November 2010 Edition

NOVEMBER 2010

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ISSUE NO. 269

NOVEMBER 2010 executive office

28 Knight Street Norwalk, CT 06851-4707 Voice: 203.286.6679 • Fax: 203.286.6681 w e b s i t e

www.travelworldnews.com publisher

Charles Gatt, Jr. charlie@travelworldnews.com editor

INDUSTRY EVENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS INDUSTRY NEWS NORTH AMERICA EUROPE

4 8 12

‘Meet Poland 2010’ Workshop In Warsaw Attracted Participants From Over 20 Countries

14

Cruise From the Heart of the Mediterranean

16

INDUSTRY EVENTS / NETM - page 4

FAM ANNOUNCEMENTS

Carol A. Petro editor@travelworldnews.com design production manager

For complete and current list please visit: www.travelworldnews.com/fams

Linda Rogers linda@travelworldnews.com

Shawn Hebert • I T

manager

Cindy Johnson • c i r c u l a t i o n

manager

cruise editor

Michael Iachetta

CARIBBEAN Free Nights, “Honeymoon Magic’ Package Offered This Winter at Grand Case Beach Club

20

Caribbean Dive Travel on Special This Fall With Maduro Travel

22

La Source Grenada Teams Up With Aquanauts Grenada

24

EUROPE / MALTA - page 16

southeast regional correspondent

Joan Gonzalez western regional correspondent

Connie Skoog contributing editors

Mona Birch • Ann Charles • Gail P. Dubov Judith Glynn • Barry Goldsmith • Peggy Hageman George Hairston • Al Haut • Marjorie Klein • Peter Lowy Nancy Marcantonio • Anita Mason

MEXICO FITA Launches in Mexico City; Aims to Be a Leading Tourism Fair

26

Fall Rates at Award-Winning Sandos Hotels in Mexico Start at $60 All-Inclusive

30

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Earns 2011 AAA Five Diamond Award

32

MEXICO / FITA - page 26

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.

LATIN AMERICA Brazil’s Mesmerizing Minas Gerais

34

Tara Tours Offering ‘Cuzco & Machu Picchu Private’ for $2,240 Per Person

38

Three-Destination Chilean Experience Offered by Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa

40

Roatan Charter Anounces 2011 Whale Shark Week Activities at Utila Lodge and WSORC

43

LATIN AMERICA / MINAS - page 34

AFRICA African Leaders Discuss Raising Tourism’s Profile at ATA’s Annual Presidential Forum on Tourism

48

Omong’we Travel & Tours Discounts Christmas, New Year Family Packages

50

Kumuka Worldwide Shows the Magic of Africa and Beyond

52

Baobab Expeditions Offers Treks to the Gorillas and the Big Five

54

COVER PHOTO CREDITS: Minas Gerais/Ouro Preto, Alexandre Campbell/Embratur; Africa, Courtesy of ATA

AFRICA / ATA - page 48

INDUSTRY EVENTS COLEMAN INTRODUCES NETM SALES EVENT FOR ‘NEW EUROPE’ IN DUBROVNIK

New Europe Travel Mart (NETM), a new tourism sales/business development event designed to increase leisure travel to the region from the Baltic to the Balkans increasingly referred to as “New Europe,” will be launched April 13-15, 2011, in Dubrovnik by event management firm William H. Coleman, Inc. NETM will bring buyers of leisure travel services from global markets to Dubrovnik to meet senior sales and marketing executives representing supplier organizations from the entire “New Europe” region. The Coleman NETM format enables buyers and suppliers to have two days of 20-minute prescheduled appointments in supplier booth/offices, similar to meetings in their own offices.

“Buyers” will be “decision makers” from companies and organizations that can “contract and book” Group, FIT, and any type of Special Interest travel from markets in Europe, USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Asia/Pacific.

“Suppliers” will be senior decision makers representing hotels and resorts, airlines, cruise companies, tourist boards, city and convention bureaus, receptive operators, car rental firms, attractions, and other promotional organizations from Croatia, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, the East Germany, Serbia, Bosnia/ Herzegovina, Albania, Macedonia, and Kosovo.

Dubrovnik beauty backdrop Host destination for the first-ever NETM is Dubrovnik, Croatia, famed

for its historic “Old Town” and beautiful clear blue sea vistas. The Host hotel is the recently completed Radisson Blu Resort & Spa. All business sessions will be held in the Radisson Blu Convention Center.

Buyer Registration fees are $175 including three nights’ single room accommodations at the Radisson Blu, roundtrip airport transfers, all business sessions with prescheduled appointments, all official hosted social functions, and ground transportation. Buyers will arrange their own air travel on Host airlines that will be offering reduced airfares to all NETM delegates.

Supplier registration fees are $1,500 including a booth/office around 6.5 feet square with table, four chairs, sign, and lights; all business sessions including prescheduled appointments with Buyers; all official hosted social functions; roundtrip airport transfers; ground transportation; special discounted hotel rates at the Radisson Blu; and discounted air fares on participating Host airlines. Suppliers are discouraged from building elaborate displays since booth/offices will include furniture for a basic business set-up.

One of the important reasons Dubrovnik was chosen as inaugural venue for the annual event was the strong support the idea for NETM received from the Dubrovnik Tourist Board. The Dubrovnik Tourist Board is joining with the Croatian National Tourist Office and the Dubrovnik-Neretva County Tourist Board (Dubrovnik-Riviera & Islands), to become the official NETM’11 Host. Jelka Tepsic, DTB Director, stated: “We are looking forward to working with our tourism boards to host this outstanding group of tourism professionals to Dubrovnik.”

The recently opened Radisson Blu Resort & Spa has the space and convention center facilities to host the NETM ’11 delegates and activities. Zdenek Kovarik, Director of Sales and Marketing, said: “Our Radisson Blu Team is delighted to have this opportunity to not just ‘show’ our property, but to be a part of launching what we believe will be a positive business development opportunity for Dubrovnik, Croatia, and the ‘New Europe’ region.”

William H. Coleman, Inc. is an international events management firm headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, with offices in London and Toronto.

New Europe Travel Mart (NETM), sales@whcoleman.com, www.neweuropetravelmart.com

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INDUSTRY EVENTS USTOA TO GRANT AWARDS OF RECOGNITION TO BOB WHITLEY, JOHN STACHNIK AT NTA CONVENTION THIS MONTH The late Bob Whitley, USTOA President for 32 years, will be honored this year with the NTA Pioneer award and John Stachnik of Mayflower Tours will receive the Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement award.

Both awards will be presented at the 2010 NTA Convention November 13–17 in Montreal, Quebec.

The Pioneer award, established by the NTA Board in 2005, honors individuals BOB WHITLEY whose accomplishments have resulted in a significant change in the travel industry from which NTA and its members have benefited. Established in 2003, the Bob Everidge award honors an individual who’s been actively dedicated to the mission of NTA and the best interest of its members while making professional and personal contributions over a span of at least 20 years.

Whitley’s distinguished career in tourism JOHN STACHNIK spanned over 40 years. He was President of USTOA in 1978 and served in that role until his passing earlier this year. Before joining USTOA, Whitley was Director of the Florida and Pennsylvania Departments of Tourism and of the Virginia Beach (Virginia) Convention and Tourist Bureau.

A graduate of Marquette University, Stachnik began his career in 1966 with a hotel company based in Washington, D.C. In 1970, he co-founded a Midwestern regional tour company, and, along with his wife Mary, established Mayflower Tours in 1979. John served on the board of Tourism Cares, TIA (now U.S. Travel Association), and 14 years on the NTA Board of Directors, including a year as NTA President in 1982.

NTA (National Tour Association), 800-682-8886, www.ntaonline.com

34TH ANNUAL TRAVELMART LATINAMERICA 2010 IN LIMA SETS ATTENDANCE AND APPOINTMENT RECORDS Record-setting attendance of over 1,000 delegates and a record number of 8,150 prescheduled appointments showed the tourism industry is “alive and well” in Latin America as buyers and suppliers gathered in Lima, Peru, for the 34th Annual TravelMart LatinAmerica, September 22–24.

“Buyers” from global markets met “Suppliers” from every Latin America country during three days of carefully structured business and social activities. The focal point was two days dedicated to prescheduled business appointments at Lima’s recently remodeled Real Felipe Fortress Convention Center. Other activities included a welcome reception at the Nuevo Museo Larco hosted by PromPeru 6 • NOVEMBER 2010

and Nuevo Museo Larco, lunches during the business sessions opening lunch sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador and closing lunch sponsored by next year’s Host country SANTUR–Santa Catarina Turismo Brazil, and a closing/farewell reception hosted by LAN Airlines, PromPeru and the Sociedad Hoteles del Peru.

Carefully selected member Hotels of the Socieded Hoteles del Peru provided accommodations for the international buyers, and offered special discounted rates for Latin America suppliers. Host hotels were Casa Andina Private Collection, Country Club Lima Hotel, Crowne Plaza, Delfines Hotel, Doubletree El Pardo by Hilton, JW Marriott, Libertador San Isidro, Melia, Miraflores Park Orient Express, Novotel, Plaza del Bosque, Sheraton, Sofitel Royal Park, Sonesta El Olivar, Thunderbird Pardo and Thunderbird Principal.

Over 350 industry buyers from the world’s most important markets, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific, and over 260 supplier companies from all Latin America destinations attended. International travel industry journalists also participated. The exclusive William H. Coleman, Inc. “SelectMatch” prescheduled appointments system arranged 8,150 meetings between “Buyers and Suppliers” in advance, and more were arranged on-site during the business sessions. TravelMart LatinAmerica attendance is always sold out to assure delegates have a productive and enjoyable experience.

This year’s event was supported by a long list of distinguished industry leaders including Sociedad Hoteles del Peru, PromPeru, LAN, American Airlines, Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador, Quito Turismo, Oro Verde Hotels, Hotel Quito, Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, Rainforest Alliance, Telefonica, and SANTUR–Santa Catarina Turismo, Florianopolis, Brazil, the TravelMart LatinAmerica’s 2011 Host.

Most delegates visited tourism sites throughout Peru by taking advantage of special pre- and post-tours. PromPeru also offered complimentary Lima city tours.

Irma Coleman, President & CEO of William H. Coleman, Inc., the organizing company, said: “We were very excited about once again bringing TravelMart LatinAmerica back to Lima, the event’s actual “birthplace!” Many TravelMart LatinAmerica Buyers and Suppliers have visited Peru before, but this was an excellent opportunity for them to personally experience the changes and advances that are continually happening in the Peru travel industry.” She also stated: “The TravelMart LatinAmerica Host committee is a group of dedicated professionals who worked very hard for almost two years to make this event successful, and we were delighted to be back “home” in Lima.” This was the fourth time the event returned to Peru, first held there in 1978.

It was officially announced that TravelMart LatinAmerica 2011 will be held September 11–13, in Florianopolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.

TravelMart LatinAmerica is produced and managed by William H. Coleman, Inc., an international events management firm headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, with offices in Toronto and London.

TravelMart LatinAmerica, sales@whcoleman.com, irmacoleman@whcoleman.com,www.travelmartlatinamerica.com; William H. Coleman, Inc., www.whcoleman.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY EVENTS LA CUMBRE FINISHES WITH GREAT SUCCESS, 2011 EDITION WILL BE IN LAS VEGAS

JANUARY 19-23

ORGANISED BY

The last edition of La Cumbre, Travel Industry Summit, took place in September at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront in San Diego, California, with 213 exhibitors and 173 buyers meeting in 30 prescheduled business meetings, as well as its informative presentations and networking opportunities.

Following the first day’s La Cumbre’s Conference Program, the media delegation took part at the opening press conference onboard the USS Midway Aircraft carrier-Museum, where Gastón Isoldi, Director of the Event for Reed Exhibitions Latin America; Caroline Beteta, President and CEO of the Tourism Commission of California; and Kerri Verbeke Kapich, Vice-president of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships from the San Diego CVB, applauded La Cumbre’s return to the U.S. West coast after 10 years. It emphasizes the Latin American market’s influence and the growth of San Diego, with its multiplicity of cultures including the important Hispanic community.

On the subsequent days, four destination presentations showcased opportunities offered by destinations such as Alaska, Miami and the host city of San Diego itself. A total 4,325 pre-scheduled meetings also took place between Buyer and Exhibitor companies.

Concluding the event, Las Vegas was introduced as host city for the 2011 edition of La Cumbre, set to take place September 7–9 at The Venetian Resort, Hotel, Casino. During the closing luncheon, Rafael Villanueva, Director of International Sales of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, presented the vast possibilities the city will present, and attendees enjoyed a brief presentation by Venetian resident musical theatre performing ensemble Blue Man Group.

Those interested in participating as Exhibitors, Buyers or General Sales Agents should contact Rosadela Arenas by email.

La Cumbre 2010 was sponsored by San Diego CVB, Las Vegas CVA, Hilton Worldwide and Hilton San Diego Bayfront (Platinum sponsors); Volaris (Gold); Travel Ace Assistance (Silver); and Copa Airlines, Gerencia de Viajes, Royal Caribbean, Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood as Bronze sponsors.

La Cumbre is associated with Brazilian Tour Operators Association (BTOA), California Alliance, and Ancoradouro Viagens.

La Cumbre, rosadela.arenas@reedlatam.com, www.lacumbre.com; Reed Exhibitions, www.reedexpo.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

www.fituronline.com

IF YOU WANT YOUR BUSINESS TO GO A LONG WAY, THIS IS YOUR DESTINATION.

Member of:

NOVEMBER 2010 •

7

2010/2011 • CALENDAR OF EVENTS DATE

EVENT

DECEMBER 6-9 10-12

LOCATION

ILTM 2010 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace

JANUARY 2011 11-16 Vakantiebeurs 15-16 Travel & Adventure Show 16-18 Caribbean Marketplace 2011 18-21 Blossom Japan 19-23 FITUR 2011 20-23 Matka 20-23 ITF SlovakiaTour 20-24 SATH 14th Annual World Congress 22-23 The Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show 23-25 Florida Huddle 27-30 Tourism & Leisure Show 29-30 Travel & Adventure Show FEBRUARY 1-5 PATA AT&RT Conference/Mart 8-9 IMTM 2011 10-13 Holiday World 2011 10-13 EMITT 11-13 Boston Globe Travel Show 17-20 BIT 2011 17-20 Discover American Pavilion at BIT 2011 18-26 OTM 2011 18-26 Discover American Pavilion at OTM 2011 25-27 The NY Times Travel Show MARCH 9-13 ITB Berlin 2011 9-13 Discover American Pavilion at ITB Berlin 12-13 Travel & Adventure Show 16-19 MITT 2011 16-19 Discover American Pavilion at MITT 2011 19-20 Travel & Adventure Show 23-25 UITT 24-27 TUR 2011 24-27 Discover American Pavilion at TUR 2011 APRIL 7-10 SITC 2011 13-15 New Europe Travel Mart 14-16 Toursib 19-22 2011 ASTA IDE 20-22 Kazakhstan Intl. Travel & Tourism Fair 28-30 AITF MAY 12-15 TPOC Conference & Trade Show 16-18 Global Spa Summit 19-20 Faith Travel Conference & Expo 21-25 International Pow Wow 26-29 OneWorld Travel Mart JUNE 3-5 Karibu Travel Fair 9-12 ITE Hong Kong SEPTEMBER 11-13 Travel Mart Latin America 11-13 THETRADESHOW 22-25 FITA 2011 TO LIST YOUR EVENTS EMAIL :

8 • NOVEMBER 2010

editor@travelworldnews.com •

CONTACT

Cannes, France New Orleans, LA

www.reedexpo.co.uk www.ustoa.com

Utrecht, The Netherlands Santa Clara, CA Montego Bay, Jamaica Tokyo, Japan Madrid Spain Helsinki, Finland Bratislava, Slovak Republic Fort Lauderdale, FL Philadelphia, PA Daytona Beach, FL Ljubljana, Slovenia Chicago, IL

www.vakantiebeurs.nl www.adventureexpo.com www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com www.blossomjapan.com www.fituronline.com www.matkamessut.fi www.incheba.sk www.sath.org www.inquirertravelshow.com www.floridahuddle.com www.tourism-fair.com www.adventureexpo.com

Kathmandu, Nepal Tel Aviv, Israel Prague, Czech Republic Instanbul, Turkey Boston, MA Milan, Italy Milan, Italy Mumbai & New Delhi, India Mumbai & New Delhi, India New York, NY

www.pata.org www.ortra.com/imtm www.incheba.sk www.ite-exhibitions.com www.bostonglobetravelshow.com www.hospitalitynet.org www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.ttfotm.com/otm www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.nytts.com

Berlin, Germany Berlin, Germany Washington D.C. Moscow, Russia Moscow, Russia Los Angeles, CA Kiev, Ukraine Gothenburg, Sweden Gothenburg, Sweden

www1.messe-berlin.de www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.adventureexpo.com www.mitt.ru/en www.discoveramericapavilion.com www.adventureexpo.com www.ite-exhibitions.com www.nemonet.swefair.se www.discoveramericapavilion.com

Barcelona, Spain Dubrovnik, Croatia Novosibirsk Russia San Juan, Puerto Rico Almaty, Kazakhstan Baku, Azerbaijan

www.saloturisme.com www.neweuropetravelmart.com www.travel-exhibitions.com www.asta.org www.ite-exhibitions.com www.ite-exhibitions.com

Louisville, KY Bali, Indonesia Atlanta, GA San Francisco, CA San Francisco, CA

www.tpoc.org www.globalspasummit.org www.adventureexpo.com www.ustravel.org www.oneworldtravelmart.com

Arusha, Tanzania Hong Kong, China

www.karibufair.com www.itehk.com

Florianopolis, Brazil Las Vegas, NV Mexico City, Mexico

www.travelmartlatinamerica.com www.thetradeshow.org www.fitamx.com

FOR ADDITIONAL EVENTS VISIT:

www.travelworldnews.com/calendar

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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WILLIAM H.COLEMAN,INC. The Travel Industryโ s Leading Event Management Firm

INDUSTRY NEWS SUE HAMILTON JOINS EXPLORER VENTURES Explorer Ventures Liveaboard Diving has announced that Sue Hamilton has joined the company, effective September 20. As an integral part of the Explorer Ventures sales team, her responsibilities will include business development and sales, with initial focus on the international market.

Having spent 12 of the past 14 years working in a similar capacity for the Dancer Fleet (formerly Peter Hughes Diving), Hamilton brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. Clay McCardell, President of Explorer Ventures, stated, “We feel very fortunate that we are able to bring Sue on at this time as we prepare for the February 2011 launch of the beautiful and brand new Carpe Vita Explorer, in partnership with Amir Mansoor and Carp Diem Maldives Pvt. Ltd. The timing and ‘fit’ seem perfect.”

Hamilton commented, “I really like what I see at Explorer Ventures and am looking forward to working with SUE HAMILTON this team of dedicated dive professionals. They have a very basic formula that I believe equates to success—a commitment to providing uncompromised diving adventure at an exceptional value.”

Sue joins Sales Manager Diana Heaton, Marketing Manager Lynn Rodell, Galapagos General Manager (and PADI Course Director) Jennifer Cumming, and Mary Franklin and Wendy Barclay in providing personalized pre- and post-trip service complementing guest experiences aboard EV vessels. In addition to the Republic of the Maldives, the Explorer Ventures fleet offers itineraries in the Southern Bahamas, the Galapagos Archipelago, the Northeastern Caribbean (Saba, St. Kitts) and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Explorer Ventures, 800-322-3577, info@explorerventures.com, www.explorerventures.com

WENDY WU’S CHINA APPOINTS CAROL DIMOPOULOS PRESIDENT Wendy Wu’s Tours has appointed Carol Dimopoulos President of Wendy Wu’s China, the company’s new North American division.

Dimopoulos is based at Wendy Wu’s China’s New York office, which opened September 9.

While supervising sales managers and office personnel, she implemented new programs and systems that generated additional business as well as increased corporate sales. She successfully opened up the company’s European and South Pacific markets. She also served on the board of the Italian Travel Promotion Council and the international committee of the Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA). Other appointments were John Gilchrist to Vice President Sales—Western USA, and Christina Mucha as Vice President Sales—Eastern USA. Wendy Wu Tours’ prizewinning formula consists of fully inclusive tours, unique offerings, prices starting at $140 per day, entry to areas not accessible to other operators, and top-notch customer service.

Wendy Wu’s China is the largest China tour operator in the UK and Australia. Reservations, brochures and inCAROL DIMOPOULOS formation are available from travel agents and Wendy Wu’s China.

Wendy Wu’s China, 877-993-6399, www.wendywuschina.com

TRAVELSAVERS EXPANDS NATIONWIDE SERVICE TEAM IN RESPONSE TO NEW BUSINESS WINS

MELISSA ZENUK

Melissa Zenuk, MCC, has joined TRAVELSAVERS as Senior Director, Business Development, with responsibility for overseeing TRAVELSAVERS’ Business Development Managers across the country.

