Travel World News - September 2011 Edition

SEPTEMBER 2011

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ISSUE NO. 279

SEPTEMBER 2011 executive office

28 Knight Street Norwalk, CT 06851-4707 203.302.5865 w e b s i t e

www.travelworldnews.com publisher

Charles Gatt, Jr. charlie@travelworldnews.com

INDUSTRY EVENTS CALENDAR OF EVENTS INDUSTRY NEWS EUROPE Book Europe With the Following Destination Specialists The Europe B2B Exchange

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FAM ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

INDUSTRY NEWS / Corinthia Hotels - page 10

editor

Carol A. Petro

editor@travelworldnews.com design production manager

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 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 D.O. Christian Rieger • Knox Robinson 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 2011.

All rights reserved. Printed in USA. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission.

All advertising in Travel World News is based on data submitted to the Publisher by the advertisers. The Publisher shall not be liable for the accuracy or inaccuracy of any information contained in Travel World News and shall not be liable, including but not limited to consequential or special damages, to any party for any products or services advertised or reported upon herein. The Publisher shall not be responsible for typographical errors. All information contained herein is subject to change without notice by the parties providing such products and services. The Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising that has been submitted at his sole discretion. Upon providing a refund of any amount paid to the party whose submittal was rejected, the Publisher shall not have any liability to any party for such rejection.

CARIBBEAN Abarete is a Kiteboarding Paradise For Any Level A Romantic Escape Plus Caribbean’s Best Weather at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts The Caribbean B2B Exchange Fifth Night Free Offer at the Sands at Grace Bay

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LATIN AMERICA Metropolitan Touring Launches New Itinerary in Northern Ecuador The South America B2B Exchange The Chile B2B Exchange Antarctic Dream Announces Polar Circle Crossing The Belize B2B Exchange Sunbreeze Hotel and Belize Dive Connection Celebrate First Anniversary The Costa Rica B2B Exchange Tara Tours Shows Nicaragua’s Uniqueness in 3 New Programs Book Latin With the Following Destination Specialists

EUROPE / Kumuka Winter Tours - page 12

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CARIBBEAN / Cabarete - page 14

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PROFITABLE WORLD OF NIChE MARkETS Korea: Asia’s Destination for All Seasons and Reasons The Adventure B2B Exchange Kessler Canyon Joins Marriott’s “Autograph Collection” The Falls Resort Celebrates Decade of Tourism in Livingstone, Zambia AmaWaterways Guests Now Visit Newly-Restored Angkorian Temple The Dive B2B Exchange Caradonna Worldwide Dive Adventures Partners With Tourism Queensland Australia for ‘Great Eight’ Promo The Special Interest B2B Exchange

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LATIN AMERICA / Nicaragua - page 30

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PROFITABLE WORLD OF NICHE MARKETS / Colorado - page 38

INDUSTRY EVENTS ‘NEW BIT, NEW BUSINESS’ FORMULA FOR BIT 2012 IN FEBRUARY

will meet 100 domestic and international buyers and clubs from 11 countries.

BIT offers exhibitors the possibility of inviting the best top clients from central and southern Italy, through BIT. Numerous facilities are at exhibitors’ disposal, including a double hotel room included in the application fee.

BIT offers contact and matching tools online to make relationships before and after the show more effective. On pre-registration operators can access their meeting diary for immediate information on products and offers. BIT is also present on the social networks.

The International Tourism Exchange has chosen Expansion to run the BIT 2012 advertising campaign. Special attention continues to be given to the media, where strong attraction is quantified in the current value of its brand: over $3.5 million. The previous edition was covered by over 3,300 newspaper articles and 170 TV broadcasts.

BIT 2012, Fiera Milano S.p.A., www.fieramilano.it

PUERTO RICO WILL hOST BOTh 16Th AND 17Th ANNUAL ChTIC

A new concept, continuing sector research, a new team and the desire to find new horizons. These are the ingredients of BIT 2012, the International Tourism Exchange to be held February 16–19 at fieramilano.

“New Bit, New Business” is the banner headline of the 32nd edition of BIT. Increasingly international horizons, focus on strategic training issues, and more centered business opportunities are the main elements of the event open to the trade and public with its compelling new formula.

BIT 2012 directs its attention to trade operators, travel agents and their needs to make sure every possible type of business is investigated and developed—so more time will be dedicated to planning meetings, describing offers and reflecting on ideas from faceto-face exchange and discussion.

A new Tourism Collection February 16–18 (last day closing at 4.30 pm) will be the ideal environment for exchanges between operators and other professionals. The “classic” areas of Italy and The World will be open February 16–19 to the trade (9:30 am to 6:30 pm) and on the weekend also to the traveling public. BIT Technology dedicated to tourism online and offline, CRS, HRS and tour operators online will complete the offer.

On February 17 and 18 at BIT BuyItaly, 2,000 selected sellers will meet 500 top international buyers chosen by BIT from over 50 nations to discover new opportunities of incoming Italian tourism—from transport to real estate, hospitality to tour operating. The BIT BuyClub workshop will dedicate February 16 to European group operators. Over 200 domestic and international sellers selected from operators, agencies and marketing consortia 4 •SEPTEMBER 2011

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) and the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) have announced that the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino in San Juan, Puerto Rico, will be the host venue for the Annual Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference (CHTIC) in 2012 (April 24–26) and 2013 (May 7–9).

“We have chosen Puerto Rico as the host destination for these crucial investment focused events for the next two years because of increased airlift options available to potential delegates traveling from the Caribbean as well as internationally,” said Josef Forstmayr, president of CHTA.“The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference is a valuable event for all Caribbean government and private sector officials” said Minister Ricky Skerritt, CTO Chairman. “This important conference focuses on the need for Caribbean governments to work closely with the private sector to promote investment and maximize the earnings potential of Tourism for our region and our people.”

Sponsorship opportunities are available for companies seeking to elevate their presence at these prestigious events. Sponsors will be highlighted throughout the conferences, as well as in CHTA’s marketing and public relations activities leading up to and following the event.

The Sponsors’ Exhibit will also afford direct contact with representatives of sponsoring companies and will be open throughout the conference. Immediately following the conference, CHTA will host its committee meetings, Board of Directors meeting and the Annual General Meeting.

Sponsorship information can be obtained by email or online.

Caribbean hotel & Tourism Association (ChTA), events@caribbeanhotelandtourism.com, www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY EVENTS INSPIRING I NS PI RI NG GLOBETROTTERS FOR OR O OVER VER GLOBETROTTERS F

Make M ake u up p tto o1 15% 5% ccommission ommission

1·800·387·8850 1·800·387·8850 · w www.goway.com w w.goway.com · info@goway.com info@goway.com APTA’S NATIONAL FORUM MONTh IN ChICAgOie06 The APTA National Forum will be held September 16 and 17 at the Embassy Suites O’Hare/Rosemont Hotel, Chicago, IL. This annual industry gathering allows attendees the opportunity to meet APTA members from other chapters, develop strategies and techniques to energize their careers and businesses, participate in APTA policy decisions, and network with industry partners.

Workshop topics include: Constant Contact Event Marketing. Professionals learn how event marketing helps small businesses and nonprofits promote events, manage online registrations, and accept credit card payments.

“Culture Smart Traveling in Africa—Brushing up on our travel savvy.” Speakers are Hanneke du Preez of Traces of Africa, Southern Africa and Graham Wood of Abercrombie & Kent, East Africa.

“Be the change you wish to see in the world—The hands-on approach to philanthropy.” Speakers are Rebecca Rothney, founder of Pack For A Purpose, and Dan Grewe, Director of Operations for Peace House Africa.

APTA (Association for Promotion of Tourism to Africa), www.APTA.biz

DISCOVER AMERICA AT FITUR 2012 IN SPAIN Inbound tourism from Spain has seen impressive increases, with a 125% jump in less than a decade—640,000 visited the US from Spain in 2010 (up from 284,000 just 7 years before), and tourism is expected to continue growing another 15% by 2016. Spending by Spanish visitors has risen by a double-digit percentage for 5 of the past 7 years, to over $2 billion in 2009.

Fitur 2012, the all-important travel and tourism show held in Spain each year, will be held in Madrid January 18–22. Celebrating its 32nd edition, Fitur is a major meeting point for tourism professionals, where they establish lines of action, strategies and business alliances to energize and consolidate the tourism business, innovating to answer the changing demands of the market.

Last year the show drew over 200,000 participants—62,446 trade visitors and 89,599 people from the general public came to Fitur 2011 to meet with 57,215 exhibitors, representing 166 countries and regions. Over 7,000 journalists from 59 countries proved Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

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For thousands of top selling ideas plus the best airfares

Y YEARS EARS

the international importance of Fitur as one of the world’s major travel events.

The Discover America Pavilion will once again make available effective, efficient positioning at Fitur 2012. This pavilion, organized in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, certified by the U.S. Department of Commerce and supported by the Visit USA Committee Spain, provides U.S. exhibitors with a choice of economical and hassle-free participation alternatives. It is an easy way to have a commanding and sophisticated presence at this all-important annual travel trade event on the international circuit of tourism sector fairs.

B-FOR International, b-for@exhibitpro.com, www.discoveramericapavilion.com

ITB BERLIN AND ThE DISCOVER AMERICA PAVILION A PRACTICAL BLEND FOR US ExhIBITORS ITB Berlin is the world’s premier travel and tourism event, covering the entire range of destinations and travel service suppliers, including tour and receptive operators, airlines and airports, cruise lines, car and RV rentals, restaurants, hotels and resorts, shopping, sightseeing, transportation, travel technology, and more. ITB 2011 attracted over 11,000 exhibitors doing business with some 111,000 trade visitors and promoting their brands and offers to an additional 59,000 motivated travel consumers.

International travel and tourism shows offer some of the most cost-effective opportunities for developing and servicing overseas markets, introducing new products, and finding buyers, and the Discover America Pavilion, organized in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, provides U.S. exhibitors with a range of format choices for economic considerations. Each aspect of participation is professionally handled so it’s hassle-free.

German U.S. inbound tourism as well as spending made gains in 2010 and is expected to continue to grow by nearly 40% by 2016.

1.7 million German travelers spent $5.8 billion in the United States last year and Germany remains one of the top U.S. inbound markets.

B-FOR International, b-for@exhibitpro.com, www.discoveramericapavilion.com/itb_to_exhibit.html (registration), www.discoveramericapavilion.com SEPTEMBER 2011 •

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INDUSTRY EVENTS BETEx 2012 SLATED FOR APRIL 25–27 IN BELIzE

26) from 6–9 pm. Attendees can enjoy lectures by visiting experts, and at each venue there are door prizes to be won, including two roundtrip tickets to South Africa at each venue. Registration is free with advance registration online or by calling toll-free. goway Travel, 800-245-0920, www.goway.com/venues (registration), www.goway.com

EARLY SIgNS ShOW ExPECTED CROWDS AT CONVENTA 2012

The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) has announced the dates for the next Belize Tourism Expo (BETEX 2012). BETEX will be held in Belize April 25–27, with optional post tours through April 30. BETEX is the major sales initiative of BTIA, Belize’s leading national private sector tourism association. Taking place in Belize every two years, BETEX 2012 is the eighth event, the only of its kind in Belize.

Approximately 350 local and international tourism professionals and press representatives are expected to be in attendance. The business-focused schedule of events begins with the official arrival day and welcome reception April 25. On April 26, buyers and suppliers will meet in one central marketplace. Retail travel agents may participate in sales seminars.

Participants are encouraged to register early to guarantee advance appointments. The tradeshow registration fee is $199, which includes meals and two nights’ hotel accommodation. Delegates also have the option to select a post tour itinerary at the time of registration. Registration for the tradeshow and post tour with hotel site inspections is $399, which includes five nights hotel accommodation, transfers, meals and tours. At BETEX, travel professionals will be able to conduct meetings with decision makers from the country’s top suppliers and immerse themselves in the diverse natural wonders of Belize. Registration can be done online at the BETEX website.

BETEx (Belize Tourism Expo), info@betex.bz, www.betex.bz

gOWAY’S ThIRD g’DAY TO AFRICA TRAVEL ExPO IS ThIS MONTh Over 25 African travel industry representatives will be traveling to North America later this month to join Goway’s G’day to Africa event. Represented countries include South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Madagascar, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.

“This is the third consecutive year we are hosting this event and what is unique is the diversity of products represented,” said Moira Smith, General Manager of AFRICAExperts, “From luxury lodges to luxury rail, from gorilla trekking to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, if you’re interested in Africa, this is the event to attend.”

Goway will host special events in the US (New York, September 20) and Canada (Toronto, September 22 and 24, Vancouver, September 6 •SEPTEMBER 2011

Conventa, the leading business-to-business event in the meeting industry in South East Europe, will be held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, January 18–19.

Looking at the numbers after the early bird registration this year, organizers note that compared to the same time last year, the number of exhibitors has risen by 40 percent. Online registration will be open for some time, and it’s expected that around 140 exhibitors from Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Romania, Bulgaria, Austria and Italy will be in attendance, along with approximately 300 hosted buyers.

Results of a satisfaction survey conducted last year among South East European participants showed great satisfaction with the show, with many stating they will return to the next one.

The majority of 71 meeting industry suppliers that have already confirmed their attendance comes from Slovenia, followed by suppliers from Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, Austria, Italy, Bulgaria and Albania. Around 15 percent of exhibitors are newcomers.

Presenting their offer to selected hosted buyers for the first time at Conventa will be Hit Alpinea, iDMC, Rogaska Hotels & Lotus Terme, Turizem Bled, Adria Kongres, Arena Turist, Globtour Event, Uniline, Rina Travel and MK Mountain Resort.

Conventa, info@conventa.si, www.conventa.info

MITM IS hOSTINg BUYERS TO CENTRAL AMERICA Executives involved in organizing and arranging international incentive travel, meetings, conferences, product presentations and events are being invited to apply to attend as hosted buyers to the 17th edition of MITM Americas, Meetings & Incentive Travel Market scheduled to take place in San Salvador, El Salvador, Central America, November 15–18, 2011.

MITM invitation includes up to 650 EUR (approximately $925) for air transportation funding to San Salvador’ up to four nights of accommodation in a 5-star hotel, breakfast included, in El Salvador; transfers airport–hotel–airport; one welcome reception with cocktail and dinner, one luncheon, one gala dinner, one brunch and snack and beverage continuous service during the travel market; local sightseeing; attendance to MITM travel trade mart with up to 20 individual meetings with international public and private suppliers; attendance to two seminars; and eligibility to take one of the offered exciting post-MITM fam tours of Central America.

To apply, MITM recommends doing so online.

MITM Americas (Meetings & Incentive Travel Market), gisela.matamoros@mitmevents.com, www.mitmamericas.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • 2011-12 DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT OCTOBER 3-7 FCCA Conference & Trade Show San Juan, Puerto Rico www.f-cca.com 4-6 The Motivation Show Chicago, IL www.motivationshow.com 4-6 Ukraine Intl. Travel Market Kiev, Ukraine www.ukraine-itm.com.ua 6-8 TTg Incontri Rimini, Italy www.ttgincontri.it/en-en 6-8 Discover America Pavilion at TTg Incontri Rimini, Italy www.discoveramericapavilion.com 11-13 IMEx America Las Vegas, NV www.imex-america.com 12-14 Cancun Travel Mart Cancun, Mexico www.cancuntravelmart.com 13-15 Caribbean Boutique & Intimate hotel Conf.

