eight National parks, numerous games and forest reserves, wet/and sanctuaries and other conservation centres. Investment opportunities in this sub-sector include: • Development and management of picnic and camping site within and around the protected areas. • Development and management of tourists lodge/ accommodation facilities within and around the national park, reserves and resorts. • Establishment and operation of tourist transport system.
B. Beach Tourism Nigeria has over 700km of coastline covered with sandy beaches ready for development. Development in this area include: establishment of cruising, yachting/boating and sports fishing industries and facilities. • Provision of facilities for water sking, swimming and snorkeling surfing and other water based recreational facilities. • Development of coastal holiday resorts.
C. Heritage/Culture In the area of cultural tourism, Nigeria is next to none in Africa. The country is noted for the Best Home Videos, Festivals, Arts and Crafts, Dances, amongst others. Opportunities for investment exist in the area of: establishment of tourism – based enterprises like sourvenir making, traditional art and crafts, glass and brass work, leather and raffia works, etc. • Packaging and promotion of cultural events like festivals and ceremonies and the development/presentation of heritage and archeoslocigal sites like monuments/slave routes, etc. CONTINUED ON PAGE
44
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
AFRICA NIGERIA FROM PAGE 42 D. Conference Tourism Conference tourism is one of the emerging sectors of the Nigerian tourism industry. Lagos, Abuja and Port-Harcourt are important cities for Conference tourism in Nigeria. Investment opportunities in this sub-sector include: • Establishment and management of International conference/congress centers facilities. • Organization and promotion of conference and other related events. • Provision of world-class entertainment and standard catering services to complement the conference/congress services.
E. Sport Tourism Sports is one of the rapidly growing sub-sectors of domestic and international tourism in Nigeria. Active and leisure sports such as soccer, atlethics, boxing, wresling, lawn and able tennis, polo and golf are popular. Opportunities for investment exist in the following areas: • Establishment and management of sports facilities, clubs and shops, organization and promotion of sporting events including sponsorship and the establishment and management of relevant recreational/theme parks, clubs, theatre halls,
Lomé (Togo)
Abidjan
Banjul
Bujumbura
Conakry
Cotonou (Benin)
Dakar
Douala
Entebbe
transport and catering facilities. Nigeria has quite a lot of Tourist attractions where tourists and visitors can visit while in the country. Some are however still being developed. Some of this attractions include the TINAPA Business Resort in Calabar, the first of its kind in Africa, a one stop business centre. There is also the Obudu Resort Ranch in Cross River State, the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State, and many others. The country is equally blessed with wonderful National Parks, Calabar National Park among others. The country is also blessed with some natural water falls across the zones some of which are being developed and up-graded. For example, the Gurara Water falls in Niger State is being given a face lift. The Farin Ruwa Water Falls is being developed in terms of providing the infrastructures such as roads to access the site. The Kwa Falls in Plateau is being developed to make it attractive to tourists and visitors, as well as the Ikogosi Warm Spring in Ekiti. Other are in various states of development.
Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, info@tourism.gov.ng, www.tourism.gov.ng
Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso)
Freetown
Kigali
Accra (Ghana)
Kinshasa
Luanda
Monrovia
Nairobi
Yaounde
By adding Lomé, Cotonou, Ouagadougou and Accra, our African network now connects you to 18 cities. It’s high time to discover more of Africa with Brussels Airlines. Book your flights to Lomé, Cotonou, Ouagadougou and Accra now and fly this summer.
brusselsairlines.com (516) 740 5200
44SNBGEN19361_AD_5"x7"_QE • MAY 2010
1
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News 4/6/10 10:57:58 AM
AFRICA BUSHTRACKS AFRICA LTD. BRINGS EXCITING AFRICA INTO FOCUS FOR TRAVELERS Bushtracks Africa is a destination management company in Livingstone near Victoria Falls, a one-stop-shop for travel to Zambia, Botswana and Malawi. The company is capable of tailoring trips specifically to client wishes, while it organizes transfers, travel, tours, excursions and accommodation to these magnificent areas. Fully air-conditioned travel around the Victoria Falls and Livingstone region in a variety of luxury vehicles is featured. Bushtracks also owns and operates a number of excursions, one of which is the magnificent Royal Livingstone Express Steam Train. This is an all-inclusive luxury rail extension of the five-star Royal Livingstone Hotel. The train provides fine wine and dining with travel through the picturesque Zambezi Valley in Pullmanstyle coaches lovingly restored to their former glory. One example of the vehicles Bushtracks uses is the Steam Locomotive 156 that originally belonged to Zambezi Sawmills Limited, and was used to pull logging carriages from the forests in Mulobezi to the railhead in Livingstone. These very interesting carriages have been beautifully renovated. The unique rail dining experience is offered three times a week. Cost is $150 per person (children also charged full fare) and includes six-course dinner, wine, beer and soft drinks. Other excursions include: Tours of the Falls, a half-day tour focusing on Africa’s historical and cultural legacy, guided by specialist Russell Gammon with 19 years’ experience. A Livingstone Island Tour takes visitors to one of the most spectacular sights in the world—‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ (The Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
Smoke that Thunders, named after a queen): Victoria Falls. Guests are picked up in a twin-engine boat with powerful motors and a skilled skipper takes them to witness absolutely the best view of the Falls. All island visits are during the “low water” season, starting around mid-July and available until the end of January. There are also various Livingstone Island
short tours: a morning tea tour, a lunch tour and an afternoon tea tour. Two-hour cultural tours, such as Chief Mukuni’s Village or Maramba Market, are also presented as morning or afternoon tours. Bushtracks Africa Ltd., ros@bushtracksafrica.com, christopher@bushtracksafrica.com, www.bushtracksafrica.com, www.royal-livingstone-express
TO AND FROM USA 1-877-359-0999 1-800-518-7781 1-866-933-5963 1-877-625-2942 1-800-537-1182 1-800-742-3006 1-888-359-8228 1-866-322-5561 In cooperation with transatlantic partners from many US gateways.