Melissa has been in the travel industry for the past 20 years, with proven expertise in sales, marketing, preferred vendor account management, human resources and agency operations. Most recently she was Regional Franchise Consultant for a major agency franchisor where she was responsible for a 12-state region of franchisees. She was also General Manager for a Dallas company that developed and administered travel loyalty programs for senior travelers. She also spent several years as a travel agent.

Other new hires are Jane Hershey, CTC, as Business Development Manager for the Midwest U.S., and Mary Grimes in the position of Business Development Manager for the Western U.S. TRAVELSAVERS, www.travelsavers.com

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Act of August 12, 1970: Section 3685, Title 39, United States Code) (1) Title of publication: TRAVEL WORLD NEWS.(2) Publication number: ISSN 1044-4602. (3) Date of filling: October 1, 2010. (4) Frequency of Issue: monthly. (5) Number of issues published annually: 12. (6) Annual subscription price: Free to qualified subscribers. (7) Complete mailing address of known office of publication: 28 Knight St, Norwalk, CT 06851-4770. (8) Complete mailing address of general business office of the publisher: 28 Knight St, Norwalk, CT 06851-4770. (9) Names and addresses of publisher, editor, managing editor: Publisher: Charles Gatt, Jr., 28 Knight St, Norwalk, CT 06851-4770. Editor: Charles Gatt, Jr. 28 Knight St, Norwalk, CT 06851-4770. (10) Owner: Travel Industry Network, Inc., Charles Gatt, Jr., 28 Knight St, Norwalk ,CT 06851-4770. (11) Known bondholders, mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding, 1% or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities: None. (12) Not applicable. (13) Publication name: Travel World News. (14) Issue date for circulation data below; October 1, 2010 (15) Extent and nature of circulation: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months: A. Total copies printed: 17256. B. Paid and/or requested circulation: 1. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors, and counter sales: None. 2. Paid or requested mail subscription: 8724. C. Total paid and/or requested circulation: 8724. D (1). Free distribution by mail: 37. D (4). Free distribution outside the mail 8239. E. Total free distribution (sum of D):8276 . F. Total distribution (sum of C and E): 17000. G. Copies not distributed: 1. Office use, leftover, spoiled after printing: 256. Returns from news agents: None. H. Total (sum of F and G): 17256. Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 50.55. Actual number of copies of a single issue published nearest to filing date: A. Total copies printed: 17355. B. Paid and/or requested circulation: 1. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors andcounter sales: None. 2. Paid or requested mail subscription: 8689. C. Total paid and/or requested circulation: 8689. D (1). Free distribution by mail: 49. D (4). Free distribution outside the mail: 8268. E. Total free distribution (sum of D): 8317. F. Total distribution (sum of C and E): 17006. G. Copies not distributed: 1. Office use, leftover, spoiled after printing: 249. 2. Returns from news agents: None. H. Total (sum of F and G): 17355. Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 50.06. (16) This statement of ownership will be printed in the November 2010 issue of this publication. (17) I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete.

– Charles Gatt, Jr., Publisher

10 • NOVEMBER 2010

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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NORTH AMERICA SDCVB ANNOUNCES HOTEL PACKAGES CELEBRATING THE SEASON IN SAN DIEGO

With holidays just around the corner, San Diego hotels are offering a bevy of packages loaded with extras and great value.

Now through March 31, 2011, the Sè San Diego Hotel is offering a Fall Experience package that includes a night’s accommodation with complimentary room upgrade (based on availability), 25 percent off breakfast or dinner at the hotel’s Suite & Tender restaurant, a free spa treatment with the purchase of one of equal or greater value and parking at $22 per night (originally $32). Rates start at $149, plus tax; rooms must be booked by December 30; blackout dates apply. Total retail value depends on the price of the meal and spa treatments. www.sesandiego.com Now through December 30, 2010, Pechanga Resort & Casino in the Temecula Valley Wine Country north of San Diego is offering a Fall Into Fun package that includes one night’s accommodation, a $10 Pechanga casino credit, free gift at Spa Pechanga, $25 discount on green fees for golf at Journey at Pechanga, $15 discount on any 50minute or greater service at Spa Pechanga, two-for-one admission to the Comedy Club at Pechanga (Wednesday/Thursday nights), 15-percent discount at the Shops at Pechanga or for Spa Pechanga retail products and complimentary dessert with purchase of entrée at Kelsey’s restaurant. Rates start at $109, plus tax; offer valid Sunday through Thursday. Total retail value of items in package starts at $80.

Promotional code: FALL. 888-732-2642, www.pechanga.com Now through December 31, 2010, the Westin Gaslamp Quarter downtown is offering an opportunity to kick-start holiday shopping with the Macy’s Package that includes a night’s accommodation and a $100 Macy’s gift card. Rates start at $199, plus tax. The offer is based on availability; blackout dates apply. Reservations require a non-refundable prepayment. Total retail value of package items: $100. Promotional code: CMY. 866-716-8137, www.westin.com Now through December 31, 2010, luxurious US GRANT hotel is offering the Bloomingdale’s Holiday Shopping package that includes two nights’ accommodations, daily breakfast for two at Grant Grill, a $100 Bloomingdale’s gift card plus 10-percent shopping discount at Bloomingdale’s in San Diego’s Fashion Valley shopping center, a consultation with a Bloomingdale’s 12 • NOVEMBER 2010

‘At Your Service Personal Stylist’ and after-shopping specialty cocktail and appetizer at Grant Grill. Rates start at $500, plus tax; blackout dates apply. The discount is valid only at the Bloomingdale’s Fashion Valley location for purchases in conjunction with the gift card. Total retail value of items: $245.

866-716-8136, www.usgrant.net Westin San Diego is offering two packages November 18 through January 1, 2011. The Holiday Cheer package includes a night’s accommodation, a $50 gift card to nearby Westfield Horton Plaza shopping mall, complimentary gift wrapping for up to five boxed gifts and seasonal cocktail and appetizer amenity. The offer’s priced at $179, plus tax. Total retail value of package items: $125.

Promotional code is HOLISHOP. A Family Traditions package includes two nights’ accommodations, a professional portrait session against the backdrop of the hotel’s sparkling holiday decorations and CD of digital photos, dinner for four featuring classic holiday fare at the hotel’s 400 West restaurant and an in-room holiday movie with chocolate treats and caramel corn. The offer is priced at $358, plus tax. Total retail value of items in package: $200. Promotional code is FAMTRAD. Both offers are based on availability; blackout dates apply. 800-Westin-1 (937-8461), www.westin.com/sandiego Available November 20, 2010 through January 1, 2011, the iconic Hotel del Coronado has two deals. The Holiday Stocking Stuffer includes a night’s accommodation, a $75 resort credit valid at resort boutiques and 50-percent off self-parking. Rates start at $299, plus tax and $25 resort fee. Total retail value of items: $87.50. Holiday Escape includes a night’s accommodation, a commemorative 2010 Hotel del Coronado holiday ornament, breakfast buffet for two adults at Sheerwater and 50 percent off self-parking. Rates start at $299, plus tax and $25 resort fee. Total retail value of items: $90.50. Both offers are based on availability and blackout dates apply. 800-HOTEL-DEL (468-5335), www.hoteldel.com/holiday-packages Available November 1, 2010 through February 28, 2011, the Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego’s North County is offering the Sugar & Spice Ultimate Girlfriends’ Getaway package that includes one night’s accommodation, an in-room amenity featuring a selection of Oprah-approved books and Sex In The City DVD, spa manicures and pedicures paired with mimosas and muffins, a pair of spa amenities, gourmet spa lunch and after-spa wine flight and bites for two. Priced at $589 ppdo, plus tax and $20 resort fee, total retail value of items in this package is $520. Promotional code is SUGAR&SPICE. 877-517-9340, www.ranchobernardoinn.com On December 31, 2010, the luxurious AAA Five Diamond-rated Grand Del Mar is offering the Grand Finale package that includes one night’s accommodation, sparkling wine and savory snacks on arrival, a romantic seven-course New Year’s Eve dinner for two with wine pairings at the award-winning Addison restaurant, admission to the resort’s Grand New Year’s Eve Party featuring Wayne Foster Entertainment, breakfast-in-bed for two and complimentary overnight valet parking. Rates start at $995, plus tax www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

NORTH AMERICA and gratuity. Total retail value of items: $416. 888-314-2030, www.thegranddelmar.com Available December 1, 2010, through February 28, 2011, the Holiday Inn San Diego Bayside is offering the Whale of a Deal package that includes two nights’ accommodations and two tickets for a three-hour whale watching excursion. Priced at $99 per night, plus tax; the offer is available for Friday and Saturday stays only; blackout dates apply. Reservations must be made at least two days in advance of arrival and require a non-refundable prepayment.

Total retail value of items in package: $50. Promotional code: “Whale of a Deal.” 800-662-8899 San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.sandiego.org

FAIRBANKS CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU RELEASES NEW WINTER GUIDE The 2010-2011 Fairbanks Winter Guide is now available for free.

The 32-page full color booklet with winter activity listings and an action-packed events calendar offers an informative, yet lighthearted view of winter in interior Alaska and the Arctic.

Winter in Fairbanks emanates a quality of light, energy and warmth found nowhere else on earth. It’s not just the northern lights that mystify, but vast panoramas astound. It’s the shimmering light from a larger-than-life-sized ice sculpture, and the glow from the woodstove in a rustic cabin five minutes from downtown, the enthusiasm of sled dogs ready to run and the warmth of a natural mineral hot springs in energizing temperatures. Surrounded by miles of pristine wilderness, Fairbanks enjoys the amenities and energy of a vibrant downtown and thriving cultural scene linked closely to outdoor action.

Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau (FCVB), 800-327-5774, www.explorefairbanks.com

4 DIAMONDS FOR ANDALUZ IN FIRST YEAR Newly opened and remodeled Hotel Andaluz recently received the AAA Four Diamond Award, the only hotel property in Albuquerque to receive this distinction and one of the only boutique hotels in the country to achieve this rating in its first year of operation. The AAA Four Diamond Rating is North America’s premier rating.

Hotels that receive the Four Diamond rating must excel in 27 separate criteria. According to AAA, “Four Diamond establishments are upscale in all areas. Accommodations are progressively more refined and stylish. The physical attributes reflect an obvious enhanced level of quality throughout. The fundamental hallmarks at this level include an extensive array of amenities combined with a high degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail.”

Hotel Andaluz underwent a $30-million renovation to bring it to a luxurious level incorporating modern technology and ecofriendly, LEED-certified standards, while preserving the building’s historic integrity. The hotel was designed by Conrad Hilton and opened as a Hilton in Downtown Albuquerque in 1939.

Hotel Andaluz is managed by Gemstone Hotels & Resorts.

Hotel Andaluz, www.hotelandaluz.com; Gemstone Hotels & Resorts, www.gemstoneresorts.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

HOTEL PARQ CENTRAL OPENS IN 1920s HOSPITAL Recently-opened Hotel Parq Central was built on the renovated site of Santa Fe Hospital. first opened in 1926. The hospital was built by the Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad to serve their employees and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Hotel Parq Central was designed by local Studio Southwest Architects Inc., Klinger Constructors, and HVL Interiors with a nod to the past while keeping in mind today’s guest needs. Original clay tiles, 1926-era windows, and a grand staircase provide the backdrop for modern touches such as free wireless Internet, iPod data connectors, and LCD flat-panel TVs. Local residents and guests alike will enjoy sipping 1920s-themed cocktails at the new rooftop “Apothecary Lounge” while admiring skyline and mountain views. The lounge features a wall decoupage of vintage-era medicinal labels, an original operating lamp and a table formed from a 1940s coffin carrier.

Starting rates begin at $139/night and include amenities such as free parking, gourmet continental breakfast, free wireless Internet in public areas and guestrooms, and complimentary coffee/tea service on each floor.

Hotel Parq Central, www.hotelparqcentral.com; Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.itsatrip.org

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www.artaonline.com NOVEMBER 2010 •

13

EUROPE

‘Meet Poland 2010’ Workshop In Warsaw Attracted Participants From Over 20 Countries ANN CHARLES

14 • NOVEMBER 2010

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

GAVIN HELLIER/CORBIS

M

eet Poland 2010,” the Polish incoming tourism workshop in Warsaw, September 30-October 1, sponsored by the Polish Tourism Organization (the Polish National Tourist Board) and the Polish Airlines LOT was a smash success. It attracted representatives from over twenty countries, and many plan to return to Poland next year, or the following year for the Euro 2012 football championships organized by UEFA in Warsaw and other Polish cities.

The fifth workshop of its kind, this year’s event organized by the Polish Consortium of Incoming Tourism in Warsaw, attracted buyers and sellers from Europe’s Baltic Sea region, namely, Lithuania, Latvia, Germany, Russia, Sweden, and Poland, as well as The Mermaid Fountain in the old town square in Warsaw, Poland.

Norway the USA, Japan, Turkey, Syria, Israel, Cyprus, Georgia, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, will co-host the Euro 2012 football events organized by the UEFA. and Ukraine.

In interviewing several buyers and sellers, it was obvious Most interesting to overseas travelers from the United States, was the variety of different languages spoken at this that the participants felt that joint promotions really do work, event. If you thought that Polish and English were the only and the Polish incoming tourism workshop was an effective languages spoken at “Meet Poland 2010”, then think again. way of finding the right partners within a short period of Besides these languages, since a high number of participants time, while discovering Warsaw, the capital of Poland, and came from Italy, the Italian language could be heard almost other fascinating regions such as Mazovia and Lodz, one of everywhere. Dr. Antonino Maressa, General Manager, Poland’s youngest cities.

The organizers of Meet Poland 2010, namely, the Incoming Gruppo Parisi Italia in Viaggio, Messina, Italy, kept the flow of travel talk and exchange of viewpoints going in both Italian Tourism Forum, the Hospitality Polish Chamber of and English. Overall, the Italian sense of humor, love of Commerce, the Polish Chamber of Tourism, the Warsaw Chamber of Tourism, Stowarzyszenie Zarzadcow Obiektow music, and joy of life kept spirits soaring throughout.

In fact, even Lithuanian Rasa Indilaite, Conference Rekreacyjno-Turystycznych and ITG Events, the organizer/ Department Manager, West Express, Vilnius, Lithuania, who coordinator, put together a well-balanced program that was studied tourism in Italy, spoke fluently in Italian, as well as organized to get the best possible results for members of the in English and Lithuanian. On the other hand, Nona tourism industry.

Playing a key role in the success of the workshop was Buzueva, Travel Consultant, Incoming Travel, Estravel, based in Vilnius, as well, used her language skills in Polish, Marek Traczyk. Fluent in several different languages, and Russian, English, and Lithuanian to promote business dur- skilled in handling any situation with a good sense of humor, ing the workshop which was held in the Gromada Hotel Marek did make a difference. Whether he greeted us upon Conference Centre. Latvians Elina Vitola, Group Manager, arrival at the hotel, or was the Master of Ceremonies in openRelaks Ture, and Ruta Skindra, Product Manager, Express ing up the official progam at the Hotel Gromada Centrum in Travel, both from Riga, were satisfied with the outcome of the Warsaw, Marek was someone we could count on. Besides, as a US President Bill Clinton look-a-like, he was easy to spot.

Workshop and other events.

The Ukrainians sent a sizeable group to the Workshop, and At the opening, that delicious display of freshly baked bread both the Ukrainian and Russian languages, along with by Piekarnia Ratuszowa, created a warm friendly atmosEnglish were widely spoken. Together with Poland, Ukraine phere instantly.

EUROPE During the introductions to the “Meet Polish 2010” Workshop, the organizers, including the Polish Tourist Board (Polish Tourism National Board) said they hoped that the negotiations conducted during the Workshop would be fruitful, participants would have a good time in Poland, and that they would return next year. Besides the more than 20 countries represented, over 80 representatives of Polish travel agencies were in attendance. In other words, this was a very successful turnout, and no matter whom you spoke to, the response was definitely positive.

The centrally located Gromada Hotel, in particular, was an excellent choice for this type meeting. As noted in remarks made by the representative of the hotel chain who welcomed the participants on behalf of two Gromada hotels in Warsaw, and 12 Gromodas in Europe, he hoped that those attending the Workshop would sign contracts and cooperate with their hotels.

However, in Warsaw, or outside the city, there were many opportunities to check out Polish hotels, while enjoying the country’s fine restaurants. For example, participants were invited to attend a Gala Dinner at the Novotel Warszawa Airport. Stealing the spotlight when it comes to a spectacular show was the Hotel Mazurkas. The sightseeing bus tour of Warsaw was

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

followed by a typical Polish feast at Hawira Restaurant.

Outside Warsaw, there were visits to Frederyk Chopin’s birthplace and childhood home in Mazovia, and a stay in the contemporary Andel’s Hotel in Lodz with its sky spa. The charming Grand Hotel in Lodz known for the many famous actors, directors, and eminent personalities who stayed there, is called the “film hotel”, said host, Tomasz Tomaszenski.

In looking ahead, according to tour operators like Misha Jovanovic, Owner/General Manager of Misha Tours in San Diego, California, he was very interested in the 2012 Euro football championships in Warsaw and other Polish cities. A member of a soccer team for older men himself, Misha speaks Serbian, English and living in San Diego, no doubt some Spanish. Even the Polish tour director, Kazimierz Kwasiborski, Agence Des Voyages “Kwatour” spoke to us both in Spanish and English at the airport.

Sharing a similar interest in packages to the 2012 Euro games was Madalina Grosu from a travel management company in Bucharest, Romania called Happy Tour. Easy to talk to, and enthusiastic about the tourism industry, she expects continued growth for this type business in the future.

Meet Poland 2010, www.meetpoland.pl; Polish National Tourist Office North America, www.poland.travel

NOVEMBER 2010 •

15

EUROPE

Cruise From the Heart of the Mediterranean Experience the Maltese Islands

A

ll year round Cruising in the Mediterranean is gaining popularity with cruise companies who are beginning to appreciate the competitive advantage of the Maltese Islands and their position in the Mediterranean that allows diversified itinerary planning. The possibility of Malta being utilised as a permanent hub for Eastern, Western and Southern Mediterranean cruising is being favourably considered by key players in the cruise industry due to the Islands’ undisputed proximity to major European Cities and strategic positioning 60 miles south of Sicily and 120 miles from North Africa. With a multilingual resident population, stable economic & commercial investment opportunities, a pleasant year-round climate, competitive refurbishment services and state of the art Port services, TUI has been quick to step in and confirm the home port presence of it’s elegant Mein Schiff as from Spring 2011.

Mein Schiff is in fact offering a choice of three itineraries to its passengers, further confirming Malta’s competitive edge in cruising diversification. TUI’s move will undoubtedly be under scrutiny by other major liners in the industry, who are clearly seeking an alternative base in effort to pull away from crowded ports in the Mediterranean. In their 2010 market overview, the Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) claims that close to 50 million North Americans intend to embark on a Cruise over the next three years. In fact, the bed night capacity for Liners targeting the US market for the Mediterranean has already increased from 17,536 in 2009, to 18,538 in 2010.

The MSC Splendida which successfully graced the quay of the Grand Harbour since its launch, a little more than a year ago. This beauty shall make way for its twin sister, the elegant MSC Fantasia, which shall be operating a turn-around from the Valletta waterfront between November 2010 and April 2011. The strong presence of such prestigious liners strengthens Malta’s Cruise & Stay offer, which is being cheered on by all stakeholders on the Maltese Islands. With its agreeable

The magnificent MSC Splendida entering Valletta.

climate well into the winter months, multi-lingual culture, 76 flight connections on schedule to airports in Europe, North Africa and Middle East on both scheduled and low cost air carriers and an abundance of quality 3 star to 5 star accommodation, visitors are finding that a Malta + Cruise package is definitely great value for money. Passengers that opt to embark or disembark in Malta from their Mediterranean cruise are privy to the deeper secrets that this Island has to offer.

From gastronomy delights found in the quaint villages and restaurants hidden along the colourful fishing town seafronts, to the City of Valletta – a baroque city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage City. A passenger’s first experience on sailing into the Grand Harbour is an unforgettable one. Valletta’s imposing walls are reminiscent of fortified Rhodes only more majestic & overpowering. This is a living testament to the Knights of St. John and the unified vision that have held the Islands together, not only against the Turks in the infamous siege of 1565, but throughout history. It is no wonder that Malta is referred to as the Fortress Island. The most recent and prestigious honour bestowed upon Malta, was by Britain, in the form of the George Cross. This reward was in recognition for the Island’s Bravery, gallantly displayed during a relentless siege of bombings and attacks during WWII. The Maltese Islands offer a rich cultural entertainment Fall & Winter calendar for all palettes. Combined with excellent climate for outdoor trekking, diving, water sport or a romantic get-away on the sister island of Gozo, you can also find yourself being spoilt at one of the fantastic Spas & Resort on these Islands.