Saint Lucia www.saintlucianow.com 17-20 Adventure Travel World Summit Chiapas, Mexico www.adventuretravel.biz 19-21 ABAV Rio De Janeiro, Brazil www.reedtravelexhibitions.com 19-21 Discover America Pavilion at ABAV Rio De Janerio, Brazil www.discoveramericapavilion.com 19-21 ITB Asia Singapore www.itb-asia.com 19-21 Discover America Pavilion at ITB Asia Singapore www.discoveramericapavilion.com 21-23 Akwaaba: African Travel Market Lagos, Nigeria www.africantravelquarterly.com 23-27 ATS Fall Conference Czech Republic www.americantourismsociety.org 27-30 CITM 2011 Kunming, China www.citm.com 27-30 ATS Fall Conference Bratislava, Slovakia www.americantourismsociety.org NOVEMBER 1-4 Pure Life Experiences Marrakech, Morocco www.purelifeexperiences.com 2-5 DEMA Orlando, FL www.demashow.com 7-10 WTM London London, England www.wtmlondon.com 7-10 Discover America Pavilion at WTM London, England www.discoveramericapavilion.com 11-14 Taipei International Travel Fair Taipei, Taiwan www.taipeitf.org.tw 14-17 Intl. golf Travel Market Antalya Expo, Turkey www.igtm.co.uk 16-18 Cruise Shipping Asia Exhibition Singapore www.cruiseshippingmiami.com 16-18 MITM Americas San Salvador, El Salvador www.mitmamericas.com 17-20 Festuris – Tourism Trade Fair Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil www.festivalturismogramado.com.br 18-20 Philoxenia Thessaloniki, Greece www.philoxenia.travel 29-Dec 1 EIBTM Barcelona, Spain www.eibtm.com 29-Dec 1 Discover America Pavilion at EIBTM Barcelona, Spain www.discoveramericapavilion.com DECEMBER 2-4 Monte Carlo Travel Market Grimaldi Forum, Monaco www.monte-carlo-travel-market.com 5-9 NTA Convention Las Vegas, NV www.ntaonline.com 6-8 Luxury Travel Expo Las Vegas, Nevada www.luxurytravelexpo.com 11-13 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace Marco Island, FL www.ustoa.com JANUARY 2012 11-15 Vakantiebeurs Utrecht, The Netherlands www.vakantiebeurs.nl 14-15 Travel & Adventure Show Los Angeles, CA www.adventureexpo.com 14-15 The Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show Philadelphia, PA www.inquirertravelshow.com 18-22 FITUR Madrid, Spain www.ifema.es 18-22 Discover America Pavilion at FITUR Madrid, Spain www.discoveramericapavilion.com 19-22 Matka Helsinki, Finland www.matkamessut.fi 21-22 Travel & Adventure Show New York, NY www.adventureexpo.com 21-22 Minnesota Travel Show Minneapolis, MN www.acstravelshow.com 26-29 Tourism & Leisure Show Ljubljana, Slovenia www.ljubljanafair.com 27-29 Los Angeles Times Travel Show Los Angeles, CA events.latimes.com/travelshow 28-29 Travel & Adventure Show Chicago, IL www.adventureexpo.com FEBRUARY 2-4 Florida huddle Fort Lauderdale, FL www.floridahuddle.com 8-9 IMTM Tel Aviv, Israel www.ortra.com/imtm 9-12 EMITT Istanbul, Turkey www.emittistanbul.com 10-12 The Boston globe Travel Show Boston, MA www.bostonglobetravelshow.com 13-16 Blossom Japan Kyoto, Japan www.blossomjapan.com 16-19 BIT 2012 Milan, Italy www.bit.fieramilano.it 16-19 Discover America Pavilion at BIT Milan, Italy www.discoveramericapavilion.com 17-19 Outbound Travel Mart Mumbai/New Delhi, India www.otm.co.in 17-29 Discover America Pavilion at OTM Mumbai/New Delhi, India www.discoveramericapavilion.com 18-19 Travel & Adventure Show San Francisco, CA www.adventureexpo.com MARCh 2-4 The New York Times Travel Show New York, NY www.nytravelshow.com TO LIST YOUR EVENTS EMAIL : editor@travelworldnews.com • FOR ADDITIONAL EVENTS VISIT: www.travelworldnews.com/calendar Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

SEPTEMBER 2011 •

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INDUSTRY NEWS LUNgARNO COLLECTION EVOLVES AS LUxURY hOTEL gROUP AND ExPANDS PORTFOLIO The Florence-based luxury hotel group owned by the Ferragamo family and formerly known as Lungarno Hotels has evolved to Lungarno Collection to reflect its growing and diverse portfolio. With locations in Rome, Florence and Tuscany, each of the hotels, retreats and villas in the Lungarno Collection is distinct with attention to style, design, and Florentine craftsmanship—attributes shared by the legacy of shoe designer Salvatore Ferragamo. Lungarno Collection includes luxury and design hotels, private villas and Swan Yachts.

Newest members of the Collection include: Villa Le Rose, a restored 16th-century villa in the Tuscan countryside near Florence. The two-level property accommodates 12 and boasts original frescoes and antique furnishings, a ballroom, garden and swimming pool, and a personal staff including butler and chef. Weekly rates from Sunday to Sunday start at approximately $53,000.

Ferragamo’s personal Swan Yacht 90 Solleone is based at Scarlino Yacht Club & Residences. This 90-foot yacht is fully staffed so guests can explore the Aeolian/Lipari Islands, Sardinia or the Balearic Islands. Solleone can be booked for a minimum of three nights; rates start at approximately $28,000 (crew included).

Scarlino Yacht Club & Residences is located at the port of Marina di Scarlino in the picturesque Maremma region of Tuscany. Nine spacious suites offer striking views of the Mediterannean and Elba, the largest island of the Tuscan archipelago. Contemporary styled suites include one or two bedrooms with fully equipped kitchens and large terraces. Personalized experiences such as a chauffeured tour of Tuscany, a day at private beach Cala Felice and sailing courses certified by the Italian Federation for adults and children can be arranged.

Rates start at approximately $250 per night, per apartment.

New experiences include yoga classes on the rooftop of Hotel Continentale overlooking Palazzo Vecchio; dynamic rotating exhibits at Gallery Hotel Art; new artisan bicycles and romantic boat tours down the Arno River at Hotel Lungarno near Ponte Vecchio bridge; and yachting at the Scarlino Yacht Club & Residences.

A newly designed website includes the collection’s property listings, recommended unique pursuits in Italy, special online-only promotions for Ferragamo and the Lungarno Details store, and more.

Lungarno Collection, www.lungarnocollection.com

SAA hONORED AT SkYTRAx WORLD AIRLINE AWARDS SAA has been honored with two prestigious awards at the annual Skytrax World Airlines Awards for 2011. For the ninth consecutive year, SAA was won the prestigious award of “Best Airline Africa.” The award, based on different ratings of front-line product and service, reflects SAA’s continued investment in customer service and world-class products serving the African continent. For the second consecutive year, SAA also won the “Service Excellence Africa” award for unrivalled consistency in product and service standards at the airport and in-flight.

The Skytrax awards are based on customer responses to an online survey, which is conducted over a 10-month period on the Skytrax website.

The study analyzes customer satisfaction for airline passenger experiences across the airport and onboard environments that include check-in, boarding process, overall airport experience, onboard seat comfort, cabin cleanliness, in-flight food and beverages, onboard entertainment and staff service. This year, over 18.8 million airline customers from over 100 different nationalities participated in the Skytrax survey. The survey included over 200 airlines worldwide and measured standards across more than 38 different items of airlines product and services.

South African Airways, 800-722-9675, www.flysaa.com

DELTA WELCOMES ChINA EASTERN INTO SkYTEAM ALLIANCE Delta Air Lines has welcomed China Eastern Airlines as an official member of the SkyTeam alliance, further strengthening the alliance’s connections throughout China.

“We’re proud that China Eastern has chosen to align itself with Delta and our SkyTeam partners,” said Charlie Pappas, vice president–Alliances. “The addition of China Eastern into the alliance is great news for Delta and SkyTeam customers, offering unrivalled connections to one of the world’s fastest-growing regions and enhancing SkyTeam’s industry-leading position in China.”

China Eastern’s membership in SkyTeam complements its recently announced codeshare agreement with Delta. The codeshare offers Delta customers greater connectivity to China, with Delta flight numbers being added to 49 China Eastern-operated domestic flights in China, as well as nonstop trans-Pacific flights connecting Shanghai with Los Angeles and New York. China Eastern flight numbers will be added on 38 Delta-operated U.S. domestic flights as well as trans-Pacific service connecting Detroit and Atlanta to Shanghai.

China Eastern, headquartered in Shanghai, is located in the country’s fastest-growing and most economically developed region. China Eastern’s extensive route network includes more than 150 destinations in China and worldwide, including cities in Southeast Asia, Europe, North America, South Africa and Australia.

With China Eastern’s hub in Shanghai, and current SkyTeam member China Southern’s hubs in Guangzhou and Beijing, SkyTeam will now offer services out of the three largest Chinese markets.

Delta Air Lines, www.delta.com 8 • SEPTEMBER 2011

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY NEWS CORINThIA hOTELS RECEIVES ExECUTIVE TRAVEL’S 2011 LEADINg EDgE AWARD The five-star hotel collection Corinthia Hotels has been awarded a prestigious Leading Edge Award in the Editor’s Pick category of American Express Publishing’s Executive Travel magazine, in recognition of leadership within its properties. The annual Leading Edge Awards acknowledges industry leaders that are taking business travel in new directions, changing the way that executives experience travel.

Executive Travel praised Corinthia Hotels’ passion for combining historic restoration and dynamic modern design in its July/August 2011 issue, noting that the Corinthia Hotels properties, which are located in London, St. Petersburg, Tripoli, Budapest, Lisbon, Prague and Malta, highlight local architecture and cultural traditions.

The publication added that more and more, business travelers want to experience their destinations fully, and the hospitality industry has begun to respond with distinctive properties that give guests a truly indigenous experience.

The announcement of the Leading Edge Award follows the opening of Corinthia Hotel London in Whitehall Place in May of this year.

Corinthia’s new flagship is an intricately restored grand hotel with a 21st-century approach. General Manager Matthew Dixon said, “The Hotel has a modern elegance that is defined by a blend of classic Victorian architecture with outstanding craftsmanship and contemporary art, mirroring the energy, style and history of the area. Guests are offered all the modern luxuries whilst enjoying an authentic experience in a hotel and location with heritage.” Corinthia Hotel London is ideally located in the heart of London, a short walk from many of the city’s major attractions.

“It is a great honor to have Corinthia Hotels’ craftsmanship of care design and operating philosophy endorsed by such a prestigious American business publication,” commented Alfred Pisani, founder and Chairman of Corinthia Hotels. “Since starting Corinthia in Malta in the 1960s, we have delivered caring service to our guests at the highest possible standards. In a world of mass-produced experiences, we offer to our guests the made-to-measure. We believe the attention to detail that elevates a craftsman can elevate the experience of visiting one of our hotels.”

Corinthia hotels, www.corinthia.com; Executive Travel, www.executivetravelmagazine.com

TRAVELSAVERS gOES LIVE WITh ExTRANET, hELPINg AgENTS MAkE MORE MONEY Travelsavers has unveiled an enhanced extranet for its licensees throughout the US to help them sell more travel more effectively and make more money in their travel agency businesses this year.

“Our new and improved extranet assembles in one place over four decades of successful travel marketing and business operations resources for our agencies,” said Nicole Mazza, Chief Marketing Officer at Travelsavers. “It’s command central—the one place our agencies visit every day to see what new promotions they can implement and fresh ideas they can capitalize on to increase sales and profits. And it just got a whole lot richer for them.”

The site is easier to navigate with enhanced features.

The industry’s best technology can be accessed through Travelsavers’ cruiseexpress and cutting-edge Corporate Tech Tools. In addition, preferred supplier booking engines (located on one page) give agents at-a-glance access to suppliers by travel segment or in alphabetical order.

Access to a searchable database of hundreds of the group’s Exclusively Yours promotions is available. “This feature gives our agents a competitive edge and an exclusive selling advantage,” added Mazza.

The Lifestyle Marketing tab gives agents access to all of the organization’s niche market programs. They can easily customize and distribute direct mail, flyers and emails, and press releases to boost sales.

Supplier of the Month ads link to flyers and direct mail pieces that agents can pass along to their customers to prompt incremental sales.

Agents can now add their own events to the Marketing Calendar, which includes all of Travelsavers’ direct mail dates, FAM trips, conferences, and webinars in one convenient place.

Industry Insider videos tell agents how to sell more and earn more in every travel segment.

These new features on the agent extranet are examples of the many technology tools and resources that Travelsavers offers to it agencies to help them grow their businesses and increase customer loyalty.

To find out more about the new agent extranet, Travelsavers agencies can contact their local Business Development Manager.

Agencies interested in joining Travelsavers can email their sales department or visit them online.

Travelsavers, sales@travelsavers.com, www.travelsavers.com 10 • SEPTEMBER 2011

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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Welcome to the world of

Tourcom International destinations:

Iceland & The Baltics Denmark u Finland Norway u Sweden Let us plan that long anticipated Nordic Country Adventure.

Our counselors are waiting.

We also specialize in Family Reunions, Special Interest Group Tours, Incentive Tours.

www.nelsonsscandinavia.com

Specialists in individual & group travel between USA and Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Moldova, Georgia and all CIS countries and Eastern Europe.

There are several American based adoption agencies among our corporate clientele.

We are proud to provide all the necessary travel and travel related services to adoptees to understand the people and culture of their new child’s homeland, as well as to enrich their travel experience.

www.panoramatravel.com

Plan a trip exactly as you want it, and let us make it worry-free. At Sceptre Tours we are proud to call ourselves the tourist champions of Ireland, Britain and Italy.

As you plan a trip, choices of accommodations are virtually unlimited.

www.oconnors.com

Turkey ~ Greece ~ Egypt ~ Israel Tours | Cruises | Tours Independent Programs | Yachting

www.tourcom.com

Quo Vadis

Intelligent Tours for Curious Minds

We satisfy a certain intellectual curiosity and love of adventure, while creating an esprit de corps and a strong loyalty towards their organizations.

A unique source for all things Italian, keeping a pulse on new discoveries, whether it be a destination, event or accommodation.

Select Italy was created out of the desire to offer a specialized, custom oriented travel service with the ability to produce state-of-the-art tours, itineraries and activities.

www.quovadistravel.com

www.selectitaly.com

Our programs educate and create a unique travel experience, and are used by non-profit organizations as “fund raising tools”

www.tirmatours.com We truly believe in the concept of customer service. Our business extends to travel agencies around the country as well as a helping hand to the frequent consumer. Tirma Tours is always there for you . . . Please come join our experience.

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

SEPTEMBER 2011 •

11

EUROPE TRAVELERS WILL ‘FALL’ IN LOVE WITh EUROPE’S FOLIAgE ABOARD A EUROPEAN WATERWAYS LUxURY CRUISE Travelers looking to discover one of the most beautiful places in the world in autumn must look no farther than the European countryside. With the throngs of summer tourists gone and temperatures diminishing, there is no better time to visit Europe, where the fall foliage is out in full force. And, with savings of up to $1,000 per cabin on select cruises in France, England and Scotland, based on double occupancy, it’s the perfect time to experience the changing season.

European Waterways offers luxurious cruises that include France’s Burgundy region, frequently labeled the “Land of Fine Art and Living,” and Gascony, a hidden jewel in southwest France known for its “douceur de vivre” (sweetness of life).

The $1,000 off per cabin price is for select late summer/early fall cruises that can be booked up to a week before departure and are subject to availability. It’s the perfect opportunity for last-minute travelers, and especially for those “ultra-last-minute” voyagers.

Additional restrictions may apply.

The reduction based on double occupancy applies to the following: L’Impressionniste—October 23 (Listed rate is $4,550 pp for a stateroom; $4,750 pp for a junior suite). Crusing the Burgundy region in France, the 12 passenger L’Impressionniste, sister ship to La Belle Epoque, underwent a complete transformation into the powerful canal and river cruiser she is today.

Anjodi—October 2, 9 (listed rate $4,790 pp) and October 16, 23, 30 (listed $4,190 pp). The 8-passenger Anjodi is of classic Dutch de-

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sign, specifically rebuilt to navigate the 300-year old Canal du Midi.

La Bella Vita—October 2 (listed rate $3,490 pp stateroom; $4,190 pp junior suite). This is a stylish 20-passenger vessel that was newly refitted in 2010; cruising in Italy, from Venice to Mantua.

Scottish Highlander—September 4, 11, 18, 25 (listed rate $4,090 pp stateroom; $4,750 for a suite) and October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, (listed $3,590 pp stateroom; $4,090 suite). The 8-passenger ship has the atmosphere of a country house, cruising Scottland.

More information and booking plus additional special offers are detailed online.

European Waterways, www.gobarging.com

AIRBERLIN AND AMERICAN AIRLINES FURThER ExPAND CODEShARE AgREEMENT airberlin and American Airlines have expanded their codeshare relationship to include selected flights within the US domestic route network. Passengers can now book additional flight connections via New York, Los Angeles, and Miami to Germany.

Under the agreement, airberlin passengers can now enjoy connecting flights via New York from the added gateways of Chicago, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and St. Louis. Other gateways included are Key West and Jacksonville as connecting flights via Miami. The airline now offers departures from six cities in Florida (including Miami, Fort Myers, Orlando, and Tampa), San Juan, Puerto Rico, is another of the new codeshare destinations connecting to and from Miami with airberlin. The codeshare expansion also includes flights via Los Angeles. Future airberlin passengers will be able to connect from five new domestic US destinations via Los Angeles, including Sacramento and San José, California. The two codeshare partners now offer a total of 33 destinations within the US, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas with shared flight numbers. airberlin, www.airberlin.com

kUMUkA WORLDWIDE WINTER TOURS TO EUROPE ARE IN VOgUE Touring in Europe during the winter months has become increasingly popular with American travelers choosing to visit the continent minus the summer crowds.

Winter in Europe offers a new perspective to touring. “We frequently carry travelers who have previously spent a summer in Europe, they come back to see it transformed by winter,” says National Sales Manager Steven Murphy. “Winter brings a calm over the cities rendering the experience more up-close and personal.”

This particular time of year is an extremely popular time to travel in Europe and our festive tours are already guaranteed to depart and we are likely to run parallel departures to keep up with demand.”

Kumuka Worldwide offer Coach touring to Europe throughout summer and winter for the 18–55 market. Utilizing 3–4 star accommodation, each itinerary has free time built into it, allowing clients the freedom to explore.

Kumuka’s European Winter brochure is downloadable online. kumuka Worldwide, 800-517-0867, www.kumuka.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

e u r o p e

b 2 b E X C H A N G E The island of Ibiza is made up of 5 towns: Eivissa, the capital Santa Eulària des Riu Sant Antoni de Portmany Sant Josep de sa Talaia Sant Joan de Labritja

Each offers visitors different activities.

www.ibiza.travel Your expert travel partner in Greece for:

The Baglioni Hotels collection counts a number of luxury hotels in Italy, France and London. Exclusive residences, each different and therefore unique, which offer their guests the opportunity of an unforgettable experience.

www.baglionihotels.com

FIT Package and Tours Group Tours: Archeological, Religious – Steps of Saint Paul, Special Interest, Study, The Path of the Olympic Games Mediterranean Cruises: Greek Islands, Italy, Turkey and Egypt Weddings / Honeymoons Rent-A-Car, Yacht Chartering VIP Services Meetings, Incentives, Congresses, Events

Strategically nestled between the sea and the mountains in Spain.

