July 2011 Edition

JULY 2011

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ISLANDS

ISSUE NO. 277

JULY 2011 executive office

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

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INDUSTRY EVENTS

EXPOTUR 2011: Costa Rica Aims to Bolster Tourism

CALENDAR OF EVENTS INDUSTRY NEWS EUROPE Croatia B2B Exchange

publisher

Charles Gatt, Jr. charlie@travelworldnews.com

Grand Luxury at Xara Palace in the Center of Malta’s Noble Past UTS Packages Turkey, ‘Rich-And-Famously’

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.

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INDUSTRY EVENTS / EXPOTUR 2011 - page 4

FAM ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

CARIBBEAN

CITE 2011: The Future is Bright in The Cyman Islands

The Dominican RepublicB2B Exchange

16 17 19 21

Villa Taina Is In The Adventure Sports Capital of the Caribbean, Cabarete

22

Mango Bay, Island Inn Hotel Receive Trip Advisor Award for Excellence

24

The Cayman Islands B2B Exchange The Caribbean B2B Exchange

LATIN AMERICA

Central America B2B Exchange

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Birthday Bash for Chaa Creek’s 30th and Belize Too

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Book Latin America With the Following Destination Specialists Explore the South Pacific...in Costa Rica Mexico B2B Exchange Villa Group Opens Luxurious Villa del Palmar At the Islands of Loreto

EUROPE / Croatia - page 10

CARIBBEAN / CITE 2011 - page 16

29 30 33

South America B2B Exchange

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Wilderness Explorers Itinerary Honored by National Geographic Traveler

37

LATIN AMERICA / Costa Rica - page 30

PACIFIC ASIA

Book Pacific Asia With the Following Destination Specialists

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Fiji For Free En Route Down Under With APT Touring

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USTOA Programs Highlight Taste Sensations in Five Asian Countries Pacific Asia B2B Exchange

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Pandaw River Cruises Introducing Second Ship in Burma

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PACIFIC ASIA / Pandaw Cruises - page 47

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INDUSTRY EVENTS

EXPOTUR 2011: Costa Rica Aims to Bolster Tourism PETER LOwy

H

aving rebounded from a drop in tourism during the financial crisis, Costa Rica is aiming to increase the number of international visitors that it welcomes by five percent a year through 2016.

Speaking at EXPOTUR 2011, held May 11-12 in San José for the twenty-seventh consecutive year, Allan Flores, Costa Rica’s tourism minister, said the Central American nation will continue to invest in infrastructure to bolster international tourism from its current level of 2.1 million annual visitors to 2.7 million over the next five years.

Part of that investment includes a new $30 million convention center in Barreal de Heredia, near San José, announced

by Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla at the opening ceremony of EXPOTUR, which attracted 300 sellers and 200 buyers. Due for completion in 2014, the center will host 3,000 people. “we have a clear vision of what we want,” Flores told Travel World News, which is to continue to emphasize sustainable eco-, rural, and adventure tourism, while promoting its growing medical tourism product and encouraging cultural visits.

The strategy builds on what turned out to be a shrewd move by the ministry, before the recent recession took hold, to more than double its promotional budget to keep Costa Rica in the forefront in world tourism. During the first quarter of 2011, international arrivals in Costa Rica grew by 7.8%, compared to last year, faster than the 5% increase that the Americas as a whole posted for the same period.

Among those attending EXPOTUR who recently discovered Costa Rica, were CiCi Baker, principal with Sierra Event Company in South Lake Tahoe, Calif., and Robert Harris, of Team USA, based near Boston.

Baker, whose company does $10 million a year servicing what she described as “a demanding clientele,” said she decided to attend EXPOTUR this year after visiting Costa Rica on her own 12 months ago: “I found Costa Rica to be a fantastic destination, offering exceptional products and a high service level. The people are very appreciative of tourists, not jaded, and eager to work with the U.S. market.”

Speaking of his second visit to EXPOTUR, Harris, who manages 30–40 international cultural and athletic exchanges each year, said, “It’s an excellent show where I can meet new people and learn about new hotels and options, including community service and volunteer activities.”

To help promote the country in North America, the Costa Rica Tourist Board earlier this year signed up an Atlanta-based advertising agency, the first time it has hired a firm located in its 4 • JULY 2011

Five hundred buyers and sellers attended EXPOTUR 2011 in San José in May, doing their part to help boost the numbers of international visitors to Costa Rica. largest tourism market.

To ensure the health of its natural offerings, the country in the late 1970s set aside 25 percent of its land for conservation, inventing ecotourism in the process. Since then, sustainability has been the operative word behind tourism development in Costa Rica.

Example: The Tourist Board has developed and continues to roll out its Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program as a way to differentiate itself from other destinations.

Cited by the world Tourism Organization as one of the programs that is changing tourism, CST specifies criteria that a property or operation must meet in order to receive the coveted designation. The program rates sustainability on a fivepoint scale, with higher ratings yielding increasingly greater benefits to participants. Today, 154 hotels in Costa Rica are CST designated.

Earlier this year, Costa Rica, which co-leads the newly formed U.N. Global Partnership for Sustainable Tourism, hosted the partnership’s first annual meeting to help governments and businesses everywhere make tourism more environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable.

Medical tourism in Costa Rica got a boost in 2006 with the formation of PROMED, a public-private effort that sets standards and certifies service providers. The country now welcomes more than 35,000 people annually who seek inexpensive, high quality medical treatment, mostly dental, plastic surgery, and orthopedic services. Ninety-five percent of them hail from the U.S. and Canada and have been driving annual growth in this segment by 15% to 20% during the last five years.

Looking to diversify its tourist product, Costa Rica’s new strategic plan calls for more emphasis on cultural tourism. www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY EVENTS

EXPOTUR, www.expotur.com; Costa Rica Tourism, www.visitcostarica.com

SAINT LUCIA TO HOST HEALTH AND WELLNESS RETREAT IN NOVEMBER In response to market demand for vacation experiences which promote healthy lifestyles, the town of Soufrière in Saint Lucia will welcome a brand new health and wellness retreat in the Fall.

Senator Allen Chastanet, Saint Lucia’s Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, announced plans for the first health and wellness retreat in the charming former French capital of Soufrière November 17–20, 2011.The retreat will feature workshops and wellness experiences, featuring some of the world’s foremost experts in yoga, feng shui, art and cuisine in a community that Senator Chastanet describes as “The Eden of the Caribbean.”

The retreat is being launched alongside preparations to build a landmark destination spa at Soufrière’s drive-in volcano which offers visitors therapeutic mineral baths. “Soufrière was chosen in part because of the number of world-class spas in the town, and we are pleased that our hotels and resorts are on board for the retreat,” reported Senator Chastanet.

The health and wellness retreat will promote a wide variety of approaches to enhance healthy minds and healthy bodies through nature trail hikes, bicycle rides and other specially designed experiences.

“Soufrière is natural, authentic and exotic and we could not think of a better destination within Saint Lucia to produce this retreat,”

posited Senator Chastanet.

The health and wellness retreat is being produced by the Soufrière Foundation in partnership with Soufrière’s resort community and in concert with the Saint Lucia Tourist Board.

Saint Lucia, www.saintlucianow.com

UNICOMM ANNOUNCES INAUgURAL FAITH TRAVEL CONFERENCE & EXPOSITION More than 300 million people participate in faith travel annually, making it one of the fastest growing travel segments in the United States. Church leadership, staff, volunteers, and travel agents are the primary planners of faith-based group trips, ranging from dozens to hundreds and even thousands of participants who travel nationally and internationally with a purpose. Tapping into this emerging market, Unicomm has announced that the inaugural Faith Travel Conference & Exposition (FTCE) will be co-located with the Atlanta Travel & Adventure Show October 22–23 at Atlanta’s Cobb Galleria.

Georgia is home to an astounding 80 mega-churches representing more than 350,000 church members, making Atlanta an ideal location for the FTCE. The event is expected to draw hundreds of church group travel planners, faith travelers and an estimated 100 destinations and suppliers. Early FTCE sponsors include Tourism Ireland, Israel Ministry of Tourism and American Airlines.