For in-the-know events happening in Malta over the winter months, take a peek at the events page on our website.

Malta Tourism Authority, info@visitmalta.com; www.visitmalta.com Mein Schiff to Home Port in Malta from 2011.

16 • NOVEMBER 2010

© Francesca Vincenti, Malta Tourism Authority www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN RESOURCE DIRECTORY Caravan-Serai Tours knows and understands our destinations.

Our multi-cultural office staff hail from Jordan, Egypt, Iran, and the U.S., and have travelled all over the world, looking for opportunities to meet new people and learn about their culture and traditions for our clients.

800-451-8097

www.caravan-serai.com

GMTours specializes in programs to Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Turkey, Greece, Spain, Dubai & Morocco.

In addition to our advertised packaged tours, which offer excellent value, we customize a program to suit specific requirements. Our tours can be booked individually or in your choice of combinations. GMTours strives to maintain superior customer satisfaction.

EGYPT TOURS AND TRAVEL is a Land and Cruise Tour operator whichspecializes in tours to Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, Kenya, Greece, and Iran.

We use some of the most sophisticated and luxurious cruise ships on the Nile today!

We will be happy to customize any short or long program to meet your budget and schedule. Call on us for ideas, imaginative programs, pricing, transportation, including deluxe coaches and limousines, reservations for hotels, cruises on the Nile or Lake Nasser, air and rail travel, scuba diving and desert safaris.

800-836-6836

800-223-4978

www.misrtravel.org

800-783-7839 www.sunnylandtours.com

800-248-3487 www.foreign-independent-tours.com

www.egypttours.com

www.gmtours.com

SUNNY LAND TOURS is one of the largest specialists to Egypt and the Middle East, and had been known as a Mediterranean and Middle East specialist tour operator until the company expanded its product line to Central America and South America, and as a result of this move Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru and Galapagos have become one of Sunny Landâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most important destinations.

For more than 25 years, Foreign Independent Tours has been dedicated to providing travelers with the experience of a lifetime... one filled with excitement, comfort, luxury, and great memories.

We offer an array of escorted group tours and vacations featuring Africa, Bali, Budget Travel, Central and Eastern Europe, Egypt, India, Italy, Jordan, Luxury Edition, Malta, Morocco, Small Groups, Turkey, and we specialize in private car and custom tours.

World Express offers one-of-a-kind worldwide services with a special emphasis in Israel and the neighboring countries of Jordan, Egypt, Greece and Turkey. Today, World Express is the leading tour operator to Israel, offering exciting, informative, affordable travel to the Holy Land and the world beyond for tourists of all religions and nationalities.

800-441-8908 www.worldexpresstravel.com

Relying on the experience of its Egyptian sister company Sakkara Tours, STI Voyages has become one of the top French tour operators, serving over 70 thousand travelers.

We thrive to provide our customers with tailor made programs while focusing on memorable voyages of discovery and relaxation where every destination, cruise, cultural circuit, safari and sea resort can be relished individually or in groups.

www.sti-travel.com

The exotic Mediterranean is our home, where each one of our visitors is welcome and treated as our personal guest.

We recognize the significant responsibility of sending travelers to this region, rich in cultural, historical, spiritual and emotional significance.

Yaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;lla Tours USA has made a commitment to excellence that will meet and often even surpass all expectations.

800-644-1595

www.yallatours.com

EUROPE FAMOUS ITALIAN VILLA NOW AVAILABLE TO RENT THROUGH DOORWAYS LTD.

charm and magic. Designer Jane Thompson incorporated an eclectic mix of both contemporary and antique furniture from across Europe.

A rustic farmhouse adjacent to the villa completes the property for rent. Accommodating a total of 18 guests, this famous piece of Cortona is ideal for families, large groups of friends or destination weddings. “This is the perfect opportunity for guests to step into a movie set and live out their own adventure,” says Kit Burns, President of Doorways Ltd. More information on this as well as other villa rentals throughout Europe, including villas in Lazio and day trips in the surrounding area, is available on Villa Vacations’ website. Doorways Ltd. has been providing exclusive villas to rent since 1994.

Doorways Villa Vacations, www.villavacations.com

SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES PUTS ECONOMY EXTRA ON SALE

After four years, a labor of Italian love is now complete—Villa Laura, the famed setting for the film Under the Tuscan Sun has been completely restored and is available to rent for the first time.

The famous Italian villa was purchased by the owners of the California winery Cline Cellars after consulting with Doorways Ltd., experts who rent villas across Europe.

Much as the lead character in Under the Tuscan Sun, Villa Laura went through its own rebirth. Kitchens and bathrooms were custom-crafted by a Tuscan artist, using marble surfaces and restored original stonewalls. Wooden beds were replaced with wroughtironed handcrafted frames from a local artisan and topped with the finest English linens.

The property is beautifully landscaped with a thriving rose garden that frames a new in-ground pool, Jacuzzi, and Roman fountain. Despite its transformation, Villa Laura retains its original

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is offering a special fare of $799 each way for travel from the U.S. to Scandinavia and Finland in Economy Extra, its premium economy service.

The offer is available on SAS flights from New York (Newark), Chicago and Washington D.C (Dulles), plus more than 60 other U.S. cities, to Scandinavia and Finland, via Copenhagen and Stockholm.

The offer is valid for outbound travel until March 31, 2011, with the exception of December 15–23, 2010. Other conditions and restrictions also apply.

SAS was one of the first airlines in the world to offer a premium economy cabin, and its Economy Extra cabin features seats that are one inch wider and have six inches more leg room than Economy, with laptop power at each seat, enhanced meal service and audio/video on demand. Economy Extra customers travel in a separate cabin and can also enjoy Business class check-in, Fast Track security and priority boarding. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information about Economy Extra and SAS’ three service classes—Economy, Economy Extra and Business—or to book flights, those interested should log on to the website.

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), www.flysas.com/us

Grand!

Malta, Gozo &

Co mino

The M editerranean’ s best kept s ecret.

18 • NOVEMBER 2010

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CARIBBEAN

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

BIRD OF PARADISE VILLA Anguilla, BWI

Nestled amidst tropical gardens and caressed by the azure water of the Caribbean Sea, the Baoase Luxury Resort is an idyllic retreat tucked away on the stunning island of Curacao.

Featuring luxury villas and suites.

Named one of the top 20 villas in the world by Islands magazine.

All the services and amenities of a resort at a far lower cost.

USA: 1.414.791.9461 AnguillaBird@ yahoo.com www.AnguillaBird.com

888-409-3506

www.baoase.com

The Only Grand Cayman Island Beachfront Resort

A flawless setting for life’s superlative moments, from weddings and family reunions to social gatherings and private celebrations, perfectly tailored for couples, families, and groups of all kinds to uphold traditions and create new memories.

866-604-3764

www.tuckerspoint.com

Hidden away on an estate in Tortola, Long Bay it rises up the hillside from a mile of talcum-powder sand caressed by the gentle Caribbean Sea. Dive or sail around the island’s hidden treasures, or just relax in the spa. Pampering, ocean views, adventure, relaxation come standard at Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas.

866-237-3491

www.longbay.com

We offer full service amenities: ~Pelican’s Reef – international cuisine, full wine list ~Rusty Pelican – casual fare with mojitos to mango margaritas ~Full-service Spa ~Concierge Service 888-232-0541

www.thereef.com

Rosalie Bay’s mission is threefold: Discover the harmonious blend of luxury, tranquillity and seclusion of

1. Protect the local environment 2. Empower local residents by boosting their livelihoods 3. Showcase the beauty of Dominica to the outside world by developing a world class nature resort

www.rosaliebay.com

Sugar Cane Club Hotel and Spa, All our Condos are owned by private owners, and rented via our two reservation offices.

At Sand Dollar, every condo faces the ocean.

All rooms are situated to catch the trade winds and the bedrooms are air-conditioned.

www.sanddollarbonaire.com

a select hill top boutique hotel overlooking the exotic West coast of Barbados.

The Mediterranean architecture and warm ambiance, combined with lush Barbados tropical beauty forms a welcoming elegance and atmosphere.

www.sugarcaneclub.com

CARIBBEAN BUCUTI & TARA BEACH RESORTS ACHIEVE ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION FOR EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

There are new mattresses and colorful fabrics on all furnishings. The Grand Case Beach Club has again been named to Expedia’s Insiders Select List, which includes only about two per cent of all of Expedia’s total hotel and resort listings. The resort has been cited for exceptional service and hospitality by readers of Caribbean Travel & Life Magazine, participants in Apple Vacations tours, and TripAdvisor.

The oceanfront resort’s amenities include a swimming pool, fitness and water sports centers, car rental facility and an island boutique. The Boardwalk, which wraps around the hill overlooking the ocean, now connects to the Sunset Cafe, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as Happy Hour seven days a week.

Grand Case Beach Club, 800-340-3016, info@gcbc.com, www.grandcasebeachclub.com

Aruba’s Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts, a leader in sustainable tourism, recently attained ISO 9001–2008 and ISO 14001 certification for the eighth consecutive year as a result of the resort’s continued commitment to upholding environmentally responsible hotel operations.

Members of Bucuti’s management team celebrated the news with ISO auditor Peter Hackett: (left to right) Pete Hackett, Robert Habes, Toine Schoofs, Dany Lopez Henriquez, Nashette Wouters, Jelitza Loopstok, Frank Briezen, Deborah Dintelman, Agnes de Palm, Kimberly de Cuba, Romy Ras, Ignacio Ortiz and Fernando Caro.

Bucuti Beach Resort Aruba/Tara Beach Suites & Spa, www.bucuti.com

WINAIR ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL FLIGHTS TO DOMINICA’S CANEFIELD AIRPORT

FREE NIGHTS, ‘HONEYMOON MAGIC’ PACKAGE OFFERED THIS WINTER AT GRAND CASE BEACH CLUB Guests starting and finishing their vacations at the Grand Case Beach Club in St. Martin between November 1 and December 18, 2010, and January 2–31, 2011, will have their fifth night free. This special offer only applies to new reservations and may not be combined with any other promotion.

The oceanfront resort, located just a few hundred yards from Grand Case Village, the gastronomic capital of the island, is again offering its “Honeymoon Magic” package from December 19, 2010, to April 15, 2011. This package is popular not only for honeymooners, but for second honeymooners and incurable romantics as well.

Available for either three or seven nights, the package includes airconditioned accommodations with either balcony or terrace; continental breakfast daily; a bottle of red or white wine; welcome cocktail; match-play vouchers for use at the Dutch side casinos; car rental one day (gas and insurance extra); a Grand Case beach bag; island floral bouquet; picnic basket for two one day; use of their tennis court and all non-motorized water sports equipment. Rates begin at $1,055 per couple for three nights and $2,375 for seven.

Renovations at Grand Case are now complete, including those in the last ten bathrooms, featuring mahogany countertops, new mirrors, indirect lighting, new commodes and pocket doors in most.

20 • NOVEMBER 2010

Discover Dominica Authority has announced that WinAir now has nonstop flights three days each week flights from Antigua to Dominica’s Canefield Airport, just a five-minute drive to Roseau, making travel to Dominica from Antigua more convenient.

“We are pleased that WinAir recognizes and has responded to the need for increased flights to and from Dominica. These new flights provide early morning and late-afternoon departures each way, allowing travelers in Antigua and Dominica to make day trips between the two islands. Additionally, the late-afternoon departure from Antigua affords Dominica-bound passengers the opportunity to use Antigua as a connecting gateway,” commented Colin Piper, Director of Tourism/CEO of Discover Dominica Authority.

WinAir is operating a 19-seat Twin Otter aircraft between Antigua (ANU) and Dominica (DCF) each Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday on the following schedule: (Antigua to Dominica) flight WM 381 departs 6:30 a.m. and arrives 7:30 a.m. and flight WM 387 departs 3:55 p.m. arriving 4:55 p.m.; (Dominica to Antigua) flight WM 382 departs 7:50 a.m. and arrives 8:50 a.m. and flight WM 388 departs 5:15 p.m. arriving 6:15 p.m.

Of volcanic origins with mountains reaching heights of nearly 5,000 feet, rainforests that are considered among the last true oceanic rainforests in the world, more than 365 rivers, waterfalls the second largest Boiling Lake in the world and pristine coral reefs, Dominica’s natural diversity is unique. National Geographic’s Center for Sustainable Destination ranked the island as the top sustainable island in the Caribbean and among the top ten in the world. Dominica was recognized by Islands Magazine and was included in its 2007 Blue List for being a leader in responsible tourism and ensuring an environmentally and culturally sound island for future generations. Travel + Leisure also announced Dominica as one of the most compelling destinations to visit in their 100 Greatest Trips 2008 edition. Dominica was recognized as the second most “pure island” in the world in the April/May 2010 issue of Islands Magazine.

WinAir, 866-466-0410, www.fly-winair.com; Discover Dominica Authority, 866-522-4057, www.discoverdominica.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CARIBBEAN STUART COVE’S DIVE BAHAMAS AND SHERATON TEAM UP FOR HALF-OFF DIVE DEAL Good for a short time only, an incredible half-off dive special is being offered jointly by Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas and Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort. Priced at just $429.50 ppdo, the Sheraton Dive Bahamas Half Off Fall Deal includes three nights at the beautiful resort along with two days of two-tank morning dives at worldfamous Stuart Cove’s. Total package price for two persons is $859, available through December 23, 2010.

Diving caters to certified divers who want to explore the walls, reefs, and wrecks surrounding New Providence Island. The price includes tanks, weights and roundtrip transfers to shop.

Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas, 800-879-9832, info@stuartcove.com, www.stuartcove.com

QUEEN’S GARDENS RESORT, SABA ANNOUNCES ROYAL SPA TRYST Queen’s Gardens Resort in Saba, the “Unspoiled Queen” of Caribbean islands, is inviting guests to a royal escape with the Total Relax Spa Package. This four-night offer, priced at $1,600 ppdo, is designed as a sanctuary through massages, fine dining and excursions.

Guests enjoy a private-floor superior suite, where they can behold the Caribbean Sea view while soaking in their private Jacuzzi, and delight in the Queen’s Signature Massage for two en-suite.

A royal four-course dinner, two-course lunch and daily continental breakfast are prepared by Chef Keith, whose Caribbean dishes are described as “east meets west, en francais.” A guided tour of Saba offers a VIP view of Saba’s unique charm.

Back at the resort, daily indulgences come standard. Guests may relax by the pool or in the lounge shaded by mango trees. A welcome cocktail, WiFi, fitness room, chaise lounges and beach towels and farewell gift are included in all stays.

Queen’s Gardens Resort embodies Saba intimacy. Nicknamed “the Unspoiled Queen,” the Caribbean’s smallest island receives an average of just 25,000 visitors a year, ensuring the intimacy travelers crave. Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Award named Saba as 2010 Top Island in the Caribbean.

Queen’s Gardens Resort, www.queensaba.com

include a round trip ticket from Miami to Curacao.

For complete details and to enter this contest, guests are asked to stop by booth #444 at the show.

All West Apartments & Diving, www.allwestcuracao.com

NEW WATERFRONT SUITES AT TRUE BLUE BAY RESORT READY FOR DECEMBER Ready in December, 10 spectacular suites are designed to bring the natural beauty of Grenada’s True Blue Bay into a room full of Caribbean comfort and leisure at True Blue Bay Resort. Featuring tropical-designed furnishing, indulgent fabrics and easygoing colors, these two level suites each have a relaxing living room, kitchen and dining area, and generous balcony with comfy beach beds on the lower floor. The upper level has a queen bed, ample bathroom with shower and an intimate veranda with cozy outdoor chairs to sit and enjoy the astounding panoramic view of the bay.

All rooms are equipped with AC, fan, cable flat-screen TV, iHome, and wireless Internet.

To celebrate, booking a True Blue style Standard room by November 30, 2010, earns a free upgrade to their new Waterfront Suites. A seven-night minimum stay is required. The offer is based on availability, and no other discounts apply.

True Blue Bay Resort, waterfront@truebluebay.com, www.truebluebay.com

ALL WEST APARTMENTS & DIVING OFFERING PRIZE CONTEST AT DEMA Ocean Encounters West, All West Apartments & Diving and the Kura Hulanda Lodge will be represented at DEMA 2010 at booth #444 in the Curacao pavilion.

This year, show guests will get a chance to experience awesome Curacao packages and enter a contest for prizes that will be raffled off every day. These prizes will include a one-week accommodation at Allwest Apartments, Nos Krusero Apartments or the Lodge Kura Hulanda plus a rental vehicle for the week and six days’ non-limit diving or a five-days/two-tank boat diving with Ocean Encounters West. The Grand Prize at the end of the show will also Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

NOVEMBER 2010•

21

CARIBBEAN PRIVATE CHEF FOR HOLIDAY DINNER AT ANGUILLA’S BIRD OF PARADISE

CARIBBEAN DIVE TRAVEL ON SPECIAL THIS FALL WITH MADURO TRAVEL

Anguilla’s Bird of Paradise offers the perfect gathering place for friends and family this Thanksgiving or anytime of the year.

Whether it’s a party of two or ten, clients will have exclusive use of the award-winning villa, offering all the spaciousness and comforts of a private home with all the services and amenities of a resort. Each suite has a private veranda and equal views of the beach. No one will get the dreaded “garden view.”

For those who mention Travel World News when calling, clients will receive a complimentary dinner prepared by a private chef.

There are four exquisite dining experiences at the Bird of Paradise that include dinner by one of the lagoon-style pools or in front of a roaring fire in the exterior living room. The cost of the chef, servers, food and a bottle of wine for each couple are complimentary. This is a $1,000 value and is available through June 1, 2011.

Also included is meet and greet at the ferry or dock, daily continental breakfast and housekeeping, Bvlgari amenities, wireless Internet, and complimentary phone calls to North America and Europe. The concierge is available to arrange golf, in-villa spa treatments, yacht charters and more. A five-night minimum is required. Rates for a party of eight start at $275 per person per day, not including tax and service charge.

Details are available by emailing Melody Dill. The Travel World News special must be mentioned to take advantage of the special offer.

Bird of Paradise, anguillabird@yahoo.com, www.anguillabird.com

Summer is over and autumn is a wonderful transition season for travel before the cold of winter. This fall, Maduro Travel is offering some terrific travel specials to divers wishing to enjoy the beautiful azure waters of the Caribbean at bargain prices.

At Brac Reef Beach Resort in Cayman Brac, their Cayman Sister Island Special, good through December 18, is available for $984 ppdo and includes seven nights’ accommodations, airport transfers, breakfast and dinner daily and six days of two-tank boat dives.

An all-inclusive Bahamas Special is available at Paradise Island Harbour Resort for $869 ppdo. It includes five nights’ island-view accommodations, all meals and beverages (including house wine, local beer and liquor), hotel taxes and service charges, and three days of two-tank boat dives with Stuart Cove.

This special is also good through December 18, 2010.

At All West Apartments in Curacao, a special that includes a free night and one free day of shore diving plus a vehicle is available for just $657 ppdo.

Included in the offer are seven nights’ studio accommodations with seven-day double-cabin pickup truck rental, and six days of unlimited air for shore diving. The offer is available through December 15.

Divers may enjoy luxurious Sandals Royal Bahamiam Resort in Nassau for $1,889 ppdo through December 18. This Maduro special called 60% Off Sale All-inclusive Luxury includes seven nights’ manor house premium room all-inclusive luxury accommodations, airport transfers, all meals, snacks and beverages (including alcoholic drinks), and up to six days of two-tank boat dives (morning and/or afternoon).

At Captain Don’s Habitat, Bonaire, divers can take advantage of two nights free for just $766 ppdo from November 27 to December 18, 2010.

This deal includes seven nights’ deluxe ocean view accommodations, welcome rum punch, buffet breakfast daily, manager’s party, six single-tank boat dives, six days of 24-hour unlimited shore diving, taxes, service charges and energy surcharges (except on free nights). Dive ‘n Drive is also available.

Maduro’s Best Rate Guarantee is applicable to all packages.

Assistance with airfare and travel insurance, and further info about group travel, air-inclusive packages and custom quotes are available toll-free or by email.

Recognized as an innovative leader in dive travel, Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas offers dive packages to over 36 countries worldwide.

Currently there are more than 225 resorts and adventure operators along with over 48 liveaboard dive vessels in their Select Dive Destinations program.

Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas, 800-327-6709, info@maduro.com, www.madurodive.com

22 • NOVEMBER 2010

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CARIBBEAN COCOS HOTEL LAUNCHES PHOTO IMAGE LIBRARY AS FOTOSEEKER CLIENT

Fotoseeker, the world’s travel photo library, has announced that its newest client, Cocos Hotel in Antigua, has successfully launched an integrated photo image library in its revamped website. The service assists travel operations in promoting images constantly requested by journalists and travel magazines, along with tour operators updating brochures and online sites.