Call the toll-free numbers to make reservations. MAY 2010 •
45
AFRICA OLUGBENGA ONITILO HEADING NEWLY OPENED AVIAREPS OFFICE IN LAGOS, NIGERIA AVIAREPS has opened its second fully-owned subsidiary on the African continent. After becoming established in Johannesburg (South Africa), the leading aviation and tourism management expert has extended its network to Nigeria. The new branch is located in Lagos, one of the four economic centers of the country. Afriqiyah Airways will OLUGBENGA ONITILO act as a launch customer for AVIAREPS’ new subsidiary. This recent GSA appointment is a positive result of Afriqiyah’s successful representation in South Africa and China through AVIAREPS. Afriqiyah, the Libyan private carrier, currently operates four flights a week (Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday) from Lagos to its base in Tripoli. The airline uses Airbus A320 or A330 planes for these flights from Nigeria’s major city. Starting in July 2010, Afriqiyah will increase the frequency up to five flights a week (one additional flight Mondays). The Nigerian team is headed by recently appointed General Manager Olugbenga Onitilo. He brings to the position a wealth of experience in the airline business, having gained his industry expertise working in various responsible positions for prestigious companies such as Virgin Nigeria Airways and Ever Green Travels. Onitilo gained further important experience while working in the telecommunications industry, one of the fastest-growing markets in the world. Since joining OPEC in 1971, Nigeria has become the country with the 10th largest proven oil reserves. It also has huge deposits of underexploited natural gas, coal, bauxite, tantalite, gold, tin, iron ore, lead and zinc. The most populous African country also boasts a highly developed financial sector with a mix of local and international banks and a fast-growing telecommunications market where major operators are trying to position their products. AVIAREPS, www.aviareps.com
FRIENDLY PLANET TRAVEL’S $1,799 NINE-DAY TOUR EXPLORES TREASURES OF MOROCCO Travelers can now visit one of North Africa’s most popular travel destinations, Morocco, for the lowest price ever offered by Friendly Planet Travel. For just $1,799 eight nights of the dazzling mosaic of Arab, Berber, African, and European cultures can be experienced on the Treasures of Morocco tour. This includes round-trip airfare from JFK International airport (other gateways also possible at price supplement), all intra-Morocco ground transportation, deluxe and first-class hotels, breakfast and dinner daily, and comprehensive tours led by professional, English-speaking guides. 46 • MAY 2010
Friendly Planet Travelers also have the option of extending their trip to Rome for only $379 (November, December, January, February departures) or $499 (September, October, March departures). The extension includes airfare, an arrival transfer, three nights in four-star Hotel Atlantico and buffet breakfast daily. The Hotel Atlantico is superbly located, near the central (Termini) train station, and within walking distance of many of Rome’s major sites and attractions. Details and a complete itinerary for Friendly Planet Travel’s Treasures of Morocco tour are available on the company’s website. Friendly Planet Travel, www.friendlyplanettravel.com
LEARNING SENEGALESE CULTURE WITH AFRICA CONNECTION TOURS Africa Connection Tours (ACT) is offering a group of eightday/seven-night packages that feature the opportunity to learn various elements of Senegalese culture and tradition. Included in the price of each is hotel accommodation ppdo on a bed-and-breakfast basis plus transfers and courses (five in the week). ‘Senegalese Feast’ is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Senegalese cuisine, culture and traditions. The cooking school offers a one- to four-day Senegalese cooking course, each taught by a master chef. Class hours are 9 am to 2 pm. Students have their own cooking station and equipment. Included is an introduction to Senegelase ingredients, learning the creation of sauces and proper etiquette at a Senegalese meal. Market touring is featured and each person gets a Senegalese cookbook. The package price is $675 ppdo. Also available is a Senegalese Home Cooking and study program, where guests will get to spend days with a Senegalese family. Participants will be taught how to prepare a traditional dish and sauces, the etiquette of the communal bowl and etiquette of the dinner meal. Touring local markets is also included. This package costs $636 ppdo. The Senegalese Dance and Music course involves learning to dance the sabar or playing traditional drum called the djembe. To sabar means to gather; the expression du sabar means to dance. The sabar is the most popular dance in Senegal. The Djembe or talking drum along with the kora and balaphon are instruments popular since the Middle Ages. These courses are taught by master dancers and musicians. Package price is $675. ‘Master of the Sand’ teaches Senegalese sand painting. This is the art of pouring local raw materials such as sand from the dunes, the beach or a volcano unto a surface to create a painting. The Senegalese have practiced this art for decades, creating masterpieces that depict family, daily life and abstracts. All courses are taught by a master artist. Under Glass Painting is the art of reverse glass painting where participants learn the technique of under-glass painting from a master. These courses are priced at $650 ppdo. Africa Connection Tours (ACT), act@orange.sn, www.actours-senegal.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
AFRICA DESIGN TRAVEL & TOURS HAS UNLIMITED AFRICA OPTIONS When a potential client declares he wants to go to Africa, Design Travel & Tours suggests asking a round of questions. The tour company can supply a tour that’s perfect for every case. First of all, Africa is a very big place. Agents should find out if the client has a specific country or area in mind. Is he mostly interested in the wildlife, or does he want a combination of animals and culture, history and scenery? How long does he want his trip to be and how much activity does he want to include? Is joining a scheduled departure group tour something he would consider, or does he have his own little group? Perhaps he’s looking for a custom-designed program that includes specific interests. Design Travel & Tours have scheduled tours from a three-day stopover in Nairobi to a deluxe multi-country safari, to the ultimate rail journey for those who wish luxury along with adventure. For those clients on a stopover, there’s a three-day/two-night flyin safari to the Masai Mara priced from $1,266 per person including flight from Nairobi to the Masai Mara and return, accommodations, game drives and all meals. For those with more time, a suggestion might be a 13-day Kenya and Tanzania safari priced from $6,196 per person. Those who want to see South Africa will enjoy a 16-day tour all around the country from Johannesburg to Cape Town (or vice-versa) from $3,600 per person. Design Travel & Tours also has numerous scheduled departures to
APTA IS AFRICA
WE’LL PUT YOU ON THE RIGHT TRACK!
Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Ethiopia, Malawi and Mozambique. Custom-designed programs are available to all of these countries, as well as to the West African nations or Senegal, Mali, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Cameroon. Design Travel & Tours, 800-543-7164, designtt@ix.netcom.com, www.designtraveltours.com
AIR MAURITIUS INCREASES SOUTH AFRICA FLIGHT FREQUENCY Air Mauritius bumped up its Durban frequency to two flights a week this April. This is in response to the fact that, despite the economic downturn, the airline saw an increase in demand along this route, according to its Vice President of Sales, Rana Ramdaursingh. Rana commented there will be a third frequency during seasonal peak periods, and if the airline continues to see growth and demand in the market, it will increase flights to three a week on a more permanent basis. In other news, Air Mauritius has decided to centralize its reservations and ticketing operations in Johannesburg as well as having its own offices at Durban and Cape Town airports. The airline has also appointed Carla da Silva as Regional Nanager for Southern Africa and Latin America. Carla will be responsible for the overall Air Mauritius operations in South Africa and online operations in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Air Mauritius, 800-537-1182, www.airmauritiusna.com
The Land oof Legendary Teranga and Beautiiful Touristic Sites...Welcome!
APTA is recognized as the foremost Travel Trade Association for the Promotion of Tourism to the Continent of Africa and its islands. Join us and connect with hundreds of fellow Travel Counselors, Tour Operators, Tourism Boards, Airlines, and other Suppliers for unique and invaluable information on travel to Africa.
Your APTA Membership Includes:
r Educational Dinner Programs r Guest Speakers r New Sales Tools r Destination/Product Presentations r Networking Opportunities r Access to Informative Website r Member Supplier List on Website r Special Discounts r Invitation to Annual Travel Show “Discover Africa” r Quarterly Newsletter Subscription and Submissions r Unique Educational Opportunities Let us put you on the right track! Visit www.apta.biz or info@apta.biz.