In addition to our beaches, landscapes and parks and promenades, the city has a range of restaurants, culture and entertainment.

www.ganymedes.gr

www.ayto-santander.es

Istanbul.Turkey All rooms have a heating and cooling s ys tem, LCD TV, direct dial telephone, minibar, hair dryer and a free wireles s internet connection is available.

We s erve buffet breakfas t in our res taurant, and ala carte lunch and dinner in the Riva Cafe res taurant.

Room s ervice is available 24 hours a day.

www.rivahotel.com.tr Perched on Crete’s northeast coast

Overlooks Mirabello Bay

Raito Hotel and Paradiso Relais on the Amalfi Coast, La Plage Resort in Taormina on the beach of Isola Bella and Palazzo Montemartini in Rome.

A unique experience of living, characterized by a modern and fulfilling lifestyle. All Ragosta Hotels Collection hotels are tailored to each guest needs.

RamtuR welcomes to turkey 5,000 americans annually.

We also offer extensions to Israel, Greece, Egypt & Syria.

RamtuR is also on the list of ‘ top Sales agents’ to many five-star hotels in turkey.

www.ragostahotels.com On a peninsula in south Athens

Built within Akronafplia Castle

Views of Bourtzi the fortress-island

www.ramtur.com Inspired by classic Minoan palaces

Blend of luxury, amenities of Crete

www.helioshotels.gr

CARIBBEAn Cabarete Is a KIteboardIng ParadIse for any LeveL

st. thomas’ boLongo bay brIngs baCK grownuP getaway savIngs for faLL

Ever since the sport started, Cabarete has had the reputation of being one of the few pioneer spots in the world of kiteboarding.

The first few kiteboarders, including the inventor of the kite, Bruno Leigagnoux, took part in inventing not only the kite, but the sport itself in this town. The story tells tales of how the first daredevils in the beginning took off from one point of the bay, aiming for the next one, without knowing even how to stop the provisionally homemade equipment. It’s come a long way since then, and the scene playing out on the water and on the beach today is hundreds of colorful sails in the air.

Just by the shore break, tourists are being taught how to control the power and movement of the wind and the kite. Out in the bay, the more experienced show off acrobatic moves high up in the air.

The sport is becoming mainstream and accessible to all interested.

There are hardly any limits to who can master the art, and this is very visible in Cabarete, a kiteboarding paradise and the place to learn from the best.

All through the year, beginners and professionals practice side by side. Some refer to Cabarete as a kiteboarding factory, each year presenting new professional athletes representing the Dominican Republic. Several young riders the past few years set off to compete in the world tour, and conquered top placements and prestigious titles. When not traveling, these athletes put their pride in teaching future kiteboarders.

Hotel Villa Taina has always had an onsite Windsurfing School with great services and professional staff. Once Kitesurfing became hip, Cabarete Windsportsclub at Villa Taina was part of its growth.

Established schools in the area have been hosting world-class athletes. It’s common to see pros like Susi Mai and world champion Jan Marcos Riveras ripping it up just outside the hotel.

For those who would like to relax and observe, the hotel offers chill-out areas plus a bar and restaurant. Whether watching or kitesurfing, Cabarete and the Villa Taina offer a great choice for a kiteboarding vacation. villa taina, www.villataina.com

With fall around the corner and kids heading back to school, it’s an ideal time for the grownups to get away, play and save at St. Thomas’ Bolongo Bay Beach Resort.

The Caribbean beach resort is offering two adults-only travel deals available on any stays of three nights or more from September 1 through October 31, 2011, including Labor Day weekend. With both offers, four friends can stay for less than $100 per person, per day.

Back by popular demand, Bolongo Bay’s Adults Stay Free offer includes a 20% discount on hotel rooms, plus the third and fourth adult (over 18 years of age) in a room stay free with two paying adults (on the room-only plan). With discounted daily rates beginning at $205.60 for an Oceanview Room, four friends can stay for a little more than $50 per person, per day.

For friends who are close but don’t want to room close together, Bolongo Bay is offering savings when booking two rooms. Friends can spread out and save 20% on the first room and 50% off the second room.

If a group of four splits the savings, it’s $83.53 per person, per day for an Oceanview Room.

Both offers are available on the resort’s Oceanview rooms and Beachfront rooms, which are steps from the sand. All daily rates are subject to tax, service and energy surcharges. The offers are subject to availability.

Guests receive a discover scuba diving in-pool lesson and complimentary use of non-motorized water sports equipment including Hobie Cats, paddle boards, windsurfers, kayaks and snorkel gear.

At night, Bolongo Bay is the place to be on St. Thomas with two oceanfront restaurants and live nightly entertainment at Iggies, one of the best beach bars in the Caribbean.

With no passports required for US citizens to travel to the US Virgin Islands and many direct flights available, it’s easy to take an adult beach vacation to Bolongo Bay. bolongo bay beach resort, 800-524-4746, www.bolongobay.com

14 • sePtember 2011

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CARIBBEAn a romantIC esCaPe PLus CarIbbean’s best weather at buCutI & tara beaCh resorts

Situated outside the hurricane belt in the clear blue waters of the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba’s beautiful weather offers couples the perfect sanctuary for a romantic getaway to Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts.

The Swept Away Romance Package includes hotel accommodations with large balcony or terrace, all tax and service charges, a bottle of chilled champagne in room, daily breakfast for two, daytime snorkel or sunset sailing cruise, candlelight dinner for two on the beach, and a gift basket.

As Aruba’s number one TripAdvisor rated resort, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts has been long recognized by travelers worldwide. The resort has achieved a number of recognitions from TripAdvisor over the years including Top Ten Most Romantic Resorts in the World, top ten placement in the Top 25 Beaches in the World for Eagle Beach, and most recently the Certificate of Excellence.

The resort is also a Conde nast Editor’s Pick. Recognized worldwide for its romantic setting, the white sands of Eagle Beach played host to more than 60 couples from 26 different countries who tied the knot, in front of the Five Star Diamond resort.

Those who book now through December 22, 2011, will enjoy six days/five nights in a superior gardenview accommodation with rates starting at $1,811 per couple.

More information on the Swept Away Romance Package is available online. bucuti & tara beach resorts, 888-4-buCutI (428-2884), www.bucuti.com/rooms-rates-reservations/packages/ romantic-getaway, www.bucuti.com

away.Com LIsts the reef as toP aLL-InCLusIve resort The Reef resort was ranked as a Top All-Inclusive Resort on Away.com recently. Among 29 resorts listed, The Reef stands out 16 • sePtember 2011

as the only Cayman Islands resort.

The list includes Caribbean, Central America and north America locations. The Reef is among 14 Caribbean resorts that make the cut.

Away.com writer Lena Katz, author of the Travel Temptations series from Globe Pequot Press, reviewed The Reef and explains in the article that The Reef’s East End location makes for a laid-back atmosphere, saving guests from the cruise-ship crowds that flood Seven Mile Beach on the west side of the island.

Katz doesn’t forget to mention The Reef’s 1,600-foot stretch of white sands, the largest of any resort beach on the island. All 152 condo-style rooms are beachfront, offering guests a patio or balcony just inches away from the sand and sea.

“Fittingly, the beach is the center of activity for most guests, with the Rusty Pelican bar serving as the ultimate beachfront hangout,” she wrote. “The property has a good non-motorized sports program, all of which is included in the “simply allinclusive” package.” the reef, 888-232-0541, reservations@thereef.com, www.thereef.com; away.com, www.away.com

breezes runaway bay names jag mehta generaL manager

jag mehta

SuperClubs Resorts has announced that Jag Mehta, 18-year company veteran, has been named general manager of Breezes Runaway Bay. Mehta has been with SuperClubs since 1993. Prior to his joining the Super-Inclusive resort chain, he was senior vice president of The Myers Group in nassau, Bahamas, and president, normandie Hotels Corp., where he managed the reopening of the Radisson

normandie Hotel.

In 1985 and again in 1991, Mehta was assistant to the president at Williams Hospitality Management Corp. in San Juan, where he worked on the reopenings of the El San Juan Hotel and El Conquistador Resort.

For 16 years prior, Mehta worked for Hilton International in a number of roles including general manager of Caribe Hilton International, San Juan, Condado Beach– La Concha Hotel and Convention Centre, and Jamaica Hilton, Ocho Rios.

Mehta began his 51-year career in the hospitality industry as food and beverage manager and executive assistant manager at InterContinental Hotels in San Juan and Curaçao. He graduated Cornell University and received his MBA from Columbia University. superClubs resorts, 800-go-suPer (467-8737), www.superclubs.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

C A R I B B E A N

b 2 b e x c h a n g e

Tucked away in the s eas ide town of Guanica on Puerto Rico’s undis covered s outhwes tern coas t.

A s ecluded hideaway where tranquility and activity meet.

An exclus ive retreat offering the bes t in relaxation, fine dining, fabulous diving and eco-touris t wonders .

www.copamarina.com “Most Romantic Resort in the World” TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice, 4th consecutive year

Princess Hotels & Resorts is a hotel chain specializing in holiday and urban hotels in top class tourist resorts, which, from the start, has enjoyed the prestige, confidence and consideration of our customers.

A chain with a business philosophy and methodology in the management of large hotels.

Located on one of the Caribbean’s top 10 "Dream Beaches of the World", the sophisticated and stylish Bucuti and Tara Beach Suites offer Aruba's only refined and tranquil boutique resort experience.

Exchange your vows on our magnificent white sandy beach.

Let us make your honeymoon a celebration that you will cherish for a lifetime...

princess-hotels.com

www.bucuti.com Eagle Beach • Aruba • Dutch Caribbean info@bucuti.com • 888-4-BUCUTI w

We are committed to providing the highest quality service to make your stay a memorable. Our staff is unique is they way they show dedication to the surrounding community by dedicating 10% of their tips/gratuities to social and environmental causes in the southeast of Dominica.

Of course their smiles are unforgettable.

www.junglebaydominica.com

The s porties t hotel on Curacao – our perfect location makes it a perfect launch point for dis covering s ome of the Caribbean’s bes t kept s ecrets .

An idyllic, palm s tudded private beach overlooking our famous clear waters and the reef of Curacao’s National Underwater Park.

www.lions dive.com

There are some places on earth that simply must be experienced to fully understand.

Peter Island is one of those places.

While words and images can stir the imagination, you will never know the true magic of our private island paradise until you feel it beneath your feet.

Welcome to the Peter Island experience, British Virgin Islands.

www.peterisland.com

CARIBBEAn fIfth nIght free offer at the sands at graCe bay

The Sands at Grace Bay is offering a 5th night Free promotion for guests who purchase stays of four consecutive nights or more between January 3 and February 12, 2012. Perfect for travelers looking to escape the chill of winter and take a week’s vacation in paradise after the busy holiday season. And what a place to celebrate the new year—it’s the #1 Beach Destination in the World, according to the 2011 Trip Advisor’s ‘Traveler’s Choice’ Awards.

In addition to enjoying the resort’s breathtaking location alongside the world-famous Grace Bay Beach, guests enjoy three freeform swimming pools and complimentary access to watersports equipment—including kayaks and windsurfing equipment to snorkel gear and Hobie Cats—plus free bicycle use for island exploration.

The 5th night Free promotion is available for all room categories at The Sands at Grace Bay, excluding Oceanfront Suites and Oceanfront Deluxe Suites. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other resort offer or promotion, and the complimentary fourth night will be applied to the resort bill the end of the stay. The free night is not transferable or redeemable for cash, and is not applicable for groups.

Guests can book the offer online using promo code 5nF2012, or they can call toll-free or contact a travel agent for reservations. the sands at grace bay, 877-777-2637, www.thesandstc.com

fantasIes and fetIshes at suPerCLubs’ hedonIsm II In negrIL Starting in September, couples can make their fetishes come alive with sentimental, yet sinful wedding packages for just $250 with a minimum six-night stay at the infamous adults-only Hedonism II Resort in negril.

With three sexy themes on offer—Vampires, Leather & Lace and Pirates & Wenches, Hedonism II’s Fantasy and Fetish Weddings include the resort’s complimentary wedding package, the three postvows cocktails, a wedding cake, decorated room, and take-home keepsakes all corresponding with the wedding theme.

Those who love Twilight and True Blood will sink their teeth into a Vampire wedding, complete with blood orange champagne cocktail, a red, black and white cake, and a bouquet and boutonnière of black 18 • sePtember 2011

or blood red roses. His-and-hers costume fangs are also included, to get the full effect.

If kinky whips and chains are fashion of choice, then the Leather & Lace ceremony will be a fantasy come true for brides who wish to walk the aisle in lingerie and stilettos. Masters and mistresses will love their dimly lit boudoir draped in lace and votive candles, and a set of handcuffs courtesy of Hedonism.

With a ceremony set with a skull and crossbones/nautical motif, swashbuckling Pirates and busty Wenches can walk the plank together in style. After their vows and Planters Punch cocktails to toast, the newlyweds can set off on their own private “happily ever after” treasure hunt.

Wedding witnesses will be in matching regalia, and newlyweds will also receive “Just Married” t-shirts, a 30-minute couple’s massage at the Blue Mahoe Spa, and his-and-hers sexy red satin Hedonism logo bathrobes. But the fun does not stop there as these unique packages also allow couples to relive their special day with a one-night complimentary return visit during the month of their first anniversary.

In addition to the above special items, weddings at Hedonism include a marriage officer, wedding cake, champagne, bouquet and boutonniere, decorated wedding location, music, a wedding planner, marriage license, framed 5x7 photo, four guest passes, and government and administrative fees. superClubs, 800-go-suPer (467-8737), www.superclubs.com

sPeCIaL offers at st. LuCIa’s Ladera Lovely, secluded Ladera resort in the West Indies is running some very attractive offers that are sure to lure travelers to this special spot.

A Seventh night Free is available through December 20, 2011, when guests reserve seven consecutive nights in a Hilltop Dream Suite. Paying for just six represents a savings of $715 against summer rates, which end September 30.

The Great Escape is a three-night package including all meals, most beverages, a “Soufrière Experience” guided tour, a one-hour massage at Ladera’s Ti Kaye Posé Spa, and roundtrip airport transfers. Summer rates start at $2,425 per room for three nights and vary by room type and season. This package is also available through December 20.

Romance in the Tropics is a five-night package including breakfast and dinner each day, a private poolside dinner created by Executive Chef Orlando Satchell, a “Soufrière Experience” guided tour, two treatments per person at Ladera’s Ti Kaye Posé Spa, a sunset cruise, roundtrip airport transfers and more. Summer rates start at $6,050 and vary by room type. This deal is available through December 21, 2011.

This ultimate rainforest open-air hideaway offers a unique design in guest accommodations. All villas and suites have an “open wall”—the west side of each unit is left open to expose a magnificent view of the Pitons and Caribbean Sea. The orientation of each building maintains complete privacy.

Ladera resort, www.ladera.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA Metropolitan touring launches new itinerary in northern ecuador

able in Ecuador, a result of the country’s numerous climates and ecosystems.

From the market, a short drive leads to the 17th-century Andean estate of Hacienda Cusin, where a chef will be waiting to walk visitors through the preparation of a tasty, traditional Ecuadorian lunch.

Guests will prepare their own grilled trout from nearby Andean rivers and farms, empanadas (turnovers stuffed with a variety of ingredients), ending with a famous helado de paila for dessert (ice cream made in the traditional way by hand with pure fruit juice).

All is washed down with a glass of wine.

On the way back to Quito, the itinerary visits the showroom of an Andean rose plantation. Ecuador grows the world’s most beautiful varieties, and color explodes throughout the farm as visitors learn how roses are grown, packaged and shipped.

Metropolitan Touring’s new itinerary is a rewarding day, full of Andean landscapes, cultural interest, vivid colors and intense flavors.

Metropolitan touring, www.metropolitan-touring.com

Bolivia By goway is a Best-Kept secret for south aMerica

Northern Ecuador is a verdant land of rolling hills, towering volcanoes, strong cultural identity and skillful craftspeople. Visitors can marvel at the majesty of the Andes, meet local people and take home beautiful crafts. Combined with the country’s rich, diverse but as yet unsung cuisine, these are the elements of a fascinating and rewarding journey.

“We’ve been organizing trips to the northern Andes for decades,” remarks Cristina Valdivieso, Metropolitan Touring’s Commercial Manager for the United States, “but we’re always looking for new ways to inspire our guests and allow them closer contact with people. Cuisine allows us to do just that, and our new full-day handson experience has the added twist of an encounter with the colors and flavors of the Ecuadorian Andes.”

Guests depart Ecuador’s capital city, Quito, for a scenic drive through, down and round the Andes to Otavalo, a well-known cultural and handcraft center surrounded by volcanoes, rivers and lakes. Its residents are friendly and welcoming, and rank among the most successful indigenous groups on the continent.

Although the itinerary includes time at their famous handcraft market, where eye-catching textiles predominate, the main focus of the visit is on local cuisine and ingredients in the nearby ‘municipal’ market where the Otavalos make a stop to eat when they come with their wares to the market (sorry, no tasting here)—a place bursting with the aromas of home cooking and dozens of spices.

Here, guests can get an idea of the stunning range of produce avail20 • septeMBer 2011

“Bolivia, landlocked at the heart of Andean Latin America, remains something of a well-kept secret,” states Don Forster, Product Manager for Goway’s Latin America division. “Today, those who venture beyond the very popular neighbor of Peru—easily connected by our Puno to La Paz connector—will find a country offering an authentic take on Latin American culture.”