Cindi Brodhecker, President of Faith Travel Development & Consulting and Priscilla Woman’s Tours, will join the event team as Conference Chair. Additionally, Infinity Concepts, a leading Brand Communications agency with considerable success in the Christian market, has been retained to provide strategic direction, marketing support and outreach.

The FTCE will include a blend of informative sessions offering tools and best practices to develop effective mission, outreach and retreat group travel programs, with topics ranging from negotiation strategies to fundraising development. Participants will also hear from influential Christian pastors and leaders who have embraced the positive effect of travel on church ministries.

Faith Travel Conference & Exposition, www.faithtravelexpo.com; Unicomm, www.unicomm.org; Travel & Adventure Show, www.adventureexpo.com

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while the country does not possess the Mayan ruins of Guatemala and Honduras, it offers 30 museums, including five in San José, which Flores said “can compete with high quality museums in Mexico, Peru, and elsewhere,” as well as excavations of the Boruca people.

Costa Rica is served by direct flights from 16 U.S. and Canadian cities, with San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport being the main entry point for North Americans. For those staying in San José, the four-star, CSTcertified Balmoral Hotel, which recently completed a major renovation, offers 112 rooms with complimentary breakfast and is located downtown near museums and the National Theatre.

1·800·387·8850 1·800·387·8850 · w www.goway.com w w.goway.com · info@goway.com info@goway.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

JULY 2011 •

5

INDUSTRY EVENTS TSA ADMINISTRATOR PISTOLE AND UNITED AIRLINES’ SMISEk HEADLINE OPENINg SESSION AT gBTA CONVENTION The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has announced that U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator John S. Pistole and United Continental Holdings, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Smisek will join GBTA Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer Michael W. McCormick for the opening session at the annual GBTA Convention 2011 in Denver August 21–24.

The session, “LIVE with GBTA—The World’s Largest Airline and What’s Next in Travel Security,” will be held at 5 pm MST on August 21 in the Wells Fargo Theater.

McCormick commented, “GBTA’s convention has become synonymous with industry leadership and is recognized as a ‘must attend’ for people throughout the travel world.

This year our opening session continues that tradition by hosting Administrator Pistole and Jeff Smisek, giving our attendees two very unique vantage points from two of the most influential people in travel today.”

The GBTA Convention, with more than 6,000 attendees, is the largest, most comprehensive annual gathering of business travel and meetings managers, meeting planners, procurement professionals and suppliers anywhere in the world. global Business Travel Association (gBTA), www.gbta.org/convention, www.gbta.org

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ALPE–ADRIA FAIR IN SLOVENIA IN JANUARY OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS The largest event in the field of tourism in the Alps–Adriatic region will take place January 26–29, 2012, at the Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre in Slovenia.

The organizers successfully re-launched the Fair under a new name Alpe–Adria: Tourism and Leisure Show, with the motto “Just relax!

Alpe–Adria is here for you.” Along with its new destination origin, the Fair introduced new tourist services and products tailor-made for visitors. Around 16,000 visitors and 265 Slovenian and foreign media representatives attended, along with the 332 tourism service providers and 20 nautical companies from the region presenting.

The Fair included an educational Travel Zoom conference and a Meeting of Travel Journalists and a Meeting of Tourist Guides from the Alps–Adriatic region. The Jakob prize for quality and excellence in tourism was introduced. The next Fair will include festival and youth tourism and a Meeting of Tourist Agencies of the Alps–Adriatic region. Early-bird applications are being accepted.

ITTFA (International Tourism Trade Fairs Association), www.ittfa.org/Alpe-Adria-TIP_ittfa-member_9.aspx, www.ittfa.org; Alpe–Adria, turizem@gr-sejem.si, www.tourism-fair.com

PHILIPPE BOURgUIgNON NAMED TO gLOBAL SPA SUMMIT’S BOARD The Global Spa Summit (GSS) has appointed Philippe Bourguignon, Vice Chairman of Revolution Places (division of Revolution LLC) to its Board of Directors. He has also been named Co-Chair of the next Summit, set for June 4-6, 2012, in Aspen.

Bourguignon is CEO of Revolution Places Development and Miraval (a top spa/wellness resort). He was co-CEO of the World Economic Forum and also affiliated with Club Méditerranée, Euro Disney, Accor, Exclusive Resorts, Vinfolio, the Swiss investment bank Informed Judgment, and Palais de Tokyo in Paris.

The Global Spa Summit is the premier organization for the worldwide spa and wellness industries. Other board members are Emanuel Berger, Founder, Berger Hospitality Management, Switzerland; Anna Bjurstam, Managing Director, Raison d’Etre, Sweden; Dr. Marc Cohen, Prof., RMIT University, Australia; Richard Dusseau, CEO & Co-Founder, Spa Strategy, USA; Pete Ellis, Chairman & CEO, SpaFinder, Inc., USA; Susie Ellis, President, SpaFinder, Inc., USA; Andrew Gibson, Group Director of Spas, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Hong Kong; Susan Harmsworth, CEO & Co-Founder, ESPA International, U.K.; Jeff Matthews, President & COO, Mandara Spas, Indonesia; Anne McCall Wilson, VP, Spas, Fairmont Raffles Hotels International Inc., Canada and Mary Tabacchi, PhD; Prof., Cornell University School of Hotel Administration, USA. At the conclusion of the Bali Summit, it was announced the 2012 event would take place in Colorado in conjunction with the global thinktank, the Aspen Institute. Existing GSS board members Richard Dusseau and Susie Ellis were named 2012 co-chairs. global Spa Summit, www.globalspasummit.org www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • 2011-12 DATE

EVENT

AUgUST 21-24 23-25 30-Sept 1 SEPTEMBER 6-9 7-9 11-13 11-13 20-23 20-23 21-24 22-25 28-30 OCTOBER 4-6 4-6 6-8 11-13 12-14 13-15 17-20 19-21 19-21 21-23 23-27 27-30 27-30 NOVEMBER 1-4 2-5 7-10 11-14 14-17 16-18 16-18 18-20 29-Dec 1 DECEMBER 2-4 5-9 6-8 11-13 JANUARY 2012 11-15 14-15 14-15 18-22 19-22 21-22 26-29 27-29 28-29 FEBRUARY 2-4 8-9 10-12

LOCATION

CONTACT

global Business Travel Assoc. going on Faith Travel Conference CIBTM

Denver, Colorado Richmond VA Beijing, China

www.gbta.org www.gofconference.com www.cibtm.com

PATA Travel Mart La Cumbre Travel Mart Latin America THETRADESHOW IFTM Top Resa Travel Media Showcase Astana Leisure FITA 2011 PRHTA 25th Annual Convention

New Delhi, India Las Vegas, NV Florianopolis, Brazil Las Vegas, NV Paris, France Oklahoma City, OK Astana, Kazakhstan Mexico City, Mexico San Juan, Puerto Rico

www.pata.org www.lacumbre.com www.travelmartlatinamerica.com www.thetradeshow.org www.iftm.fr www.travelmediashowcase.com www.leisure.kz/en www.fitamx.com www.prhta.org

The Motivation Show Chicago, IL Ukraine Intl. Travel Market Kiev, Ukraine TTg Incontri Rimini, Italy IMEX America Las Vegas, NV Cancun Travel Mart Cancun, Mexico Caribbean Boutique & Intimate Hotel Conf. Saint Lucia Adventure Travel World Summit Chiapas, Mexico ABAV Rio De Janeiro, Brazil ITB Asia Singapore Akwaaba: African Travel Market Lagos, Nigeria ATS Fall Conference Czech Republic CITM 2011 Kunming, China ATS Fall Conference Bratislava, Slovakia

www.motivationshow.com www.ukraine-itm.com.ua www.ttgincontri.it/en-en www.imex-america.com www.cancuntravelmart.com www.saintlucianow.com www.adventuretravel.biz www.reedtravelexhibitions.com www.itb-asia.com www.africantravelquarterly.com www.americantourismsociety.org www.citm.com www.americantourismsociety.org

Pure Life Experiences DEMA WTM London Taipei International Travel Fair Intl. golf Travel Market Cruise Shipping Asia Exhibition MITM Americas Philoxenia EIBTM