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
SENEGAL Senegal Tourist Office Phone : (212) 695-9630 Email: sentouroffice@aol.com
website: www.senegal-tourism.com MAY 2010 •
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AFRICA SANBONA WILDLIFE RESERVE GOES INTERNATIONAL WITH THE WHITE LION PROJECT
CAPE GRACE OFFERS PRE-SOCCER WORLD CUP PACKAGE Beginning this June, an unprecedented number of visitors will be traveling to South Africa for the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Cape Grace, considered Cape Town’s leading hotel, is offering an opportunity to get in on the excitement before the crowds arrive with a three-day package that is jam-packed with Cape Town
insider tips, guest favorites and new services. Since 1996, Cape Grace has been voted “Best Hotel in Cape Town,” “Best Hotel in Africa” and “Best Hotel in the World.” Its service is excellent: it dedicates itself to understanding its guests, which allows Cape Grace to personalize guest experiences. The package starts at $3,200 and is valid until June 1, 2010. Cape Grace, www.capegrace.com
The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in South Africa has given two of its rare white lions (bred from the official White Lion Project) to the Al Ain Wildlife Park in the United Arab Emirates to spread awareness about the protection of the species. The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, a member of the exclusive Mantis collection, launched the White Lion Project to reintroduce the white lion to the wild. Specifically, the goal of Sanbona’s White Lion Project is to boost their genetic integrity by mating their offspring to the tawny wild lion, thus breeding in survival skills lost through successive generations bred in captivity. The striking coloration of white lions makes them visible on the savannah and thus vulnerable to predators and poaching. Therefore, only about 300 white lions remain in captivity and they are believed to be extinct in the wild. White lions, also known as blond lions, are not a separate sub-specie of Panthera leo, the African lion, nor are they colorless albinos—pigmentation occurs in the eye, paw pad, and lip. Rather, their coloring is the result of a recessive gene, thought to originate from the lion’s ancient past when its habitat included snowy and desert regions. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, reservations@mantiscollection.com, www.sanbona.com 48 • MAY 2010
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
karibuni TANZANIA!
TANZANIA
Message from Hon. Shamsa S. Mwangunga, MP Minister of Natural Resources & Tourism, The United Republic of Tanzania Dear Travel Agents, In this special Tanzania supplement we want to take this opportunity to introduce you to a part of Tanzania few people know about, the gems of the South—Ruaha National Park, the Selous Game Reserve, Pangani, Tanga and Songea. Even if you have not yet been to Tanzania, most of you are familiar with some of our famous icons and World Heritage sites, Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, Serengeti National Park, famous for the great wildebeests migration, as well as the Ngorongoro Crater, which is often called the 8th Wonder of the World. But in the south, with fewer tourists, the experience is different, some say even more authentic. Ruaha National Park is HON. SHAMSA S. MWANGUNGA, MP now the largest park in East Africa and the second largest national park in all of Africa. The Selous Game Reserve is the largest in the world. Now, as the air connections between North and South expand with Coastal Aviation offering scheduled flights between the Serengeti and Ruaha National Parks starting June 2010, and as the choice of accommodation increase in the South, your clients can have a diversified safari experience all in one destination—Tanzania. Let us also not forget the opportunities for total relaxation on the miles of white sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean. Marine parks, water sports and world class diving sites are found off the shores of mainland Tanzania, its coastal islands like Mafia, as well as on the exotic spice islands of Zanzibar. The most frequently heard comment from first time visitors to Tanzania is “I came for the wildlife, but took home the memories of the warm hospitality of the people.” If culture is the focus for your clients, Tanzania has 125 different tribes, with their rich cultural traditions and languages, all living in harmony. Tanzania’s Cultural Tourism Program, Visit the People, which currently comprises 26 villages in the North, offers visitors a rare opportunity to meet the local people and participate in a diverse range of daily activities such as cooking, fishing and making handicrafts. We look forward to saying Karibuni Tanzania (welcome to Tanzania) to you and your clients.
Hon. Shamsa S. Mwangunga
50 • MAY 2010
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA
Tanzania’s Treasures Reveal Gems in the South as Well as Its Famed North Agents should promote some Southern exposure when packaging this prized African destination.
T
anzania, the largest country in East Africa, is devoutly focused on wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism, with approximately 28 percent of its land protected by the Government. It boasts 15 National Parks and 32 game reserves. It is the home of the tallest mountain in Africa—legendary Mt. Kilimanjaro; The Serengeti, named in October, 2006 as the New 7th Wonder of the World by USA Today and Good Morning America; the worldacclaimed Ngorongoro Crater, often called the 8th Wonder of the World; Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind; the Selous, The exhilaration of a climb to the top of beautiful Kilimanjaro is unparalleled. the world’s largest game reserve; Ruaha, now the second largest National Park in Africa; the spice is- was accorded the status of a World Heritage Site and listed as lands of Zanzibar; and seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. one of the International Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO’s Most important for visitors, the Tanzanian people are warm Man and Biosphere Reserve Program. and friendly, speak English (which, together with Kiswahili, are the two official languages); and, making the picture per- Kilimanjaro: ‘The Roof of Africa’ fect—the country is an oasis of peace and stability with a Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa. The ultimate in adventure travel, scaling the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro democratically elected, stable government. is a heavy challenge, more from the rigors of altitude than Treasures of the North the actual difficulty of the hike itself. The climb, which Tanzania is most famous for the splendid icons of what is takes on average five days, takes hikers through thick known as its Northern Circuit. Arusha, the Safari capital of forests and alpine grasslands, desolate rockface and brilliant Tanzania, is the jumping off point for travel in the North. white glaciers. International flights to Arusha fly into Kilimanjaro Airport, and most domestic and safari flights depart from Arusha Serengeti National Park Airport. Serengeti National Park is easily Tanzania’s largest and most famous park because of the annual animal migration of Ngorongoro Crater Area over one million and a half white-bearded wildebeest and zeA visit to world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater is an integral bras; it has 5,700 square miles of protected area. Large prides part of any first-time Safari to Tanzania. But too often it’s of lions laze in the long grasses, plentiful families of elesimply an overnight, with travelers just coming to see phants feed on acacia bark and trump to each other across the Ngorongoro Crater. In actual fact, this crater is one of eight, plains, and giraffes, gazelles, monkeys, eland, and the whole and many visitors miss the excitement and diversity of the en- range of African wildlife appears in awe-inspiring numbers. tire Ngorongoro Conservation Area. There is so much to ex- One of the highlights of the Serengeti National Park is the opperience beyond the Ngorongoro Crater that travelers are en- portunity to take a hot-air balloon safari, organized by couraged to incorporate at least two- or three-night stays in Serengeti Balloon Safaris. The journey takes off flying low this area. over the plains—as the sun comes up and turns grasslands Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the world’s most from blue to gold. After landing, guests have a champagne unique ecosystems. It is the only conservation area where breakfast complete with crystal glasses and white linen tableman and wildlife coexist in harmony—one of the reasons it CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
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cloths in the middle of the African bush, as zebra and antelope graze nearby.
Lake Manyara National Park Lake Manyara National Park offers varied ecosystems, incredible bird life, and breathtaking views. It is a great place to spot Manyara’s legendary tree-climbing lions and impressively tusked elephants. Its groundwater forests, bush plains, baobob-strewn cliffs, and algae-streaked hot springs offer incredible ecological variety in a small area, rich in wildlife and great numbers of birds. Canoeing excursions in Tanzania are an active option for the visitor with a few days to spend exploring the northern lakes. Excursions on the shores of Lake Manyara involve canoeing past thousands of pink flamingos in its shallow waters.
Tarangire National Park Tarangire National Park has some of the highest population density of elephants anywhere in Tanzania, and its sparse vegetation, strewn with baobab and acacia trees, makes it a beautiful and special location.