He explains that “the country's innate charm lies in its staggering breadth of contrasts: the clash of indigenous and European culture, the sweep of landscape from the Amazon jungle to high-altitude mountains, the largest salt lake in the world and the diversity of activities from adrenaline sports to ancient monuments. Add to this the amazing journey from the high Altiplano down the high desert in Chile on our Salt Lakes of Bolivia connector—one of my favorite journeys in the world—and Bolivia has everything a traveler needs.

According to Foster around two thirds of the population are of indigenous origin and the authentic culture has not been watered down. “Native religions, dialects, clothes, music and medicines all form part of the daily life on the street,” he continued.

Goway’s product offers for Bolivia range from Andean Classic, a 14-days combination of Peru and Bolivia; the 12-day Best of Bolivia; 6-day Escape To Titicaca & Uyuni visiting the highest navigable lake in the world—Lake Titicaca; plus an 8-day nature cross-section adventure From The Andes To The Amazon.

The Goway 2011–2012 Latin America travel planner prominently features some of these amazing journey as well as many other options to Central and South America. A copy can be ordered online, by email or by calling toll-free. goway travel, 800-387-8850, 888-469-2955 (planner), info@goway.com, www.goway.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA delta and aerolineas argentinas to start codeshare flights, reciprocal Benefits Delta Air Lines and Aerolineas Argentinas have announced a codesharing agreement for flights connecting Miami and Atlanta to Buenos Aires as well as service to 14 U.S. destinations, eight domestic destinations in Argentina, three flights to Canada and flights to Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay.

Codesharing on the flights will start in the fourth quarter of 2011, subject to government approvals.

The airlines also announced future activation of new reciprocal benefits for their frequent fliers that include accrual and redemption of miles, scheduled to start in 2012.

Aerolineas Argentinas will also join the SkyTeam global alliance in 2012, which will allow the carriers to provide additional customer benefits.

When implemented, the agreement will connect Delta’s daily service from its hub in Atlanta to the Aerolineas Argentinas hub at Buenos Aires and beyond to cities in Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay. It also includes flights connecting Aerolineas Argentinas service from Buenos Aires to Miami with flights to 15 cities in the U.S. and Canada on Delta’s network.

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

Delta will sell connecting service on Aerolineas Argentinas flights to eight Argentine destinations: Calafate, Cordoba, Iguazu, Mendoza, Rio Grande, Rosario, San Carlos de Bariloche, and Ushuaia, the capital city of Tierra del Fuego Province. Additional destinations in South America include Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, Brazil; Santa Cruz, Bolivia; Santiago de Chile, Chile; Asuncion, Paraguay; and Montevideo, Uruguay.

Aerolineas Argentinas will sell service to 14 additional U.S. destinations and three Canadian destinations.

The U.S. domestic destinations are Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York City, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan, Seattle and Washington, D.C. Aerolineas Argentinas also will put its code on Delta service to Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver in Canada.

Delta and Aerolineas Argentinas will also introduce reciprocal accrual and redemption benefits for frequent fliers in 2012.

SkyMiles and Aerolineas Plus members will be able to accrue and redeem frequent flier miles on all Delta and Aerolineas Argentinas flights. The airlines already offer reciprocal access to their lounges. delta air lines, www.delta.com; aerolineas argentinas, www.aerolineas.com

septeMBer 2011 •

21

LATIN AMERICA argentina By goway features wine, red Meat and nature’s Best Don Forster, Product Manager for Goway’s Latin America division, has this to say about the 41-year old company’s range of travel product to Argentina: “Deep in the south of South America is a land of infinitely enchanting landscapes—from the snowcapped peaks of the Andes and the dusty plains of Patagonia to the ‘Land of Fire’—Tierra del Fuego where many of our Antarctica journeys start and finish. Whether exploring the largest waterfalls in the world—Iguassu, horse riding in pampas with real guachos, sampling the famous Argentinean wines in and around Mendoza or exploring the wonders of Patagonia, the country provides wonderful and boundless opportunities,” according to.

“At the heart of all this is the capital city Buenos Aires, a contemporary city that is full of life and bursting with energy. While the spirit of the tango is alive and well and the gaucho heritage is celebrated, modern Argentina is more cosmopolitan in its outlook than many South American countries. The people of Argentina are warm, friendly and this passion shines through in the nation’s great loves of football, food and partying. Visitors to this country will find it easy to get into the swing of things,” continues Forster.

Goway’s product range for Argentina spans the 5-day Andean Traverse, a very popular country connector between Chile and Argentina in the lakes district, to a choice of wine lodges in

22 • septeMBer 2011

Mendoza—Club Tapiz Lodge and Finca Adalgisa Wine Lodge, Iguassu Falls Complete (from BA), a comprehensive overview of Patagonia Complete, one of their most popular Latin cruises in and around Tierra del Fuego, the Southern Patagonia Cruise, and a complete overview of Argentina with the Tango & Ice 8-day option.

The 2011–2012 Latin America travel planner prominently features some of these amazing journeys as well as many other options into Central and South America. The planner is available by email or toll-free contact, as well as visiting their website. goway travel, 888-469 2955, info@goway.com, www.goway.com

travelsavers twin plants a flag in coloMBia The TWIN (Travelsavers Worldwide Independent Network) global travel management company has announced it has planted a flag in Colombia with the signing of Viajes Calitour as a new agency in its network.

Established 30 years ago, Viajes Calitour is a leader in its marketplace with 15 offices throughout the country and an annual sales turnover of over $200 million. The agency specializes in corporate travel, meetings, incentives, conventions and tourism services. It is the main travel management company for government institutions and official dependencies in Colombia.

In recent years, Viajes Calitour has been expanding into the leisure segment to offer vacation plans to their corporate accounts and their employees. They have claimed a lucrative travel niche market by booking golf trips in the Colombian cities of: Bogotá, Cali, Medellin, Armenia, Manizales, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Villavicencio, Santa Marta, Cucuta, Bucaramanga, Pereira, and Ibague. The agency has also been authorized by FIFA to be a travel seller (including selling tickets to the game) for the 2014 World Cup to be held in Brazil; Viajes Calitour is an authorized distributor in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia.

When asked why they joined the TWIN travel management company, General Manager Ligia Escobar Ospina said, “We wanted to expand our portfolio and offer more travel products to our clients through the TWIN affiliates. We will also be able to improve our participation in local and international RFPs by adding this global presence to our services. The economy and travel are in full recovery in our local market, and Calitour is not missing the opportunity.”

Rick Mazza, President & CEO of Travelsavers and TWIN, commented, “We welcome Ligia and her team at Viajes Calitour to our global organization. The South American travel market is going strong and this firmly established agency further deepens our presence there. TWIN, in turn, gives them opportunities to collaborate with an expanded network of colleagues abroad for their incountry support and to share in new business initiatives.”

Independent travel agencies may access info on joining the network online or by email. travelsavers, twinsales@travelsavers.com, www.twintravelmanagement.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

Bringing the Americas Together www.sata-usa.com

Six Urban Royal Hotels in Bogota, one in Medellin; Radisson Royal Hotel with one in Bogota, Cali and one in one in Quito.

We recently created our third brand, RoyalPark in Bogota.

We also have a trade agreement with the La Merced located in the historic center of Cartagena.

A Full Service Ground Operator A Leading Travel Authority of Brazil

A National Chain with International Recognition and Leadership

We are responsible for the clients of several worldwide travel agencies providing the best assistance in travelling through Brazil as well as assisting groups and incentive trips for major corporate companies and its clients to South American destinations.

www.hotelesroyal.com

www.rentamar.com.br

• A comfortable fleet of vans, automobiles

and buses with air conditioned, microphone and seats reclining

• Team of políglotas guides • Personnel carefully selected and trained to plan itineraries “to the letter”

www.candesturismo.com

www.transturin.com

Transturin Inbound

The concept ‘Windsor Hospitality’ was developed to offer the maximum satisfaction to the travelers on businesses or leisure in the best hotels in Rio de Janeiro.

The Windsor Chain, with its 10 hotels, can be found in Barra da Tijuca, in Copacabana, on the Flamengo Beach, in Cinelândia and downtown.

A group of five companies dedicated exclusively to the tourism industry in Bolivia –

a receptive tour operator

Transturin Outbound

an outbound wholesale tour operator and an overseas tourism products and services representative

Transturin Titikaka Catamarans

a cruise line with catamarans and cruise ships operating on Lake Titikaka, conecting daily Peru and Bolivia.

Transturin Retail

a consumer IATA travel agency.

American Express Franchise.

The Sun Island Inti Wata Cultural Complex

the main private attraction exclusive to Titikaka Catamarans clients– the Inti Wata Traditional 40-passenger Totora Reed Vessel

www.hoteles-charleston.com

www.windsorhotels.com.br

LIMA

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of service, with the purpose of offering travelers a superior stay.

We offer the best standards of hospitality, always with our philosophy of elegance and innovation in mind.

LIMA AREQUIPA

Star Hotel Miraflores, Estelar Apartamentos Bellavista in Lima and Lake Star Hotel & Convention Center in Arequipa – all the comfort and exclusivity that meetings, events and business need in Peru.

www.hotelesestelar.com

LATIN AMERICA priMe location for enjoying peru at sonesta posadas del inca laKe titicaca–puno

Sonesta Posadas Del Inca Lake Titicaca–Puno delivers peace and beauty on the shores of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. First-class service and cuisine combine perfectly with the magnificent view from its rooms, restaurant and terrace.

The hotel owns a private pier. Guests are able to visit the fascinating floating islands of the Uros people and their communities built of totora reed, the pre-Inca tombs in Sillustani Chullpas, and the private Taquile and Amantani islands, where the residents live in strict maintenance to their ancestral customs.

Visitors can also get to see the Yavari ship, built in England in 1862, carried in parts by mules to get to Lake Titicaca, now shown as a museum. All this and much more awaits in exciting Peru. sonesta posadas del inca lake titicaca–puno, www.sonesta.com

viajes pacifico delivers experiMental tourisM, a different way to see peru In Peru, history is not part of the past, but it is still alive and present among its people. The words, clothes, food, customs, everything takes long centuries of evolution.

Peru is a country of living culture and the best way to find out more about it is to live with the people whose traditions remain intact for several generations. VIPAC Peru has prepared a series of activities that allow travelers to discover Peru from the depths of its roots.

A visit to the Amaru community allows travelers to spend the whole day with a farming community located near the town of Pisac.

The Amaru community will teach the guests about their textile and farming customs. This activity can be complemented with a visit to Pisac town, market and ruins.

A textile seminar in Chinchero involves a morning visit to this town known for its fine textiles. Its inhabitants will give a workshop that reveals the entire process from spinning to dyeing and the ancient techniques they use to create their finest fabrics.

The salt route is a day trip to see the most beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley. The adventure starts at Mullakas Misminay community with a horseback riding journey to the impressive salt mines of Maras.

These are opportunities for travelers to experience the real Peru.

Further information is available from the sales department. vipac peru, info@vipacperu.com, www.vipacperu.com 24 • septeMBer 2011

hotel las torres offers exhilarating patagonia experience Hotel Las Torres is inviting guests to an unforgettable experience, in one of the most beautiful, breathtaking locations in the world, the Torres del Paine National Park.

The hotel offers a great variety of excursions in either cars, trekking or on horses. They leave everything else in the hotel’s hands, and can just rest and enjoy personalized attention from their arrival. All-inclusive programs include free transfer from Punta Arenas, Pto. Natales or Calafate, to Torres del Paine (roundtrip); all meals and open bar; starting from September 12 until the end of the season.

More information is available on their website. hotel las torres, www.lastorres.com

new tools, special offer to sell latin trails’ M/y galapagos odyssey experience Latin Trails has launched new tools that will help sell their unique Galapagos Islands product, the first-class M/Y Galapagos Odyssey.

Focusing on the complement between its distinctive Galapagos ground expeditions with the boat’s superior services, a new set of videos has been released. This new footage shows not only an inside look at the yacht itself, but more importantly on how well-delivered services lead to the happiest of clients. In order to further attract such passengers from this end of summer on, Latin Trails is also announcing a special promotion not to be missed.

Latin Trail’s newest video features are a collection of memoirs and reflections on what past clients saw, ate, lived and experienced during their M/Y Galapagos Odyssey Galapagos Islands cruise tour.

Latin Trails knows that what sets these Islands apart from the rest of the world are the intimate encounters one can have with Galapagos’ endemic species. Be it the majestic Galapagos Giant Tortoise or the colorful Blue Footed Boobies, the boat’s passionate naturalist guide always ensures everyone gets to see and learn about what they’ve only been dreaming before and can now almost touch. This connection with nature is made easy when there is someone to guide visitors on the ground and a whole a staff to pamper them while onboard. For this, Latin Trails works only with the most qualified personnel available, serves only the most delicious food and offers a boat with standards of comfort and safety like no other.

To get clients to enjoy such a special cruise, Latin Trails has an end-of-the-summer promotion available for all its clients. The special offer consists of including the INGALA migration card, the Galapagos Islands National Park entrance fee and even the roundtrip flight Ecuador mainland/Galapagos, This promotion is available for all departures through September 18 and also those from December 1 to 20, 2011. With such extraordinary experiences waiting to be lived and now Latin Trail’s promotion, there is no better time to finally visit the Enchanted Islands. latin trails, www.latintrails.com/galapagosodyssey, 800-747-0567, www.galapagoscatamarans.com, www.galapagosodyssey.com, www.latintrails.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

C h i l e

b 2 b e x c h a n g e

With Meliá, travelling is not just going from one place to another.

We have over 90 hotels located in major cities and tourist destinations in the world.

Get ready to experience the best journeys, because the journey starts here.

www.melia-hotels.com First-class ambience in our recently renovated restaurants, business center, meeting rooms and guest rooms.

Our friendly and well-trained staff are dedicated to providing guests exceptional care offering an unforgettable experience exceeding the most demanding expectations.

www.regalpacific.cl WELCoME to WINES of CHILE An organization committed to promoting the quality and image of Chilean wine throughout the world.

Where dreams are awakened

The ultimate in style, service, and sophistication Welcome to the Hotel Plaza San Francisco, the only five-star hotel in downtown Santiago, Chile. Guests who seek the ultimate in style, service, and sophistication, will find that our elegant, European-style Santiago hotel is second to none.

www.plazasanfrancisco.cl

an Andina del Sud® company

www.turistour.cl

In the city of Santa Cruz, Colchagua Valley, discover the world of wine and history and traditions of our land.

Enjoy an extraordinary experience, with a warm welcome, luxury accommodations, excellent cuisine and exceptional comfort, together with our staff’s spirit of service, all make for an unforgettable stay.

www.hscp.cl

It has offices in Santiago, London, and New York, as well as representatives in Canada, Ireland, and Denmark, and also works closely with ProChile to develop and offer promotional and educational programs in Asia, Latin America and Europe.

Wines of Chile’s 85 member wineries belong to Vinos de Chile and represent 85% of Chile’s bottled wine exports.

www.winesofchile.org

As regional tourism and transport operators, we offer travelers comprehensive programs with regular excursions, where we highlight city tours, vineyards, mountains and the Tatio Geysers among others. We have a team of highly trained professionals and high safety standards, which allow us to provide the highest quality service.

LATIN AMERICA antarctic dreaM announces polar circle crossing

Antarctic Dream is launching a new program—Antarctic Polar Circle Crossing—departing from Ushuaia January 6 and returning to Ushuaia on January 19, 2012, with the main goal to cross the Polar Circle at 66°33’44”S (subject to weather and ice conditions).

The expedition will be visiting places seldom seen by human beings, a true firsthand experience with nature and its spectacular fauna. The company will extend its Antarctic Dream Expedition Program of 11 days to 14 days in order to achieve this destination, “to cross the Polar Circle.” Prices will be the same as the classic program during shoulder season.

This new program replaces two Fly & Sail departures (January 6 and 13), the remaining four departures with one way by flight.

The trip is thrilling and chilling. The moment of crossing the famous Drake Passage and the initial glimpse of the White Continent with penguins swimming among shimmering icebergs, zodiac trips to visit impressive ice formations and spot nesting colonies of sea mammals, sailing across the narrow Lemaire Channel whose high cliffs and narrow waterway make it one of the most beautiful passages in the world, and a celebratory glass of champagne on reaching Petermann and Yalour islands, Antarctica’s “inner circle.” The exact itinerary is, of course, governed by existing weather and ice conditions, so flexibility is key.

Besides magnificent mountains, snow and ice, in Antarctica one can expect to see a wide variety of native birds such as Antarctic cormorants, Kelp gulls, Cape, giant and Wilson’s storm petrels, Skuas, snowy sheathbills and Antarctic terns. Marine mammals— killer whales, humpback and minke whales, Weddell, crabeater and leopard seals may be seen, even elephant seals at close range.

At Enterprise Island there may be a zodiac cruise to an old whaler wreckage. And sailing North to Deception Island, the largest active volcano in the northwestern side of the Peninsula will appear. There will be an attempt to disembark in Whaler’s Bay and Pendulum Cove where adventurers can swim in the unique waters.

The 14-day spectacular sailing starts at $6,900. Its detailed itinerary is available online, along with a list of MV Antarctic Dream’s exclusive safety and comfort features. antarctic dream, www.antarcticdream.com 26 • septeMBer 2011

luxury retreats acquires apartMents Ba to offer luxury rentals in argentina Luxury Retreats has acquired the Buenos Aires-based outfit Apartments BA to begin offering high-end apartments for rent and for sale in the South American capital.