The romantic Caribbean boutique hotel utilized Fotoseeker’s advanced software allowing users to download high-resolution images quickly and efficiently while facilitating full control of the images by the hotel.

Andrew Michelin, owner of Cocos Hotel, expressed satisfaction with the new website and the service being provided by Fotoseeker, “We are constantly seeking to improve our relationship with our partners and this was an ideal vehicle to provide them with what they need, when they need it, while optimizing the effectiveness of our website.”

Director of the Fotoseeker Caribbean operations, Lorraine Headley, outlined the ease of start-up and immediate results achievable from the system. “We were really pleased to be able to set up the Cocos account in less than a week, and within two days of the launch of the new site with the image gallery, we had image downloads from an operator in Germany. We are positive that any company that tries the system will see the benefits straight away, hence our willingness to allow interested companies to try the system free of charge and then make a decision.”

Fotoseeker provides online photo image galleries and distribution tools from its main website and also client websites.

The Fotoseeker Caribbean team having just returned from a successful trade show at the Caribbean Hotels and Tourist Association Small Hotels Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has received positive feedback and growing interest from Caribbean hotels, international hotel management companies and excursion companies wishing to promote their images to the 30,000 globally registered users.

Cocos Hotel, www.cocoshotel.com; Fotoseeker, lorraine@fotoseeker.com, www.fotoseeker.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

ST. THOMAS’ BOLONGO BAY BEACH RESORT REVEALS 24-HOUR BLACK FRIDAY SALE Bolongo Bay in the Caribbean has announced a Black Friday deal for travelers seeking a fall or pre-holiday vacation. Available for 24 hours on Black Friday, Bolongo Bay is offering more than 50 percent off its Oceanview rooms and more.

For those who book on November 26, 2010, for travel through December 22, 2010, the cost will be just $135 a night for single or double occupancy (regular rate is $265 double). As always, the room rate includes unlimited access to Bolongo Bay’s non-motorized water sports including Hobie Cats, Sunfish sailboats, windsurfers, kayaks, snorkel gear, paddleboats and more.

The Black Friday sale is valid for any length of stay, but travelers who stay five nights or more will also receive a free sail on Bolongo’s own 53-foot catamaran. Guests can choose from a Swim with Turtles half-day snorkel trip or Sunset Harbour Cocktail cruise. From sailing, diving, snorkeling or the resort’s “snorkel booze hunt” during the day to live entertainment at night, there’s always something going on at Bolongo Bay. To book the Black Friday deal at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, clients must call November 26 or speak to a travel agent.

No passport is needed for U.S. citizens to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, 800-524-4746, www.bolongobay.com

UNSPOILED

A leisurely swim in sparkling azure waters. A soothing massage on your own private balcony. An afternoon spent gazing at the sun-splashed Atlantic with not a cruise ship or a care in sight.

The Sands at Grace Bay

UN C O M M O N

offers a soul-satisfying tranquility along with inspired cuisine, considerate service and as much – or as little – activity as you choose.

UNPRETENTIOUS

Providenciales • Turks & Caicos

an exceptional all suite beachfront resort For reservations, see your travel professional or call 1.877.77.SANDS (72637) www.thesandstc.com

NOVEMBER 2010•

23

CARIBBEAN LA SOURCE GRENADA TEAMS UP WITH AQUANAUTS GRENADA

Grenada’s well-known, all-inclusive spa resort La Source has invited Aquanauts Grenada to run their scuba diving center. “We are very excited to work with La Source, and we are proud to have been chosen by the well-established diver-friendly resort,” said Aquanauts owner/operator Peter Seupel.

Aquanauts will add Nitrox and Rebreather services to the exciting diving product of the resort. Its ideal location provides for short boat rides to famous dive sites like “Bianca C” and “Purple Rain.”

Boat dives are offered three times a day as well as night dives or day trips to the offshore islands of Isle de Rhonde. Non-certified guests may choose a trial dive, join a snorkel trip to Grenada’s Marine and Underwater Sculpture Park or sign up for a certification course.

Dive professionals may meet Aquanauts at the DEMA trade show at Las Vegas in November.

La Source Grenada, divelasource@gmail.com, www.theamazingholiday.com, www.divelasource.com

LADERA’S NEW WEDDING PACKAGES PROVIDE THE VENUE WITH A VIEW Ladera has announced three new wedding packages inspired by the resort’s new open-air Paradise Pavilion in the rainforest, now one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after settings for ceremonies and receptions of up to 80 guests. The three new packages start at $950 and offer a streamlined, affordable way to arrange a destination wedding at the St. Lucia resort.

The Basic Romance Package, priced at $950, includes legal arrangements, witnesses and a simple ceremony by Ladera’s infinity pool overlooking the Pitons and Caribbean Sea. The Wedding in Paradise, beginning at $1,550, upgrades the basic package to include a private ceremony in Paradise Pavilion, flowers, a small champagne reception and a wedding cake.

The Dream Wedding gives couples the ultimate Ladera wedding experience. It includes all of the essential legal and planning ele24 • NOVEMBER 2010

ments, as well as Mel Barlow Photography in addition to the following: a private ceremony in Paradise Pavilion with a 1,100-foot vista overlooking the Unesco World Heritage Pitons and Caribbean Sea; an elegant floral wedding arch, a lush tropical bouquet for the bride and a boutonniere for the groom; champagne and canapés for four (or up to 80 guests for an additional cost); a two-tiered wedding cake; one hour of entertainment, steel pan drums or guitarist/vocalist; four nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation in Hilltop Dream Suite; spa treatment at for two at Ti Kaye Posé Spa; a candlelight dinner for two with one bottle of wine at the resort’s acclaimed Dasheene Restaurant, or in the couple’s room; a private sunset cruise for two; and a wedding memento from Ladera.

Brides looking for an exclusive tropical-chic look may call upon the experts at New York City’s The Wedding Library for expert design and planning consultation.

Ladera also offers a convenient Gift Registry service for family and friends to give gift certificates, spa treatments and more during the couple’s stay at Ladera.

Brides may contact a Ladera wedding planner toll-free or by email.

Ladera, 866-290-0978, weddings@ladera.com, www.ladera.com

HALF MOON LAUNCHES IMPROVED WEBSITE Half Moon, the luxury resort located in Jamaica’s upscale Rose Hall community, has announced the launch of its newly redesigned website. Acting as a primary source of information for guests and travel agents, visitors will notice an updated user-friendly interface with streamlined specials and promotions, an expanded selection of photos and video, real time updates, a more intuitive booking system and a simplified travel agent portal.

Conceptualized and designed by BCA Marketing Communications in New York, the new website aims to replicate guests’ experience at Half Moon itself—warm, informative and personalized.

“We are very excited to introduce our new Half Moon website to the world,” says Myrtle Dwyer, Director of Sales and Marketing.

“The website truly reflects the history, spirit and high degree of attention to service for which Half Moon is renowned, and we are confident that guests will recognize those attributes when selecting a vacation destination.”

Half Moon’s new website is designed with accessibility in mind and will soon be available in Spanish in addition to the current English version. For users on the go, there is a smartphone optimized version with quick links to hotel information and mobile booking capabilities. An events calendar will keep guests on top of all the latest resort happenings, a helpful tool for planning trip activities. In May, a new booking engine was launched which streamlined the booking process with easy-to-view packages and room description.

And for the resort’s valued travel agents, the improved travel portal includes a clear presentation of facts about the property and an easier-to-use booking system.

Half Moon, www.halfmoon.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CARIBBEAN GUESTS CAN COMBAT WINTER BLUES WITH MALLIOUHANA’S GETAWAY PACKAGE Travelers who get away this winter to Malliouhana Hotel & Spa in Anguilla will enjoy the sun, the sea, gourmet dining and more with their Winter Getaway Package.

As six nights may just not be enough, Malliouhana throws in the seventh free plus $150 food and beverage credit per room per day and a daytime snorkeling trip on Malliouhana’s 40-foot day cruiser. The Winter Getaway Package is effective January 5 through March 31, 2011, and costs $7,740 (including tax and service charge) per couple for seven nights with accommodation in a spacious Ocean View Double with covered terrace.

Food and beverage credits can be used to explore the menu at the award-winning Michel Rostang at Malliouhana Restaurant with the perfect pairing of wine selected from the Wine Spectator Grand Award winning 20,000-bottle wine cellar.

Calorie-busting activities abound at Malliouhana with complimentary water sports including water-skiing, tennis, and a luxurious oceanfront spa.

Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, the picturesque 55-room Malliouhana Hotel & Spa is owner-managed by Leon and Nigel Roydon. The Malliouhana Hotel & Spa is a member of Small Leading Hotels of the World and one of the prestigious hotels listed in the Conde 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

Parade of Queens, live local music, and plenty of kids’ games, conch-inspired contests and entertainment. The Festival ends with a charity 5K & 10K run with proceeds going to the Provo Children’s Home.

The Sands at Grace Bay has partnered with Reef Peepers snorkel and dive facility in Turtle Cove Marina to offer the optional half-day Reef Peepers Snorkeling Adventure for $85 per adult/$55 child (3–12). This includes roundtrip transportation from the resort to the marina, a ride in a power catamaran to the cays and secluded beaches around Providenciales, snorkeling equipment, beverages and fresh conch salad served with chips and salsa.

The Sands at Grace Bay’s “Crazy for Conch” weekend travel offer with rack-rate discount is valid for new bookings made on all room categories for travel now through December 21, 2010, plus free one-way transfers from the resort to the Festival events Saturday and Sunday, November 27–28, 2010. Hemingway’s Restaurant & Bar special conch menu items will be available for guests to purchase during their stay.

The offer is subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or promotions, and is not applicable for groups.

The Sands at Grace Bay, 877-777-2637, http://www.reefpeepers.com/index.html, www.thesandstc.com

‘CRAZY FOR CONCH’ WEEKEND TAKING OVER AT SANDS AT GRACE BAY FOR ANNUAL FESTIVAL To celebrate the 7th Annual Turks & Caicos Conch Festival November 26–28, The Sands at Grace Bay will be providing free transfers to Festival events paired with a 25-percent rack rate discount and several unique experiences for guests “Crazy for Conch.”

An optional half-day snorkeling adventure is available (additional cost) where guests will join the ship’s captain for a fresh conch salad made from the catch.

Additionally, Hemingway’s Restaurant and Bar, the resort’s signature dining location, will offer a special Conchtasting menu, featuring delicious conch fritters, crack conch, conch salad and conch chowder. With rates starting at only $139 per night with the 25-percent discount applied, The Sands at Grace Bay will be a perfect place to stay during the island’s Festival weekend.

The festival will take place in Blue Hills, Providenciales, and the lineup of family-friendly weekend events includes tasting tents where local restaurants will compete for the best conch dishes, a Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

The beach is so close, shoes are strictly optional.

Emerald green mountains as a backdrop. The turquoise Caribbean Sea at your feet. Could there be any place more charming than this picture perfect cove called the Grand Case Beach Club ? Two powder white beaches.

Fresh water pool. Day and night tennis.

Delightful dining. Invigorating water sports. Shopping and excursions.

Everything your heart desires.

For reservations see your travel professional or call 1-888-845-5821. www.grandcasebeachclub.com NOVEMBER 2010•

25

MEXICO

FITA Launches in Mexico City; Aims to Be a Leading Tourism Fair PETER LOWY

T

ourism industry professionals from around the world descended on Mexico City in September to participate in the launch of FITA—the International Tourism Fair of the Americas—which organizers predict will become one of the world’s leading tourism fairs.

The four-day event, held Sept.

23-26 at Expo Bancomer Santa Fe, signaled a major effort by Mexico City to re-establish itself as a key destination after taking a back seat during the last several decades as Mexican beach locales became increasingly popular.

Government and tourism officials, from the mayor of Mexico City on down, consistently delivered a single major message: ALEJANDRO ROJAS Mexico offers more than sun and DIAZ DURÁN, MEXICO CITY’S sand, and Mexico City is worthy MINISTER OF TOURISM of being on everyone’s itinerary.

“We want everyone to know that Mexico City is a world-class destination for tourists, and also offers excellent opportunities to do business here,” said Alejandro Rojas Diaz Durán, the city’s minister of tourism.

More than 5,000 professionals, including 1,500 buyers, from 55 countries—including Japan and China, in addition to the Americas and the European Union—attended, surpassing the goals of its organizers, who were looking for participation from 35 countries.

After the first two days, which were reserved for professionals, the fair opened its doors to the general public. In all, 30,000 people visited the 8.4 acre expo center, the first time the three-year-old venue was dedicated to a single exhibition.

Based on this year’s event, Durán said FITA 2011, to be held Sept. 22-25, will include a focus on specialty sectors such as medical and gastronomic tourism.

The expo center is located in the Santa Fe district of Mexico City, the city’s newest, high-end business and commercial district, which boasts architecturally striking office buildings, hotels, and shopping centers.

Among the world class hotels within walking distance of the expo center is The Westin Santa Fe, which opened in August.

Overlooking green valleys and the Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes, the completely smoke-free property offers 265 rooms, including eight for physically challenged guests. It also features a spa, workout room, and outdoor, 26 • NOVEMBER 2010

rooftop pool.

FITA was modeled after the annual FITUR show in Madrid, which annually draws more than 100,000 professionals. More than just a tourism fair, FITUR, held for the last 30 years, has been an integral part of a larger strategy to transform Spain into a diverse destination that caters to a wide range of tourists, from family vacationers to travelers with highly specialized interests.Initial indications among attendees from the United States is that FITA 2010 was worth attending.

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau exhibited at FITA to attract more Mexican tourists. While 112,000 Mexicans visited the Miami area in 2009 (down 4.7% from 2008), Mexico ranks number eight among Latin American tourists who travel to Miami.

“Heavy government support for the show gives it potential to supercede other tourism fairs. We already work with tour operators and agencies, but wanted to be here to reach more people,” said Larissa Valero, the bureau’s director of sales for Latin America and the Caribbean.

San Diego-based Fox Rent a Car, a privately held company with 700 employees operating in six western states, attended FITA 2010 as part of an initiative to attract Mexican business.

Jose Giraldo, international tour director for Fox, said he made a contact at the show who was “ready to sign up” as a general sales agent for the company, and plans to participate again next year.

With Delta Air Lines planning to inaugurate daily direct service from Mexico City to Minneapolis on Dec. 18, the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., felt FITA offered a timely opportunity to build relationships with Mexican-based tour operators and travel agents.

“We’ve been exploring the Mexican market for five years, since shopping is the number one activity for Latin Americans when they travel abroad,” said Millie Philipp, account executive for the Mall of America. “FITA offers a great opportunity to meet a lot of people in one place.”

Steve Prats, vice president with Arizona-based Helms Briscoe, reportedly the highest volume purchaser in the meetings and event industry, said he knew only three suppliers in Mexico before FITA, but was able to meet with about 40 others during the show.

“I wanted to expand my awareness of Mexico, which is a critical market for us,” he said. “Mexicans provide a level of service that Americans could grow accustomed to. Banquet staff, waiters, cab drivers, and others are more than willing to go out of their way to assist you.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE

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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

MEXICO MEXICO

FROM PAGE

26

He added that the exposure his company got to services, products, and destinations made the trip “highly worthwhile” and hopes to return next year.

SANDOS OFFERS AGENT INCENTIVE UP TO $100 PER BOOKING AT LE MERIDIEN CANCUN

Mexico City Is Investing to Attract Tourists Following a dramatic 31% decline in international tourist arrivals in Mexico City last year– from 2.85 million in 2008 to 1.95 million in 2009 – the downward trend seems to be leveling off.

Today, about 75% of all international travelers to Mexico head for beach sites, with the remaining 25% focused on historical, archeological, and cultural destinations. While the balance is beginning to shift away from beach vacations, Mexico City is undertaking significant efforts to regain its historical status as a destination in and of itself. For example: •Cab drivers, police officers, and waiters are receiving special training in English as well as in general tourist services.

Through September, 15,000 had been trained in 2010, with 400,000 slated to get instruction within three years.

•The 16 delegaciones (boroughs) that comprise Mexico City are working together to promote tourism, such as by publicizing celebrations that traditionally had been strictly local events.

•The opening of Terminal 2 at Benito Juárez International Airport three years ago to handle all international arrivals has significantly increased passenger capacity.

•Improvement to the Viaducto, the main road from the airport through the city, is part of an effort to increase traffic flow.

Helping on this score is a bicycle promotion campaign that enables anyone, including tourists, to “rent” a bicycle in the city center for the day at no charge.

While news reports of crime, particularly along U.S. border areas, may raise safety concerns in the minds of tourists, the rate of reported crime in Mexico City is lower than Washington, D.C. The always lively historic city center, cultural sites, and upscale neighborhoods like Polanco near Chapultepec Park, are especially tourist friendly.

Juan Carlos Arnau Ávila, who heads strategic planning for the city’s Tourism Ministry, said Mexico City is adopting strategies that have proven successful in reducing crime in New York City, such as zero tolerance of minor offenses and vandalism. In addition, within the last two years the city has installed 30,000 public surveillance cameras.

Traveling within Mexico City—the third most populous metropolitan area in the world (after Tokyo and Seoul) with more than 21 million residents—remains a challenge, given traffic congestion and distances, which means it is not a walking city in the sense that Paris or Rome are. That said, travelers with an interest in the development of Mexico’s culture and history, especially the Aztec empire, will make Mexico City an important destination.

Fita 2010 Mexico City, www.fitamx.com; Mexico City Experience, www.MexicoCityExperience.com 28 • NOVEMBER 2010

Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa, owned and managed by Sandos Hotels & Resorts, is extending a special commission bonus to travel agents of up to $100 per reservation for bookings made at Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa, located in the heart of the Cancun hotel zone. The commission incentive is available on traditional (EP) or “total gourmet experience” (TGE) reservations made at the property for travel through December 20, 2010.

As part of the commission bonus, travel agents receive the following incentives (in addition to their standard commission): for each two- or three-night booking, agents earn $25; for each four- or fivenight reservation, they earn $50; for each six- or seven-night booking, $75; and for each reservation that is nine nights or longer, travel agents earn $100.

Agents must e-mail their name, mailing address and a copy of the qualifying Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa reservation(s). Upon completion of the client’s travel, qualifying incentives will be disbursed in the form of a pre-loaded credit card.

Guests staying at Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa can choose from the traditional vacation option, which includes hotel accommodations European Plan (EP). Vacationers choosing the “total gourmet experience” will enjoy hotel accommodations as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner at the hotels restaurants; all national brands and limited premium drinks including cocktails beers, soft drinks and house wines; themed dinners at Aioli and St. Trop restaurants; a variety of martinis at the Martini Lounge; in-room mini bar (beer, soft drinks, water, snacks—replenished daily); 24-hour room service; free use of exercise equipment in the gym; daily newspaper delivered to the room; 30-percent discount on all international and premium liquors and wines; 50-percent discount on Internet usage; and all tips and taxes. At Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa, nightly rates start at $121 ppdo.

Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, (agent email) eizquierdo@meridiencancun.com.mx, www.sandos.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

MEXICO FALL RATES AT AWARD-WINNING SANDOS HOTELS IN MEXICO START AT $60 ALL-INCLUSIVE Sandos Hotels & Resorts is inviting singles, couples and families to head to the magnificent Riviera Maya, Mexico, with all-inclusive rates starting as low as $60 pp. Vacationers will enjoy the brand new Aqua Park with 17 water slides and water play areas, a wide array of eco activities, romantic canoe rides and more at Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa, with rates beginning at $60 ppdo. Travelers can also visit Sandos Playacar Beach Resort & Spa, situated on the best beach area in Playa del Carmen, with rates starting at $70 ppdo.

Rates vary based on travel dates and room category chosen.

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa recently received the 2010 MLT Vacations Quality Assurance Award presented at MLT University in St. Paul, Minnesota. The award recognizes hotels that achieve 99percent customer satisfaction index and 99-percent product delivery performance with a minimum of 100 bookings. For the 2010 award, results were measured against the experiences of more than 450,000 customers who traveled with Delta Vacations, Continental Airlines Vacations and Worry-Free Vacations from the U.S. and Canada.

Out of the more than 700 hotels offered by MLT Vacations in Mexico, the Caribbean, Latin America, Hawaii and Las Vegas, only 117 qualified to receive the MLT Vacations Quality Assurance Award designation for 2010.

Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandos.com

30 • NOVEMBER 2010

FLAMINGO HOTEL COZUMEL EXHIBITING WORKS OF ART BY LOCAL ARTIST Flamingo Hotel is supporting local artist, Antonio Carcamo, by exhibiting his art through out the hotel. Antonio was born in Mexico City and began his artistic journey through self-taught painting. At age 10, he began formal art classes and at 22 made his way to the U.S. where he began the art of sculpture. Antonio recently moved to Cozumel and was introduced to Tom Fryer, owner of the Flamingo, who is now displaying his paintings throughout the hotel. Guests may purchase and take home one of Antonio’s works after a stay; his paintings [of the underwater reef] range in price from $100–350 each.

Hotel Flamingo is a 22-room boutique hotel with tastefully decorated accommodations and a high level of guest services. The Hotel Flamingo’s Aqua Restaurant and Bar offers complimentary breakfast with all stays, and serves lunch along with cocktails throughout the day and into the evening. Scuba Diving, horseback riding, snorkeling, sailing, parasailing, fishing and tours of Mayan ruins are also available for booking by Hotel Flamingo’s Englishspeaking staff.

Flamingo Hotel is currently offering 30 percent off for two-night stays until December 17, 2010. Courtyard rooms are $52.50 per night, Superior rooms $62.30 per night and the Penthouse Villa is $149 per night including full breakfast each morning.

Hotel Flamingo, 800-806-1601, info@hotelflamingo.com, www.hotelflamingo.com

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

M E X I C O

R E S O U R C E

The Hotel Posada del Mar is located directly across the street from a large white sand beach, and only a short distance from the world famous North Beach.

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Guests of the hotel can enjoy activities like horseback riding and pyramid scaling, and guests can also purchase spa packages, which make for a relaxing, healthy retreat.

www.hlasquintas.com Quinta Real is an exclusive collection of unique boutique properties. It is proud to offer its guest the highest level of accommodations. The eight properties operated and managed by Quinta Real Hotels & Resorts are located in Acapulco, Aguascalientes, Guadalajara, Huatulco, Monterrey, Saltillo, Villahermosa and Zacatecas.

Our mission focuses on being the leading company in planning, development, administration, operation and marketing of Real Estate concepts identified under the themes of Condohotels, Hotels, Resorts & Residences in Mexico and the Caribbean.

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MEXICO SANDOS CARACOL FIRST TO OFFER GUESTS MAGIC PLANET EDUCATIONAL TOOL Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa has become the first resort in the world to offer guests the Magic Planet, an exclusive educational tool that is used by the National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA to teach guests the impact that their daily activities have on land, ocean and atmosphere.

The Magic Planet device provides an interactive multi-media platform that can run simulations, display live streaming media from any region of the world and offer real-time games that engage participants in a friendly environment. Using a touch-screen module, guests can see climate conditions, carbon pollution, population density and other features for any given point within the globe. Currently, the Magic Planet is a key exhibit in over 100 museums, planetariums, science centers and visitor centers worldwide.

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa offers this educational tool at no additional cost to guests. In addition, other complimentary eco-educational activities include an Eco Tour, Snorkel Tour and Eco Workshops in the Kids Club. Guests can enjoy a complimentary Eco Tour where they discover nature areas within the resort, and also observe the Mayan jungle’s treasures, such as 16 natural cenotes (underwater caves), indigenous animals and exotic fauna.

Guests can sign up for one of two complimentary Snorkel Tours held daily 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’s clear turquoise waters are home to a few species of small fish.

Children enrolled in the Kids Club will participate in a variety of Eco Workshops to learn about the wildlife and fauna on the property.

Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandos.com

GRAND VELAS RIVIERA MAYA EARNS 2011 AAA FIVE DIAMOND AWARD Less than two years after opening, Grand Velas Riviera Maya has been awarded the acclaimed American Automobile Association’s (AAA) Five-Diamond Award for lodging. Grand Velas Riviera Maya, located five minutes from Playa del Carmen, represents the latest and most sophisticated iteration of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort experience and the only family-friendly all-inclusive resort on Mexico’s Caribbean coast to merit the award.With 491 suites, Grand Velas Riviera Maya is the largest hotel in Mexico to receive the 5 Diamond Award, one of numerous accolades in its short history.

Every year more than 60 AAA/CAA tourism editors visit over 60,000 lodgings, campgrounds, restaurants and attractions throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Tourism editors conduct unannounced evaluations, scrutinizing such areas as cleanliness, ambiance, amenities and service. Only an estimated 0.25 percent of the estimated 60,000 properties will receive the Five Diamond Award each year.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya, www.riviermaya.grandvelas.com

t Fully equipped kitchens, spacious living area and private terrace t Five-star resort services in spectacular beachfront settings t Ideal for a family vacation for five or six people

1-888-721-4420 Toll free US & Canada Daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST.

Most 2011 travel dates still available.

32 • NOVEMBER 2010

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA

Brazil’s Mesmerizing Minas Gerais L I S B E T H H O LT

34 • NOVEMBER 2010

ALEXANDRE CAMPBELL/EMBRATUR

T

he most mesmerizing baroque colonial cites in Brazil lie nestled in the mountainous mineral-rich state of Minas Gerais, the “province of mines.”

With American Airlines recently-inaugurated nonstop service from Miami to Belo Horizonte, the capital of the state, this region is now within easy reach of travelers. Adam Carter, President of the Brazilian Tour Operators Association (BTOA) said, “We’ve designated this amazing state to be our destination of the year.”

Belo Horizonte, Brazil’s first planned city, was built in 1897, just 270 miles north of Rio de Janeiro. This delightful, sophisticated metropolis is surrounded by the Serra do Curral mountain range at an elevation of 2,720 feet; its population some five million in the metropolitan area. Temperatures hover around 75 Fin the summer, the rainy season extending from November to March; around 63 F in the winter. It is one of Brazil’s most prosperous states and its size exceeds that of France. “The quality of life here is one of the best in South America,” vouches Daniel Anilton Duarte Marques, Director of Events of Minas Gerais. The city will be one of the hosts of the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Its huge soccer stadium, the Estadio Mineirao, is the country’s third largest.

Visitors are welcomed in traditionally hospitable “mineiro” style to enjoy its world-class restaurants and bars, fine hotels, shopping centers, and beautiful parks. And as everywhere in Brazil, samba and jazz rhythms pulsate. It is the bar capital of Brazil because of the number of botecos or inter-generational meeting places to imbibe a beer, a cachaca (the sugarcane rum national drink), or a caipirinha! You can even grab a drink in the unusually attractive and clean Mercado Central which dates back to 1929. And, no surprise, the coffee is the best ever. The hearty cuisine, the comida mineira, is a savory combination of Portuguese, Indian and African flavors. Try the feijao tropeiro (a mix of bean stew, sausage and cassava flour) and frango com quiabo (chicken cooked with okra).

The scrumptious pao de queijo, cheese bread, is downright addictive! The beautiful people meet and mingle for delectable cuisine at elegant award-winning A Favorita. Possibly Belo’s best-loved restaurant is Xapuri. Its rustic interior belies a most succulent gastronomical experience… including many ridiculously delicious desserts! Traveling to Brazil without gorging oneself at a churrascaria would be unheard of; try Belo’s Ambrosios! All different tempting cuts of pork, chicken, beef are presented to you until you can are beyond stuffed! Dieting here is not possible. Favored hotels include Savassi-situated Liberty Palace and luxurious Ouro Minas Palace.

The symbol of this gracious city is the Church of St. Francis

The famous Church of St. Francis of Assisi (Ireja Sao Francisco de Assis) designed in 1766 by the famous artist Aleijadinho.

of Assisi in the Pampulha region. This is Brazil’s first listed modern monument. Located on beautiful Lagoa da Pampulha, this controversial church was designed by living legend Oscar Niemeyer. Although constructed in 1943, sixteen years passed before its consecration. Religious orthodoxy viewed the Chapel with skepticism, even alarm, because its construction of concrete parabolic arches deviated dramatically from the norm. Blue Portuguese azulejos (tiles) painted by Candido Portinari depict the life of St. Francis on the facade. Portinari’s mural and Alfredo Ceschiatti’s bas-relief sculptures beautify the interior. Gardens were designed

by Roberto Burle Marx.

Niemeyer’s latest daring project, completed in March 2010, presents an audacious visual treat. The enormous Tancredo Neves Administrative City is a complex of buildings which will enable all government facilities to be based in one space.

One of the buildings is balanced off terra firma by massive concrete pillars. By the end of the year, some 10,000 people CONTINUED ON PAGE

36

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LATIN AMERICA FROM PAGE

34

ANDRE MACEIRA/EMBRATUR

BRAZIL

will be working here! “It’s bigger than most of our cities,” exclaimed Marquez.

Reputed to be one of the world’s best contemporary art centers, the Inhotim Institute in Brumadinho can be reached in ninety minutes by car. This vast eclectic outdoor art gallery combines an avant-garde collection of art with exotic botanical gardens. Guide Luana Camara explained, “Inhotim provides a unique dialogue between man-made art and the natural realm.”

American Doug Aitken in collaboration with Damian Francis Wagner created the “Sounds of the Earth” exhibit featuring eerie sounds from deep within the earth as magnified by microphones. After viewing numerous thought-provoking exhibits, lovely Inhotim restaurant offers a The oldest Opera House/Theater in Latin America, the spectacular Teatro Municipal, in Ouro Preto. It opened in 1770 and still stages performances. bountiful buffet luncheon of mineiro delicacies.

“Belo Horizonte is the gateway to Brazil’s most important cultural heritage and historical scenery,” com- die by the order of Empress Dona Maria I. Not just “off with mented Marquez. These are the fabulous Gold Towns of his head!” but also drawn, quartered, and severed into pieces.

Mariana, Tiradentes, Congonhas, and Ouro Preto which Thus was the rebellion quelled. To this day, Tiradentes is honsprang into existence with the discovery of gold in 1695. ored as Brazil’s foremost hero every April 21, the day of his Precious stones mined here include diamonds, tourmalines, execution, a national holiday. That is why Brasilia, the nacitrines, amethysts, and the exquisite Imperial Topaz, found tion’s extraordinary new capital, was inaugurated on that exact day, in 1960. only in Minas Gerais.

The eighteenth century charm of Tiradentes is contagious, Mariana, the first capital of the state, founded in 1695, was named after the Queen of Austria, Mary Ana, who was mar- population just 6,000. Much in favor with wealthy residents ried to the King of Portugal. When adventurers from Sao of Belo Horizonte and other cities, many old mansions have Paulo, the “bandeirantes”, crossed over the forbidding been lovingly transformed into pousadas (guesthouses, small Escarpment mountain range to search for gold, they discov- inns) or restaurants. Sure to please discriminating travelers ered metal blackened by iron oxide. Once melted, it shone are the stunning Solar da Ponte pousada and enchanting with great brilliance. “Ouro preto”: black gold! News spread Pequena Tiradentes. Restaurants with rave reviews include like wild fire, and tens of thousands rushed to seek their for- Santissima Gula, Padre Toledo, and Tragaluz (“come into the light”). Try its amazing chorizo beef! tunes!

A world of passion unfolds in Ouro Preto, two hours outhHere you can still ascend into the very bowels of the earth by cable car into the oldest and largest gold mine in Brazil, east of Belo, a fairytale city come to life with a population of the Mina de Ouro Passagem, mined from 1718 - 1985. 65,000. The former state capital (1711 – 1897), formerly called Thousands of slaves perished here. The Catedral Basilica da Vila Rica, will celebrate its 300th anniversary next year! This Se in Mariana holds a most unusual gift from the Portuguese was the first site in Brazil to be recognized by UNESCO as a crown to the first diocese in Brazil: a magnificent World Heritage Site, in 1980. Beautiful baroque architecture ArpSchnitger organ transported over the mountains in 1752, delights the eye at every turn. Its curved cobblestone streets are built on steeply rising green hillsides at an altitude of over still heard every Sunday!

The city of Tiradentes (formerly named Sao Jose de Rey) 3,600 feet. Red-tiled roofs, whitewashed buildings, wroughtwas founded in 1702 in the foothills of the Serra de Sao Jose iron balconies, and the colors of the doors and window frames mountains. This is the birthplace of Joaquim Jose da Silva in vivid blues, greens, yellows, reds, are a feast for the senses.

Xavier (1746 – 1792), nicknamed Tiradentes (“teethpuller”) The iconic cast of characters who played their parts on this as he’d practiced dentistry. He was the leader of a band of magnificent stage come swiftly to mind. Shakespeare himidealistic conspirators, the Inconfidencia Mineira, inspired self could not have imagined more fascinating heroes and vilby enlightened ideas from Europe and the U.S. Constitution. lains, men of faith and of greed, the romantics and idealists, They witnessed the exploitation of Brazilians and yearned to incredible artists and intellectuals, all interacting in a whirlfree the country from the yoke of Portugal. A Judas in the wind of events.

The population of Ouro Preto swelled to over 80,000 by group betrayed their plans…and Tiradentes was sentenced to 36 • NOVEMBER 2010

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA 1750, exceeding that of New York City. Vast fortunes were made, some literally overnight. Opulent churches were constructed to reflect the wealthy gold-barons’ expressions of faith. Lay brotherhoods of these rich individuals financed the building of the churches as the Portuguese crown forbade religious orders from the region. Between 1695 –1820, hundreds of tons of treasure were transported on muleback, a perilous passage over forbidding mountains, the Estrada Real (the Royal Road) from Ouro Preto to Paraty and Rio and from there shipped to Portugal.

A compelling spirituality permeates these environs. You are awed when you step foot in the renowned Igreja de Sao Francisco de Assis and view the sculptures of Antonio Francisco Lisboa, “Aleijadinho” (1738-1814) and the paintings of Manuel da Costa Ataide (1762-1830 ); when you explore the oldest opera house in Latin America, the Teatro Municipal, which opened in 1770 and still stages performances; when you visit the Museu do Oratorio to view the fabulous treasury of 18th and 19th century sacred art. What breathtakingly beautiful legacies to inspire and enrich our world!

A truly gorgeous pousada is centrally-located Ouro Preto’s Solar Rosario Hotel. Pousada do Mondego and Pousada do Arcanjo are also attractive choices. Wonderful restaurants include award-winning Casa do Ouvidor, Bene da Flauta, O Passo, and Casa dos Contos.

Among intriguing museums to visit, the Museum of Science and Technology displays a large selection of incredibly spectacular precious gems. Ouro Preto is the place to shop for precious stones, as well as soapstone carvings and other handicrafts.

The pilgrimage site of Congonhas do Campo, built in 1757, was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1985.

Every September, thousands of the faithful gather at this hilly site at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matozinhos . Here stand Aleijadindo’s twelve lifelike soapstone sculptures of the prophets. Aleijadinho means “the Little Cripple”, so called because his hands were maimed. He worked with hammer and chisel strapped to his wrists… and produced some of the most artistic religious masterpieces in the world. Sixty-six figures carved in cedar wood, painted by Ataide, are housed in six chapels, depicting The Stations of the Cross.

Mesmerizing Minas Gerais provides countless soul-stirring experiences. It will likely capture your heart. You vow to return and this time, you mean it. BTOA’s members can be relied upon for expert firsthand knowledge of the region, supplied with that special mineiro touch!

Brazil Tour Operators, www.braziltouroperators.org; Liberty Palace, www.libertypalace.com; Solarda Ponte, www.solardaponte.com.br; Hotel Solardo Rosario, www.hotelsolardorosario.com.br; Exapuri, www.restaurantexapuri.com.br Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

PERURAIL LAUNCHES NEW EXPEDITION SERVICE TO MACHU PICCHU

Perurail, operator of the southern and southeast railway in Peru, has introduced a new service, the Expedition, which is intended to replace its existing Backpacker service between Cuzco and Machu Picchu. The service consists of refurbished and improved carriages from PeruRail’s Backpacker trains. Large panoramic windows have been installed to allow passengers to fully appreciate the impressive landscape of the Urubumba River and the Andes mountain range as they make their way to and from Machu Picchu.

The seat layout on the Expedition train has been redesigned to allow for more legroom on the four-hour journey. The new panoramic windows will give passengers an excellent opportunity to capture every step of their voyage on film. The renovated carriages also have several features not previously available on the Backpacker service, including air conditioning and heating, traditional Andean music, and a typical Andean snack.

Departing from two stations, Poroy in Cuzco and Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, the Expedition will run four times a day with the current price of a single ticket starting from $34, which is the same as the cost of a Backpacker ticket. Tickets can be booked by visiting the Perurail website and using the online booking system.

Perurail also operates the Vistadome, Hiram Bingham and Andean Explorer trains. The Vistadome, which departs from both Cuzco and the Sacred Valley, offers great flexibility to tourists, with ten daily departures. The Hiram Bingham operates once a day, providing a luxurious service to Machu Picchu, with brunch and dinner served on board the elegant blue and gold carriages. The Andean Explorer, decorated in the style of an iconic British Pullman train and offering dining cars and an open-air observation bar car, operates a route from Cuzco to Lake Titicaca, a ten-hour journey through the changing landscapes of southern Peru.

PeruRail is owned by Orient-Express Hotels Ltd and their partners Peruvian Trains and Railways (Grupo Peruval). The network comprises the Cuzco–Sacred Valley–Machu Picchu route, as well as Cuzco–Lake Titicaca (Puno), Puno–Arequipa and Arequipa to the ports of Mollendo and Matarani. Services incorporate both passenger and freight operations.

Perurail, www.perurail.com NOVEMBER 2010 •

37

LATIN AMERICA TARA TOURS OFFERING ‘CUZCO & MACHU PICCHU PRIVATE’ FOR $2,230 PER PERSON Tara Tours Inc. is promoting a wonderful journey with a great affordable price. The new program, “Cuzco & Machu Picchu Private,” will visit Cuzco and Machu Picchu for six days/five nights for $2,230 including local airfare from Lima to Cuzco.

This special package includes hotel accommodations for five nights including room taxes and service charges (five nights at Hotel Libertador (super five stars), located across the street from the Koricancha Temple in Cuzco, and one overnight in Aguas Calients at the beautiful hotel Inkaterra Pueblo). Also included are daily buffet breakfast and dinner at Inkaterra; private transfers to/from airport, hotels and train station; a private tour of Cuzco and a visit to the ruins nearby, a private full-day excursion to Machu Picchu with entrance fees, train tickets, Cuzco archeological tax, bus tickets and a private English-speaking tour guide; tips to airport porters, roundtrip local airfare via Lan or Star Airlines; and assistance throughout from Tara Tours’ local operator with 24hour emergency assistance.

International airfare is available on request. Sample fares are Miami to Lima $550, New York $650, and Los Angeles $750.

All rates are 10-percent commissionable to retail travel agencies.

Tara Tours Inc, 800-327-0080, www.taratours.com

LIBERTADOR’S TAMBO DEL INKA PRESENTS THE QUINOA TRAIL FOR TASTE OF PERU’S SACRED VALLEY Peru’s largest and most distinguished hotel group, Libertador Hotels, Resorts & Spas, is introducing The Quinoa Trail at Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in the Sacred Valley of Urubamba for a full-day adventure with an array of quinoa-themed inclusions and activities. Quinoa, an ancient Andean grain, possesses wellness properties that have been harnessed for centuries.

To start, quinoa enthusiasts can enjoy quinoa pancakes and various quinoa-based breads and cereals pre-departure. The day will continue with Libertador’s activity specialists, T’ikary, who will lead guests on a kayaking, moderate mountain biking and hiking adventure through picturesque quinoa-filled landscapes with a gourmet picnic lunch in a stunning lakeside setting before continuing on to the legendary Salt Mines and Agriculture Circles of Moray Village.

On return, the spa will beckon with an (optional) exquisite Quinoa Facial combining a unique cleansing, exfoliation, mask and massage to maximize the power of the grain—a natural emollient rich in fatty acids, minerals, Vitamin E and B Complex; this ‘super grain’ also assists in cellular regeneration, forming a protective barrier over the skin to reestablish hydration. There’s also an optional Chef’s Daily Grain menu available for dinner with small portions of different dishes that have quinoa as a main ingredient.

The Quinoa Trail is available year-round and rates start at $205 per person (not including accommodations); advance reservations 38 • NOVEMBER 2010

are recommended.

Tambo del Inka debuted in May 2010 as the second Peruvian member of Starwood’s Luxury Collection, a brand renowned for exclusive properties in exceptional destinations. With its contemporary approach to the ancestral aesthetic and the hospitality traditions of the Andes, the 128-room resort offers a quiet, luxurious retreat and an array of modern amenities while fully embracing and honoring the surrounding nature. Tambo del Inka also features a full-service spa, two heated swimming pools and its very own train station to facilitate trips to the legendary hilltop city of Machu Picchu.

Libertador Hotels, Resorts & Spas, www.libertador.com.pe, www.luxurycollection.com

UNFORGETTABLE GALAPAGOS CRUISE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY FROM CANODROS The exceptional all-suite, 100-passenger Galapagos Explorer has special rates for winter and early specials for 2011. By taking advantage of Canodros’ packages that can include a stay at any of the four different regions of Ecuador, travelers can combine their Galapagos cruise with an extended visit to the Ecuadorian mainland.