Marrakech, Morocco Orlando, FL London, England Taipei, Taiwan Antalya Expo, Turkey Singapore San Salvador, El Salvador Thessaloniki, Greece Barcelona, Spain

www.purelifeexperiences.com www.demashow.com www.wtmlondon.com www.taipeitf.org.tw www.igtm.co.uk www.cruiseshippingmiami.com www.mitmamericas.com www.philoxenia.travel www.eibtm.com

Monte Carlo Travel Market NTA Convention Luxury Travel Expo USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace

Grimaldi Forum, Monaco Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, Nevada Marco Island, FL

www.monte-carlo-travel-market.com www.ntaonline.com www.luxurytravelexpo.com www.ustoa.com

Vakantiebeurs Travel & Adventure Show The Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show FITUR Matka Travel & Adventure Show Tourism & Leisure Show Los Angeles Times Travel Show Travel & Adventure Show

Utrecht, The Netherlands Los Angeles, CA Philadelphia, PA Madrid, Spain Helsinki, Finland New York, NY Ljubljana, Slovenia Los Angeles, CA Chicago, IL

www.vakantiebeurs.nl www.adventureexpo.com www.inquirertravelshow.com www.ifema.es www.matkamessut.fi www.adventureexpo.com www.ljubljanafair.com events.latimes.com/travelshow www.adventureexpo.com

Florida Huddle Fort Lauderdale, FL www.floridahuddle.com IMTM Tel Aviv, Israel www.ortra.com/imtm The Boston globe Travel Show Boston, MA www.bostonglobetravelshow.com TO LIST YOUR EVENTS EMAIL : editor@travelworldnews.com • FOR ADDITIONAL EVENTS VISIT: www.travelworldnews.com/calendar

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

JULY 2011 •

7

INDUSTRY NEWS NEWLY OPENED CORINTHIA HOTEL LONDON HOSTS JUST A DROP CHARITY gALA RECEPTION

(Left to right) Col. John Blashford-Snell, Explorer and President, Just a Drop; karen Hoffman, President, the Bradford group and Just a Drop Ambassador in the US; Fiona Jeffery, Founder and Chairman, Just a Drop; and Tony Potter, CEO and Managing Director, CHI Hotels & Resorts.

Speaking to nearly 200 celebrities and supporters at Just a Drop’s annual reception held at newly opened Corinthia Hotel London—the capital’s latest landmark five-star hotel—Fiona Jeffery, its founder and chairman, said the charity’s success was partly due to its many corporate partners: “Their longer term commitment has helped us plan our project work effectively on behalf of more than one million people.”

She also paid tribute to Corinthia Hotels, who sponsored the reception, thanking the new property’s General Manager, Matthew Dixon, and Tony Potter, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, CHI Hotels & Resorts, exclusive operator and developer for the luxury brand. Potter has been a Just a Drop supporter for many years. “This evening is a significant stepping stone for Just a Drop and also for Corinthia Hotels who has just launched a truly iconic new property, steps away from Trafalgar Square,” she said.

Former supermodel Marie Helvin has fronted Just a Drop’s Friends for Life campaign (asking people to donate just $3.24) and children’s television presenter Seema Pathan participated in the charity’s schools initiative, Splash4kids.

New advertisements starring stage and TV actress Joanna Lumley and a new film shot in Kenya of some of the people that Just a Drop is helping are also expected to

raise the charity’s profile.

“This year Just a Drop is undertaking project work in Afghanistan, Ecuador, Guyana, India, Kenya, Mongolia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Philippines, Uganda and Zambia and we’ve just started work following the devastating earthquake in Haiti,” added Jeffery. She paid tribute to the experienced operations and field team of water engineers, led by Just a Drop’s President and explorer, Col. John Blashford-Snell.

The Bradford group, www.bradfordglobalmarketing.com

HUNgARY’S PRESIDENT SUPPORTS TOURISM THROUgH UNWTO/WTTC CAMPAIgN The President of Hungary, Pál Schmitt, is among the first European heads of state to join the ongoing World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Leaders for Tourism Campaign.

In May, President Schmitt was presented an Open Letter stressing the importance of Travel and Tourism to global growth and development by UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, following the European Stakeholders Conference in Budapest organized in the framework of the Hungarian Presidency of the European Union.The President, having worked for 17 years in the tourism sector, said he was well aware of the importance of tourism to the economy and to employment. President Schmitt, a former Olympic gold medalist, also highlighted the close relationship between sports and tourism, which he identified as two driving forces of future growth for the new decade.

With nine million international tourist arrivals in 2010, Hungary is becoming one of the most important destinations in Europe and one of the few to have seen tourist numbers increase during the crisis year of 2009—international tourist arrivals grew by three percent in 2009 and five percent in 2010. Tourism revenues reached $5.4 billion in 2010.

As part of the Global Leaders for Tourism Campaign, UNWTO and WTTC are jointly presenting heads of state and government around the world an Open Letter calling on them to acknowledge tourism’s key role in delivering on sustained and balanced growth and to prioritize the sector high in national policies in order to maximize its potential.

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), www.unwto.org; World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), www.wttc.org

AMAWATERWAYS’ PHOTO CONTEST OFFERS gRAND PRIzE OF FREE CRUISE Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways is known for its beautiful, custom-designed vessels cruising through the most picturesque regions in Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. With a rich array of photo-taking opportunities on board and on shore, passengers typically create and share an extensive array of digital images with friends and family back home. Now, there’s even more reason to share images of their AmaWaterways river cruise vacation: the chance to win a free 7-night European cruise by entering the “Picture Yourself on a River with AmaWaterways” photo contest.

Passengers and travel agents are encouraged to submit their best images of “Ship Shots,” “Shore Excursions/Bicycle Tours” and “Scenery” by registering and uploading photos to their website. The contest will operate through December 2011, with prizes awarded in both the passenger and travel agent categories. In addition to grand prizes of a free 7-night European cruise, three monthly prize winners in the passenger and travel agent categories will earn certificates for $300, $250 and $200 off a future cruise in 2011/2012. Passengers and travel agents may submit up to three entries per photo category per month. Complete photo contest rules are available on AmaWaterways’ website.

AmaWaterways, http://photos.amawaterways.com, www.amawaterways.com 8 • JULY 2011

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

INDUSTRY NEWS TRAVELSAVERS, NEST HONOR TOP AgENTS ON 6-DAY EUROPEAN CRUISE TOUR

Some of the top-producing travel agents from Travelsavers and NEST visiting Melk Abbey in Austria.

Travelsavers and NEST honored 60 of their top-producing travel agencies around the world during a marvelous cruise aboard the Avalon Tapestry and a sightseeing tour of Central Europe that took place in May. The successes of Travelsavers’ Elite agents from the US, Canada, Ireland and Mexico, as well as NEST’s Golden Egg home-based agents, were celebrated in grand style.

“What an incredible experience it was to spend five amazing days cruising the Danube with our Elite accounts and preferred partners,” said Kathryn Mazza-Burney, President of NEST and Executive Vice President of Sales and Service for Travelsavers.

“From wine tasting in Durnstein, to an emotional organ concert at Melk Abbey, to seeing beautiful cathedrals in Vienna and watching the incredible sight of the lights coming up over Bud and Pest, it was a trip that I will cherish for a lifetime. The many conversations and experiences we shared with these very special agents and suppliers made it all the more wonderful.”

The itinerary included a sailing down the romantic Danube

River with its charming small towns and vibrant cities.

Agents boarded in Budapest, explored Slovakia’s bustling capital of Bratislava, saw Dürnstein’s baroque Stiftskirche, visited Melk’s impressive Benedictine Abbey, and completed their river cruising experience in Vienna, the “City of Music.”

Travelsavers, www.travelsavers.com

FOUR UNUSUAL INTERNATIONAL VACATION EXPERIENCES FROM USTOA From short trips that can be added to a longer itinerary, to vacations of a week or more, USTOA members offer a full array of enriching and one-of-a-kind activities to destinations worldwide. Here are some selections: Pre-Columbian Erotica in Lima, Peru (1 night/1 day): The trip begins with an overnight pre-trip to Lima, including a guided morning visit to the Larco Herrera Museum with the world’s largest private collection of pre-Columbian art. Artifacts include a huge collection of erotic pottery and statuary crafted by ancient Peruvian cultures.