Units of varying sizes are available in all the top neighborhoods, including Recoleta, Palermo Soho, Barrio Norte and San Telmo.

The company is making the affordable destination even more attractive by offering frequent rental promotions such as “Stay for 7 nights, pay for 6,” so their accommodations are growing in popularity with families, in addition to couples and groups of friends.

Luxury Retreats is the world’s largest specialist in luxury villa rentals, offering almost 2,000 elite properties in over 70 worldwide destinations. apartments Ba by luxury retreats, ben@apartmentsba.com, www.apartmentsba.com; luxury retreats, www.luxuryretreats.com

galapagos savings aBoard the Beluga with enchanted expeditions Enchanted Expeditions, pioneer cruise and tour operators on smaller boats in the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador, will put together the perfect itinerary for clients. Founder Judy Carvalhal and her three partners have collectively over 125 years of experience as tour guides, researchers, conservationists and community tourism advocates in Ecuador. Their ready-made and custom active travel vacations are designed for the active, curious and conservation-minded seeking value, authenticity and genuine connections with communities and wildlife while they leave a ‘small footprint.’

Booking a tour in the Galapagos Islands aboard their Smart Voyager-certified motor/yacht Beluga now at incredibly reduced rates on prescheduled departures will save more than $1,000 over published rates. This is a great opportunity for single travelers, families and smaller groups seeking a great adventure and long-lasting emotions.

The Beluga accommodates 16 passengers in eight double cabins (four lower/lower twin berths, two matrimonial beds and two with lower/lower twins that can be joined to create matrimonial options).

Cabin 1 has three beds (two lower and one upper bed), each with private bathrooms with showers, fully air-conditioned, social areas with the comfort and facilities of a superior yacht, and panoramic windows in the salon/dining area.

The itinerary consists of daily excursions ashore the islands, snorkeling and swimming in this unique ecosystem. Travelers will enjoy time on the vessel’s spacious sun deck or relaxing in the shade on the top deck while cruising between islands.

Reservations and additional information on tours are available by contacting sales staff Monse or Wendy at the Quito office. enchanted expeditions, monse@enchantedexpeditions.com, wendy@enchantedexpeditions.com, www.galapagosenchantedexpeditions.com, www.belugagalapagos.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

b e l i z e

b 2 b e x c h a n g e

A luxurious, romantic destination north of San Pedro town.

This exotic, tropical resort offers one- and two-bedroom suites.

Spacious living areas and a private veranda make this the ideal Belize vacation. Lush tropical gardens add ambience and charm.

Enjoy spectacular Caribbean Sea views www.belizelegacy.com at this unique Belize resort.

own a villa or condo in Belize

Watch the sunrise from seafront verandas and dream away the evening as the moon illuminates our incredible Barrier Reef.

We can help you arrange the adventure of a lifetime! Be sure to ask about our dive packages.

www.lasterrazasbelize.com

www.mayanprincesshotel.com

Breathe the calmness of a Caribbean dawn.

Enjoy the blue crystal clear sight of a peaceful and enticing sea.

In Las Terrazas, nature renders the perfect atmosphere for rest, adventure, fun and romance.

Specially designed All-inclusive packages allow enjoyment of exclusivity and intimacy at a price that is hard to beat.

Experience Belize

www.royalpalmisland.com

Owning Belize oceanfront real estate is not just a dream anymore.

A prudent choice – one which could immediately provide beautiful, relaxing vacations or a luxurious, carefree retirement on the sandy beaches of a Caribbean paradise in Placencia, Belize.

www.thevillasatcocoplum.com

S & L Travel and Tours

www.sltravelbelize.com

We offer an exciting holiday in a rainforest setting minutes from the Town Center of San Ignacio and the Cahal Pech archaeological site.

We are at your service and we understand that it is your holiday and our goal is to make your visit one to remember.

www.midasbelize.com

pleasure and total relaxation!

Good times, great services, and pleasant memories – there is no better place to spend a vacation than in the ultimate luxury, privacy and laid back lifestyle offered at the

villas at Banyan Bay

www.banyanbay.com

Specializing in sharing this magical land through custom-designed, special-interest and adventure vacations – Diving, Fishing, Mayan Ruins, Jungle and Nature Tours, Birding, etc within Belize, and in neighboring Guatemala (Tikal) and Mexico. In addition, we make hotel reservations, arrange ground transfers, car rentals and air travel within the country for tourist and business people alike.

We can also assist you in planning an all inclusive package tour (F.I.T.).

LATIN AMERICA chaa creeK prepares a thanKsgiving in Belize

The Lodge at Chaa Creek is offering a new Thanksgiving Vacation Package for those who prefer an exotic setting and a bit of adventure with their turkey.

Within a stunning 365-acre private nature reserve along the banks of the Macal River and surrounded by Maya temples and beautiful rainforest, Chaa Creek’s owners have been celebrating Belizean jungle Thanksgivings for over 30 years and invite guests to join them this year.

Families, couples and singles are all invited to take part in the Belizean Thanksgiving, which spans a few days of mixing adventure, learning, healthy outdoor activities and relaxation with the gastronomic excess we associate with the holidays.

Chaa Creek’s affordable Thanksgiving Vacation Package is an allinclusive minimum three-day mix of fine food, activities and relaxation and is available throughout November. In addition to great meals, the package includes lovely cottage accommodation, guided bird walks, visits to the Butterfly Farm, Natural History Museum and Rainforest Medicine Trail, canoeing on the Macal River, swimming in Chaa Creek’s new swimming pool and hiking the Ruta Maya Trail System. the lodge at chaa creek, 877-709-8708, reservations@chaacreek.com, www.chaacreek.com

travelers will see Mayan dawn and More with goway’s new trip Despite what view you may ascribe to, in 2012 Goway is offering the chance for people to gain a real insight in to the old and the predicted new on our 10-day World of the Maya trip,” states Don Forster, Product & Marketing Manager for Latin America.

As many are aware, the Long Count Calendar of the Ancient Mayans ends next year on December 21. “Though the Mayans have calculated that the date of December 21st, 2012 A.D. (13.0.0.0.0 in the Long Count) marks the end of a cycle and a beginning of a new one—they did not stipulate or predict what this ending and new beginning may denote,” explained Forster.

There are generally two schools of thought. One is a more holistic spiritual view where we see simply see the ending of one phase and the beginning of a new. The other is the more “Hollywood view” where a catastrophic event may take place with some evening pre28 • septeMBer 2011

dicting the end of the world as we know it.

The World of the Maya has many faces and this amazing trip offered by Goway takes in El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala with opportunities to extend the trip into Belize. The record of this mighty civilization of the Maya can be found carved on towering temples such as Copan and Tikal as well as in the handiworks and daily life rituals of the modern descendants of the Mayan culture all seen on Goway’s World of the Maya.

Their 2011–2012 Latin America travel planner prominently features this amazing journey as well as many other options in to Central and South America.

A copy of the planner may be ordered toll-free, by email or online. goway travel, 800-387-8850, 888-469-2955 (planner), info@goway.com, www.goway.com

sunBreeze hotel and Belize dive connection celeBrate first anniversary SunBreeze Hotel is celebrating the first-year anniversary of having Belize Dive Connection as its on-site dive operator. Well known and well respected in the dive travel industry with over 15 years experience, the company has earned a reputation for providing safe, highly professional and personalized service to divers and adventurers.

“SunBreeze Hotel has always prided itself on the quality of service we offer our diving and snorkeling guests, and the resulting high levels of customer satisfaction,” said Julia Edwards, General Manager of SunBreeze Hotel and sister property SunBreeze Suites.

Belize Dive Connection is a PADI International Resort dive operation offering full-service training and dive facility featuring customoutfitted 46-ft Newton dive boats suitable for both local barrier diving and specialty trips to the Blue Hole and southern Atolls.

SunBreeze Hotel and SunBreeze Suites continue to offer dive & hotel packages as well as a variety of other soft adventure packages.

All packages include roundtrip local airfare transfers Belize/San Pedro on Maya Island Air. SunBreeze Hotel and SunBreeze Suites, separated by a 10-minute walk, have a combined room capacity of 64 units. SunBreeze Hotel boasts 43 generously spaced, air-conditioned rooms consisting of 13 Standard Rooms, 21 Deluxe Rooms and 5 Premier Rooms. The Premier rooms are located on the north wing boasting predominant ocean view, a private bathroom with a Jacuzzi bath, modern furniture and mini refrigerator. The Deluxe rooms boasting partial ocean/garden view are nicely finished with mahogany crown molding with a private bathroom and a mini refrigerator. Standard rooms boast garden/pool view and a private bathroom. An oceanfront restaurant, bar, fresh water pool, art gallery and massage studio are also on property.

SunBreeze Suites boast 20 air-conditioned oceanfront suites featuring private bathroom, bedroom, living and dining room area and a fully equipped kitchen, a Deli Bar and a freshwater pool. All units are equipped with direct-dial telephone, cable TV and ceiling fans. sunBreeze hotel & sunBreeze suites, sunbreeze@btl.net, www.sunbreeze.net, www.sunbreezesuites.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

C o s t a r i C a

www.lapuertadelsolcostarica.com

b 2 b e x c h a n g e

A beautifully decorated mediterranean style Resort with swimming pool and the Restaurant El Sol y La Luna.

Great for singles, couples or families this Banyan Bay resort offers a wide variety of services available for everyone to have maximum enjoyment any time of the year.

In La Fortuna facing the Arenal Volcano Surrounded by lush green tropics Standard Rooms maximum capacity of four. Two double beds, air conditioning, ceiling fan, private bathroom and hot water.

Equipped Villas for a maximum six people. Two rooms, one with two single beds and the other one with a couple of bunk beds, air conditioning, living room, breakfast table, kitchenette fully equipped, and a private bathroom.

www.laislahotel.com

Our scenic location provides visitors with a stunning view of the colossal volcano.

Surrounded by exotic tropical, lush foliage and magnificent scenery.

Luxury accommodations and unrivaled service.

www.hotelmagicmountain.com

Within acres of primary and secondary forest, at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano – a truely enchanting oasis of peace.

Enriched by lush vegetation and diverse fauna – it is one of the most beautiful hotels in the area, featuring one of the most stunning panoramic views of the volcano.

We can make a stay in Costa Rica an adventure.

Romantic weddings with eco-wedding services… a unique Costa Rica beach wedding at one of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast most beautiful white sand beaches!

www.montanadefuego.com

www.hotelpuntaleona.com

A leading hospitality management, development, and real estate company.

Offers investors access to industry expertise, positive intra-regional brand relationships, and a superior executive team.

As both owners and operators, Grupo Marta understands a company’s goals and aims to achieve them.

www.grupomarta.com Hike to the Rio Celeste waterfall, swim the blue lagoon and simmer in the hot springs.

Horseback ride through the ranch, rainforests, meadows and hills, through fruit groves, and endless green countryside.

Swim, sun, or fish just off the back deck in a natural, freshwater pool. Relax after a long day of hiking in our fire-heated tub.

Bird and wildlife watching. Day trips to a wildcat refuge, Caño Negro, Volcano Arenal, river rafting and more! Fish and paddle around in a boat on our lake.

Observe the stunning views of Lake Nicaragua, Volcano Tenorio and Volcano Miravalles.

www.lacarolinalodge.com

Owned and operated by a former American corporate pilot who flew business jets for Dreamworks Movie Studios and now brings the same commitment to professionalism and service with its modern fleet of aircraft and U.S. certified Airline Transport Pilots to its customers.

We are the first air taxi company to be certified under the new, stricter aviation laws of Costa Rica, an accomplishment we are proud of.

www.flywithparadise.com

LATIN AMERICA tara tours shows nicaragua’s uniqueness in 3 new prograMs

Tara Tours Inc. has announced the release of a new brochure to Nicaragua in conjunction with INTUR, the tourist office of Nicaragua. The new brochure brings 3 new programs to the market.

The Best of Nicaragua will spend 8 days/7 nights exploring the areas of Managua, the capital city Granada, a picturesque colonial city, Masaya Volcano, the Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve and San Juan del Sur—a popular destination for surfers and beach lovers. The price begins at $1,996 ppdo including airfare from Miami.

Nicaragua’s Odyssey spends 10 days/9 nights visiting Managua, Selva Negra to enjoy a morning coffee tour, Leon, Granada, the Mombacho Volcano Nature Reserve and San Juan del Sur. This trip is $2,860 ppdo including airfare from Miami.

Colonial Cities & Beach will spend 7 days/6 nights in Managua, Granada and Montelimar Beach Resort and Casino Hotel, one of the largest beach resorts in Central America located on the Pacific coast 41 miles from Managua. This property offers beautiful beach, restaurants, pools, bars, disco and casino open on weekends plus evening entertainment in addition to all meals and alcoholic drinks.

Cost begins at $1,357 ppdo.

Included in the trips are airfare from Miami on either American Airlines or TACA Airlines (Add-ons available from other US cities); meals as noted in brochure; transfers on arrival and departure; all ground transportation, tours as mentioned with English-speaking guides; hotel taxes and service charges.

Not included are insurance, airport departure taxes from the US and Nicaragua airport/country departure taxes, insurance and any other service not specifically mentioned in the brochure.

Additional information is available on Tara Tours’ website. tara tours, 800-327-0080, www.taratours.com/nicaragua1.htm, www.taratours.com 30 • septeMBer 2011

green new year’s gala at parador resort in costa rica Parador Resort & Spa in Costa Rica is ringing in the New Year in eco-luxe fashion with its Green New Year’s Eve Package. The fournight special features a New Year’s Eve party with dinner, open bar, live entertainment, fireworks, plus a New Year’s Day brunch.

Entertainment is staged throughout the sprawling ocean-view resort, set amidst the rainforest-encased Manuel Antonio National Park.

Priced from $725 per night for two guests in an ocean-view suite (tax included), the Green New Year’s Eve Package begins with a welcome cocktail and a suite overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Parador Resort & Spa’s new Las Suites luxury complex. Breakfast buffet is included daily.

New Year’s Eve starts with an opulent dinner buffet featuring freshly prepared sushi, succulent lobster and seafood, barbecue and other culinary delights. An open bar with champagne serves well beyond the midnight hour, when spectacular fireworks emblazon the sky. Live bands and DJs provide the groove, and a traditional Brazilian-inspired costumed parade will perform. A New Year’s Day brunch follows the morning after.

Parador Resort & Spa’s Green New Year’s Eve Package is priced at $725 ppdo, or can be upgraded to include a couple’s massage for $762 per night. Taxes are included.

Named “Costa Rica’s Leading Resort 2010” by the World Travel Awards, Parador Resort & Spa redefines sustainable luxury on its 12 acres of verdant jungle, featuring 129 rooms and suites, three swimming pools, four restaurants and bars, fitness room, worldclass spa and tennis court. parador resort & spa, www.hotelparador.com

grand cariBe Belize offering faBulous extra 7 nights free Grand Caribe Belize is offering a very generous week free for 14night stays until December 24, 2011, and January 1 to February 1, 2012. So guests pay for just 7 nights and get to stay 2 weeks at this beautiful seaside resort on 500 feet of beach in Belize.

The 14-night special rate until December 24 runs from $1,953 for a one-bedroom oceanview (additional night $139.50) to $4,893 for a four-bedroom oceanview unit (additional night $349.50).

From January 1 to February 1, 2010, the 14-night rate starts at $2,443 for a one-bedroom oceanview unit (additional night $174.50) to $6,293 for the four-bedroom oceanview unit ($449.50 additional night).

This is a remarkable opportunity to experience everything Belize has to offer. Staying at this Ambergris Caye resort with condo rentals makes for an exciting vacation in paradise, with activities like scuba diving, fishing, visits to Mayan ruins, jungle tours, zip lining, cave tubing, and more.Guests will also appreciate Grand Caribe’s three pools, including the largest one in Belize. grand caribe resort and condominiums, 800-488-5903, reservations@grandcaribebelize.com, www.grandcaribebelize.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

book

Latin america with the foLLowing Destination speciaLists We visit parts of Costa Rica that many locals haven’t even heard of. Raft parts of rivers that are pristine in their untouched beauty. Visit with locals with no pretense, only hearts of gold and open arms.

Trips that infuse adventure into a soul.

www.purelifeexp.com

OUR MISSION

We are the Costa Rica vacations specialists. With do it yourself Costa Rica travel, you will save money and get the perfect vacation. Plan & book your entire Costa Rica vacation all in one website. You can ask our resident Red Eye Tree Frog, Javi the Frog, for advice.

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Our team of highly trained, multi-lingual professionals bring years of personal experience and knowledge offering the best options for travel to traditional destinations or more remote areas of the world.

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Tico Travel™

has dedicated itself to providing travel agencies and clients alike to the most up to date and accurate information on all aspects of travel to Costa Rica, Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Argentina, Colombia and all of Central and South America.

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CONSERVATION THROUGH ECOTOURISM Tropical Nature Travel creates custom trips based on your imagination and our expert advice to Peru, Brazil, Ecuador and the Galapagos, Panama, Costa Rica and Belize.

We feature visits to many different wildlife lodges in South America, as well as many National Heritage sites, such as Salvador and Quito.

Our expert staff will show you the way.

Our goal is not to be the largest travel agency, but to provide quality service with a very personal touch, while offering the best value prices.

Each of our travel consultants takes great pride in the knowledge and expertise they possess, and are eager to share it with our customers.