During September in Guayaquil, the company continued its master renovation plan initiated in 2008, which consists of redesigning the stairs, halls and front-desk area, replacing carpets in cabins, restaurant, conference room, Piano Bar, halls; mirror cabins in the head bed will be replaced also. The Explorer II now offers 24 balcony suites, the highest number of balcony cabins offered by cruise operators in the Galapagos. The ship assures comfortable accommodation necessary to enjoy the unique flora and fauna of this historically vibrant natural paradise. The itinerary allows travelers to view the Galapagos through different vantage points and perspectives, including underwater views, bird watching activities, and guided walks.

They can observe the wildlife, or sunbathe on Galapagos Ecuador’s multicolored beaches.

All spacious suites are fully air-conditioned and have marble bathrooms, spacious closets, and sitting areas. Some suites provided with the Galapagos cruise tour package have private balconies with intimate sitting areas. Each room comes with a TV, mini-bar, and wireless Internet via satellite communication. The areas have been designed to offer many different points of view, all of which provide exceptional places of rest and leisure.

Promotions available during 2010 come with discounts up to $1,100 per person: the all-inclusive Rabida promo package has rates starting at $1,240 and a very special last-minute rate of $1,671. For 2011, there’s an early-booking discount for sevennight programs with a package rate beginning at $3,549 (cruise only); a $4,201 package all-inclusive applies to Renaissance and Deluxe Balcony cabins. For a maximum temptation, there’s the Flamingo promotion package with rates that start at $1,291 (cruise only) or $1,839 all-inclusive. These two promotions end December 31, 2010. Conditions apply to all promotional rates.

Canodros, www.galapagosexplorer.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

PERU

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Experience an innovative concept in hospitality that combines Peru’s cultural and historical heritage with European luxury and style.

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www.beperu.com www.casacartagena.com We are a company incorporated in a 100 percent Peruvian capital, engaged in transporting passengers on the tourist route from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu.

www.incarail.com.pe

We are correspondents and provide ground services for tour operators in Belgium, Canada, Germany, Holland, Sweden, Switzerland, U.K., U.S.A., and we specialize in custom-made tours for groups and individuals.

Our expertise is Special Interest Tours: archaeology, eco-tourism, bird watching, agriculture, and mystic and spiritual tours. Congresses and Incentives are also some of our lines of work. Besides Spanish we are fluent in English and French.

www.panorama-peru.com

At Delfin Amazon Cruises we have a long-term commitment with the Amazon and with all our world travellers’ guests.

We consider that from the minute you set foot on Iquitos until you depart back home, you deserve top quality services.

www.delfinamazoncruises.com

The only five star hotel in Machu Picchu Town (formerly Aguas Calientes),

NATURE is our PASSION PEOPLE our COMMITMENT Rainforest Expeditions operates three award winning Amazon lodges: Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and Tambopata Research Center.

Each Amazon lodge uncovers a wide array of fascinating ecotourism experiences in the middle of our jungle, in the heart of the Amazon rainforest in Tambopata.

located only 20 minutes from the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

For those seeking comfort, relaxation and elegance, surrounded by an attentive staff at your disposal while you also enjoy the best Peruvian food in Machu Picchu, visit SUMAQ (which means “a great stay”).

Thunderbird properties offer clients a dynamic entertainment experience, fully integrated with the gaming experience, providing visitors with a more enticing experience than a casino-only product.

Guests enjoy our action-packed Fiesta Casinos – the electrifying entertainment, our customer-service oriented bars and restaurants, and captivating retreats please.

www.sumaqhotelperu.com

www.rainforest.com.pe

www.thunderbirdresorts.com

LATIN AMERICA ECUAHOTEL PRESENTS THEIR NEWEST IN ECUADOR, ANAHI BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN QUITO

Ecuahotel has introduced Anahi Boutique Hotel, a charming and stylish Ecuadorian hotel located in the best sector of Quito, within walking distance from the financial and commercial center and surrounded by the gastronomic, cultural and leisure spots of the capital city. The boutique hotel, built in 2010, was guided by the prestige value of traditional hospitality, catering to very discerning travelers.

At Anahí, each suite is a world of its own, decorated individually using ethnic fabrics and stylish art pieces, each using a different Ecuadorian theme drawing from its history, regions and richness.

The fifteen suites are genuine works of art, with their historical and cultural touches joining first-class facilities and state-of-the-art technology. They also include a luxurious bathroom, dual telephone line, high-speed Internet access, cable flat plasma 32” television, digital safety box, mini-bar and hairdryer.

Although the feel is that of a bed and breakfast, Anahí has a restaurant, a “cava,” a petit spa, Orchids lounge, and a terrace with a great view of the city. The property is not only a hotel, but also a stylish experience of Ecuador’s diversity and richness.

Anahí Boutique Hotel has been awarded the Smart Voyager Certification, demonstrating that it adheres to strict environmental, social, safety and comfort standards. Management helps travelers practice sustainable tourism; for their part, being certified means that guests enjoy peace of mind as they appreciate Ecuador responsibly.

Ecuahotel, ecuahotel@ecuahotel.com, www.ecuahotel.com; Anahí Boutique Hotel, info@anahihotelquito.com, www.anahihotelquito.com

THREE-DESTINATION CHILEAN EXPERIENCE OFFERED BY TIERRA ATACAMA HOTEL & SPA Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa is bringing in the Chilean spring with the extension of one of its most popular promotions until December 15, 2010. For the purchase of five nights in their all-inclusive program, guests will receive a complete three-destination experience with a complimentary night at The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, as well as a complimentary night at the boutique hotel La Casona at Matetic Vineyards, recognized globally for its award-winning wines and biodynamic philosophy.

Guests from around the world come to Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa 40 • NOVEMBER 2010

to experience the beauty of the Altiplano and the Atacama Desert.

The boutique hotel is just a 20-minute walk from the village center of San Pedro de Atacama. The cultures of Aymara, Atacameña, and Inca all left their mark on the region.

The hotel’s Uma Spa offers revitalizing treatments and includes a steam room, Turkish bath and Finnish sauna, as well as an outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and indoor heated pool. A private deck with a wooden hot tub offers dramatic views of the Licancabur volcano.

Chile is a wonderful country for food with its long Pacific Ocean coast and its many excellent climatic zones for agriculture. Menus at Tierra Atacama feature traditional dishes highlighting the fresh ingredients of the area—seasonal fruits and vegetables including those from their own garden, the freshest fish and seafood, the best beef and Chilean lamb. The wine menu is carefully selected to allow guests to taste the best wines of Chile, both little-known vintages and the well-known local labels.

Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, 800-829-5325, info@tierraatacama.com, www.tierraatacama.com

NEW VIRTUAL EXPEDITION AND EXCURSION TOUR SHOPPING WITH GALEXTUR With new and modern purchasing tendencies in the market, globalization, constant changes and development in technology are becoming more demanding. Organizations must take immediate action to adopt a well-designed website that facilitates all the search options a client would need in specific areas. These pages are not only an option in the virtual marketplace, but they act as a tool to support the corporative presentation of a company and a connection with potential clients despite schedule differences and geographical distances. Galextur is aware that the key to success for any evolving application is to offer a user interface that’s easy to understand and use.

Matching these characteristics with the idea to offer to Galextur’s contacts the opportunity to interact with them, they created a website that offers the following: 365 days a year support with live chat, toll-free access numbers, up-to-date information, company resources, and current promotions. They also allow direct access to available programs and detailed itineraries, online reservations, customer references, and an area for suggestions. Their multiple touristic packages include the most fascinating destinations throughout South America and Ecuador. The Ecuadorian Amazonia owns abundant reserves with extraordinary vegetation, and the Andes contain extensive mountain range allowing the existence of vegetal and animal species. From snow-white peaks to the impressive deserts and valleys, there’s an impressive and wide variety of flora and fauna.

All these characteristics make Ecuador a perfect place to plan activities such as diving, cruises, combined tours, island hopping, hiking, camping, mountain biking, climbing, rafting, surfing, etc. with the possibility of exploring and discovering new adventures offered by communitarian tourism.

Galextur (Galapagos Expedition Tours), www.galextur.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

ECUADOR

R E S O U R C E

Hotel Café Cultura is a delightful mix of English tradition and contemporary trend.

We consider ourselves an inner city retreat, with an out-going personality and inspirational food.

The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden, with secluded seating areas for relaxing – or watching our resident hummingbirds, doves and peacocks do their thing.

So don't be shy, ring the bell, come in, and discover it yourself!

www.cafecultura.com

D I R E C T O R Y

Travel to one of the last uninhabited places on earth – the legendary Galápagos Islands.

Where untamed wildlife outnumber the travelers.

Sip morning mimosas as giant tortoises sunbathe on the shore outside your window.

Enjoy a rejuvenating hot stone massage as Galápagos sea lions doze on the beach just off the port bow. Make moonlight toasts under the stars that led sailors and scientists alike to this extraordinary archipelago.

800-647-2251

www.expedition.com.ec

EHHEC has now been successfully running for over 5 years, offering visitors to Ecuador the best in what this distinctive country has to offer.

Ecuador Adventure’s logo not only represents unrivalled experiences in nature, culture, learning, comfort, and adventure – it is an ancient Andean symbol representing the center of life and time.

Our logo is The Sun of Eight Points, a powerful emblem that dates back to pre-Incan times adoring the sun god, Inti.

800-217-9414

www.ehhec.com

www.ecuadoradventure.ec 25 YEARS OF UNMATCHED GALAPAGOS TRAVEL

ORO VERDE HOTELS stand out from local competiton thanks to the superior range of quality services provided and our sensitivity to the local lifestyle and tradition.

We offer the best quality and truly personal service to our guests, all our efforts are directed to the PEOPLE.

www.oroverdehotels.com

The Galapagos cruise, guided by the finest and most experienced naturalists, gives a feeling of being the first to come to this natural paradise.

To compliment the Galapagos tour experience, special amenities and service are found only on Quasar’s distinctive private Galapagos cruises– a boutique hotel, outfitted for a true expedition.

We are fully committed to our client’s satisfaction and responsibility towards tourism, providing the highest standards in safety, quality and value.

866.481.7790

www.quasarnautica.com

www.andeantc.com

LATIN AMERICA ADVANTAGE TRAVEL’S MANATEE EXPLORER FUNDS EDUCATION EFFORTS IN AMAZON As an effort to empower communities, the Manatee Amazon Explorer, with the assistance of passengers’ donations, is awarding a complete college scholarship to the best student in various communities in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

The effort looks to equality in conditions for access and permanence in technical and professional education for students in the different communities, through an educational offer Manatee consolidated with Yanacha Foundation. The program is directed toward those indigenous students who wish to start and continue their studies at Yanacha Technical College. Increments in performance are achieved by offering classes, workshops, and collective reflection spaces.

The Manatee Amazon Explorer began the program with internal and external financing (50 percent given by Manatee Amazon Explorer and the remaining 50 percent by external donors). The objective was to institutionalize the program. For the project, it’s necessary for donations to support both the program and its tutors— teachers providing students the close and personal walkthrough during the process of getting scholarships, academic assessment, and any affective situation the students encounter by being away from their communities.

The public can participate in the project by making a contribution, and following the progress of these students and the program.

Further information on the program is available by contacting Advantage Travel by email.

Advantage Travel is owner and operator of the exclusive expedition cruise onboard the Manatee Amazon Explorer, a floating hotel operating in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rain Forest. Advantage also owns the Mantaraya Lodge located at Machalilla National Park, considered one of the best places for humpback whale watching, fishing, snorkeling and diving.

Advantage Travel, info@advantagecuador.com, www.advantagecuador.com, www.manateeamazonexplorer.com

ENCHANTED EXPEDITIONS CONDUCTS INTIMATE TOURS OF ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS Enchanted Expeditions is an inbound tour operator in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. With 35 years of cruise experience in the Galapagos, the company is a pioneer in Galapagos adventure. Its guests travel aboard their Smart Voyager and SOLAS-certified yachts Beluga and Cachalote I, viewing wildlife up close during twice-daily shore visits, experiencing this nature sanctuary to its utmost with the help of very qualified naturalist guides and crew.

Visitors to mainland Ecuador are provided cultural and adventure tours to the three regions: the Amazon jungle, the Andes with its colorful markets, historical cities and majestic mountains, and the coastal region.

Ecuador has four UNESCO World Heritage sites: The Galapagos Islands, Sangay National Park, City of Quito and The Historic Centre of Cuenca.

42 • NOVEMBER 2010

Several on the team at Enchanted Expeditions are avid travelers themselves with an in-depth knowledge of Ecuador and its people and off-the-beaten-path areas of this Andean country.

Enchanted Expeditions, sales@enchantedexpeditions.com, www.enchantedexpeditions.com

MAGIC OF BOLIVIA SHOWN WITH PERSONALIZED SERVICE BY CRILLON TOURS Crillon Tours is announcing its new Hydro-Pier at Cocotoni Bay on Lake Titicaca, staying at the Inca Utama Hotel & SPA and the Adventure Travel Bag Camping at Cocotoni Bay with fabulous trekking through idyllic and bucolic sceneries, under a joint venture deal with the community of Cocotoni.

In Jirira at the Uyuni Salt Flats, a new Glamping with Comfort and the Adventure Travel Bag has also been created, with overnights at a local lodge, both in the frame of a joint venture deal with the community of Jirira.Combining these offers with Peru, Chile and Argentina, fixed or tailor-made programs, according to visitor interest, will captivate Fit’s passengers, groups, solo travelers and essentially all the young at heart.

Crillon Tours’ new project in the bay of Cocotoni has involved installing a hydro-pier in the area. The untouched bay on Lake Titicaca will captivate visitors for its authentic pastoral sceneries, where the indigenous and nature seems to be one smooth synchronicity of peace and freedom. A camping project has been developed in this paradisiacal bay as the base for a Highland Adventure Program with unmatched treks and other activities. Cocotoni was known as the “Lovely Corner” and it was chosen for elites as their living place.

Nowadays it is abandoned with only some few and small communities close to it living from fishing.

Under the clearest southern skies, the small village of Jirira at the shore of the Uyuni Salt Flats is one of the most pollution-free zones on the planet, where the Milky Way, Scorpio, Jupiter and Capricorn and the two constellations Southern Cross and Centaur shine overhead. From Jirira, travelers are embraced by dazzling white surreal pentagons of crystalline salt, while the sounds of silence will make the heart beat faster; there is no place like this in the world.

From Jirira, gorgeous treks and visits throughout the Salt Flats are done, as well as unforgettable activities like bicycling on the white Flats; soft and short trekking to a small island with petrified cactus with a complete view over Uyuni Salt Flats; and a trek to Ojos de Agua with its pink flamingos. Within 20 minutes’ walking distance, there’s a cave with “chulpares”—native graves. The magnificent Thunupa volcano is just in front of Jirira, a view and a moment for reflection.

Crillon Tours has a joint venture deal with the community of Jirira and with Doña Lupe—the famous matriarch of the community— with her daughter and son, who are ready to begin flying with Crillon in the fabulous adventure. The new program allows two or three overnights at the Salt Flats, with a personalized itinerary according to visitor interests.

Crillon Tours, www.titicaca.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA ROATAN CHARTER ANNOUNCES 2011 WHALE SHARK WEEK ACTIVITIES AT UTILA LODGE AND WSORC Guests are invited to join Utila Lodge and WSORC (Whale Shark Research and Oceanic Center) for a week of lectures, research, and activities that focus on the largest fish in the sea. The seven-night package includes double-occupancy accommodations, all meals, three boat dives per day for certified divers and special whale shark trips (snorkeling only, no scuba permitted with the whale sharks.)

Space is available for the following weeks in 2011: (spring season) February 5–12 and March 5–12; and (summer/fall season) July 2–9 and August 20–27.

The program outline is as follows— Day 1 (Saturday): PM orientation; Day 2 (Sunday): AM two fun dives, PM whale shark presentation at WSORC; Day 3 (Monday): two fun dives, PM whale shark encounter trip, night dive; Day 4 (Tuesday): whale shark awareness course, photo id, class, PM research trip and photo id; Day 5 (Wednesday): two fun dives, PM reef fish course, night dive; Day 6 (Thursday): two fun dives, PM classroom lectures on tagging sharks and DNA sampling followed by demonstrations; Day 7 (Friday): research trip/tagging and DNA collection. Certification awards and PM island exploration. Activities are subject to change. Rates for the seven-night package are $1,625/diver, $1,525 snorkeler (mid-season); and $1,475/diver, $1,375 snorkeler (low season). Hotel taxes (16 percent) and $4/day reef fee are not included. The package includes seven nights’ accommodation at Utila Lodge, all meals, all course materials, roundtrip airport transfers, photo ID, tagging and DNA sampling, encounter trips, snorkeling and diving (up to three dives per day).

For travel information including local and international air arrangements and ticketing, Roatan Charter may be contacted tollfree or by email. Free, no-obligation airfare quotes are available.

Roatan Charter Inc., 800-282-8932, info@roatan.com, www.roatan.com; Utila Lodge, 800-282-8932, info@utilalodge.com, www.utilalodge.com; WSORC, www.wsorc.com

personalized service.

All tours are a short distance from the hotel, providing the remainder of the day for enjoying the resort’s outstanding grounds.

Complimenting the adventure, the resort is now offering attractive promotional packages and a variety of accessible rates for families and groups of friends. Guests may pay one night get the second at 50-percent off (restrictions apply).

More information about the destination, packages and transport are available by contacting Moises Duran.

Hotel Parador, 877-506-1414, mduran@hotelparador.com, www.hotelparador.com/tours, www.hotelparador.com

PANAMA EXPLORER TOURS OFFERING 12% COMMISSION ON 2010–11 PACKAGES 7 DAYS OR MORE Panama Explorer Tour is offering travel agents a 12-percent commission for booking any seven-day or more package to Panama for 2010 and 2011. All bookings must be paid in full by November 30, 2010, to qualify.

The Highlights of Panama package for 2010 is going for a remarkable 25 percent off its regular price. Customized tours are available. The Honeymoon Beach Destination is on sale for 2011.

Panama Explorer Tours, 800-928-7076, www.panamaexplorertour.com

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FAMILY WILDLIFE ADVENTURE AT PARADOR RESORT & SPA Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, has an array of surprises for families looking for a tropical escape. The adventure starts the moment they’re picked up by the Parador Resort and Spa private shuttle at the Juan Santa Maria International Airport.

On their way to the resort (aproximately two hours), passing through tropical landscapes and cattle fields, they stop at the Tarcoles River to see dozens of crocodiles swimming and sunbathing in their own habitat, as scarlet macaws fly by along the stretches of road. After about an hour, a winding three-mile road fringed by ocean views and tropical rainforest leads to Central America’s leading hotel 2009: Parador Resort & Spa. All excursions meet the security codes obliged by the resort, punctual pick-up times, professional bilingual guides and Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

NOVEMBER 2010 •

43

LATIN AMERICA RAINFOREST ALLIANCE FAM HIGHLIGHTS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN PERU

By Steve Carr

and farming techniques.

Spiritual values and traditions are demonstrated by the shaman whose families have practiced them for centuries.

While in the Amazon, participants witnessed the critical need to focus on conservation and sustainability in the face of slash-andburn agriculture, rapidly expanding population, and imminent completion of the transoceanic highway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans via the new suspension bridge nearing completion at Puerto Maldonaldo. Settlement along the highway will increase exponentially putting even more pressure on the endangered fragile environment.

Participants visited four Rainforest Alliance verified lodges in the Amazon on the Madre de Dios and Tambopata Rivers, plus properties in Cuzco and surrounding areas including Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).

Participants unanimously voiced enthusiastic support for the sustainable and community-based tourism initiatives of the Rainforest Alliance, and applauded the efforts of the featured properties to embrace and implement responsible practices.

Rainforest Alliance, www.youtube.com/rainforestalliance, www.rainforest-alliance.org

METROPOLITAN TOURING LAUNCHES NEW TOURS FOR NEW LAN FLIGHTS Rainforest Alliance group at Machu Picchu, Peru

The Rainforest Alliance heralded the Travel Mart Latin America (TMLA) as a success for their sustainable tourism initiatives in Latin America. Many vendors proudly displayed the Rainforest Alliance logo indicating their support and participation in the Rainforest Alliance verification program and sustainable tourism practices.

This year, in conjunction with TMLA, the Rainforest Alliance hosted a fam for press and tour operators from around the world to see and understand firsthand the details and benefits of sustainable tourism practices endorsed by the RA and implemented by responsible hotels and lodges in Peru.

Participants learned about important sustainable practices used by the properties that reduce energy and water use, recycle and reuse resources wherever practical, encourage guest understanding and participation in the programs, and support communitybased tourism.