This excursion from International Expeditions is available as part of a custom itinerary or a pre-extension in combination with a longer tour. The $178 pp price includes private airport transfer, overnight hotel accommodations, local guide and museum tour, and is available with Thursday departures throughout the year. www.ietravel.com Gorilla Trek in Rwanda (4 days/3 nights): A guided trek from Kilgali to Volcanoes National Park to view gorillas in their natural habitat. Recommended for those in good health, the Great Safaris package includes accommodations and all meals and can be added on to a longer Africa itinerary. Available for booking through November 1 with travel through December 15, it’s priced at $2,655 pp, savings of 10–15 percent over arrangements made on one’s own. 800-409-7755, www.greatsafaris.com Family Scavenger Hunt in Bratislava, Slovakia (8 days/7 nights): A fast-paced scavenger hunt as part of Tauck Bridges’ “Blue Danube: Riverboat Adventure.” The river cruise is priced from $2,990 pp, including virtually everything. Beginning in Budapest, the cruise ends in Regensburg, Germany. Tauck estimates that travelers save 30–40% over arranging the same itinerary on one’s own. Airfare is additional. 800-468-2825, www.tauck.com Travel Tibet to Katmandu (10 days/9 nights): Experienced mountain guides take a small group across the “Roof of the World,” from Tibet to Katmandu. Travelers see spectacular high-mountain passes, Ronguk Monastery and the Mt. Everest Base Camp. General Tours World Traveler’s “Across the Himalayas” tour spends two nights each in Lhasa, and Tingri, Tibet, an overnight in Shigatse, and a final three nights in Nepal at the Hyatt Regency Resort and Hotel. The overland adventure travels along the Kanabala Pass and the 17,000-ft Gyatsola Pass, and includes 20 meals, sightseeing, services of mountain guides and drivers, and all on-tour transportation. Priced from $2,699 pp, the tour is available for booking until April 13, 2012, for travel through May 15, 2012. International airfare is additional.

800-221-2216, www.generaltours.com All prices are based on double occupancy. International airfare is additional. Restrictions and additional security fees, departure and local taxes and fees may apply. Prices may vary based on departure date.

USTOA, www.ustoa.com Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

JULY 2011 •

9

EUROPE MANDALINA MARINA & YACHT CLUB IS CROATIA’S FIRST MEgA YACHT MARINA

Mega yachts get a new hotspot in Mediterranean for this season with 79 mega yacht berths in Mandalina Marina & Yacht Club in Croatia. The marina is based deep in Sibenik bay, with easy and safe access to yachts up to approximately 460 ft in length.

Sibenik, between two national parks—Kornati islands and Krka waterfalls in Middle Dalmatia, is the most beautiful Croatia cruising ground.

Working with the internationally recognized pontoon producer Marinetek, the investors—NCP Group and Dogus Group—have used the best materials and solutions to meet the high environmental standards.

NCP Repair Shipyard, in the vicinity, specializes in refit, repair and maintenance of yachts up to 250 ft long. They also offer 24/7 service facilities in marina and anywhere on the sea, guaranteeing complete security for yachts in the Adriatic.

Annual berth holders at Mandalina Marina & Yacht Club gain discount and reservation priority benefits at any D Marin Group Marinas (discounts of 50% for Didim and 10% for Bodrum and Göcek).

Marina facilities available are potable water and electricity, telephone connectivity at in-water slips, full-time professional marina staff, Wi-Fi Internet access, first-class restrooms and showers, laundry facilities, parking, video surveillance of the vessels, vast charter options, corporate programs division, gas station, restaurant and grocery store.

Nautical Center Prgin, www.ncp.hr

DELTA, AIR FRANCE kLM AND ALITALIA TO REDUCE TRANS-ATLANTIC CAPACITY IN FALL 2011 The members of the leading trans-Atlantic joint venture—Delta Air Lines, Air France and Alitalia—have announced a year-overyear seven- to nine-percent reduction in trans-Atlantic passenger capacity this fall between Europe and the United States and Canada, as the airlines respond to a significant increase in jet fuel prices and fluctuating seasonal demand.

The four member airlines will adjust their combined network and decrease capacity by reducing frequency on selected routes during the fall and winter seasons and right-sizing the joint venture fleet 10 • JULY 2011

across the Atlantic while introducing seasonal flying to warm weather destinations.

“With the most established joint venture across the Atlantic, we are in a unique position to collaborate with our JV partners to make full use of our combined fleet and networks to generate healthy returns and consistently serve our customers,” said Perry Cantarutti, Delta’s Senior Vice President–Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Since its inception, the joint venture has made significant progress in building a leading trans-Atlantic alliance, having introduced more than 5,000 joint sales contracts for trade and corporate partners across Europe and the US, and formed joint pricing and revenue management units, strengthening its competitive position on the trans-Atlantic. The alliance also has consolidated reservation sales responsibilities in Europe and the US, co-located commercial and operating teams and airport facilities, unified signage in over 400 airports and combined marketing and advertising.

Delta Air Lines, www.delta.com

EUROPEAN TRAVEL COMMISSION LAUNCHES NEW CREATIVE DIgITAL CAMPAIgNS The European Travel Commission, an association of National Tourism Organizations from 35 member countries, has launched a new creative campaign to promote Europe as a tourism destination to the US consumer. The “Follow Your Dreams: Visit Europe” campaign aims to educate travelers on the compelling tourism offerings available within Europe with an emphasis on history, culture and gastronomy.

With a special focus on first-time visitors, the new campaign will consist of several creative digital campaigns and contests hosted on the ETC web portal as well as the official ETC Facebook page to offer an opportunity to discover Europe’s most compelling tourism offerings and win the trip of a lifetime. The new campaigns aim to transform the term “Visit Europe” from a static URL to an actionable tagline.

“The primary goal of our new creative campaigns is to provide travelers in the United States with the most current information about visiting Europe in the easiest, fastest and most convenient way possible; through digital media,” says Jan Rudomina, Chairman of the European Travel Commission in the US. “Our recent Trends & Prospects Report shows that travel to Europe has increased over the past year and exchange rates are favorable for many destinations within Europe. This is a great time to travel to Europe.”

The first contest encouraged fans to superimpose images of themselves in their dream European destination and post on the official Facebook page to automatically enter the “I Wish I Were There” contest. Several destinations throughout Europe will offer sponsored trips inclusive of hotel stays, ground transportation and cultural activities.

European Travel Commission, www.visiteurope.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

The Mediterranean as it once was 800 829 4416 email cntony@earthlink.net http://croatia.hr/en-GB/Homepage

Croatian National Tourist Board

The best way to discover

• motor boats • sailing boats • catamarans

T H E C A P I TA L O F C R O AT I A

ZAGREB TOURIST BOARD tel. + 385 (0)1 481 40 51 www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

Our experienced, dynamic and multi-lingual teams of consultants are ready to provide excellent and prompt service, competitive rates, and customized offers to our clients.

www.adriatictravel.eu

in the heart of Da Dalmatia Šibenik / CROATIA / www.ncp.hr t. +385 22 312 999 / ncp@ncp.hr

CROATIA TOURS GROUP

Each Bluesun is unique in providing the Croatian experience, whether it Velebit, Dalmatia and Zagorje.

Bluesun guest in any hotel expect reliable service and quality that will satisfy the most demanding.

is an independently owned travel company that offers all the essentials of a perfect holiday – exceptional value for money, destination knowledge and peronalized attention.

Korcula will make you believe that travel through time is possible.

Breath-taking bays, coves and beaches, luxurious hotels, centuries old olive trees and vines, ancient rustical villas and peaceful settlements that look as if forgotten by time itself, lure tourists from all the four corners of the World.

Explore and live Korcula.

www.bluesunhotels.com

www.croatiatoursgroup.com

www.korkyra.info

located on the beautiful Croatian beaches – an ideal place to relax.

The Bluesun opened its doors in Zagorje, in the picturesque town and the largest Croatian shrine of Marija Bistrica.

Enter the world of comfort, quality and style in Maistra hotels and resorts in two beautiful and colorful Mediterranean towns – Rovinj and Vrsar.

Exquisite natural beauty, rich cultural and historic heritage, two truly unique destinations.