Our agents are willing to take the time to ask customers the right questions, to listen, to engage, and to create and suggest innovative solutions for the most difficult travel dilemmas.

www.tropicalnaturetravel.com

PERU, BOLIVIA & ECUADOR www.tambotours.com

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

As a wholesale travel agency

Peru’s Machu Picchu, Cuzco, Inca Trail, Vilcabamba, Amazon, Manu, Lake Titicaca, Nazca, Chiclayo, Trujillo, Chachapoyas, Kuelap, Iquitos, Arequipa & Lima. In Ecuador we offer over 45 boats for the Galapagos and in Bolivia a tourist circuit offering the highlights in this ever-developing country.

septeMBer 2011 •

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LATIN AMERICA Mexitours offers visitors a full coMpleMent of historic Mexico

sure that is the world’s silver capital—Taxco, with a visit to the famous Baroque parish church of Santa Prisca.

Puebla & Cholula with lunch takes guests to Santa Maria Tonanzintla and San Francisco Acatepec to admire the beautiful churches of Indian Baroque style. Travelers also get to see the world’s largest pyramid at the archaeological zone of Cholula with its 365 churches. The tour continues to Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with buildings decorated with tiles and beautifully sculpted freestone; also see the majestic cathedral at the main square, the Chapel of the Rosary (considered the eighth wonder of the art world), the convent of Santa Monica and the Palafoxiana Library.

Mexitours, www.mexitours.com.mx

delta and aeroMexico create enhanced coMMercial alliance

Here are some comprehensive tours available from Mexitours that offer an inside look at the country’s richness.

Mexico City Tour visits the historical downtown district that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the National Palace, the Zocalo the Aztec Major Temple, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Reforma boulevard, the Chapultepec Park, glamorous residential districts and the Zona Rosa (Pink Zone). This tour is a must to get acquainted with the city.

Xochimilco–University City–Coyoacan includes a panoramic tour of the World Trade Center, the Siqueiros Cultural Polyforum, the Mexico Bullring, Theater of the Insurgentes, Olympic Stadium, University City, the lava gardens of San Angel; and then a visit to Xochimilco, a World Heritage site, to ride an Aztec boat; then to Coyoacan with its 16th-century mansions and impressive paintings at Church of Saint John the Baptist.

Guadalupe Shrine and Teotihuacan Pyramids begins with a visit to the Square of the Three Cultures and to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. It continues to the archaeological zone of Teotihuacan with its monumental Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, the temple of Quetzalpapalotl, the citadel and the Avenue of the Dead, plus an arts and crafts center stop.

Mexico City Tour & Anthropology Museum includes a Mexico City tour with a visit to the world-renowned Anthropology Museum.

Cuernavaca & Taxco with lunch is a panoramic tour in Cuernavaca, the city of the eternal spring, to visit one of the oldest cathedrals in America—the Palace of Cortes, its mansions and avenues. From there travelers go to the Sierra Madre to visit the trea32 • septeMBer 2011

Delta Air Lines and Grupo Aeromexico have announced a tentative agreement for a long-term, exclusive commercial alliance.

Under the agreement, the airlines will expand cooperation to leverage each other’s strengths and link Delta’s expansive network with Mexico’s largest passenger network. As part of the agreement, Delta also will invest $65 million in Aeromexico.

Following a successful restructuring in 2009 and subsequent public stock offering, Aeromexico has reported strong financial results, including its highest operating margin in 15 years at 10.4 percent for the June quarter 2011.

According to the US Department of Commerce, goods traded between the US and Mexico in 2010 totaled nearly $400 billion, making Mexico the third largest trading partner for the US. The new agreement between two of its founding members strengthens SkyTeam’s position as the only global alliance with a full-service, Mexico-based international carrier and expands SkyTeam’s presence in fast-growing Mexican and Latin American markets.

Along with the current agreement that offers customers reciprocal access to airport lounges as well as the ability to accrue and redeem flight awards, customers will enjoy soon-to-be-available benefits from the deepened alliance between Delta and Aeromexico, including: Network-wide codesharing to include all Delta and Aeromexico flights between the US and Mexico as well as flights within the carriers’ domestic networks and to other key international destinations; a coordinated sales team that offers joint contracting to corporate customers allowing enhanced access to the combined networks; expedited call handling for Elite customers through a new, integrated process; and the ability for Elite customers to reserve preferred seating via the carriers’ reservations centers.

Future benefits will include co-located airport facilities for easier connections and check-in and the ability to select preferred seat assignments, process upgrades and redeem Award Tickets online. delta air lines, www.delta.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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Korea: Asia’s Destination for All Seasons and Reasons P E T E R G AT T

A

s you review your client database for new trip suggestions, I encourage you to consider Korea as a future possibility. With its unique blending of a modern infrastructure, centuries old traditions and temples, UNESCO world Heritage sites, and natural wonders it makes a fascinating destination to visit as a single Asian destination itinerary or an easy add-on extension to a multi country trip. For example, with so many tour operators using Korean Air and Asiana Airlines for air partners in their Asia packages simply adding two to three nights in Korea will provide clients with a rewarding an enriching experience. With a robust cultural calendar that is maintained and updated on a regular basis on the Korea Tourism Organization's website, a wide array of accommodation and dining options satisfying every budget and culinary taste, and vast shopping options Korea is well positioned to satisfy the discerning needs of visitors from North America. The Pacific Asia Travel Association(PATA) released arrival results for several of its members that show 2011 to be a strong year. Despite an expected drop off of visitors to Korea from Japan the country has still shown overall tourism growth of 2% from the year. Some important destination news and product updates follows.

Cultural Performances Year Round Korea’s cultural performances, which highlight aspects of traditional performance such as martial arts and music, are winning the hearts of audiences not only at home, but around the world. Korean non-verbal performances, both modern and traditional, are gaining acclaim worldwide with a docket of programs Korea’s cultural performances, which highlight aspects of traditional performance such as martial arts and music, are winning the hearts of audiences not only at home, but around the world. Korean non-verbal performances, both modern and traditional, are gaining acclaim worldwide with a docket of programs bursting with raw talent from world-class breakers, eastern and western martial artists, Korean traditional dancers, and acrobatic performers. A listing of current Modern shows include: Ballerina who Loves B-Boy, BIBAP, Drawing:Show [HERO], Drum Cat Concert, Fanta-Stick Jump, and Nata. Traditional performances include: Anseong Namsadang Baudeogi Performance, Kim Deok-Soo’s Traditional Yeonhui Performance ‘PAN’, KOREA HOUSE Folk Performance, MISO, National Gugak Center's ‘Saturday Premium Performance’, and Legend of Flower.

Winter Olympic Games 2018 The Olympics will be returning to Korea. The South Korean 34 • SEPTEMBER 2011

Korea becomes Asia’s first destination to get nonstop super jumbo A380 service from JFK. city of Pyeongchang has been awarded the opportunity to host the 2018 Winter Olympics. “It’s really an exciting excuse to learn all about Korea,” said Luis Maravi, the marketing manager of the Korea Tourism Organization’s New York office, located in Fort Lee, N.J. “We feel that as the Games get closer, it’s really going to help us gain exposure for Korea and all it has to offer.” Pyeongchang edged out Munich and the French town of Annecy to win the bid after falling short for both the 2010 Winter Olympics and the 2014 Games. While Seoul had successfully hosted the 1988 Summer Games this will be South Korea’s first Winter Games and an opportunity to showcase the country’s ski resorts. Pyeongchang is located about 100 miles east of Seoul. Nine new UNESCO sites have been added in Korea. The nine geological attractions in Jeju island that have been added to the list of world geoparks include; Mount Halla, Manjang Cave and Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Seogwipo Formation, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, Jungmun Daepo Columnar-Jointed Lava, the lava dome at Mount Sanbang, the Yongmeori tuff ring and the Suweol Peak tuff ring. Korea is already home to UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites as well as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With the addition of these world geoparks, Jeju is the only place in the world with three UNESCO certifications.

Airlines The biggest news, literally, regarding Korea’s travel and tourism industry is that Korean Air has just added the first A380 service from JFK to Asia. Signaling the start of a new era of air service for the New York tri-state region, Korean Air flight 082 was the first commercial A380 flight to cross the Pacific from continued on page

36

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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WE Go ThRouGh EvERy MEASuRE To GivE you Wild PlEASuRE roy safaris ltd., registered in 1989, started off with one vehicle and two employees progressing slowly but steadily to its current fleet of over 25 vehicles and about 55 employees. we have chosen not to grow any larger as we fully understand the importance of maintaining ‘personalized’ service.

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34

New York. Korean Air serves JFK with two daily flights to Asia with connecting service to more than 75 cities throughout China, Japan, Korea and Southeast Asia. With only 407 seats, including a 94 seat Prestige business class stretching across the entire upper deck, Korean Air ‘s A380 offers the fewest total seat capacity than any other carrier with a A380 currently in service. EVA Air and Asiana Airlines have initiated codeshared service between Taipei and Seoul. As of June 1, 2011, the two airlines are providing 16 flights every week, making business travel significantly more convenient and giving leisure travelers more choices for connecting flights between Taiwan and Korea. Delta Airlines continues to add nonstop service to Asia from its Detroit hub. This summer, Delta will operate 44 weekly flights between Detroit and six Asian cities including Seoul.

Cruises In an effort to expand in the Asia-Pacific cruise market Royal Caribbean has announced that it will base Voyager of the Seas in China in June 2012. Royal Caribbean said Voyager of the Seas will be double the size of any cruise ship operating in China or the rest of the Asia-Pacific region. The ship displaces 150,000 gross registered tons, spans 11 guest decks and has 1,556 staterooms. After Shanghai, Voyager of the Seas will offer a variety of sailings to ports in Japan and Korea until August, including Fukuoka and Kobe in Japan, and Busan and Jeju in Korea. The ship will depart for Sydney, Australia in October. Celebrity Cruises will offer sailings in Asia in 2012. During their inaugural Asia season eight countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia and South Korea will be included in itineraries. Holland America Line is offering five 14-day “Asia Explorer” voyages on the Zaandam early next year. In addition, the ship will offer one 14-day China and Korea voyage round-trip from Hong Kong that will call at Incheon (Seoul) and Jeju (Cheju) City, South Korea. The four itineraries offered on seven departures range from 14 to 28 days. The 14-day China and Korea voyage departs February 19 and includes two full days at both Shanghai and Xingang (Beijing). Shore excursions include the “Maglev Train Ride & New Shanghai” and the “Summer Palace & the Great Wall of China.” The ports of Incheon (Seoul) and Jeju (Cheju) City will be maiden visits for Zaandam. The 22-day “Japan and Alaska” voyage departs April 15 from Kobe (Osaka), and features port calls at Jeju and Busan (Pusan), South Korea, and Petropavlovsk (Kamchatka), Russia before crossing over the Northern Pacific Ocean to Vancouver, with stops at Kodiak, Sitka and Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska. Silversea Cruises will feature the Relais & Chateaux L'Ecole des Chefs interactive cooking school on three additional voyages in 2011.

Those sailings are the Northern Europe voyage on the Silver Cloud, departing Copenhagen on July 30; and the Far East 36 • SEPTEMBER 2011

Park hyatt Seoul. voyages on the Silver Shadow, departing from Seoul, South Korea, on September 23, and from Hong Kong on October 5.

Hotels The Park Hyatt Seoul is offering a “Enjoy a Welcome Credit” package for travelers that stay at a participating Hyatt through December 30, 2011. Simply request offer code WELCRE when you booking a reservation, stay a minimum of two nights and pay the Welcome Credit rate. Guests will receive a 50,000 KRW Welcome Credit with a 2-night stay and a 75,000 KRW Welcome Credit with a 3-night stay. The Welcome Credit can be used for anything from drinks at the bar to in-room dining and movies and more. Marriott International's luxury hotel brand, JW Marriott, is launching a collection of strategic partnerships with luxury brands in nutrition, culinary, art, culture, accessories and wellness. The partnerships were developed as part of a global brand initiative to deliver a deeper luxury guest experience at JW Marriott hotels and resorts around the world.

JW Marriott plans to open 12 new properties by year-end 2012, bringing the total global portfolio to 64 hotels and resorts in 27 countries. Among the new openings will be JW Marriott Seoul Dongdaemun Plaza. According to the most recent STR Global reporting five markets in the Asia/Pacific region achieved ADR increases of more than 20 percent -- Brisbane, Australia (up 30.8 percent to $193.94); Melbourne, Australia (up 30.8 percent to $183.76); Sydney, Australia (up 27.5 percent to $180.83); Hong Kong (up 24.6 percent to $218.96); and Seoul, South Korea (up 23.7 percent to $180.09).

Korea Tourism Organization, 201-585-0909, www.visitkorea.or.kr www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

profitable world of niche markets FRiENdly PlANET TRAvEl iNTRoduCES 10-dAy ExPloRATioN oF ChiNA’S dEliGhTS

friendly planet travel’s newest tour to china packs the sights, sounds, and comforts of its wildly popular taste of china and best of china & Yangtze river tour packages into an incredible itinerary that’s even easier on the wallet. at just $1,299, china delight, a dazzling 10-day tour, visits the country’s must-see beijing and shanghai, and also goes off-the-beaten-track to hangzhou, known as the “Venice” of china for its meandering canals and gorgeous gardens. china delight includes roundtrip airfare from laX and all intrachina transportation; first-class and deluxe hotel accommodations; 11 meals; and comprehensive sightseeing with local, english-speaking, expert guides. travelers can also choose to extend their tour to chengdu, home of the giant panda research center, where they get a chance to actually hold and hug a panda. travelers on china delight will visit capital city beijing, the political, educational, and cultural center of china, a city full of buildings and landmarks of historical significance. they’ll visit the great wall of china, tiananmen square, and the forbidden city. travelers will tour shanghai, the walled metropolis where finance, fashion, and technology make the city pulse with energy. finally, they will take the fastest train in the world to reach the remote canal town of hangzhou in Zhejiang province, what some call the Venice of the east. it’s a beautiful destination where travelers will meet the “real” chinese, visit a tea plantation and lunch with the farmerowners, and enjoy the city’s natural splendor. those with more time to spend in china can extend their trip to chengdu for the opportunity to interact with pandas at the world’s foremost panda reserve, the giant panda research center (video link below). friendly planet travel has been operating tours to china since 2002. their very popular a taste of china and best of china and Yangtze river tours have sold out every year, with ratings of “very good” or “excellent” from more than 90 percent of travelers.

Friendly Planet Travel, jackie@gregoryfca.com, www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Tx0lQ_S-h4&feature=related (Chengdu), www.friendlyplanettravel.com

GuESTS loSE WEiGhT WiTh ‘SyMBio CARE’ AT GRANdhoTEl liENz complimenting its many services, guests of the only gourmet, spa and medical grandhotel lienz in austria now may participate in a weight loss program. university prof. dr. peter lechleitner, head of Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

the medical center, has developed an already tested and successful seven-day plan. exercise, swimming, walking in nature, as well as body scrubs and specialized massages, a carefully prepared menu by the hotel’s famous chef christian flaschberger, and warm and friendly service ensure an ambience of well being. the program offers guests the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and activities of east tyrol from a 5-star preferred boutique hotel and treat their bodies to better health and a better look. participants will receive via email from univ. prof. lechleitner advice on how to benefit long after their departure from the grandhotel lienz in addition, the grandhotel lienz offers beauty anti-aging acupuncture which consists of 2 components of the holistic cosmetic acupuncture with ultrafine needles to relax the face and smooth the wrinkles combined with cellcosmet from switzerland. the 10-day program consists of 5 acupuncture treatments and 4 cellcosmet treatments. acupuncture is best known from traditional chinese medicine. the main target is to restore the internal balance between yin and yang. well-defined and selected points are stimulated on the skin with special needles. the acupuncture points lie on channels called meridians. according to traditional chinese thought, qi flows in these channels— the energy of life.

Grandhotel lienz, info@grandhotel-lienz.com, www.grandhotel-lienz.com

TRAvEl iNSTiTuTE lAuNChES A NEW villA SPECiAliST CouRSE the travel institute has released a new course in their lifestyle specialist series: Villa travel. sponsored by private trade winds, inc., innovative villa rental company specializing in five star Villa Vacations, the course is available online or on cd-rom and is also one of the new elective courses in the travel institute’s certified travel associate (cta) program. irene aviles, owner of private trade winds, had this to say about the course: “it’s an important time in the travel industry as we strive to clearly define villa travel and differentiate luxury villa rentals from vacation rentals. Villa travel opens up a whole new market for luxury travel agents, and in turn presents a bounty of options and experiences for their clients. once agents are properly educated in villa travel they can look forward to adding an entirely new dimension to their business. private trade winds is proud to be the sponsor of this educational opportunity for the travel agent community, as well as the consumer.” travel professionals who complete the program will earn 10 continuing education units (ceu). the Villa travel specialist course includes online testing for only $49 (travel institute members save an additional 10%).

Villa travel specialist joins the travel institute’s other lifestyle specialist courses: accessible travel, adventure travel, gay and lesbian, golf, honeymoons and destination weddings, luxury travel, skiing, spas, and sustainable travel. those interested can enroll online.

The Travel institute, 800-542-4282, www.thetravelinstitute.com SEPTEMBER 2011 •

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profitable world of niche markets

Kessler Canyon Joins Marriott’s “Autograph Collection”

I

J U D I T H G LY N N

t seems odd to drive six miles on a private, graveltopped road surrounded by majestic mountains, cleared land, proportional rock piles and little else to reach the 15-room, Kessler Canyon ranch resort located in DeBeque, Colorado. Why wasn’t it built closer to nearby Interstate 70? The Grand Junction airport is already an hour’s drive from this 23,000-acre oasis and Denver is four hours.