Pangani has some of the most spectacular unspoiled beaches in the country.
In the Northeast—Off the Beaten Track Tanga Region Coming soon on the Tanzania tourist map: the Tanga region, just north of Dar es Salaam. Situated along the Indian Ocean, Tanga boasts sun-drenched beaches, beautiful vistas of the Usambaras Mountains, whispering rivers and lush green vegetation. Until recently, Tanga has not been part of the larger Tanzania tourism picture. However, the region is now more accessible than it was in the past—by tarmac road from Dar es Salaam, and by air and with speedboats from Dar es Salaam as well as Zanzibar. Four areas of Tanga are the current focus for tourism development. Tanga city is the capital of the region. Situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean, Tanga’s port is second after Dar es Salaam. The city is rich in history, natural attractions, period architecture and interesting aquatic activities. South of Tanga City lies Pangani, a prominent trading center in the 19th century. Pangani has some of the most spectacular unspoiled beaches in the country, making it an excellent beach holiday destination. To the further south is the little known Saadani National Park, offering the unique bush/beach experience. To the West of Tanga and on the Eastern side of the Usambaras mountains lies a beautiful hill station named Amani. The flora and fauna and the tea plantations nestled in the slopes of these hills make Amani a serene and peaceful retreat for eco-friendly tourists.
Gems of the South Travelers must come and discover the wonders of Tanzania’s 52 • MAY 2010
The resource-rich habitat of Ruaha teems with wildlife like these buffalo herds.
Southern Circuit! The sheer vastness of southern Tanzania, still undiscovered by many, makes for some spectacular game viewing and opportunities off the beaten track. Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital of Tanzania, is the jumping off point for the South.
Ruaha National Park Ruaha, which boasts 10,000 elephants, the largest population of any East African national park, protects a vast tract of the rugged semi-arid bush country that characterizes central Tanzania. Its lifeblood is the Great Ruaha River that courses along the Eastern boundary of the park. A fine network of game-viewing roads follows the Great Ruaha and its seasonal tributaries, where, during the dry season, impala, waterbuck CONTINUED ON PAGE
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
Tanzania National Parks
More than conventional game viewing
T
anzania conserves more than 25% of its land, and is home to an estimated 20% of Africa’s large mammals, so its game viewing is widely regarded as the best in Africa. But the 15 parks managed by Tanzania National Parks offer a lot more the than just exceptional game viewing. Bird watching is outstanding at all 15 parks but the Serengeti, with over 500 species recorded; Mkomazi and Ruaha with more than 450; and Lake Manyara, Mikumi and Udzungwa with over 400 are closely followed by Kitulo and Rubondo Island. Tanzania’s 15 parks are also a paradise for flower lovers. Locals refer to Kitulo as ‘The Garden of God’ while botanists have dubbed it the ‘Serengeti of Flowers’. Host to one of the great floral spectacles of
the world, it is home to over 350 species of plants including 45 varieties of orchid. Rubondo Island also boasts some 40 different types of orchid while all other parks feature their own unique floral display. Gombe and Mahale Mountains vie with each other as the best place in the world to track wild chimpanzees. Gombe’s chimpanzees being made famous by the pioneering work of Jane Goodall who, in 1960, founded her famous behavioural research program. Chimpanzees may also be seen at Rubondo Island where they were introduced in 1966 and have now become habituated. Hot Air Ballooning is currently only available in the Serengeti but there are plans to offer this unique and wonderful experience in Mikumi, Tarangire and Ruaha.
Mount Kilimanjaro and Arusha’s Mount Meru obviously offer the ultimate in mountain climbing but lesser peaks in Kitulo and Udzungwa provide less challenging but equally interesting climbing and trekking. Boat trips, fishing, swimming and snorkelling are possible in Gombe, Mahale, Rubondo Island and Saadani while canoeing safaris are popular on Arusha’s Momela Lakes, on Lake Manyara and around Rubondo Island. Not a conventional game viewing destination, Udzungwa is a magnet for hikers. Other parks with excellent trails are Kitulo, Mkomazi, Ruaha and, of course Kilimanjaro while walking safaris are offered in Arusha, Katavi, Kilimanjaro, Kitulo, Lake Manyara, Mikumi, Mkomazi, Ruaha, Rubondo Island, Saadani and Tarangire.
At the present time, night game drives are only allowed in Lake Manyara.
For further information contact: The Director General Tanzania National Parks PO Box 3134, Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255 27 250 3471 Fax: +255 27 250 8216 E-mail: tanapa@habari.co.tz info@tanzaniaparks.com www.tanzaniaparks.com
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and other antelopes risk lives for a sip of life-sustaining water. The risk is considerable—with prides of 20-plus lions lording over the savannah, the cheetahs that stalk the open grassland and the leopards that lurk in tangled riverside thickets. Ruaha is also home to over 450 bird species and now includes the Ihefu Wetland, the natural water reservoir for the Great Ruaha River.
The Selous Game Reserve The Selous Game Reserve is Africa’s largest game reserve and covers more than five percent of Tanzania’s total area. Its rivers, hills and plains are home to roaming elephant populations, the area’s famous wild dogs, and some of the last black rhino left in the region. Due to its natural diversity and untouched state, the Selous Game Reserve was proclaimed a World Heritage Site in 1988 and today continues to live up to its esteemed status. The Selous offer tourists the added attractions of boating safaris on the Rufiji River and walking safaris.
The colorful, rich and varied landscape of the postcard-pretty Saadani region.
Katavi National Park Isolated, untrammeled and seldom visited, Katavi is a true wilderness, providing the few intrepid souls who make it there with a thrilling taste of Africa as it must have been a century ago. Tanzania’s third largest national park, it lies in the remote southwest of the country, within a truncated arm of the Rift Valley that terminates in the shallow, brooding expanse of Lake Rukwa.
Saadani National Park Saadani is where the beach meets the bush. Located on the Indian Ocean beachfront, it is the only marine/bush national park in East Africa. The beach possesses all the attributes that make Tanzania’s tropical coastline and islands so popular with sun-worshippers. Yet it is also the one place where those idle hours of sunbathing might be interrupted by an elephant strolling past, or a lion coming to drink at the nearby waterhole! About a three-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, it’s also a popular day trip from the beach resorts scattered along Tanzania’s northern coast.
Mbeya Region The city of Mbeya, near the Zambian border deep in the southern highlands, is the major agricultural capital in the country’s southwest region. The Mbeya mountain range lies to the north, and the Poroto range lies to the southeast. Lake Nyasa, which serves as a boundary for Tanzania and Malawi, is among the leading tourist attractions in the southern highlands. The half-mile deep lake and shoreline offer pristine beaches for water sports and sunbathing. The lake is the third largest body of water bordering Tanzania, over 300 miles long and 31 miles wide. From the Lake Nyasa Shores are the Uporoto Ranges, Kipengere and Livingstone mountain 54 • MAY 2010
Giraffes and many other huge beasts casually stroll the Serengeti.
ranges and the Rift Valley features; all of which the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) and the Tourism Division in the ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism have identified for development and marketing. At the Chimala and Matamba escarpments, a road with 52 rather sharp turns has been constructed, and these hairpin bends offer a thrilling, panoramic and breathtaking drive as it snakes through six miles of spectacular waterfalls. Tanzania is a treasure-filled country apart from all the rest. Its peace is real—quiet contentment in a land of magic where nature still reigns supreme. The awe plus thrills a trip to this gorgeous and exciting destination brings should not be missed in one’s lifetime.
Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; Tanzania National Parks, www.tanzaniaparks.com; Ngorongoro Crater, www.ngorongorocrater.org; Zanzibar, www.zanzibartourism.net; Tanzania Embassy, Washington, D.C., www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org; Tanzania Mission to the UN, New York City, www.tanzania-un.org www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA TANZANIA SHOWCASED AT THE NEW YORK TIMES TRAVEL SHOW
Dotti Kirk, of Dot.Away Travel, was the lucky winner of a safari trip for two to Tanzania given away at the New York Times Travel Show. The trip was presented by Nanuri Safaris. (From left) Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA, United Republic of Tanzania; Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P., NCAA Board Director, United Republic of Tanzania; Dotti Kirk, Dot.Away Travel; Essau P. Pwelle, African Banjoist Performer; John Benedict Malago, Managing Director, Nanuri Safari Company Ltd.
A 16-person strong tourism delegation from Tanzania participated for the fourth consecutive year in the New York Times Travel Show held recently at New York’s Jacob Javitz Center. The highlights of the show were the two drawings for a Tanzania Safari, offered by Nanuri Safari Company and Asante Safaris. The two lucky winners of trips for two to Tanzania were Dotti Kirk, Dot.Away Travel of Perryville, Maryland, and Sarosh G. Jacob of New York City. The Tanzania delegation to the New York Times Travel show was led by the Honorable Halima Mamuya, MP, a board director of the Ngorongoro conservation Area Authority (NCAA) and included Mr. Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, Ngorongoro Crater Area Authority (NCAA); Suleiman Saleh, Tanzania Embassy in Washington; Deogratias Malogo, , Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB); Emmanuel Dioclese, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA); Ignas Gara, Kitavi National Park, TANAPA; Asantael Melita, NCAA; Karen Hoffman, Jane Thompson, Susan Brinnitzer, Crystal Chan, and Annie Gordon, TTB USA; Gaudence Temu, Fortunata Temu, and Evelyne Gaudence, Equitanz Resort/Bongo Tours & Safaris; John Benedict Malago, Nanuri Safari Company Ltd; and Edwin Van Zwam, Moivaro Lodges and Tented Camp/ Fumba Beach Lodge. Tanzania Tourist Board, www. tanzaniatouristboard.com; New York Times Travel Show, www.nyttravelshow.com 56 • MAY 2010
MBALI MBALI LODGES AND CAMPS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION WITH NEW SERENGETI SORORI Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps, a family-owned circuit of safari properties in the some of the most remote and wild game areas across Tanzania, has announced that their newest lodge, Serengeti Sorori, will open this June. This latest lodge rounds out Mbali Mbali’s circuit by connecting the famed Serengeti National Park with the pristine, remote Western region of Tanzania. With the help of their flight partner Zantas Air, guests can now experience all Tanzania has to offer in one memorable circuit. “Over the past decade, we carefully selected the most ideal locations for our camps and lodges situated across Western Tanzania, and have specialized in operating in these incredibly remote locations bringing travelers face-to-face with Africa’s most impressive wildlife,” explains Taki Lalji, Managing Director of Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps. “Now we have the pleasure of rounding out our circuit with Serengeti Soroi. This new lodge, offering true luxury in the bush while remaining true to our roots of providing outstanding value and wildlife experiences.” Soroi Serengeti Lodge is set on a hill and built among rocks overlooking the vast plains of Musabi. With great attention to design, the lodge offers comfort and luxury while maintaining a uniquely African atmosphere and continued commitment to value. Each private tented chalet is elevated, built on wooden stilts and well spaced across the hill, giving guests breathtaking views of Musabi. The Serengeti Soroi Camp can be accessed by scheduled daily flights landing at the Seronera Airstrip, private charters or selfdriven vehicles. Mbali Mbali Lodges and Camps, info@mbalimbali.com, www.mbalimbali.com; Zantas Air, www.zantasair.com
2010 FIFA WORLD CUP—SOCCER AND THE BIG FIVE WITH CORDIAL TOURS A great opportunity to visit Tanzania—the Land of Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Zanzibar during 2010 FIFA World Cup, is now being offered by Cordial Tours and Travel Services Ltd. These two travel companies will join together to present the big five of soccer and the big five of Tanzania within the same day. Travelers may choose one to four days of fantastic game safaris at Serengeti and Ngorongoro, watching the big five of Tanzania, spend two days for beach leisure at Zanzibar, the Island of Species, or take at least five days climbing the roof of Africa, Kilimanjaro. More information about this fabulous opportunity is available on the Cordial Tours website. Cordial Tours, www.cordialtours.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA RESOURCE DIRECTORY CORDIAL TOURS AND TRAVEL SERVICES LTD Connects the Northern to the Southern Parks
EVERY DAY North Bound Flights Ruaha @ 10:00 hrs Tarangire @ 11:00 Arusha @11:30/12:30 Manyara @ 12:55 Seronera @ 13:50 Grumeti @ 15:30 Mwanza @ 16:00 hrs
South Bound Flights Mwanza @ 0830 hrs Grumeti @ 09:35 Seronera @ 10:55 Manyara @ 11:50 Arusha @ 12:00/13:30 Tarangire @ 14:00 hrs Ruaha @ 1500 hrs
Game Safari, Camping, Cultural & Historic Expedition, Beach Holidays & Mountain Climbing
And Ruaha National Park is connected to the West, to Selous, to Zanzibar and to the Coast with several flights a day
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Keys Hotels Travel and Tours Limited is a family run company situated on the slopes of Mountain Kilimanjaro operating from two locations in Moshi, Uru Road and Mbokomu Road. We also have a branch in Dar es Salaam. At the gateway to the roof of Africa it is an ideal centre from which to explore Tanzania info@keys-hotel-tours.com marketing@keys-hotel-tours.com
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TANZANIA TANZANIA TOURISM DELEGATION WELCOMED AT NY SKAL CLUB LUNCHEON TWN
between our two countries. We expect that this new service will boost the number of Turkish visitors by about 25,000. We also anticipate that this will be yet another gateway for the American market, who would be interested in combining these two very popular, but different destinations. “ Ihsan Baytan, Director, Turkish Airlines in New York, said that flights from New York’s JFK to Dar es Salaam will have good connections through Istanbul. He also added that Turkish Airlines in North America looks forward to working together with the Tanzania Tourist Board to promote packages to Tanzania with optional layovers in Istanbul. Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; Turkish Airlines, www.turkishairlines.com
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS IN TANZANIA WORTH EXPERIENCING
(Left to right) Suleiman Saleh, Second Secretary, Tanzania Embassy in Washington DC; Jane Thompson, The Bradford Group; Ignas Gara, TANAPA; Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P., NCAA Board Director; Juan Sepulveda, SKAL president; Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA; Karen Hoffman, The Bradford Group and TTB USA.