Our company creates a wide range of diverse tourist programs maximally adapting them to the needs and requirements of all guests.

www.maistra.com

There are few who have visited the small but unique city of Dubrovnik and not fallen in love with it.

Rich in history, culture, spectacular scenery and warm hospitality there is little to dislike.

A family owned and operated boutique hotel, guests experience warm and friendly hospitality... it is a real ‘home away from home’.

www.berkeleyhotel.hr

We are a travel agency located in the city of New York specializing in the following travel services: Croatia and Europe Escorted Tours, City Packages, Fits Customized / Special Interest Groups Adriatic Cruises Rent-A-Car Croatia Airlines

www.panadriatic.com

EUROPE EUROPEAN WATERWAYS PRESENTS CRUISE THROUgH PROVENCE ABOARD ENCHANTé

A cruise through Provence with European Waterways aboard luxury eight-passenger hotel barge Enchanté is unforgettable. After some Spring cruises along the 300-year-old Canal du Midi, she embarked in June on a series of delightful cruises through Provence, known for its gorgeous climate and fine cuisine.

Passengers joining Enchanté for any of these six-night cruises along the Canal du Rhône à Sete can be sure of a fascinating voyage of discovery, whichever itinerary they choose.

On the Beziers and Aigues Mortes cruise, they visit Pezenas, home of the playwright Moliere and cruise through the Camargue National Park with its wild horses and pink flamingoes.

On the Agde to Avignon route, highlights include a cruise across the Thau Basin, an inland seawater lagoon full of oyster beds, and a tour of the impressive Palais des Papes in Avignon itself.

And on the Avignon to Marseillan voyage, there will be an excursion to see the amazing three-tiered Pont du Gard aqueduct built by the Romans, and a private wine tasting in Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

To really make it a special cruise, throughout the week passengers enjoy gourmet Provencale cuisine prepared by their onboard chef and fine local wines served by the attentive hostesses. Prices for an all-inclusive six-night cruise aboard Enchanté start from approximately $5,419 pp in an air-conditioned, en suite cabin, and from about $38,588 for a full-boat charter. The price includes gourmet meals, fine wines, an open bar, all excursions and local transfers.

European Waterways, www.gobarging.com

DELTA’S NEW YORk–VALENCIA SERVICE RESUMES WITH FOUR WEEkLY NONSTOPS Delta Air Lines has resumed seasonal service to Valencia on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, offering four nonstop flights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York to Valencia Airport in Manises (VLC). Return flights from Valencia to JFK depart on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Featuring two-class service aboard Boeing 757-200 ETOPS aircraft, there are 16 seats in Delta’s award-winning Business Elite and 144 in economy class. The service to Valencia will continue to September 5 and the last return flight from Valencia will be September 6.

Delta Air Lines’ flight #198 departs JFK at 4:30 pm, arriving in 12 • JULY 2011

Valencia the following morning at 6:30. The return flight, #199, departs Valencia at 10:25 am, arriving back into JFK at 12:59 pm the same day. The airline also offers daily nonstop flights to Madrid (MAD) and Barcelona (BCN) from New York and Atlanta (ATL).

A sparkling city on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, Valencia offers visitors beautiful Gothic and Renaissance buildings, stunning modern architecture, fabulous food (this is the birthplace of paella and Valencian oranges), great shopping and year-round sunny weather.

Complimenting the architectural gems in the old quarter are the stunning contemporary structures—a science museum, planetarium, aquarium and performing arts center—that make up the City of Arts and Sciences. The city is home to Bioparc Valencia, Europe’s most advanced zoo, Lladró famed for its porcelain figurines, and one of Europe’s largest food markets, the Art Nouveau Mercado Central. The waterfront was completely restored for the staging of the America’s Cup in 2007 that took place for the second time earlier this year.

Delta Air Lines, www.delta.com

MARkETINg CHALLENgES INTERNATIONAL HAS PARTNERS AMONg ICCA’S TOP FIVE CITIES FOR ASSOCIATION MEETINgS Marketing Challenges International (MCIntl), a destination-marketing firm in NYC and the North American marketing and sales office for the Convention Bureaus of Vienna, Barcelona and Berlin is saluting its business partners for honors this year by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).

The 2010 world rankings compiled by ICCA reveal the latest leading destinations for association meetings. ICCA collates data on all the professional meetings that rotate on a regular basis between at least three countries, and attract a minimum of 50 delegates.

For the sixth consecutive year, Vienna holds its status as the most popular city out of 364 global business meeting destinations, having held 154 meetings in 2010. Barcelona retains its position as the world’s second top city to host the most international congresses, with a total of 148 meetings. Similar to 2009, Paris maintains its number-three spot with 147 meetings in 2010 and Berlin follows next as the number-four city with 138. As the North American office of the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre it’s also worth noting that Sydney also made ICCA’s list for 2010, coming in at number-ten. As North American partner of these venues, MCIntlis is pleased with their success.

This year the ICCA data researchers have identified 9,120 events that took place in 2010, 826 events more than were identified last year in 2009—an all-time record. ICCA accredits the growing numbers to the many improvements the association meetings market has been seeing since the recent economic downturn. Furthermore, ICCA also attributes the increase to a record number of ICCA members sending their calendar information to help identify new events.

More info about MCIntl is available from Melissa Manganelli.

Marketing Challenges International (MCIntl), mmanganelli@mcintl.com, www.mcintl.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

EUROPE FIREWORkS AT VALLETTA CRUISE PORT TO CELEBRATE BIRTHDAY OF MEIN SCHIFF 1 Johann Cardona SChranz

Malta’s historic port of Valletta has welcomed Mein Schiff 1 on its first homeporting operation. Valletta Cruise Port is the ship’s Mediterranean port of departure for the 2011 season.

Valletta Cruise Port is the ship’s Mediterranean port of departure for the 2011 season. Through November 2011, the seven- and fourteen-day cruises begin and finish in Valletta. On its butterfly cruise schedule, the Mein Schiff will be calling both the West and East Mediterranean with a variety of ports on its itineraries. Ship agents for Mein Schiff 1 are SMS International Shore Operations.

Valletta Cruise Port, www.vallettacruiseport.com

to reflect the grandeur of the important historical value they represent. The Xara Palace, the only hotel inside Mdina, is a restored 17th Palazzo built into the bastion fortifications for the Moscati Parisio family. It has recently been sensitively converted into an exquisite boutique hotel of just 17 rooms and forms part of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux Group of luxury hotels. Guests can discover Malta as a historical treasure trove by day and then retreat to the comfort of a noble palace to experience the best food Malta has to offer.

Currently on offer is a Culture & Gastronomic Experience, a 5night package for 2 persons sharing, at the price of approximately $4,228. Guests will tour the island and explore the rich tapestry of history that has left Malta full of architectural treasures.

The package includes 5 nights accommodation in a Deluxe Suite with Panoramic View, executive chauffeur transfers to and from Malta Internnational Airport, a welcome drink upon arrival, daily buffet breakfast, a la carte dinner for two in the hotel’s fine dining de Mondion Restaurant, 3 full-day (8-hour) private tours—2 Malta tours and a Gozo tour, and a possible upgrade supplement to a Deluxe Suite with Terrace and Jacuzzi. An Executive Chauffeur and licensed Guide are provided during the Gozo tour; entrance fees are not included. The possible room upgrade is subject to an extra cost of approximately $102 per suite daily).

The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, info@xarapalace.com.mt, www.xarapalace.com.mt

U.S. TRAVEL AgENTS VISIT MALTA AEgEAN ODYSSEY FAM CRUISE

DONNA FRANCA TOURS OFFERS ‘RENDEz-VOUS IN MALTA’ Donna Franca Tours is once again offering their ‘Rendez-Vous in Malta’ package designed to highlight the quintessential charm and fascinating history of the tiny Mediterranean island republic.

The 2011 package features five nights’ accommodations at either the five-star deluxe Westin Dragonara Hotel in St. Julians or at the superior first-class Hotel Victoria in Sliema. Also included is buffet breakfast and dinner daily, roundtrip airport transfers by private car and driver and choice of one full-day sightseeing excursion.

Donna Franca Tours will provide the necessary air arrangements, additional sightseeing and customize the package to better suit individual traveler needs. Land-only prices start from $959 ppdo.