And those horses in the distance aren’t really galloping on the land. They’re actually seven, life-size, magnificent, copper-plated works of art strategically placed to replicate their living counterparts. The silence along the ride lets in the whispers of nature enhanced by eight acres of sod trucked in to complement groomed sagebrush. There are no glaring signs or overhead wires, which makes it easier to spot deer and black bear. With no cell phone coverage, spotty Internet, two rooms with TV and a remarkable experience about to unfold at road's end, the decompressing trek must be intentional.

The homestead at Kessler Canyon ranch resort complements surrounding mountains and lakes.

Family Retreat Opens to Visitors Richard Kessler owns this remarkable ranch resort. The underdeveloped remoteness was originally chosen for a family retreat. His impressive career includes four decades in hotel development and operations, dating to his early days as president, chairman and CEO of Days Inn of America.

Additionally, he’s a renown visionary, philanthropist and impassioned collector of art and antiques. His son, Mark Kessler, oversaw the project for several years. Today, a small portion of the Homestead is reserved for family use. Larger areas welcome discerning guests, incentive and executive retreat attendees, many of whom are inspired by the ranch's slogan: “Be Moved, Be Challenged, Be Changed.”

The ranch and surrounding property were originally built by a family in the late 1800s. Today’s buildings include the meticulously renovated Homestead, which houses nine private rooms, a spacious family-style dining room, a wrap-around porch and outdoor fireplace overlooking the lake and historic apple orchard.

The Guesthouse has six private rooms, a gourmet kitchen, great room with flat screen TV/surround sound and state-ofthe-art conference room. Its Trophy Hall, often used as a meeting area, features an antique furnace and a bar made of fossils from millions of years ago. Personal Kessler trophy hunts adorn the walls here and are throughout the property. The room’s rollup, garage-type doors open onto a lawn large enough for a national brewery to land a corporate helicopter on its logo.

38 • SEPTEMBER 2011

Exemplary Pampering and Activities A life of luxury and opulence at the ranch bypasses anything most people have experienced, yet somehow translates to a homey feel. The artwork alone is staggering, most of it collected during Kessler family trips or commissioned. Paintings, bronze statues and intricately carved furniture are at every turn. Decidedly different at the ranch is the service given to guests. “We’ll drive two hours to the store to get them something,” said a ranch employee. Sometimes the guests number only a single couple. Recently, a family birthday celebration honored its 80-year-old matriarch.

Big game hunting, upland bird hunting and fishing activities are enhanced when Head Hunting Guide and Shooting Instructor, Olympic medalist Lance Bade, shares his expertise with guests at the rifle and pistol clay target practice areas.

Other activities include horseback riding, skiing, ATV tours, mountain biking and fishing the four stocked manmade lakes.

Deluxe lodging in mountaintop cabins at the 8,000-feet level is an option for hunters and fisherman after exploring 15 miles of majestic mesa tops and six miles of manicured valley. The property participates in “Ranching for Wildlife,” a program committed to improving habitat for game and non-game animals. Guns and fishing rods are available for guests’ use.

Hunting packages can involve one-on-one guides. An onsite building is equipped to store a hunter’s trophy in refrigerated areas, field dress the animal and transport its meat to a processing plant.

The onsite Poseidon Spa is located in the main Homestead www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

profitable world of niche markets where spa treatments are provided by licensed professionals.

Sauna, steam room and fitness center are nearby. Spa products are sold. A small retail shop sells hunting gear, walking sticks, sundries and clothing.

GRANd hoTEl liENz oFFERS SKi vACATioN

Chow Time Like No Other Chef Lenny McNab reigns in the ranch’s wide-open kitchen where guests invariably watch him cook or help create a meal alongside his skilled hands. “I can taste a dish in my head,” Lenny said when referring to the protein he’ll use as a starter.

Raised in New Hampshire where he flipped hamburgers, after Army service in Germany, Lenny attended the Berufsschule Bad Kissingen culinary school and acquired the basics of Escoffier French cuisine. But he’s a cowboy at heart with an extensive belt buckle collection. He writes cowboy poetry and eagerly recites passages to guests during his guitar and singing performance at dinner’s end.

Lenny is a former chuck-wagon cook accustomed to preparing meals in the wilderness. At the ranch he uses local products, some of them flowers, and has an extensive homegrown garden. A favorite dessert is apple crumb pie with bacon ice cream and topped with a spun sugar creation. “I’m looking for five pounds or a belt loop,” Lenny said when praised for his culinary talent at dinner’s end.

Although the ranch’s solitude is what most guests seek, numerous touristic opportunities exist in the surrounding area from world-class skiing and healing hot springs to Colorado River rafting and extensive art galleries. Visits can be made to Western Colorado Botanical Gardens, Historic Downtown Grand Junction, Glenwood Hot Springs, Grand Junction Motor Speedway, The Museum of Western Colorado, Colorado National Monument and a number of venues.

The Peach Street Distillers in Palisades began three years ago and already has one million dollars’ worth of spirits in their barrels. At its public bar, $6 shots are poured, some from bottles with a pear inside.

Marriott's Autograph Collection The Kessler Canyon ranch resort is one of ten properties in the four- and five-diamond category within the Kessler Collection. Marriott’s “Autograph Collection” represents most.

The ranch was added May 2011. The new brand is comprised of upper upscale and luxury hotels with distinctive personalities representing the best independent hotels in every category and travel experience. Marriott customers can redeem and gain points at the ranch.

Room rates at Kessler Canyon range from $449-$879 per night, including all meals. Most activities are extra. Allinclusive packages are available. Currently, the ranch offers 15% off four or more nights. Reservations are 10% commissionable to travel agents.

Marriott, 888-236-2427, www.marriott.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

grand hotel lienz in austria is offering a 7-night pre-christmas special ski Vacation that may be booked between december 7 and 25, 2011, at only $1,580 pp. the package includes accommodation in a superior suite, breakfast and five-course dinner daily, and a 6day ski pass in six different skiing areas. it also includes complimentary use of the hotel’s wellness center with pools and sauna bath, free internet, a bottle of champagne, sparkling water in the room, gift voucher in the wellness center, complimentary skishuttle to the Zettersfeld and hochstein ski areas, and a gift on departure. the slopes in the east tyrol are ideal for an entire family of skiers, from beginner to advanced. Zettersfeld is very close to the hotel with sunny, wide-open slopes. another nearby area is the peak of the hochstein where a ladies world cup is held every other year. beginner skiers ski the lower part of the mountain while the advanced ski the top. several other ski areas are not far away, including a glacier with skiing 10 months of the year. superb cross-country facilities are also close-by.

Grand hotel lienz, info@grandhotel-lienz.com, www.grandhotel-lienz.com/en

NATuRAl RETREATS lAuNChES AMERiCAN PRoJECT WiTh WildERNESS ExPERiENCE natural retreats has launched its first site in north america in a joint partnership with conservationist mark f. rockefeller on the banks of the snake river in idaho. the uk-based adventure hospitality outfit is committed to expanding the brand and plans to launch up to 40 unique sites in the us adjacent to national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty. concurrently, natural retreats is launching the outfitters, a new guiding brand offering access to prime flyfishing and adventure throughout the region. the original south fork lodge, rebranded as natural retreats snake river idaho, is now a world-class flyfishing retreat offering outstanding year-round guided activities including hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, as well as cross-country, downhill and heli-skiing. there are 22 guest suites including interconnecting family units and a 4-bedroom private residence, all with snake river views. nightly rates start at $315, including breakfast. guide services can be booked online via the outfitters.

Natural Retreats, www.naturalretreats.com; The outfitters, www.theoutfitters-us.com SEPTEMBER 2011 •

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profitable world of niche markets All-iNCluSivE FlyiNG SAFARi oFFERS TWo-FoR-oNE iN TANzANiA

elewana afrika, a group of luxurious camps and lodges in east africa that operates a fully-inclusive, 7-night skysafari combining their 4 lodges and camps in northern tanzania, has announced a twofor-one special offer on certain departure dates between now and the end of January. the elewana skysafari utilizes their own 9-seat luxury cessna executive aircraft to fly guests between the properties and includes the flights, all accommodations, all meals, all drinks, game drives, bush walks, excursions, laundry and private airport transfers. the skysafari operates every second day for a minimum of 2 and maximum of 9 guests. this special offer means that two people sharing a room can take a skysafari for the price of one person, departing on september 10, 14, 22, october 26, november 1 or 11 and January 2 or 4. rack rates during this period start at $6,539 pp. the only additional costs are the international flights to kilimanjaro or arusha and game park fees, which currently run $335 pp. arusha coffee lodge, tarangire treetops lodge, the manor at ngorongoro and serengeti migration camp are small and intimate with a strong emphasis on personal attention, exceptional hospitality and fine dining. elewana means “harmony” in swahili and refers to the balances between man and nature, tourism and conservation. each property exists in harmony with its surrounding environment: in a coffee plantation in arusha, close to the ngorongoro crater within the 1,500-acre shangri-la estate, close to the baobab and marula trees of tarangire and alongside the grumeti river in serengeti. safari vehicles have been customized and are fitted with awnings, 240v power supply to recharge cameras and batteries, a cool box for drinks and picnics, binoculars and reference books on flora and fauna. guests can also take advantage of guided walking safaris, night game drives and the enchantment of bush dining in a number of specially selected locations.

Elewana Afrika, 800-806-9565, walden@comcast.net (Jean Walden), www.skysafari.com, www.elewana.co

ARiK AiR’S Q1&2 2011 PASSENGER FiGuRES: 1,039,656 FoR FiRST Six MoNThS oF 2011 arik air, nigeria’s largest commercial airline and africa’s fastest growing, has carried a total of 1,039,656 passengers across its network of 130 daily flights in the first half of 2011. in Q1, the airlne registered uplift of 563,334 passengers and in Q2 uplift of 476,322 40 • SEPTEMBER 2011

passengers in the low-season quarter. the most significant month was march when it carried 201,936 passengers in the runup to the midterm holidays. the figures for the first half of the year are a marginal improvement on last year’s numbers with load factors on average up 10% on domestic routes and nearly 20% long-haul. the new York route experienced the largest increase in passenger numbers with almost 30% increased traffic on the thrice-weekly route. as of december 2010, arik air had carried over six million passengers in just a little over four years of operations, and this new figure of seven million means the airline carried 125,000 passengers average per month since operations started in october 2006.

Arik Air, www.arikair.com

dESiGN TRAvEl & TouRS oFFER 2 NEW TARGETEd NAMiBiA TRiPS design travel & tours have two new namibia itineraries, both covering namibia, which can easily be combined with a trip to south africa or botswana. on the namibia highlights select fly-in, clients will visit the best of namibia in 7 days, seeing the beautiful sossusvlei dunes, the skeleton coast by plane, and one of the best game reserves in africa, etosha national park. the itinerary is designed for those with limited time who want to take in namibia’s main features. this “select” itinerary uses a selection of the best lodges in the different areas. the trip starts with a flight to the namib desert for an afternoon game drive or walk on the private reserve. a morning drive to the sossusvlei dunes area is highly recommended for the next day. entering namib naukluft park at sunrise provides gorgeous morning light—best for photography, and spares the desert heat. Visitors can see dead pan, sesriem gorge and the famous dune 45. the adventurous and fit can climb the giant dune big daddy. days 3/4 visit the namib dunes, skeleton coast, swakopmund and damaraland; days 5/6 are spent at famous etosha national park. almost all african animal species are represented in the huge nature reserve, with an estimated 250 lions in the park, 300 rhinos, 2,500 giraffes, 6,000 zebras and more than 2,000 elephants. dainty springbok can often be observed in the hundreds as herds. day 7 is a return flight to windhoek and onward arrangements. all accommodation, meals indicated in the itinerary, all activities— nature and game drives, and flights within namibia are included. departures are on request, with a 2-passenger minimum. the 10-day namibia highlights safari uses a variety of comfortable lodges and namibia wildlife resorts bungalows, “value for money” accommodation. guests choose a guided or a self-drive safari. the tour departs windhoek to the kalahari desert and on to the namib desert, the sossusvlei, dead pan, dune 45 and sesriem gorge. then it’s on to the skeleton coast and damaraland and finally 3 nights in etosha national park before returning to windhoek. the program is flexible, requiring at least 2 passengers. design Travel & Tours, 800-942-8745, designtt@ix.netcom.com, www.designtraveltours.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

profitable world of niche markets ThE FAllS RESoRT CElEBRATES dECAdE oF TouRiSM iN liviNGSToNE, zAMBiA

this august, sun international’s the falls resort in Zambia celebrated its tenth anniversary. the falls resort was created in 2000 when sun international purchased the complex on the precipice of Victoria falls. with an initial investment of $46 million to renovate and develop the complex, sun international executed the single largest private investment in tourism within Zambia. in the first five years of the falls resort’s existence, it was estimated that 25% of people living in the community benefited from the new complex, resulting in an overall improvement in the infrastructure of the area and the ultimate stimulus for development of the livingstone airport. today, livingstone, Zambia is a world-class tourism destination in southern africa and the falls resort is in very large part responsible for this success story. the falls resort, which includes the five-star Virtuoso property the royal livingstone hotel and the three-star Zambezi sun, is credited with making livingstone an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic and uniquely african experience. the resort also has more than 200 socially and environmentally responsible initiatives in place, ensuring that tourism to livingstone continues to empower the community while helping to keep the natural beauty of Victoria falls and the adjacent mosi-oa-tunya park intact for generations of visitors to come. the falls resort lies on the banks of the Zambezi river in Zambia, a step away from Victoria falls, a unesco world heritage site and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. the property is the recipient of several awards for their groundbreaking csr programs, ranging from anti-malaria and hiV/aids-awareness projects to vermiculture and conservation agriculture, while the royal livingstone is consistently recognized as one of the world’s best hotels.

The Falls Resort, www.suninternational.com

TRAvElERS ENJoy SiGhTSEEiNG ANd SAviNGS WiTh GoWAy’S AFRiCAExPERTS travel by night, see africa during the day… that’s the pattern followed by visitors to south africa who ride the shongololo express, a unique south african cruise-train that carries its own fleet of minivans that are used to take passengers on daily guided sightseeing drives. travelers booking with goway’s africaexperts on the Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

17-day ‘good hope’ departure november 8, 2011, enjoy 2 free nights at the deluxe taj hotel in cape town, plus a special themed dinner. prices start from $6,059 pp. the train operates two 17-day trips. the good hope, starting in Johannesburg and ending in cape town, or vice versa, is a comprehensive tour of south africa that includes all of the great sights including kruger national park, Zululand, the drakensberg mountains, klein karoo, the winelands and the spectacular garden route. six countries are visited on the southern cross route that starts in Johannesburg and ends at Victoria falls, or vice versa. the route passes through swaziland, mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and botswana and includes visits to kruger national park, bulawayo, matobo national park and hwange national park in Zimbabwe, and chobe national park in botswana. the shongololo express uses classic 1950s carriages with accommodation in four two-person categories: emerald, commodore and gold cabins have ensuite facilities; ivory cabins have shared facilities. breakfast and dinner, prepared on board, are served daily in the restaurant carriage, with lunches at guests’ own expense during daytime excursions. after traveling through the night, the air-conditioned touring vehicles are off-loaded each morning and guests may choose from several included day trips daily conducted by an experienced guide, or elect for exciting optional tours that can be booked and paid for on board the train. goway’s africa and middle east travel planner is available by contacting them toll-free or by email.

Goway’s AFRiCAExperts, 800-245-0920, info@africaexperts.com, www.africaexperts.com

SouTh AFRiCAN AiRWAyS oFFERS GRouP BooKiNG BoNuS To EAST AFRiCA to celebrate its easy and convenient connections between the us and east africa and africa’s indian ocean islands, south african airways is offering a special tour conductor incentive on group bookings to nbo, ebb, dar and mru. the details are as follows: for every ten paying group passengers, one free tour conductor ticket is earned. travel must commence by march 31, 2012. blackout dates of december 10 through January 15 apply. a maximum of 5 tc tickets can be earned by any one group. tour conductor tickets are valid on saa-operated flights only. other airlines on the group itinerary and code-share flights are not eligible for the tour conductor tickets. all applicable taxes and surcharges will apply on the tour conductor tickets. passengers utilizing tour conductors are required to travel on the same itinerary and in the same class of service as the group. this offer is applicable to new group bookings only. this is another of the many ways saa is bringing value, service and convenience to its valued travel partners. those with questions on this valuable, limited-time offer can direct them to the group sales department or their saa director, sales development.

South African Airways, groupsusa@flysaa.com, www.flysaa.com SEPTEMBER 2011 •

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profitable world of niche markets MANTiS ANNouNCES luxuRy SERviCEd RESidENCES iN CAPE ToWN

the mantis group is announcing the addition of lawhill luxury apartments, situated just off the V&a waterfront in cape town. these exclusive apartments are designed to offer guests sheer comfort and luxury. modern and trendy décor will make the most discerning travelers feel right at home. individually decorated, each apartment provides world-class accommodation at an affordable rate. with private access to the adjacent one & only hotel for spa and dining, the property is within easy walking distance of over 400 attractions, stores and restaurants. adrian gardiner, ceo of the mantis group, says, “we are thrilled to introduce the lawhill luxury apartments to our collection; this will afford mantis the opportunity to have a presence in the iconic V&a waterfront, adding yet another exclusive experience on offer to our guests. going forward we plan to expand our collection to all seven continents, adding “bucket list” properties in some of the world’s must-see cities and destinations.”