A Tanzania delegation, led by the Hon. Halima Mamuya, M.P, Board Director of Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), were welcomed at a New York Skal Club luncheon in February by NY Skal president, Juan Sepulveda. The delegation, in addition to Hon. Mamuya, in New York City for the New York Times Travel Show, included Bernard Murunya, Chief Conservator, NCAA; Suleiman Saleh, Second Secretary, Tanzania Embassy in Washington DC; Ignas Gara, Chief Warden, Kitavi National Park, Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), as well as Karen Hoffman (a NY Skal member) and Jane Thompson, both of The Bradford Group, which represents the Tanzania Tourist Board in the U.S. Skal International, an Association of Travel and Tourism Professionals, was founded in 1934. Its mission is to promote global tourism and friendships. Skal has chapters in most major cities throughout the world. The organization has nearly 25,000 members. Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; New York Skal Club, www.nyskal.com
TURKISH AIRLINES TO LAUNCH SERVICE TO DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA, IN JUNE The Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) has announced that Turkish Airlines will launch scheduled service from Istanbul to Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital of Tanzania on the Indian Ocean Coast. The Turkish Airlines flights to Dar es Salaam are expected to begin June 2010 in time for the peak tourism season in Tanzania. According to Mr. Amant Macha, TTB’s acting Managing Director, “Tanzania applauds this move by Turkish Airlines and it is a good indicator of the passenger demand for tourism and trade 58 • MAY 2010
Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, set for June 4–6, 2010, is the largest and most ambitious travel industry event in East Africa. It is unique because it’s an outdoor event that offers a real safari experience. Over 250 exhibitors and thousands of regional and international visitors are expected to attend the fair, which is open to the trade June 4, and to the public June 5–6. Travel industry suppliers, large and small, including tour operators, tourist boards, hoteliers, and support service representatives and equipment manufacturers are typical participants. International travel trade journalists regularly cover the event along with local media, and “familiarization trips” are being offered to encourage international travel agents to attend. Movie buffs shouldn’t miss the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) July 10–18, 2010. This is an annual film festival held in Zanzibar, Tanzania. There is nothing more exotic then watching a film on a balmy, Zanzibar evening in an outdoor Roman amphitheater. It has been described as the largest cultural event in East Africa. Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, www.karibufair.com; Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), www.ziff.or.tz; Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA
Historic Songea Town in Tanzania Declared a Tourist Site
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elebrating 103 years since the end of the infamous Maji Maji rebellion, Songea town in the Ruvuma region has been declared a historical tourist site in the southern highlands of Tanzania. The sprawling business town was promoted to that status after the threeday festival in February organized jointly by the regional administration and the National Museum of Tanzania honoring the heroes hanged there in 1906. Activities for this special event also included the special launch of the Maji Maji Memorial Museum. Data preserved there will help Ruvuma Region to continue to attract tourists and assist government revenue. It will be the only museum in the region showing the original tools and weapons used by the Ngoni and Matengo warriors during the Maji Maji war. It stands at the place where they were buried in a mass grave behind the building. The Maji Maji rebellion came about as a result of local tribes in the southeastern part of the country (notably the Matumbi, Yao, Ngoni and Mwera) rejecting German colonial occupation of this part of Africa at the turn of the 19th century. The Germans who took control of a large chunk of land in what is present-day Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi, ruled with an iron fist. Each year on February 27, the Ngoni people in Ruvuma commemorate the freedom fighters that resisted the occupiers of then-Tanganyika in early 1906. The rebellion was actually an uprising by several African tribes in German East Africa against the German colonial rulers, in addition to the hardships caused by the rinderpest famine that spread through Africa in the 1890s and other deprivations. As a result of the scramble for Africa among major European powers in the 1880s, Germany had ended up with several colonies on the “Dark Continent.” These were German East Africa (now Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and part of Mozambique), German Southwest Africa (present-day Namibia), Cameroon, and Togoland (today split between Ghana and Togo). The occupiers had a relatively weak hold on German East Africa, but they did maintain a system of forts throughout the interior of the territory and were able to exert some control over it. Since their hold on the colony was weak, they resorted to using violently repressive tactics to control the population. They began levying head taxes in 1898, and relied heavily on forced labor to build roads and accomplish various other tasks. In 1902 the governor also ordered villages to grow cotton as a cash crop. Each village was charged with producing a common plot. The headmen of the village were left in charge of overseeing the production, a position that left them vulneraTravel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
The annual Maji Maji festival in Songea now on the tourism circuit.
ble to criticism and rage from the population. And using regular villagers with other things to do to produce cotton was extremely unpopular across Tanzania. In many places they simply refused to work the land, or refused payment. These unpopular policies had serious effects on the lives of Africans. The social fabric of society and men’s and women’s roles had to change to face the needs of the communities. Since men were forced away from their homes to work, women had to assume some traditional male roles. In addition, the fact that men were away strained the resources of the village and the peoples’ ability to deal with their environment and remain self-sufficient. These effects created a lot of animosity against the government at this period. Adding to the hardship, in 1905 a drought threatened the region. This, combined with opposition to the government’s agricultural and labor policies, led to open rebellion against the Germans in July. The natives turned to magic to drive out the German colonizers and used it as a unifying force in the rebellion. A spirit medium named Kinjikitile Ngwale claimed to be possessed by a snake spirit called Hongo. Ngwale began calling himself Bokero and developed a belief that the people of German East Africa had been called upon to eliminate the colonizers. German anthropologists recorded that he gave his followers war medicine that would turn German bullets into water. This “war medicine” was in fact water (maji in Swahili) mixed with castor oil and millet seeds. Empowered with this new liquid, Bokero’s followers began what would become known as the Maji Maji Rebellion. Besides the Maji Maji warriors’ hanging place, the Ruvuma region of today is identified by rich tourist attractions—cultural heritage, historical sites and scenery, among them the Matongo Forest Reserve, Luhira Game Reserve, and the German Boma originally built in Songea in 1902.
Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), ttb@ud.co.tz, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com MAY 2010 •
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TANZANIA OMONG’WE TRAVEL & TOURS PROMOTING PANGANI
When tourists plan to travel to Tanzania, most of the time places like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar top their lists. These famous destinations are all known for their beauty and natural wonders. However, there have been other new destinations in Tanzania that cater to various niche markets. One of these is Pangani. Pangani lies about 28 miles south of Tanga. It is a historic town that was the center of an armed movement to resist German colonial conquest of the entire mainland Tanzanian coast in 1888. Pangani also became a center for smuggling slaves across the narrow channel to Pemba after Sultan of Zanzibar signed treaties with Great Britain outlawing the ocean-going trade in slaves in 1873. Apart from its historic sites, recently Pangani has become famous with tourists because of its tropical, unspoiled nature. Coconutfringed beaches have various eco-friendly lodges. Pangani offers many activities such as cultural tours, Pangani River cruises, water sports like diving, snorkeling, kayaking and a trip to Maziwe Island, one of the oldest marine reserve islands in Tanzania. The Maziwe sand bar is home to protected coral reef, green turtles and spinner and bottlenose dolphins. Conditions are excellent for snorkeling and diving. Omong’we Travel & Tours expertly arranges travel to Pangani and other famous travel destinations in Tanzania such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar. They are able to customize an end-to-end package that will include travel, accommodation and various activities according to individual travel desires and needs. Omong’we Travel, reservations@omongwetravel.com, www.omongwetravel.com
COASTAL AVIATION RESCHEDULES RUAHA/SERENGETI FLIGHTS Coastal Travels Ltd. is bringing Northern and Southern Tanzania “closer” together. As of June 2010, they are rescheduling flights to connect Serengeti National Park in the North and Ruaha National Park in the South via Arusha. This will make it easier for 60 • MAY 2010
a Tanzania Safari to include both Northern and Southern Circuits, ensuring a fuller, more diverse travel experience. The Serengeti National Park, named the new Seventh Wonder of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is host to the largest and longest overland animal migration in the world. Since it is a world-renowned icon, and adjacent to the Ngorongoro Crater, it is the most popular and most traveled destination on the safari circuit. Ruaha, the second largest National Park in Africa, is one of Tanzania’s “undiscovered jewels,” receiving far fewer visitors than Parks in the North, yet providing a totally different and richer Safari. Amant Macha, Marketing Director, Tanzania Tourist Board said “Until recently, most first-time visitors only had time to see Tanzania’s famous icons in the North, Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire. Now, as flight service improves between the North and South, the visitor can also discover in the same visit, the excitement and beauty of the South—Ruaha, the Selous, Mikumi, Kitulo.” For Coastal’s Arusha to Ruaha flight, the aircraft takes off at 1:30 pm. This gives plenty of time for guests to land in Arusha before transferring to Ruaha flying via Tarangire. The flight arrives in Arusha at approximately 4 pm, depending on stops (Tarangire/Dodoma). The return flight departs Ruaha at 9:30 am and arrives in Arusha around noon, depending on stops. It connects to Serengeti at 12:30 pm. The complete list of destinations in the South is: Tanga, Pemba, Zanzibar, Mafia, Songo Songo, Kilwa, Selous, Ruaha and Dar es Salaam. Coastal Travels Limited, www.coastal.cc; Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com
ANTELOPE SAFARIS SHOWS OFF AFRICA Antelope Safaris Limited, established in 1994, has offices in Tanzania’s business city of Dar es Salaam and in Arusha, the hub of safari activities. Services include air ticketing, car rentals, accommodations and city tours. They also organize photography, cultural, religious, nature and adventure eco-tours. Tanzania is famous for its game parks, to be sure, but the entire country displays vast and undisturbed natural wonder, and Antelope Safaris shows it all. The West is home to the chimps, and the magical beauty of Lake Victoria. In the north, the abundant, wild Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Arusha national parks can be offset by a climb to snow-capped Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Or Ngorongoro Crater, teaming with lions, cheetahs, leopards, zebras, rhinos and gazelles. Southern Circuit safaris are in Mikumi, Katavi, Ruaha and Africa’s largest reserve, the Selous. Flying to the pristine beaches on the East Coast of Zanzibar makes a sparkling detour with its blue beaches, fresh seafood and exotic fruits. Antelope Safaris, info@antelopesafaris.com, www.antelopesafaris.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
BOOK TANZANIA WITH THE FOLLOWING ABSOLUTE ADVENTURE TRAVEL * 281 217 8111 / 713 807 9620 www.absoluteadventuretravel.com
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THE WAY TO GO FOR 40 YEARS
DESTINATION SPECIALISTS GOWAY info@goway.com www.goway.com
ADVENTURES IN AFRICA * 866 778 1089 www.adventuresinafrica.com
INTERNATIONAL EXPEDITIONS 800 633 4734 www.ietravel.com
THE AFRICA ADVENTURE COMPANY * 800 882 9453 www.africa-adventure.com
JUNCTION AFRICA (877) 659-4653 www.junctionafrica.com
AFRICA DREAM SAFARIS * 877 572 3274 www.africadreamsafaris.com
LION WORLD TOURS / SAA VACATIONS * 800 387 2706 www.lionworldtravel.com
AFRICAN MECCA * 866 527 4281 email: sales@africanmecca.com
MICATO SAFARIS * 800 642 2861 www.micato.com
AFRICAN TRAVEL INC. 818 507 7893 ext 115 www.africantravelinc.com
MOSAIC RHINO TOURS 951 353 2299 www.mosaicrhinotours.com
ASANTE SAFARIS * 914 636 6017 www.asantesafaris.com
MY SERENGETI SAFARI 888-50-SIMBA www.myserengetisafari.com
BORN FREE SAFARIS & TOURS * 800 472 3274 www.bornfreesafaris.com
NATURAL MIGRATIONS 866 988 7575 www.naturalmigrations.com
COX & KINGS * 800 999 1758 www.coxandkingsusa.com
PRIVATE SAFARIS LTD Tel: 678 662 3210 http://www.privatesafaris.com
DEEPER AFRICA * 888 658 7102 www.deeperafrica.com
ROTHSCHILD SAFARIS 800 405 9463 http://www.rothschildsafaris.com
FRIENDLY PLANET TRAVEL, INC. 800.555.5765, Ext # 2020 www.friendlyplanet.com FOX SAFARIS 818 891 1973 http://www.foxsafaris.com/foxsafaris.php G.A.P. ADVENTURES * 800 465 5600 www.gapadventures.com GO AHEAD TOURS 800 590 1170 www.goaheadtours.com GOOD EARTH TOURS & SAFARIS 877 265 9003 http://www.goodearthtours.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
SAFARI VENTURES * 888 341 7771 www.safariventures.com SOMAK HOLIDAYS USA 877 40 SOMAK (east coast) 800 75 SOMAK (west coast) email: salesusa@somak.com, www.somak.com/usa TAUCK WORLD DISCOVERY * 800 788 7885 www.tauck.com THOMSON SAFARIS * 800 235 0289 www.thomsonsafaris.com
* Tanzania Tourist Board award-winning tour operators MAY 2010 •
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TANZANIA THE PLACE TO MEET IS TANZANIA’S KARIBU TRAVEL AND TOURISM FAIR
U.S., and we hope to encourage them to participate by offering special pre- and post-safaris.” Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair, www.karibufair.com; Tanzania Tourist Board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com
SOUTHERN SUN DAR ES SALAAM PROGRAMS REWARD FREQUENT GUESTS
Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair is an outdoor event that offers participants a real safari experience.