Community-based tourism is an important concept embraced by the properties and enables local indigenous communities to participate in and benefit from the development of tourism through training, partnerships and support of native cultures and ways of life. Through native guides and community visits, the traveler’s experience in these areas is greatly enhanced.

Nature walks on forest paths and canopy bridges specialize in wildlife encounters, herbal and medicinal plants, while community visits show the visitor native practices and traditions, schools, 44 • NOVEMBER 2010

Metropolitan Touring has been quick to take advantage of the new flights introduced by LAN airlines—Lima–Puerto Iguazu and Lima–Easter Island—by creating two new exciting tours combining Peru and Chile.

“As a regional company, with offices and operations across six countries, these two new routes mean we can offer our partners an ever-more integrated and standardized service, and ever-more imaginative and competitive trip planning,” said María Cecilia, the company’s Vice-President of Incoming Tourism.

The first itinerary takes in Lima, southern Peru with Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, and then continues on for four days of exploring Easter Island. In all, it’s a fascinating 12-day voyage of discovery to these popular destinations.

The second itinerary adds one more day on Easter Island, for a total of 13 days. During both, guests will stay at the explora Rapa Nui hotel on Easter Island, opened to much acclaim a couple of years ago.

Metropolitan Touring is seeing LAN’s important step of opening new leisure travel routes as an excellent opportunity for the company and its partners: it significantly reduces travel time between several iconic South American destinations. The company is currently working on several new, combined itineraries between its regional offices. An inspiring Peru–Argentina itinerary is coming soon.

Metropolitan Touring, www.metropolitan-touring.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA MADURO TRAVEL HAS DIVE DEALS FOR FALL Fall is a good time to go diving and, with Maduro Travel’s special dive travel offers, a great time to save money. Some fabulous deals mean divers will enjoy both—the savings and the diving experience.

Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas is offering a commissionable, sevennight vacation/dive package with accommodations at CoCo View Resort in Roatan, the Bay Islands of Honduras, at just $938 ppdo.

The package includes seven nights’ oceanfront accommodations at CoCo View, airport transfers, a welcome cocktail, three full meals daily (including arrival dinner, one picnic and a barbeque on private cay and breakfast on departure day), unlimited beach diving including a Barrier Reef wall dive and Prince Albert Wreck dive, six days of two-boat dive trips including one tank at a selected site and optional drop-off wall, free use of ocean kayaks, non-motorized beach equipment and exercise equipment. The package is valid for travel from November 17 until December 17, 2010 (only $200 additional if traveling December 18–31, 2010). Airfare and commissionable travel insurance are also available. Direct flights are also available to Roatan from Miami, Atlanta and Houston (based on availability and travel dates).

At Utopia Village, Utila, in the Bay Islands of Honduras for just $743 ppdo average, there’s a Thanksgiving week special offering half off to the second diver (save $250). The first diver pays $988; the second pays $498. The package provides seven nights’ accommodations, land and boat transfers, a welcome cocktail, three meals daily, five days of two-tank morning boat dives, and unlimited shore diving. The offer is good for travel November 20–27, 2010.All packages come with Maduro’s Best Rate Guarantee.

Information on all specials including group travel, air-inclusive packages or a custom quote is available toll-free or by email.

Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas, 800-327-6709, info@maduro.com, www.madurodive.com

a massive Winter Solstice 2012 celebration December 21, 2012, for which early bookings will be essential.

The Lodge at Chaa Creek, 877-709-8708, reservations@chaacreek.com, www.chaacreek.com

‘BEST OF CAYO’ ADVENTURE AND ACCOMMODATION AT SAN IGNACIO RESORT HOTEL Visitors to the Cayo region of Belize, Central America, have usually done their research prior to arrival and mostly head for Caracol Ruins, the phenomenal Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave system (ATM) and relax with cave tubing and zip lining.

The smart folks at the San Ignacio Hotel in town have come up with a winning package that combines all of it—aptly called Best of Cayo—that starts at just $875 ppdo (exclusive of taxes, service charge and park entrance fees) for four nights’ accommodation, transfers, breakfast, three dinners, and the full-day adventures Jaguar Paw cave tubing and zip-lining, a tour to Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, and a tour to Caracol Maya Site with stops at Rio Frio Caves and Rio On Pools. Not included in the rate are the ninepercent hotel tax, 12.5-percent government tax and five-percent service charge, as well as the park entrance fees and zip-lining fee.

Room upgrades are available at extra cost.

San Ignacio Resort Hotel, reservations@sanignaciobelize.com, www.sanignaciobelize.com

PANAMA

An unforgettable experience

CHAA CREEK EXPLORES 2012 MAYA PROPHESIES The Lodge at Chaa Creek, situated in Belize’s Heartland of the Maya, is providing an authentic Maya travel adventure experience that should put to rest misleading media hype surrounding the Winter Solstice of 2012—a pivotal day in Maya history and culture.

The Belize Maya Heartland 2012 package immerses visitors in the history, culture, religion, art, architecture, healing and agricultural practices that are still very much alive in Belize. Fleming described the package as combining exciting learning activities with comprehensive adventure tours.

In addition to field excursions, the Belize Heartland 2012 vacation package includes a range of learning adventure activities within Chaa Creek’s 365-acre private nature reserve.

Guests can explore, by horseback, canoe, foot or mountain bike, the working organic Maya Farm, Medicinal Plant Trail, Natural History Centre, and many excavated and unexcavated Maya sites dotting the rainforest.The Belize Maya heartland 2012 vacation packages will be offered throughout 2012, culminating in Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

Reservations (507) 232-3700 www.radisson.com/panamacity_golf

NOVEMBER 2010 •

45

LATIN AMERICA RAINY SEASON RENAISSANCE AT CHAN CHICH IN BEAUTIFUL BELIZE

SNORKEL GETAWAY, FREE NIGHTS FROM SUNBREEZE HOTEL, SUNBREEZE SUITES

An intensely wet rainy season has enabled Chan Chich Lodge in Belize to utilize nature’s resources to advantage. The month of September was dedicated to refreshing the landscaping around the cabañas and main lodge area. Returning guests will note the changes right away, with the addition of much color and character.

The Lodge is hoping to please guests by adding more color and variety to the main area. They also aim to attract more of the hummingbirds, manikins and other little birds. Added to its focus on colorful flowering plants, they are adding several fruiting species such as bananas, plantain and avocado. Guests will be welcome to pick their own fruit as well as order it in the restaurant.

A visit to Chan Chich means experiencing nature as it’s mean to be experienced. Guests can walk the trails with their friendly local guides or keep the thrill all to themselves. Miles of trails are located at the lodge, along with driving tours of the historic region, canoeing, horseback riding and more.

Chan Chich is well known to bird watchers, nature lovers and archeology enthusiasts, but it’s ideal for anyone looking for a great vacation. For the fitness minded, there are mountain bikes, a swimming pool, and miles of great jogging roads.

Chan Chich Lodge, 800-343-8009, www.chanchich.com

SunBreeze Hotel, situated on the beach, within immediate access to the tranquil and friendly town of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, offering 43 generously spaced Premier, Deluxe and Standard rooms with views of the Caribbean Sea, Barrier Reef and a lush tropical garden. Facilities include its Beachfront Restaurant and Bar, freshwater pool, Massage Studio and Wellness Center, 24-hours front desk, PADI Dive Shop and art gallery.

A special Snorkel Getaway package is now being offered at Sunbreeze Hotel for travel through December 18, 2010. In addition to roundtrip local air transfers (Belize–San Pedro), it features seven nights’ deluxe accommodations with room taxes included, a full day’s sail with three snorkel stops, and one Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley snorkel tour. Park fees, equipment, and lunch are not included. The price is just $820 ppdo per snorkeler.

SunBreeze Suites, located a few feet away from the Caribbean Sea in laid-back San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, offers 20 central air-conditioned, fully furnished, ocean-view compact suites, all with a private balcony offering stunning views of the sunrise and largest barrier reef in the western hemisphere. Its facilities include their Patio Bar and Grill, freshwater pool and a tour and dive service desk.

Currently on offer at Sunbreeze Suites are extended free nights specials, where guests can stay seven nights and pay for five only, or stay five nights and pay for just four.

SunBreeze Hotel, 800-688-0191, reservations@btl.net, www.sunbreeze.net; SunBreeze Suites, 800-820-1631, sunbreezesuites@sunbreezesuites.com, www.sunbreezesuites.com

RADISSON FORT GEORGE GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY IN BELIZE The Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina is involved in assisting local community wherever possible. In that spirit, during Carlson’s Worldwide Responsible Business Action Month in September, Green Team leader Pat Lamb, along with some staff members and two students of the University of Belize, headed over to the Stella Maris School’s compound to help out.

The team of Radisson’s 23 staff members and two students of the University of Belize were welcomed by Stella Maris’ Principal Joy Westby. Radisson’s team assisted with repairing of chicken coop and preparing garden beds for the school’s REAP Program and with cleaning the grounds and painting. The Radisson team logged a total of 80 service hours in one day.

Two of Radisson’s employees are past students of Stella Maris School. Radisson also assisted the school by donating the door proceeds of the Film Showcase held September 12–16 at the hotel. The showcase included local and cultural short movies/stories.

Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina, www.radisson.com/belizecitybz 46 • NOVEMBER 2010

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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AFRICA WITH THE FOLLOWING DESTINATION SPECIALISTS CORTEZ TRAVEL INC. & CORTEZ EXPEDITIONS The foremost outfitter / tour operator to this distant and captivating land.

Air and land arrangements are offered to individuals and small groups of nature lovers eager to discover a land still untouched, unspoiled and far from the tourist crowd – Madagascar.

800-854-1029

www.cortez-usa.com

Africa Middle East Asia Australia/ New Zealand North America Central & South America

Central, Northern & Eastern Europe France Great Britain & Ireland Greece & the Mediterranean Italy Spain and Portugal

It is our ongoing mission to sort through the vast options to find you the best value for your cruises, packages, airline tickets, car rentals, hotel accommodations, and all of your other travel needs.

It is our pleasure to handle every detail of your travel itinerary for you, saving you from the hassles, uncertainty, and inconvenience of having to do it on your own.

An extensive knowledge and understanding of the natural and cultural aspects of the continent.

Knowledgeable about Southern & East Africa, Arrange everything from basic camping safaris to high profile celebrity trips.

Unique safaris include weddings ceremonies on elephants and in Masai Villages.

800- 545- 1910

www.premiertours.com

Natural Migrations prepares luxury and adventure trips to Africa according to clients interests, needs and budget. We are dedicated to the preservation of wildlife and cultural heritage in Africa through eco-tourism and carefully choose our partners who work together with local communities and have as little impact on the environment as possible.

800-590-1170

www.goaheadtours.com www.mosaicrhinotours.com

Our prices are the best available.

We receive the lowest wholesale prices from our African associates and can match any price on an identical itinerary.

SAFARILINE is committed to sharing the wilderness areas of Africa on quality safaris and excursions.

We believe that discovering Africa is a profound and personal experience.

866-988-7575

www.naturalmigrations.com

Our mission is to complement the intrinsic nature of humans to travel and to share the beauty of Tanzania; its rich natural resources, warm, friendly people, and the wealth of cultural experiences.

Zizini Safaris will provide unsurpassed memorable destinations!

866-466-0301 800-513-5222

www.fisheaglesafaris.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

www.safariline.net

866-948-9494

www.zizinisafaris.com NOVEMBER 2010 •

47

AFRICA

African Leaders Discuss Raising Tourism’s Profile at ATA’s Annual Presidential Forum on Tourism SHARON ROLING COURTESY OF ATA

T

48 • NOVEMBER 2010

(Left to right) Robert Brunner, US Country Manager of Arik Air; Hon. Fatou Mass Jobe Njie, Minister of Tourism and Culture of The Gambia; Edward Bergman, Executive Director of ATA and Alieu Secka, Chair of The Gambia Hotel Association.

COURTESY OF ATA

en African tourism leaders gathered at New York University recently to discuss the need to raise the profile of tourism on Africa’s economic agenda.

The event was organized by the Africa Travel Association (ATA) and hosted by New York University’s Africa House as world leaders gathered for the United Nations General Assembly meetings.

“The Presidential Forum brings together a diverse group of people from around the world, who all share a common interest in Africa and tourism,” said Edward Bergman, ATA Executive Director. “Together, they have the ability to grow the sector and to increase the number of tourism arrivals and investment on the African continent.”

Program participants included leaders from Benin, Burundi, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Morocco, and Tanzania, along with senior representatives from the African Union and the World Bank’s Africa Region. CNN Chief Business Correspondent and Host of Your $$$$ Ali Velshi moderated the event.

Newly elected ATA President and The Gambia Tourism Minister Fatou Mas-Njie Jobe called on African states to work together and with ATA to “make tourism to Africa easier, safer, competitive and a rewardingly richer experience that affords the traveler, tourist or investor with immense opportunities to savor the diversity of Africa.” To make this happen, she invited all African states to join ATA and highlighted the need for African states to create joint ventures, partnerships and collaborative efforts.

Dr. Elham Ibrahim, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, participated in this year’s program, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between ATA and the AU in May. Dr. Ibrahim spoke about the need for African nations to work together to achieve a competitive edge in the global tourism market. She also emphasized the multi-sectoral nature of tourism and the need for cross-sector cooperation.

The roundtable discussion included H.E. Gervais Rufyikiri Second Vice President, Republic of Burundi; H.E. Excellency Jean-Marie Ehouzou Minister for Foreign Affairs, Republic of Benin; Hon. Minister Sabah Zita Okaikoi Minister of Tourism, Republic of Ghana; Hon. Ken Lipenga Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Culture, Republic of Malawi; Hon. Yassir Zenagui Minister of Tourism & Handicrafts, Kingdom of Morocco; Hon. Jerolinmek M. Piah, Deputy Minister for

ATA Board of Directors members, Africa-House New York University representatives and participating speakers at the Africa Travel Association’s Fifth Annual Presidential Forum on Tourism at New York University .

Public Affairs, Republic of Liberia; and Dr. Aloyce Nzuki, Managing Director, Tanzania Tourist Board, United Republic of Tanzania.

The World Bank’s Vice President of the Africa Region, Obiageli Ezekwesili, delivered the closing remarks, highlighting that Africa is on the edge of a slow economic rebound with tourism as a key sector of growth. She also stressed the importance of a “healthy competitive spirit” among Africa nations.

The Tanzania Tourist Board presented three awards during the program. Kent Redding, President of Adventures in Africa, received the Tour Operator Award Southern/Western Circuit. Rumit Mehta, President of Immersion Journeys received the Tour Operator Award for Product Development, and Dave Sirulnick and Justin Wilkes of News & Docs, MTV received the Media Broadcast Award. Tanzania National Parks was an event sponsor.

Africa Travel Association (ATA), www.africatravelassociation.org www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

AFRICA

R E S O U R C E

ADIKA TOUR AND TRAVEL works hard to remain a leading and reliable in the hospitality industry in Ethiopia, and strives to bring about a change through: Construction of guest houses, lodges and hotels in different touristic areas of Ethiopia Opening different branch offices at all destinations of Ethiopia and abroad

Feel like royalty with our champagne bubble bath experience

D I R E C T O R Y The only safari operator in this southern section of the park.

We pride ourselves on the intimate nature of our small, exclusive bushcamps, each one situated in breathtaking and remote locations, far from other camps and tourists.

The company is still run from its headquarters at Mfuwe Lodge.

Introducing African Pride Superior Deluxe Hotels, Lodges and Country Houses

www.adikatravel.com

www.bushcampcompany.com www.africanpridehotels.com

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OUR

25th

BIRTHDAY! CELEBRATE WITH OUR AMAZING WEEKEND PACKAGE!

Thanks to partnerships all over the world, we handle groups coming from different countries such as France, Spain, Germany, America, Etc. * Ticketing with all airline companies * Booking for hotels anywhere in the world * Travel insurances contracts *Tours and sejours organized for your staff or individuals according to your budget * Car rental

Committed to providing a quality, rewarding, yet affordable safari experience for our guests, while being acutely aware of both our impact, and that of our guests, on the environment.

Further we recognize that as a company predominantly trading in Botswana we have a socio-economic responsibility towards the citizens/residents of Botswana.

www.kabavoyages.com

www.footsteps-in-africa.com

The Garden Group of Hotels offers affordable conferencing and accommodations in Zambia

www.gardengroupzambia.com

AFRICA Your Adventure,Our Expertise We have built a solid reputation for safe, comfortable, reliable and fun-filled tours to Southern and East Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most spectacular destinations.

A Specialist Tour Operation offering safaris into East, West and Southern Africa.

A broad range of products from luxury lodges to camping, diving, climbing, bird watching, adventure activities and special interest safaris are available. Tailor-made FIT, groups, escorted safaris, incentives and conferences.

AFRICA CONNECTION TOURS SENEGAL Presents

FESMAN 2010 The World Festival of Black Arts and Cultures to be held in Dakar from December 10th to 31st Please inquire about our special packages and attend!

Africa Connection Tours www.jenmansafaris.com

www.wildfrontiers.com

Email: act@orange.sn Phone: (221) 33 849 52 00 Fax: (221) 33 821 83 26 Website: www.actours-senegal.com

AFRICA TTB PRESENTATION AT ATA PRESIDENTIAL FORUM IN NEW YORK

package, bird-viewing and photographic safaris, comprehensive transfer, and hotel reservations. From luxury to adventure tours, nature walks to cultural tours, from the shores of Zanzibar to the highest peak of Mt, Kilimanjaro, the group enables visitors to explore the best places in Tanzania.

Equitanz Resorts, sales@equitanzresorts.com, www.equitanzresorts.com; Bongo Tours & Safaris, bongo@bongotours.com, www.bongotours.com

OMONG’WE TRAVEL & TOURS DISCOUNTS CHRISTMAS, NEW YEAR FAMILY PACKAGES

At Africa Travel Association’s prestigious Fifth Annual Presidential Forum September 22 at New York University, Dr. Aloyce K. Nzuki, Managing Director of the Tanzania Tourist Board, presented the 2010 Tanzania Tourist Board Tour Operator Product Development Award to Rumit Mehta, President of Immersion Journeys. (Left to right) Eddie Bergman, Executive Director, Africa Travel Association; Dr. Nzuki; Rumit Mehta; and Karen Hoffman, President, the Bradford Group/Tanzania Tourist Board USA Representative.

The company won the award for providing programs in Tanzania for universities, corporations and public sector institutions, as well as identifying investment opportunities in Tanzania.

Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) together with TTB and Africa House of NYU sponsored the ATA event.

Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB), www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; Africa Travel Association (ATA), www.africatravelassociation.org

BONGO TOURS & SAFARIS, EQUITANZ RESORTS SHOW AFRICA’S TREASURES Overlooking the Ngorongoro Crater, Afrikan Sunstar Resort absorbs sunset and sunrise from its balconies. Guests hear playful bird sounds at the resort and a little over four miles away, they enjoy game drives at the Ngorongoro Crater. The resort is renowned for exquisite cuisine, affordable accommodations and scenic views It consists of 20 exclusively furnished cottages all en-suite, main building lobby, restaurant, bar and open-air terrace. Visitors can also relax at the swimming pool facility with poolside bar.

At the foot of Africa’s rooftop, Fortune Mountain Resort is just about three miles from the Mt. Kilimanjaro gates. With its 18 big luxury suites all en-suite, the resort prides itself on glorious ambience, the Kibo Restaurant and Mawenzi Bar, Shira Lounge as well as magnificent gardens and warm friendliness. Fortune Mountain offers excursions from cultural tours to village walks, historical sites, and of course the Kilimanjaro challenge.

Bongo Tours and Safari offers favorable rates for all expert guided tours, tailor-made safaris, a Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing 50 • NOVEMBER 2010

Omong’we Travel & Tours, a travel company based in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania is now offering special, discounted family packages for groups of four or more people touring Tanzania’s beautiful tourist attractions during Christmas and New Year’s period.

Discounts will range from five to 10 percent of normal prices, depending on the number of the people on the booking. The packages include famous attractions such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar; however recently, Omong’we has also focused on smaller and niche markets such as Pangani, Gombe National Park and Selous Game Reserve.

Clients can customize vacations by choosing a combination of safari to endless plains of Serengeti, world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara or Tarangire National Parks, climb Mount Kilimanjaro or visit white-sandy beaches of Zanzibar. By combining client choice and Omong’we expertise, a dream vacation can become a reality. In addition, Omong’we Travel is now offering tourist packages to some niche markets in the country. The historical town of Pangani has been attracting crowd of tourists who want to be in a remote and quiet place for inner peace and tranquility. Another package is to Gombe National Park, around 13,000 acres, famous worldwide for its chimpanzees and Jane Goodall research. Omong’we also provides tours to Selous Game Reserve, one of the largest fauna reserves in the world, situated in Southern Tanzania.