Mantis Group, www.mantiscollection.com

AFRiCA AT hANd WiTh MEMBERShiP iN APTA as the travel industry moves steadily towards specialization in destination, lifestyle, niche markets and other segments, africa is emerging as a strong favorite with agents looking for a lucrative and rewarding destination to focus on or add to their offering. the continent answers particularly well to the growing demands for experiential travel, voluntourism, sustainable tourism, family/multigenerational travel, exotic honeymoons and, of course, the bucketlist of places people want to see before they die. deciding to sell africa may not be difficult, but finding the best companies to build relationships with, can be a daunting undertaking. apta is a nonprofit, volunteer, b-2-b association of travel professionals on a mission to promote africa and her islands as tourist destinations to the retail travel agents and tour operators in the united states. apta’s executive and chapter board officials are travel professionals, already actively involved in various other capacities throughout the industry. they share their time and resources voluntarily out of a common 42 • SEPTEMBER 2011

passion for the african continent and indian ocean islands, their potential as travel destinations, and for the benefits of tourism to their environments and peoples. individual members are travel agents and tour operators in the usa who already sell africa, or are interested in selling africa as a tourist destination. corporate members are the tourist boards of african countries, airlines that operate flights in and into africa, hotels, lodges, operators and other service providers in africa and the usa. apta strives to create networking and marketing opportunities for all our members, and to be the primary point of contact for buyers and sellers in the african travel and hospitality industry. its online directory of active members is a comprehensive register of african travel suppliers, products, representatives and services.

APTA (Association for Promotion of Tourism to Africa), www.APTA.biz

GREAT SAFARiS iNTRoduCES RoMANTiC ESCAPE iN SouTh AFRiCA ANd MozAMBiQuE crystal clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches, a sunset dinner cruise aboard a dhow, private game drives in africa’s premiere safari park, all with that special someone, make up great safaris’ luxurious and romantic safari with mozambique mystique itinerary. the company has combined a quintessential 3-day safari in south africa’s kruger national park with a relaxing 5-day escape on mozambique’s exotic benguerra island, creating an unrivaled romantic dream trip perfect for honeymooners or any couple looking to rekindle the passion in their relationship. great safaris’ 11-day safari with mozambique mystique itinerary starts off with a day in Johannesburg before heading to kruger national park for three days of spectacular wildlife viewing and game drives. guests will catch glimpses of some of the park’s 140+ mammal species, including giraffe, hippo, crocodile, zebra, antelope, and the big 5—lion, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. nights in kruger will be spent at a magnificent luxury game lodge situated within the park borders. after three days of world-class safaris, it’s on to mozambique and the exotic island of benguerra. guests will stay at a luxurious boutique beach resort with private access to deserted white sand beaches and pristine turquoise waters. guests will enjoy private massages, spa treatments, sunset dinners on the beach, dhow cruises, diving, snorkeling and fishing. five days on this idyllic island paradise is more than enough to forget about the worries of the world and fall in love all over again. individual departures are available thursday, sunday, and monday through november 2012. land cost per adult is $4,535 for luxe level accommodations and $6,335 for premiere level accommodations, includes most meals and activities. pricing does not include intra-africa or international airfare.

Great Safaris, 800-409-7755, info@greatsafaris.com, www.greatsafaris.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

profitable world of niche markets AMAWATERWAyS GuESTS NoW viSiT NEWly-RESToREd ANGKoRiAN TEMPlE

the magnificent temples of angkor are a key highlight of “Vietnam, cambodia & the riches of the mekong,” the popular amawaterways cruise and land tour of Vietnam and cambodia. prior to embarking on a 7-night mekong river cruise, amawaterways guests on the full 16-day cruise and land program spend three nights in siem reap, cambodia, the gateway to the angkor archeological park. a unesco world heritage site, angkor marks the once-thriving center of the ancient khmer empire, and is known for world-renowned landmarks such as angkor wat, angkor thom and ta prohm. amawaterways guests now have the opportunity to visit yet another spectacular temple of angkor: the newly-reopened baphuon. constructed during the 11th-century reign of king udayadityavarman ii, the three-story temple once constituted one of angkor’s most spectacular sights. restoration of the temple began in the 1960s but was put on hold during the country’s civil war. the project commenced again in 1995 with the help of the french government, and was completed in the spring of 2011. the sheer magnitude of the restoration project makes the monument’s re-opening all the more impressive. workers literally took apart more than 300,000 sandstone blocks, laid them out in the surrounding jungle and then reassembled them like a puzzle. cambodia’s king norodom sihamoni himself attended ceremonies commemorating the re-opening of the baphuon in early July, half a century after restoration efforts began. amawaterways guests enjoy a tour of the baphuon temple as part of their land program in siem reap. the “Vietnam, cambodia and the riches of the mekong” itinerary also includes two nights in hanoi with included sightseeing; an overnight on a luxury junk in the unesco world heritage site of ha long bay; two nights in ho chi minh city, plus the 7-night mekong cruise to ho chi minh city from siem reap. as of september 2011, amawaterways will operate two vessels on the mekong: the brand new 124-passenger ms amalotus and the 92-passenger ms la marguerite, built in 2009.

AmaWaterways, 800-626-0126, www.amawaterways.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

iNCREdiBlE ExPEdiTioN CRuiSE SAviNGS FRoM GoWAy goway travel and orion expedition cruises have special savings on select cruises in 2011. for couples the 2nd guest pays just 50% of the cruise fares and for singles there’s no single supplement, representing savings up to $10,000. the following are eligible.

Australia kimberley expedition departs september 3. orion’s team will lead an exploration of secluded beaches and river inlets with abundant wildlife. from spectacular waterfalls and gorges to ancient culture and indigenous rock art, kimberley’s best is accessed. great barrier reef departs september 21. orion’s Zodiac safaris allow guests to snorkel and swim over seldom-visited sections of the world’s largest ecological structure. tasmania food & wine departing november 7 and 26 features the region’s fine produce. highlights include sampling coles bay oysters and an overnight to launceston for a food/wine tour.

New zealand and Sun-Antarctic the 11-night adventures of lord howe & aotearoa, departing september 26, features islands, bays and beaches, volcanoes, wine country, calm harbors and exploration in vibrant auckland. guests explore onboard orion from brisbane visiting world heritage-listed lord howe island and balls pyramid, the bay of islands, white island and marlborough sounds enroute to wellington. exploration of the antipodes departs october 24 and new Zealand & sub-antarctic wildlife adventure departs december 20. rated by unesco with world heritage status, these areas are a breeding ground for rare and endangered species. macquarie island is home to many thousands of penguins and elephant seals.

South-East Asia gulf of siam explorer departs october 10 and december 22; thailand, temples & mekong on december 15; and Vietnam explorer november 18, 27 and december 6. the voyages visit the coastline and islands of malaysia, thailand, Vietnam and cambodia. from cruising the saigon river with its junks to venturing across the mekong delta and upstream to the mekong river, the purpose-built orion ii is able to penetrate secluded backwaters and bays larger ships can’t venture.

Goway Travel, 800-387-8850, www.goway.com

NAviMAG CRuCERoS To ExPloRE ThE NoRThERN ChilEAN PATAGoNiA navimag will operate the mare australis, a small expedition ship belonging to sister company cruceros australis, on a new route among the northern patagonian fjords. in a 4-night all-inclusive program, after leaving from castro (chiloe island), passengers will explore the chilean fjords, stop in Jechica island for lunch and trekking, admire the breathtaking glacier san rafael, spot whales in the corcovado bay and visit chaiten and pumalin park. refined gastronomy and 5-star services complete the experience.

Navimag Cruceros, www.navimag.com SEPTEMBER 2011 •

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profitable world of niche markets ExPloRER vENTuRES AddS MExiCo’S ChiNChoRRo BANK To iTS livEABoARd dESTiNATioNS

the remote reefs of the chinchorro bank, featuring beautiful swim-throughs, more than 250 wrecks and a huge diversity of flora and fauna, are an often-mentioned but seldom-visited dive destination in the mexican caribbean, just north of belize. now explorer Ventures is partnering with fernando urquia, owner/operator of m/Y moondiver in mahahual, mexico, to offer weeklong trips to this pristine area. following their inexpensive flight into cancun, travelers will be transported down the Yucatan coast to mahahual, a quaint fishing village where the ship begins the 2-hour transit offshore to the chinchorro bank. pricing for 2011/2012 will be $1,895 ppdo, with saturday departures for the 8-day/7-night trips. black corals, large sponges, bull and hammerhead sharks, lobsters, turtles, groupers and snappers are commonly seen here. the reef varies in depth from 3 to 3,000 feet, making it dangerous to ships but extremely attractive to divers (over 250 ships are estimated to have sunk in the area.)

Visibility ranges from 60 to 200 feet. drift dives are done when strong currents are running, but many dives are done on sites with little or no current. due to the complexity of the reef structure and in order to provide access to the best sites, many dives are done from the vessel’s large tender. water temperatures range from the low to mid 80s in the summer, to the high 70s in the winter. the fleet’s six liveaboard destinations include chinchorro bank, southern bahamas, the turks & caicos islands, the northeastern caribbean (saba/st. kitts/st. maarten), the galapagos islands and the maldives. the m/V turks & caicos explorer ii also spends 10 weeks in the winter/spring each year offering snorkeling with humpback whales on the silver bank, dominican republic.

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

MABul iSlANd NAMEd oNE oF ThE WoRld’S ‘BEST SECRET iSlANdS’ travel + leisure searched the world to compile a list of the best secret islands. mabul island in sabah was featured as one of the best islands in the world with that is teeming with fish instead of tourists. the travel magazine stated, “diving enthusiasts should opt instead for the secret island of mabul, off the northeastern 44 • SEPTEMBER 2011

coast of malaysia, where the marine life is on a par with the galapagos.” diving is a year-round activity on this island, with more than eight popular dive sites. it takes approximately 15 minutes or less to reach any of the mabul dive sites by boat. most of the diving in mabul is very shallow with depths from 10 to 60 feet. marine life that can be seen include fire gobies, crocodile fish, pipefish, cuttlefish, snake eels, sea horses, exotic starfish, and many more. mabul island is reputed to be one of the best destinations for underwater macro-photography in the world. located in the clear waters of the celebes sea off the mainland of sabah, it is surrounded by gentle sloping reefs. it is considerably larger than the nearby world-renowned sipadan island, covering approximately 51 acres. three resorts cater to scuba divers; two are on the island itself while one is on a converted oilrig platform about 1,600 feet offshore. all of the resorts provide day trips for their guests to the nearby sipadan and kapalai islands.

Tourism Malaysia, (article) www.travelandleisure.com/articles/best-secret-islands-on-earth/1, www.tourismmalaysiausa.com, www.tourismmalaysiany.com, www.tourismmalaysia.ca

TRAvElERS Will SWiM WiTh WhAlE ShARKS doWNuNdER WiTh GoWAy goway travel, with a long history of selling downunder, offers a wide range of experiences throughout western australia for agents. these include spectacular destinations such as ningaloo reef, which has an impressive reputation as one of earth’s last ocean paradises. travelers can dive with hundreds of tropical fish, colorful coral and the world’s biggest fish, the whale shark. it’s one of the largest fringing reefs in the world and unlike many others, visitors can get to it just by stepping off the beach. goway’s founder & president, bruce hodge, went to ningaloo reef and enjoyed a memorable experience diving with the whale sharks. he highly recommends this trip. the ningaloo marine park stretches over 160 miles and reaches nearly 12 miles seaward, encompassing approximately 1,930 square miles of ocean with 500 species of tropical fish and 220 species of coral in all. nothing can compare to the thrill of swimming beside a whale shark. these docile creatures visit the reef each year between april and June. travelers can slip on a snorkel or diving gear and swim with graceful manta rays while they spot dolphins and schools of brightly colored fish in the clearest turquoise water imaginable. goway makes it easy for agents to sell western australia and ningaloo reef, booking flights, accommodation, and experiences to suit traveler needs. goway also offers all of the major rail journeys, including one of the greatest train journeys on earth—the indian pacific—between perth and sydney. the company offers an extensive 132-page travel planner, with over 450 travel ideas for visiting the lands downunder.

Goway Travel, 888-469-2944, www.goway.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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On the quiet and tranquil Island of Bonaire, a private beach with shaded cabanas and lounge chairs.

The shallow bay is protected by a coral reef, ideal for swimmers, snorkelers and windsurfers.

Custom built boats provide safe, fast and comfortable trips.

For safety we offer diving guests complimentary Nitrox up to 36% (with proof of certification).

We choose prime scenic oceanfront sites in Dominica to establish our property.

Sunset Bay Club Beach Hotel embodies the very essence of the Dominican hospitality.

Enjoy the personality and atmosphere.

Having a cocktail looking at the sunset and enjoy our gourmet dining known island-wide.

The staff of Sorobon Beach Resort welcomes you to this island paradise.

We make every effort for an unforgettable and pleasant stay!

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In efforts to protect Palauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural resources we are a corporate sponsor of the Palau Shark Sanctuary.

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We know the best places to dive.

We have negotiated the best deals with airlines, hotels, and dive/tour operators to ensure that you get the most for your money.

We regularly re-evaluate our suppliers and operators to make sure your vacation is safe and worry-free.

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profitable world of niche markets BiG SAviNGS duRiNG BREEzES GRANd NEGRil’S SCuBA WEEK iN dECEMBER

cluding equipment and instruction; entertainment; weddings; recreational activities; and hotel taxes. tipping is not allowed.

Breezes Grand Negril, 1-877-BREEzES (273-3937), www.breezes.com; SuperClubs, 800-Go-SuPER (467-8737), www.superclubs.com

CARAdoNNA WoRldWidE divE AdvENTuRES PARTNERS WiTh TouRiSM QuEENSlANd AuSTRAliA FoR ‘GREAT EiGhT’ PRoMo

in the last 14 years, padi worldwide individual membership has grown 66 percent, as the numbers grow of those wanting to get up close and personal with the mysteries of the deep. from december 12–18, breezes grand negril resort & spa is giving guests the opportunity to experience the allure and beauty of marine life at a very affordable price. during “scuba week,” guests can enjoy 50 percent off padi certification, reducing the standard price of certification from $350 to just $175. the novice package also includes a free resort course (normally priced at $70), and up to three dives daily, plus two complimentary night dives. situated along the scenic white-sand beaches of Jamaica’s southwest shore, this resort is perfect for a tropical underwater adventure. breezes runaway bay has the luxury of a dozen sites all within a 10- to 20-minute boat ride from the dockside. the deep sites usually offer a dramatic topography of sloping or vertical wall, 30–60 feet deep. reef life ranges from barracuda, spotted eagle rays, southern stingrays, turtles and many other colorful forms of fish life. a multitude of sponge life in varying shapes, sizes and colors are everywhere, and huge soft corals including gorgonian fans abound. dolphins also appear on occasion, and there are a number of artificial reefs to explore, including several airplanes, and a boat. in between scuba diving, guests are welcome to unwind on dry land with a la carté treatments at the blue mahoe spa with a variety of facials, body scrubs and massages. guests can also enjoy a myriad of other water and land sports, including tennis and windsurfing, or just relax soak up the sun at the pool or beach. with breezes resorts’ “super-inclusive” concept, guests make a single payment for accommodations; all meals and multiple dining options including Japanese, italian and authentic regional cuisine; unlimited premium brand drinks; myriad land and water sports in46 • SEPTEMBER 2011

caradonna worldwide dive adventures and tourism Queensland have joined forces to offer exclusive commissionable dive packages as part of “the great eight” promotion focusing on the amazing diversity found on the world’s most impressive reef system, the great barrier reef of australia. “the great eight” packages include a wide array of diving experiences but also incorporate the “must do” australia experiences. stays in the lively town of cairns, adventure and sightseeing tours to local rainforests and nature and wildlife parks including the mountain village of kuranda, world heritage daintree rainforest and cape tribulation, and even overnight outback experiences at undara are included and every package can be customized to fit any schedule. exclusive packages may include free nights, free flights between cairns and great barrier reef, and free meals, as well as a choice of either land-based or live-aboard access to great barrier reef diving. divers should note that on Qantas, a second checked bag is still free—a major bonus for them and their gear. in the case of selling dive travel, expertise is key. a professional dive travel wholesaler can make a diver look like a “rock star” to diving customers, even when faced with questions like “what’s the viz like?” or “can i get 36% nitrox?” the ability to provide clients with this level of expertise with one phone call to a professional dive travel wholesaler will make one’s customers think twice about booking elsewhere.

Caradonna Worldwide dive Adventures, 800-329-9989, sales@caradonna.com, www.caradonna.com

ShARK ShooTouT WiTh STEPhEN FRiNK ANd STuART CovE’S divE BAhAMAS there are only a few spots left for divers to join stephen frink and stuart cove in nassau november 13–18 for a rare opportunity to learn the secrets of the famous underwater photographer. the program consists of six days/five nights at the sheraton nassau beach resort with four days of world-class shark diving at stuart cove’s. a welcome breakfast and farewell dinner are included, as well as an event t-shirt. the price, $2,854 single and $2,223 ppdo, includes taxes/gratuities and airport transfers. no experience is necessary for this chance to become a pro shooter. participants should bring their digital camera, laptop computer—and nerves of steel. only a few more divers will get this chance, so immediate booking is advised.

Stuart Cove’s, 800-879-9832, info@stuartcove.com, www.stuartcove.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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