Donna Franca Tours, 800-225-6290, www.donnafranca.com

gRAND LUXURY AT XARA PALACE IN THE CENTER OF MALTA’S NOBLE PAST Malta, a small island in the Mediterranean, has a rich heritage that is there for travelers to experience and discover, with its many historical monuments and buildings beautifully maintained in style against a backdrop of near-perfect weather and island terrain.

Today many of the palaces are still inhabited and others restored Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

Malta is a regular port-of-call for the Voyages to Antiquity’s Aegean Odyssey. The May 28 sailing from Valletta’s Grand Harbor included a surprise visit by Mark Miceli Farrugia, Malta’s Ambassador to the USA. Shown greeting the small group of US travel agents on board are (top left) Stuart Cooper, Fairview Travel; Ambassador Mark Miceli; David Randon, US Voyages to Antiquity Manager; (bottom left) Madiline Josephs, Restorative Travel; and Matthew Gill, Valerie Wilson Travel, Inc. Voyages to Antiquity, www.voyagestoantiquity.com JULY 2011 •

13

EUROPE ARCHAEOLOgICAL TOURS NY VISITS THE MALTESE ARCHIPELAgO

Archaeological Tours in NYC often adds Malta and Gozo to their Mediterranean itinerary. Robert R. Stieglitz, Associate Professor of Archaeology at Rutgers and recipient of numerous academic awards as well as author of over 100 articles on the ancient Near East and Mediterranean, accompanied the last group that visited in May. The earliest Neolithic temples on Malta are about 1,000 years older than the famous pyramids of Giza in Egypt, and are the oldest freestanding monuments in the world. The subterranean burial place called the Hypogeum is an even more astonishing relic, as the temple must have been literally carved into the rocks over hundreds of years with simple tools made from flint and obsidian. This place of worship and burial (bones of over 7,000 people have been found) descends several stories below ground, and relics reveal it may have been used as a place of training for priestesses. All trace of these creative and mysterious people disappeared suddenly around 2,000 BC—the height of their culture. How these peaceful people disappeared will perhaps never be known.

There are 8 Maltese properties recognized by UNESCO: six aboveground Temples (Ggantija, Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, Skorba, Ta’ Hagrat and Tarxien), the underground Hal Saflieni Hypogeum and the majestic Baroque walled city of Valletta.

InterTravel, a Maltese destination management company, shows the numerous sites spread all over the archipelago, including some of which are open only by appointment intermixed with some cultural and gastronomic experiences.

InterTravel, www.intertravelmalta.com; Archaeological Tours, www.archaeologicaltrs.com

ROMANTIk HOTELS NOW OFFERS PACkAgES gEARED TO CLASSIC CAR LOVERS A new Romantik Reisen–Classics (Romantik Classic Journeys) brochure presents packages from 31 Romantik Hotels in some of the most beautiful regions of Europe. Most include detailed driving itineraries for the region, picnic baskets, spa facilities, unique gastronomic events and covered parking. Travelers discover a variety of landscapes and routes with their own classic car, or experience one of the dream cars owned by the Romantik hoteliers. They can plan 14 • JULY 2011

ahead with the 15 driving routes in Germany, Italy and Switzerland that are highlighted in the brochure.

Romantik Hotels recently exhibited at Techno Classica 2011, easily the largest in-door classic car show in the world. A 1959 MIKAFA motor home owned by Romantik hotelier Werner Herrmann was the highlight. The vehicle fits up to 8 comfortably, and during a stay at the Herrmann’s Romantik Posthotel & Restaurant, in Wirsberg, Germany, can be booked along with a chauffeur and guide.

At the Romantik Hotel Schloss Rheinfels in St. Goar, Germany, the Ripp family offers a weekend suite named for Wolfgang Graf Berghe von Trips, who died in 1961 while racing at the Italian Gran Prix. Included is a classic car of choice: Volvo PV 544 Buckelvolvo, Triumph TR6 Cabriolet, or Mercedes Heckfluegel.

The Romantik Hotel Jagdhaus Eiden am See in Bad Zwischenahn invites guests to tour the lake region in a retro Volkswagen SambaBus, with a 10% discount if one’s car is over 40 years old.

Romantik Hotel Jagdhaus Waldidyll in Hartenstein, Germany, includes tickets to the August Horch Automobile Museum in Zwickau.

When visiting Romantik Hotel Stern in Chur, Switzerland, guests can be picked up at the train station in their 1933 Buick.

Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof in Flims-Waldhaus, Switzerland, will organize a chauffeured two-hour tour in a historical Citroen with a visit to the spectacular landscape of the Ruinalta, the “Swiss Grand Canyon.”

Romantik Hotels & Restaurants, www.romantikhotels.com/ classics (brochure), www.romantikhotels.com

ICCA’S LATEST STATISTICS REVEAL BERLIN IS NUMBER FOUR CONgRESS METROPOLIS Berlin is one of the four most important association congress locations around the world. This is documented by the results of the current statistics of the International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA). With 138 events by international associations in 2010, the German capital ranks fourth—after Vienna (154), Barcelona (148) and Paris (147) and ahead of metropolises such as Singapore, London and Sydney.

The result for Berlin is above all based on the optimum conditions provided for congress organizers in the city: Europe’s most modern hotel landscape, a very good value-for-money ratio, numerous extraordinary locations and a large network of additional service providers. With the opening of the new capital airport Berlin Brandenburg in June 2012 the offering of long-haul flight services will, moreover, increase.

The official contact partner in Berlin for meetings, conventions, corporate events and incentives is the Berlin Convention Office of visitBerlin, headed by Heike Mahmoud. It has direct local representations in the United Kingdom and in the USA, two of the most important meeting and convention markets.

Berlin Tourismus & kongress gmbH, Berlin Convention Office, info@visitberlin.de, www.convention.visitberlin.de, www.visitberlin.de www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

EUROPE HIkINg IN gERMANY’S LUTHERCOUNTRY

UTS PACkAgES TURkEY, ‘RICH-AND-FAMOUSLY’

Martin Luther died 450 years ago, but one can literally follow in the footsteps of the great reformer in LutherCountry in eastern Germany. As well as seeing where he preached and stayed, one sees where he spelled out the basic tenets of Lutheran doctrine.

After soaking up Schmalkalden’s history, a day can be spent hiking through the glorious clean, green countryside. The town is picturesque, with colorful half-timbered buildings dating from the 15th–18th centuries. Highlights include: St. George’s Church, where Luther preached (Nearly 5 centuries later, services are still held here.); brightly-painted Luther House, where Luther stayed in 1537; the City Hall where Luther presented his articles of faith, still used today when Lutheran priests are ordained; and Wilhelmsburg Castle, a well-preserved German fortress, now a museum. Its chapel organ with wooden pipes dates from 1589, one of the oldest of its kind in Europe still in use.

Luther traveled from Schmalkalden to Eisleben through the Thuringian Forest in 1537. He suffered from the constant pain of kidney stones. Bouncing around in his carriage on the journey only made his pain worse. On reaching the outskirts of Tambach-Dietharz, the stones passed. A delighted Luther wrote that he refreshed himself at a spring. Guests enjoy a clean drink from the same fountain.

Locals suggest walking this 10-mile trail in reverse, ending at Schmalkalden, as most of the trail goes downhill with great views.

From Schmalkalden, guests take the #851 bus to the TambachDietharz marketplace, where they start hiking, following large green ‘L’ signs. In a short while the Lutherbrunnen spring where Luther drank appears, a good place to fill water bottles. The ridge looms in about a mile, and hikers cross the Rennsteig hiking trail for a downhill, clearly-marked descent through oak, beech, and pine trees.

Along the way are lovely views and hamlets such as Nesselhof, a good place to stop for a drink and bite to eat at the small guesthouse.

After an easy 5- or 6-hour walk, it’s back to Schmalkalden, and finishing on the Lutherplatz at the Luther House from which the reformer started his journey in 1537.

Visitors celebrate by ordering Luther’s favorite sausage—a Thüringer Rostbratwurst, or Thuringian sausage. Best barbecued and served on a roll with mustard, the sausage was first mentioned in 1404. Locals reckon it tastes the same as it did in Luther’s day.