Omong’we Travel, reservations@omongwetravel.com, www.omongwetravel.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

TANZANIA Great Safaris in Tanzania with a Personal Touch Contact us to for all of your safari needs * Tailor made safaris * Fixed departure dates safaris * Mountain Climbing packages * Bird viewing safaris * Comprehensive transfers * Hotel Reservations and Conference packages * Team building activities

R E S O U R C E

Ahsante Tours is located in Moshi, a small town on the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the ideal location not only for Kilimanjaro or Meru climbing but for game viewing in the parks in the northern circuit.

A locally-owned tour operator that specializes in mountain climbing, wildlife safaris and beach holidays.

D I R E C T O R Y Amazing Tanzania focuses on dreams and desires and enjoys the challenge of working with a client to achieve the perfect combination that meets their needs and interests and shows the best of what a safari in Tanzania has to offer.

We look forward to assisting in the designing of the perfect Tanzania Experience.

Welcome to Amazing Tanzania!

evelyne@bongotous.com

www.bongotours.com

Tranquility at the foot of Kilimanjaro.

Tanzania’s new luxury lodge set in lush tropical gardens with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.

www.ahsantetours.com

Globeinter Safaris Africa is a brand dedicated to offering Tours and Safaris in the East African region with the opportunity of consulting in other regions.

We will also offer Hotel and Lodges reservations, conferencing and events, airline tickets, airport transfers and car rental.

We can tailor safaris to tastes and budget.

Be confident that we can create a special itinerary at affordable rates.

www.arumerulodge.com

www.globeintersafaris.com

A recognized leader in the aviation industry in Tanzania.

We are affiliated to the long-established Nairobi-based domestic airline, Airkenya. We are based in the northern Tanzanian town of Arusha, the starting point of safaris into northern Tanzania.

Overlooking the Rufiji River, Selous Riverside Safari Camp consists of ten of the largest and most luxurious tented chalets in Tanzania. They have been carefully placed to provide privacy and blend into the nature’s surrounding, overlooking the Rufiji River and its hippos and crocodiles.

Attention has been paid to every detail to make sure you experience the true essence of an adventures safari of a lifetime.

www.regional.co.tz

www.selousriversidecamp.com

www.amazingtanzania.com

Zanzibar is one of the most exotic of African islands, and Bwejuu is its wide and blindingly white beach.

For pampered luxury stay at The Palms in one of six large villas.

Bwejuu Beach voted one of the 30 best island beaches in the world. ~Conde Naste

www.palms-zanzibar.com

Where the slopes of majestic Kilimanjaro reach far out into the African savannah a dream has come true – Hatari Lodge opened its doors to the public sharing not only a beautiful but also a historic and especially ecologically interesting area.

www.hatarilodge.com

AFRICA EJ AFRICA OFFERS NEW SAFARI TO BOTSWANA, NAMIBIA AND ZAMBIA FROM $3,950

expertise include strategic marketing and branding, business development, product and sales training, and consortium navigation.

KC and Kathleen have collaborated over the past ten years on initiatives including events and trade shows, business/project development, marketing plans, familiarization trips, and more. Each has represented award-winning luxury travel companies for decades.

Their current portfolio represents Baobab Expeditions, Blue Parallel, Cape Grace Hotel, EuroPanache, Lindblad Expeditions, and Victoria Falls Hotel.

KCH Travel Portfolio, info@kchportfolio.com, kc@kchportfolio.com, www.kchportfolio.com

KUMUKA WORLDWIDE SHOWS THE MAGIC OF AFRICA AND BEYOND Specialists in customized luxury African Safaris, Extraordinary Journeys (EJ Africa), is offering a new special to Africa: an eightnight package across Botswana, Namibia and Zambia starting at $3,950 per person.

Travelers will stay the first three nights in an exclusive Meru-style tent at Kalahari Plains in Botswana’s Central Kalahari Game Reserve—one of the largest reserves in the world. Next, they’ll fly to the lush area of the Okavango Delta on Paradise Island where they will spend two nights at either Jacana, Xigera or Seba Camp; the new Xigera (opened in May 2000) consists of eight luxuriously furnished walk-in tented rooms with superb views of the floodplain and attractive waterhole. Then they will fly to the Kwando airstrip where a boat ride on the magnificent Kwando River takes them to scenic Lianshulu Lodge in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip for a two-night stay. The trip comes to an end with a night at either Toka Leya Camp or The River Club near Livingstone, Zambia and the stupendous Victoria Falls.

This spectacular offer from $3,950 per person is valid from through June 15, 2011 (Festive surcharge will apply from December 16, 2010 until January 6, 2011.)

EJ Africa organizes trips for honeymooners, families and individual travelers to Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. Mixing and matching safaris, camps, lodges, and villas, with travel by private planes, 4x4s, hot air balloons, elephant, camel and even horse, EJ Africa has planned over 300 trips to Africa and not one has been the same.

Extraordinary Journeys, www.ejafrica.com

NEW KCH TRAVEL PORTFOLIO SERVES NICHE AND SPECIALTY TRAVEL PROVIDERS KC Hoppe & Kathleen Cook-Hunter, two travel industry insiders, have partnered together to form the KCH Travel Portfolio, a sales representation and marketing consulting company designed for niche and specialty travel providers. The firm manages a distinguished portfolio and offers more than 20 years of experience and expertise in the U.S. luxury and leisure travel markets.

KC and Kathleen work on their clients’ behalf to increase brand awareness and market share, designing cost-effective, strategic plans for action working toward growth with sustainable results. Areas of 52 • NOVEMBER 2010

Travelers who want to see the beautiful, majestic gorillas and wildlife of Uganda will love two of Kumuka’s new Small Group tours that provide comfort camping, lodge accommodation and have a maximum group size of 10 people for a personalized experience. The Gorilla Safari tour gives the opportunity to trek with a mountain gorilla in the scenic Uganda highlands and to see Queen Elizabeth National Park’s vast mammal and bird species.

The Gorilla & Wildlife Encounter visits Uganda’s best locations for primate and game viewing. Highlights include a boat trip on Lake Victoria to visit the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the Kibale Forest National Park, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, Queen Elizabeth National Park and a trek with mountain gorillas.

Madagascar Explored, recently featured in National Geographic’s top 25 tours, allows travel in a traditional dhow boat where travelers enjoy kayaking, fishing, snorkeling over colorful coral, relaxing on unspoiled beaches and even swimming with whale sharks.

In West Africa, Kumuka’s Markets, Coasts and Voodoo tour covers Ghana, Togo and Benin. Highlights include the rainforests of Kakum National Park, seeing and playing with drum masters in Ghana, dancing to West African beats on the beach and the opportunity to give something back with Kumuka’s short volunteering programs. Travelers will also learn about Voodoo and explore the fetish markets of Togo and Benin.

Adrenaline junkies will love Kumuka’s 21-day Victoria Falls to the Cape Overland tour. From the mighty Zambesi, visitors then travel to Botswana for game viewing at Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. Then it’s Namibia for more game drives, sand boarding and quad biking. Wine tasting is enjoyed in Stellenbosch before finishing in Cape Town.

In total Kumuka Worldwide has 83 Adventure tours throughout Africa and The Middle East, including Small Group Tours and Overland Tours. Kumuka also offers Family Adventures and Lodge Based Safaris in Africa and the Middle East.

Kumuka Worldwide offers the peace of mind of knowing that once paid in full, tour price will remain the same regardless of any exchange-rate fluctuations.

Kumuka Worldwide, 800-517-0867, adventureexperts@kumuka.com, www.kumuka.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

AFRICA THE MANTIS GROUP PLAYS HOST TO ‘JUNGLE JACK’ HANNA AT NEW YORK EVENT

TRUMARKETING ANNOUNCES BLUE TRAIN’S SPECIAL JOURNEYS FOR 2011

South Africa’s Mantis Group, South African Tourism USA, and South African Airways USA recently played host to celebrity wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, “Jungle Jack” Hanna, at a memorable event in Times Square, New York City.

Members of the press, leading travel agents and guests of Jack’s from the Big Apple joined Adrian Gardiner and his Mantis team for the launch of Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild TV series. The series was filmed at two of the Mantis game reserves, Shamwari and Sanbona, only six months ago. The seven-part series will be broadcast across the U.S in the coming months with coverage in 90 percent of the American market.

In introducing Jack Hanna, Adrian Gardiner said, “We are very pleased that Jack has become such a great ambassador, not only for Mantis, but for all of South Africa, and his incredible following will have an opportunity to see the best of our country. ” Gardiner went on to announce that Mantis and SAA Vacations will be introducing “Jack Hanna Safaris” in the near future.

Jack and his crew will now venture to Mantis’ Chilean properties before returning to Southern Africa to film a series at the Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge in Zambia and other Mantis properties north of the South African border.

The Mantis Group, www.mantiscollection.com

The Blue Train provides a window to the soul of South Africa, offering luxury travel with superior service and fine gourmet cuisine.

Travelers experience it all the moment they step aboard The Blue Train, where every need is catered at the level of sophistication of a five-star hotel.

The signature Blue Train/Safari package will have two departures in 2011 that provide the opportunity to combine a Blue Train experience with an exciting two-night stay at beautiful Ivory Tree Game Lodge in Pilanesburg. The package includes a roundtrip Blue Train journey from Pretoria to Sun City, transfers to the lodge, two nights at Ivory Tree including two game drives per day and meals, plus an R400 spa voucher. The trip is available September 15-18, 2011, and December 29, 2011 through January 1, 2012.

For those interested in a luxurious rail journey combined with a golf/spa holiday, the Blue Train/Fairmont Zimbali package is available for two departures in 2011. Guests experience the best of the best with a round-trip journey aboard the Blue Train from Pretoria to Durban, two nights at the exquisite luxurious Fairmont Zimbali Lodge, daily breakfast, an R550 per person food and beverage credit, and choice of two rounds of golf at Zimbali Estate or an R760 spa voucher for use at the property's signature Camelot Spa. This trip is available September 8–12 and November 17–21, 2011.

Trumarketing, info@trumarketing.com, www.trumarketing.com

MADURO DIVE FANTA-SEAS OFFERS 2011 SARDINE RUN EXPEDITIONS National Geographic calls Sardine Run the Most Exciting Dive on Earth. Every year, the world’s greatest marine migration takes place off the South African coast. Multiple millions of sardines follow the cold winter currents moving north toward the warm Indian Ocean, bringing with them thousands of predators: dolphins, sharks, whales, seals and marine birds.

Now, Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas provides you a way of witnessing this amazing, natural phenomenon. The Sardine Run is the ultimate experience for all ocean adventure-minded travelers. With the speed of the action associated with the Sardine Run, 80 percent of your time in the water is on snorkel. Any person with a base level of physical fitness, diver or snorkeler, can now experience this ultimate marine spectacle.The 2011 Sardine Run expeditions are all eight nights and take place over a five-week period only. The dates are June 11–19, 19–27, June 27–July 5, July 5–13 and 13–21.

Maduro’s package includes seven ocean days on the Sardine Run (weather dependent), a one-time Microlight flight (weather permitting), eight nights’ accommodations based on double occupancy, all meals, all roundtrip transfers for Durban/Umtata Airports, arranged afternoon activities, tanks, weights and weight belt.

The price is $4,850 ppdo and comes with Maduro’s Best Rate Guarantee. Special airfare pricing to South Africa and a pre- or post-Safari is available.

Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas, 800-327-6709, info@maduro.com, www.madurodive.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

APTA IS AFRICA

WE’LL PUT YOU ON THE RIGHT TRACK! 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.

NOVEMBER 2010 •

53

AFRICA ATO TEWOLDE G. MARIAM APPOINTED NEW CEO OF ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES Ethiopian Airlines has appointed Ato Tewolde G. Mariam as CEO– Designate of Ethiopian Airlines to succeed Ato Girma Wake as CEO effective January 1, 2011.

Ato Girma Wake served as Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines since February 2004, leading the airline through one of the most ambitious growth periods in its history. With the implemenATO TEWOLDE G. MARIAM tation of Vision 2010, Ethiopian was ranked the 16th most profitable airline in the world.

Of Ato Tewolde G. Mariam’s appointment, H.E. Ato Seyoum, Chairman of the Board of Management for Ethiopian Airlines, said, “Vision 2025, 15-year strategic road map for the growth of the airline, has been laid out and the airline is on the first year of its implementation. The Management Board has noted that when Ato Girma retires, it should appoint a successor capable of continuing implementing this strategic direction to make Ethiopian the foremost Aviation Group in Africa and to continue contributing to the socio-economic development of Ethiopia.”

Ato Tewolde has served Ethiopian for the last 25 years in various capacities in the Marketing Division at the head office and at area offices including India, Saudi Arabia and the U.S.A. He also has served the airline as Executive Officer of the Marketing and Sales Division. Prior to his appointment as CEO Designate, he had been serving as the Chief Operating Officer of Ethiopian, successfully steering the operations of the airline during a period of unprecedented and profitable growth.

He graduated from the Addis Ababa University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. He has also earned a masters degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the Open University, UK. Ato Tewolde is married and father of three boys and one girl.

Ethiopian Airlines, www.ethiopianairlines.com

AFRICA CONNECTION TOURS SHOWCASING PHENOMENAL CULTURAL EVENT IN DECEMBER The World Festival of Black Arts and Culture is a 20-day culture and arts festival that will take place in Africa, December 10–31, 2010. The theme is “African Renaissance.” The Republic of Senegal, known for its artistic wealth, is the host country for the event. The country of honor is Brazil.

Starting with a grand festival parade, events will take place all around the capital city Dakar, Goree Island and in Senegal’s second city, Saint Louis—celebrations of poetry, sculpture, painting, music, cinema, theater, fashion, sports, fine cuisine, architecture, design and dance from artists and performers from around the African diaspora. Famous entertainers such as Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Beyonce and Youssou Ndour will make the African ex54 • NOVEMBER 2010

perience unforgettable.

Known for their spirit of teranga (hospitality) and fabulous design tours, Africa Connection Tours will provide the perfect way to experience this event. Travelers’ days will be full of excitement, experiencing everything from the traditional to the newest African and Diaspora creations in all fields of culture.

Africa Connection Tours also offers cultural tours, business trade groups, educational tours, echo-tourism, wedding parties, gastronomic tours and more.

Africa Connection Tours, act@orange.sn, www.actours-senegal.com

BAOBAB EXPEDITIONS OFFERS TREKS TO THE GORILLAS AND THE BIG FIVE In 2011, Baobab Expeditions will again offer exclusive guided expeditions to discover the gorillas in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans and the Big Five across Kenya’s wild bush. For every booking, Baobab will generously donate to both the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and the Born Free Foundation.

Clare Richardson, President of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, will guide travelers through the Parc National des Volcans (where about half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas survive). Stays will be at the Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, and then back in Kigali at five-star Kigali Serena Hotel. Nairobi is next, with guide Lynne Leakey. Lodging is at five-star Sarova Stanley hotel, where Ernest Hemingway, Denys Finch Hatton and Edward Price of Wales all stayed.

Adventurers will delve into Kenya’s Meru National Park, best known as the location of Joy Adamson’s Born Free film, where Elsa the lioness was released into the wild. They’ll stay at Elsa’s Kopje, one of the most elegant lodges in Africa.

Shaba National Park will be visited next, home to the reticulated giraffe, the Waller’s Gazelle, Somali ostrich, and the endangered Grevy’s Zebra. While here, travelers will stay at Joy’s Camp, built on the site of Joy Adamson’s tented home (also home to Penny the leopard, the heroine of Adamson’s last book).

The adventure ends with a visit to magnificent Masai Mara—a 200-square-mile reserve widely considered to be Africa’s greatest.

Baobab’s eleven-day Dian Fossey’s Gorillas and Born Free’s Big Five adventures are set for June 18, 2011, and November 5, 2011.

Pricing begins at $10,998 ppdo. Prices include all domestic flights; all ground transportation; meals as described; all accommodation, beverages and laundry at Virunga Lodge; bed and breakfast accommodation in Nairobi; all meals and accommodation on safari; game drives as indicated; park entrance fees; expert guides; and generous donations to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and the Born Free Foundation. International flights, visa entry fees for Kenya and Tanzania, medical and travel insurance, all personal expenses, and any other additional costs that may be incurred as a result of alterations in the itinerary are not included.

Baobab Expeditions, reservations@baobabexpeditions.com, www.baobabexpeditions.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

AFRICA LAKANI WORLD TOURS OFFERS AFRICAN ADVENTURE BY LUXURY PRIVATE JET

Lakani World Tours has unveiled a new private jet tour for 2011.

The 19-day all-inclusive African Adventure is a journey of discovery to the many diverse wonders of the African continent. Travelers will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leptis Magna and the archaeological site at Sabratha in Libya; trek the elusive gorillas in Rwanda, home to the world’s largest number of endangered mountain gorillas—numbering over 300; view abundant wildlife on safari in Botswana; ascend Table Mountain by cable car and taste exquisite wines in South Africa; witness traditional Dogan and Tuareg culture and dance performances in Mopti and Timbuktu, Mali; and marvel at the exotic sights of Imperial Marrakech in Morocco.

Lakani will take only 14 guests on this exclusive journey and participants will be transported throughout Africa on a luxury VIP executive jet. Normally carrying up to 40 passengers, the private jet is custom-fitted with luxurious leather club seats to provide the utmost comfort for the group of 14. They will be accompanied by two cabin attendants who will attend to their every need and serve top cuisine and vintage wines while aloft.

This luxury voyage begins and ends in Madrid, Spain, and will be escorted by experienced and professional Lakani Tour Manager John Webley. The tour includes deluxe accommodations at fine and legendary hotels and lodges, all meals, a la carte dining with Lakani’s exclusive Dine By Choice allowing flexibility and personalization (where available), comprehensive sightseeing, special entertainment and much more.

Lakani’s African Adventure by Luxury Executive Private Jet, September 18 through October 6, 2011, is priced at $67,900 ppdo.

Single rooms are available upon request for an additional $5,750.

Brochures on African Adventure by Luxury Executive Private Jet, Europe Rediscovered by Luxury Executive Private Jet, Cultural Connections Around the World by Luxury Private Jet, Best of the Americas by Luxury Private Jet and Escorted Tours are available.

Lakani World Tours, 888-565-5554, janet@lakani.com, heidi@lakani.com, www.lakani.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

ARIK AIR REACHES MILESTONE CARRYING 5 MILLIONTH PASSENGER DURING SUMMER PERIOD Arik Air, Nigeria’s leading commercial airline, has finished the summer season by registering a growth in uplift of 10.3% for the three-month period ending August, 31 2010, compared to the same period last year. Arik carried nearly 60,000 more passengers during this period compared to 2009, with August (2010) realizing an 11.9% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers.

During August, and only eight months on from lifting its four millionth passenger, the airline reached another landmark when it carried its five millionth passenger August 6 on the Johannesburg to Lagos route. Reaching the milestone of five million passengers is particularly impressive given that Arik flew on its first scheduled flight (Lagos to Abuja) just four years ago.

The launch of its first international route was between LagosLondon, commencing operations December 15, 2008. Since then, last year Arik added Lagos–Johannesburg in June, and both Abuja– London and Lagos–New York in November to its long-haul operations as well as opening regional routes from hubs in Lagos and Abuja to Dakar (Senegal), Accra (Ghana), Freetown (Sierra Leone), Cotonou (Benin), Banjul (The Gambia) and, most recently, Monrovia (Liberia).

Dr. Michael Arumemi-Ikhide, Group Chief Executive Officer of Arik Air, commented; “The figures for the period just ended are very encouraging and reflect the steady growth that we have been experiencing since launching the first long-haul route in December 2008.

Additional long-haul routes that we have added towards the end of last year have undoubtedly complemented the significant increase in passenger numbers for this quarter and we’re confident that we will build on this demand domestically and internationally. Arik Air underwent a rapid expansion in 2009 and this year the focus has been on consolidating in these new markets—from introducing our truly unique service and offering on new and under utilized routes, the aim has been to maintain those standards that set us apart from our competitors; I feel we have achieved this and the figures speak for themselves.”

Arik Air International Ltd., www.arikair.com

ELEPHANT BEDROOM CAMP IN SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE REOPENS Set on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve, Elephant Bedroom Camp has finally reopened after reconstruction and it’s business as usual.

The new-look camp has eight tents on raised decks while the rest are maintained on ground level in order to cater for the elderly and physically challenged guests. Each of the eight tents on raised decks now feature their own plunge pools for those who want to cool down and relax with a drink while overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River.

The main area which hosts the lounge, dining room and the bar is now also on a raised deck allowing guests an excellent view of the river and stunning views of Koitogo, Nakadeli and Lolpopong Hills.

Elephant Bedroom Camp, Atua-Enkop Africa Ltd., reservations@atua-enkop.com, www.atua-enkop.com NOVEMBER 2010 •

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