Now in its 11th year, Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair is the largest and most ambitious travel industry event in East Africa. As such, it has become “the place to meet,” for the region’s travel industry partners from around the world. The 2010 Karibu Fair, taking place June 4–6 just outside of Arusha, Tanzania’s safari capital, promises to be the largest ever. The annual event is organized by the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO), Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism (MNRT). According to Amant Macha, TTB’s Acting Managing Director, “Tanzania is very proud that the Karibu Fair, what started as a modest initiative, has evolved into a major travel industry showcase for all the East African destinations.” Part of the uniqueness and excitement of The Karibu Travel and Tourism Fair is that it is an outdoor event that offers a real safari experience. Over 250 exhibitors and thousands of regional and international visitors are expected to attend the 2010 Fair, open to the trade June 4 and the public June 5 and 6. Travel industry suppliers, large and small, including tour operators, tourist boards, hoteliers, and support service representatives and equipment manufacturers are typical participants. International travel trade journalists regularly cover the event along with local media, and “familiarization trips” are being offered to encourage international travel agents to attend. James Haigh, Sales and Marketing Manager, Singita Grumeti Reserves in Tanzania, in speaking about the Karibu Fair commented “I go to the Karibu Fair because I have found that it is the one event where one can meet all the major players, buyers and suppliers, in the East African tourism industry.” Macha added “Since America continues to be Tanzania’s number-one source market for tourists, we are making a special effort to attract more travel agents from the U.S. market. There are currently over 1,400 qualified Tanzania Travel Agent Specialists in the 62 • MAY 2010
Southern Sun Dar es Salaam is superbly located: it borders the Botanical Gardens and the diplomatic offices of Dar es Salaam and is within walking distance of the central business district. Its 152 well-appointed guest rooms include two suites, 10 executive rooms and one room equipped specifically for physically challenged guests. The hotel offers corporate and business support services that include complimentary WiFi Internet access and conference capabilities, 24-hour room service, laundry/dry-cleaning services and ample secure parking. Frequent business travelers accumulate Sun Rands, the currency of Southern Sun’s award-winning Frequent Guest program, which they may apply toward free holidays for themselves and their families, in addition to other exclusive privileges. In addition, Frequent Guests receive a five-percent discount off SunBreaks rates and a further five-percent discount when booking online with Southern Sun Hotels. Known for its “best breakfast in town,” the Dar es Salaam hotel’s Kivulini Restaurant overlooking swimming pool and Botanical Gardens creates stir-fry and buffet lunches too. Or, guests may feast on the exotic fusion of Swahili and continental cuisine in the hotel’s Baraza Grill, Cafe & Bar. Southern Sun Dar es Salaam, adamf@southernsun.co.tz, www.southernsun.com
‘MORE THAN WELCOME PACKAGE’ AT MÖVENPICK HOTELS IN AFRICA All across the African continent, travelers can benefit from a special “You are more than welcome package” from Mövenpick Hotels through June 30. This means they can stay at any Mövenpick hotel or resort in Egypt, Tanzania, Mauritius, Morocco or Tunisia and get best available rate, guaranteed late checkout and upgrade to Sea View or best available room. In Dar es Salaam, Mövenpick’s Royal Palm Hotel combines East African culture and tradition with international standards. Free access to swimming pool, sauna and fitness center are included. An 18-hole golf course and tennis courts are nearby. Conference capabilities for up to 600 are state-of-the-art. Royal Palm’s 230 rooms include Executive Rooms with their own private Executive Lounge, Junior Suites, Diplomatic Suites and a Presidential Suite. All have controllable air-conditioning, directdial phone/voicemail, high-speed Internet, satellite TV, hairdryer, safe, mini-bar and coffee-making facilities. A new “Interactive Television” system, unique for the East African region, offers a whole range of in-room entertainment. Mövenpick Royal Palm Hotel, www.moevenpick-hotels.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News
TANZANIA EQUITANZ RESORTS COMFORTABLY CARE FOR ITS VISITORS TO MAJESTIC AFRICA
Equitanz Resorts consists of two resorts: Afrikan Sunstar Resort and Fortune Mountain Resort. Afrikan Sunstar Resort is located in Karatu-Arusha some four miles-plus from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area entrance gate. Given its central location, African Sunstar Resort is perfect for those visiting Tarangire, Lake Manyara National Parks or even enroute to Serengeti or Lake Eyasi. It provides 10 cottages inclusive of 20 clusters, with two doubles/twin each and three executive suites, all with a magnificent view of massive Ngorongoro. All accommodation is very comfortable: exclusively furnished, with en-suite bathrooms, with a main building consisting of a lobby, restaurant, bar and an open-air terrace affording a lovely view of the famous African sunset. Guests can also relax at the swimming-pool facilities with poolside bar while they enjoy exotic cocktails, a well-chilled beer or other varieties of drinks from a fully-stocked bar. Fortune Mountain Resort is located in Marangu, only three miles to the Kilimanjaro National Park gates. It is ideal as a base before and after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, cultural tours, also for those on vacation, honeymoon or weekend getaway. It offers 18 big luxury rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Other facilities include a Kibo Restaurant and Mawenzi Bar, Shira Lounge as well as a customized porters party garden area to celebrate the success of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. Equitanz Resorts, sales@equitanzresorts.com. www.equitanzresorts.com
IN-DEPTH EXPERIENCES IN AFRICA WITH BONGO TOURS & SAFARIS Bongo Tours & Safaris is a well-established tours and safaris company based in Dar es Salaam but with operational offices in Arusha and Moshi, Tanzania. The company organizes tailor-made safaris ranging from photographic safaris, cultural tourism, birdwatching safaris as well as mountain climbing ones, for example Mountain Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and the hills of Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Services are also offered such as fixed-departure safaris, compreTravel World News • www.travelworldnews.com
hensive transfers, hotel reservations, team-building activities and conference packages. Once-in-a-lifetime experiences are created for clients as they’re taken to explore and experience the wild through different national parks such as Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarangire, Manyara, Ruaha, and Selous, as well as visits to the beautiful beaches in Zanzibar, Bagamoyo, Mafia, Pemba, Kilwa and other places depending on the client’s needs. Bongo Tours can also organize tours to any of the East African countries. Equipped with an excellent field driver and guides, Bongo goes the extra mile to explore the product, trying as much as possible to avoid the beaten tracks, and not just “scratching the surface” of those places shown. Clients become involved in the country, its culture, its people and its wildlife—giving them rewarding lifetime experiences. The style of Bongo’s safaris includes the use of quality lodges, tented camping adventures, biking, flying, and drive-in adventures. Services range from standard to luxurious accommodation. Private customized safaris are also available. Apart from comfort, special emphasis is put on safety and security of their clients at all times. An accomplished safari outfitter, Bongo Tours & Safaris welcomes opportunities to show clients around the great land of Kilimanjaro—The Roof of Africa, and the Spice Islands of Zanzibar. Indeed, Tanzania is famed for its natural endowments, and Bongo Tours & Safaris likes to be remembered as ‘Master of The African Jungle’ because of its intimacy with the land. Bongo in Swahili means “brain,” and you cannot navigate your way through the highly competitive tourism industry without using ingenuity to understand and satisfy the needs of clients. Hence, the name. Bongo Tours & Safaris, evelyne@bongotous.com, www.bongotours.com
OWNERS OF MARA BUSHTOPS CAMP TO OPEN ANOTHER IN SERENGETI Award-winning Mara Bushtops Camp in the Masai Mara game reserve is getting a sister in the Serengti National Park. The five-star Serengeti Bushtops Camp will open June 1, 2010— in time for the great migration. The camp is located in the northwestern part of the Serengeti, not far from the Mara River. The nearest airstrip is Kogatende. There are 12 tents, each with a private decking of over 1,290 square feet with a unique sunken lounge and a hot tub. There is 24hour power and butler service available. Dining is on a la carte basis and is complimented by the camp’s wine cellar. Full-day and half-day game drives are offered in open 4x4’s with experienced driver guides. Bush picnics, sundowners and walking safaris complete the experience. “Bushtops hopping” between the Mara and Serengeti is offered via a flight link to/from Migori Airstrip with a border crossing at Isabenia and a road transfer to/from Serengeti Bushtops. Orion Hotels, claudia.stuart@orion-hotels.net, www.orion-hotels.net MAY 2010 •
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