LutherCountry, www.visit-luther.com

UTS (Universal Travel System) tours convince travelers they’re ‘rich and famous.’ From pickup at home by private limo, killing time along the way to the airport with champagne or refreshing drink and hors d’oeuvres, the mood of utmost pampering is set. No need to stand in airport lines—UTS staff checks bags and the traveler never carries them. First or business-class seats—or private jets (client choice) are reserved. The UTS rep hands over boarding passes and claim tags, and ushers guests through security to the VIP lounge.

At the destination in Turkey (usually Istanbul), a multilingual, concierge-type tour escort—a Personal Tour Director (PTD)—handles bags, provides limo transportation and rides along to the hotel.

Enroute, he provides necessary info about the destination, forecast, upcoming plans and schedule of activities, answering any questions.

Guests are given a local cell/mobile phone with the freedom to make overseas calls, and which has the PTD’s number programmed for speed-dialing him 7/24, and private limo drivers too. Clients are transported to the best hotel in town (premium room or suite reserved)—or, if preferred, a smaller place or boutique hotel offering incredible service. The PTD does check-in and formalities while clients are escorted directly to luxurious quarters. Bags go to the room, and staff will even help unpack and hang clothes if desired.

Wine, flowers, fresh fruit and a welcome letter from the local city mayor await in the room.

To help them unwind, a masseuse is sent to offer a relaxing massage or guests can have a treatment in the hotel spa. Cocktails at the hotel are followed by a fabulous dinner at one of the best local restaurants; clients may choose any menu item, or a chef may even prepare something special for them. This is UTS’ acclaimed “Open Dining” program. An aperitif or cocktail is served along with a bottle of locally produced wine.

The next day starts with a la-carte breakfast in bed (or buffet-style in the hotel restaurant, client preference); after which it’s sightseeing, exploring and shopping with the PTD. In the private limo, chilled refreshments and bottled water are provided, as well as chilled moist towelettes. Lunch is served in a great local eatery, again a la-carte with any choice on the menu, including local wines.

Afternoon high tea with drinks, snacks and refreshments are served at the hotel. Evening cocktails, another gourmet dinner at a local restaurant, followed by opera, symphony or a show at local cultural institutions are offered every day. Before retiring, there will be “good night” drinks or digestifs, as they’re called, along with a printed bulletin of what’s coming up, like on cruise ships.

The tour is 7, 14 or 21 days. Each includes experienced multilingual tour guides to show the historical treasures, sightseeing and amazing cuisine in places like Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Izmir, Kusadasi and Fethiye. There’s an additional 7-day cruise on a private yacht to the Aegean islands and Greece. And just in case, a complete Medical Emergency Evacuation (MEE) and Trip Cancellation and Interruption insurance policy are included.

Universal Travel System (UTS), 800-848-3611, www.uts-travel.com

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

JULY 2011 •

15

caribbean

CITE 2011: The Future is Bright in The Cayman Islands

M

ay’s annual Cayman Islands Tourism Exchange once again brought together leading Cayman travel sector suppliers and key buyers on Grand Cayman for three informative and productive days. The Cayman Islands—made up of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac—offer a multitude of choices for every type of traveler, from high luxury and fine dining to fabulous diving to miles of sandy beaches. The conference highlighted new product and opportunities as well as 2010’s positive tourism sector results and what’s to come for the Cayman Islands in the future. And the future is looking great—early 2011 figures already show an increase in visitors by both air and cruise ships over last year.

Introductory remarks at the opening ceremony were made by the Hon. Cline A. Glidden, Jr.. He emphasized that Cayman Islands tourism has held its own during the economic downturn and is seeing very encouraging growth. In 2010 cruise ship visitors increased by 5.1% and the Cayman Islands had the highest air arrivals since 2000.

Diversification is key to the future and options include redevelopment of existing air routes, cruise ship berth building and expansion into medical and sports tourism. His encouraging words were echoed by Trina Savage-Christian, Executive Director of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) and Henry Lalli, president of CITA, and they reiterated the need for long-term and sustainable growth. Hotel stock is plentiful with over 4,700 available rooms on the three islands and another 625 scheduled to be completed within the next two years. One suggestion for more growth is the strategic selling of units in the condo/villa sector which could increase rental room stock without the time and financial investments required for new construction.

While much of the Caribbean depends heavily on cruise ship passenger arrivals, the Caymans are looking at strong air arrivals as a key way of growing tourism on the islands. This is due in part to fewer cruise stops than other Caribbean destinations (stops are only available on Grand Cayman and disembarkation is currently only via tender) but also because visitors to the Cayman Islands are more likely to come to the Caymans as their final destination and for a longer stay rather than as just a stop over. Air arrivals are one of the highest in the region and are up 6% over last year at this time and in 2011 flights will be increasing to 105 per week. Route competition has also stimulated travel to the Caymans. Thanks to a new link-up with Virgin Air in late 2010, Cayman Airways has created three new routes to the UK and an additional 4,500 inbound seats per week, adding to its existing connections with British Airways.

16 • JULY 2011

Recently appointed General Manager of CIDOT’s U.S. National Office, Tom Ludington (left) and Shomari Scott, Acting Director of CIDOT (right).

Canadian arrivals also saw an increase to their highest levels ever thanks to West Jet direct routes from Toronto. Cayman Airways has direct flights between Grand Cayman and New York, Chicago, Tampa, and Miami year round, as well as other US cities including Washington D.C. during peak winter months.

After years of negotiating and planning and with the help and dedication of both private and public agencies, January 2011 saw the sinking of the USS Kittiwake , a decommissioned US naval vessel, creating a stunning new dive site off the coast of Grand Cayman. Nancy Easterbrook (owner and founder of DiveTech as well as co-developer of Grand Cayman’s first green certified apartment complex, Lighthouse Point) who spearheaded the project, gave highlights of their efforts and outlined the benefits for the island. The dive at Kittiwake is a great add-on for packages: the dive site is shallow and suitable for any level of diver; there are numerous holes allowing for great light penetration; and there is already abundant marine life within the ship. (For non-divers, the site can also be viewed by snorkeling.) There are now 362 dive sites in the Caymans and the goal is “Dive 365.”

The keynote speech was delivered by Shomari Scott, Acting Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands (CIDOT).

He began with the breaking news that Trip Advisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award for Best Caribbean Destination had continued on page

18

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

the cayman islands A beautiful resort property carefully designed to satisfy all vacation needs!

A Grand Cayman Island condo rental is perfect for visitors looking for a vacation experience with privacy, space and convenience.

Families can spread out and relax in their own little oasis in paradise.

www.aquabayclub.com

Dreamy landscape, beachfront accommodations, and world-class diving.

Our All-Inclusive resort also offers a range of upscale amenities, services, and features: Award-Winning Game Room Restaurants Wireless Internet Room Service Meeting Facilities Poolside Bar Wedding & Day Spa Honeymoon Fitness Center Services Boutique Gift Shop Baby Sitting Tennis & Volleyball Resort & Island Bicycles Activities

www.bracreef.com

B2B EXCHANGE

Better than a hotel and different from a resort, we offer warm, Grand Cayman hospitality and luxury accommodations with all the comforts of home, plus so much more.

All condominium rental units offer central air conditioning, fully equipped kitchens, cable TV, telephones, and maid service.

Other amenities include private lighted tennis courts, barbeque grills, laundry facilities, and a full concierge service.

www.christophercolumbuscondos.com

Pirate’s Point is an

Cobalt Coast is unique in that it is conveniently located with spectacular snorkeling and shore diving access just a few steps from your oceanfront suite. Cobalt Coast Resort and Divetech, our award-winning dive operator, are very proud to have been voted the #1 Scuba Diving Resort in the Caribbean by Rodale’s Scuba Diving Magazine readers.

Stay and dive or just relax and you too will see why so many guests return.

www.cobaltcoast.com

excellent choice for those who want a get away from the crowd type vacation.

We offer relaxation for divers and non-divers alike. our resort has a very cozy, family-like atmosphere and many guests have made life-long friendships and networking contacts.

You can be as private or social as you like.

www.piratespointresort.com

Offering one, two and three bedroom condominiums in a quiet and relaxing setting with gorgeous views. Features include the refreshing pool, beautiful sandy beach, gorgeous ocean vistas, quiet northside location away from the hustle and traffic of Seven Mile Beach.

www.grandcaymanretreat.com

The Regal Beach Club – With it’s optimal location, top notch accommodations, personalized hospitality, and consistent top ratings, we have earned a highly acclaimed reputation throughout the world as one of the best places to stay in Grand Cayman. Exceptional pricing – exceptional value for the money!

www.regalbeach.com

Perfectly located on the secluded northern end of Grand Cayman Island’s gorgeous Seven Mile Beach, Silver Sands is your perfect island getaway.

We offer Grand Cayman hospitality with luxury accommodations that come with all of the comforts of home and so much more.

www.silversandscondos.com

caribbean CITE 2011

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just been awarded to Grand Cayman, and Rum Point was voted the #3 beach in the Caribbean.

Mr. Scott went on to outline the new creative campaign launching in the US: Caymankind (caymankind.com). It highlights the brand values that distinguish the Cayman Islands from other countries in the Caribbean: Cayman as a people, a place, an approach to life. Travelers to the Cayman Islands are generally affluent, educated sun and sand seekers and the campaign promotes the idea that you can have a great time on your vacation while still being a responsible world citizen. The focus The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort lobby. is on the personal touch but with the greater good in mind. Environmental sustainability and re- September 2nd, 2011) is open and kids can learn all about the spect for the land, the sea and the culture are emphasized. He Caymans’ unique marine environment and its inhabitants. For expressed hopes that this new branding would create a more details on these and other Cayman Summer Splash offers, distinct and memorable brand identity for the Caymans and el- please see their website: caymansummersplash.com Where to stay: Grand Cayman has a stunning selection evate the brand while still making it feel more accessible. The tagline for the Caymankind campaign emphasizes the of hotel stock to choose from, whether clients are planning a Caymans’ proximity to the U.S.: “A world away. Just one hour lavish destination wedding or a simple romantic getaway for two. The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort is centrally lofrom Miami.”

January’s second annual Taste of Cayman Food & Wine cated directly on beautiful Seven Mile Beach with comfortable Festival (like Kittiwake, a joint project between CIDOT and rooms and a casual elegance. Rates are available from $190CITA) was wildly successful and in 2012 the event will expand $386 USD through November 30, 2011, and may include to Cayman Culinary Month, running from January 12th breakfast and a free night. (www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ through February 14th. Events will kick off once again with the gcmgc-grand-cayman-marriott-beach-resort) Further south along Seven Mile Beach is the mecca for dive Cayman Cookout, hosted to great acclaim this year by worldrenowned chef, Eric Ripert, whose celebrated restaurant Blue enthusiasts, Sunset House (www.sunsethouse.com), which was just rated one of the world’s Best Dive Operations by is located in the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman.

The CITE conference was held in and around Cayman’s flag- Scuba Diving readers in their 2011 Top 100 Awards. Other ship planned mixed-use community, Camana Bay (www.ca- great options include The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman manabay.com), convenient to Seven Mile Beach and home to (www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/GrandCayman/Default), numerous restaurants, shops and Grand Cayman’s first and The Caribbean Club (www.caribclub.com), and The Westin Casuarina Resort and Spa (www.westincasuarina.com). only movie theater.

The outlook for the travel and tourism markets in the Cayman Packages and special offers are available from their websites.

Fine dining: Camana Bay offers world-class dining, Islands is extremely positive. Diving, spas, cuisine, sand, sea, and sun are all reasons to come to the Cayman Islands but the including Michael Schwartz’s Michael’s Genuine Food and new Caymankind marketing campaign will help better define Drink (www.michaelsgenuine.com/grand-cayman) and and position the Caymans within the greater Caribbean award-winning celebrity Chef Cindy Hutson’s Ortanique (www.cindyhutsoncuisine.com). Seven Mile Beach options inlandscape.

Summer Special: Running through September 30th, Cayman clude Agua Restaurant & Lounge (www.agua.ky) and Summer Splash is a great way for the whole family to discover Luca (www.luca.ky). Within Georgetown, The Lobster Pot the Cayman Islands. Numerous offers including restaurant (www.lobsterpot.ky) is Cayman’s oldest standing restaurant and accommodation discounts and “kids stay, play and eat for and a great choice for lunch or dinner. free” are available. The Cayman Sea School (June 3— CITE, Cayman Islands Tourism Exchange, www.cite.ky 18 • JULY 2011

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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

Located on the picturesque south coast of Barbados near to restaurants, nightclubs and entertainment activities.

Some of the islands best swimming is at the world famous Rockley Beach, a four-minute stroll from Allamanda.

Capital city of Bridgetown is nearby along with Barbados Golf Club and the airport.

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...

www.allamandabeach.com

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

Choose Coral Cove for romance, privacy and a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of it all.

Come, Relax and Enjoy Grenada.

www.coralcovecottages.com

The Cotton House Resort, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, lays on renowned Mustique: a private island estate in the West Indies island chain of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Mustique is one of the most exclusive private islands in the world and the Cotton House is the island’s only full-service hotel.

www.cot ton hous eres or t.com

A charming, intimate, Bermudian boutique hotel, centrally located.

Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the private pool offers a quiet place to relax.

Be spoiled by our Bermudian staff.

A uniquely Bermudian Hotel that offers a uniquely Bermudian experience!

www.rosedon.com

Elegantly rustic villas ensconced in a lush tropical hillside afford visitors a chance to relax, luxuriate and rejuvenate.

Stonefield Estate Villa Resort, St. Lucia continues a 1600-year old reputation as one of the most desirable destinations for the discerning Caribbean traveller.

www.stonefieldvillas.com

caribbean ROSEwOOD MAYAkOBá AppOINTS kARIN SALINAS NEw DIRECTOR Of MARkETING rosewood Hotels & resorts has appointed Karin Salinas their director of marketing of rosewood mayakobá in the riviera maya, mexico. Salinas will oversee the development of the sales team, coordination of public relations efforts and strategic planning to maximize both hotel revenue and occupancy. an 18-year veteran of the hospitality industry, Salinas most recently worked kARIN SALINAS with one&only resorts as the Vice president of Sales & marketing for the Latin america and caribbean segment of the company and prior to that held positions with leading hotels in various parts of the world, including ritzcarlton properties in Qatar and chile, renaissance Houston Hotel and Swissotel Quito in ecuador. She is bilingual, fluent in both english and Spanish. rosewood mayakobá’s amenities include a signature greg norman championship golf course, fine dining at casa del Lago and punta bonita, rosebuds™ for children, and Sense, a rosewood Spa® designed around a cenote and sitting on a private island. the resort is built to abide by high eco-standards, and has just been awarded the rainforest alliance certification.

Rosewood Mayakobá, www.rosewoodmayakoba.com

THE SANDS AT GRACE BAY OffERS ENDLESS OppORTUNITIES fOR ACTIvE ADvENTURERS guests staying at the Sands at grace bay this summer and fall can spend less on room rates and more on fun under the sun by taking advantage of the resort’s incredible excursion selection and affordable low-season rates starting from only $185 per night. through a special relationship with local water sports provider ocean Vibes Scuba & Watersports, the Sands at grace bay is able to offer guests numerous ways to stay active outdoors and explore the turks & caicos islands with a long list of exciting adventures. in addition, the resort is offering a 4th night free promotion valid for new bookings on all room categories, for guests who purchase stays of three or more consecutive nights now through december 21, 2011. the Sands at grace bay provides free use of bikes, kayaks, windsurfing equipment, snorkel gear and Hobie cats. for those seeking off-site adventure, ocean Vibes offers a selection of excursions for an additional charge that include day trips, night dives and customized Scuba/Snuba charters to the islands’ best dive sites. there’s sailing aboard a custom-made catamaran with scuba/snorkeling stops at providenciales, iguana island and 20 • JULY 2011

beautiful uninhabited desert cays, and even single or tandem parasailing for breathtaking views of the islands from high in the sky. other activities include spelunking; a champagne Sunset cruise; many kinds of fishing; sunning, swimming, shelling and snorkeling on glass bottom boat and snorkeling trips, an outback adventure cruise on a 40’ glass-bottom catamaran; and horseback riding. in addition to this sampling, guests can also design their own outisland excursions, atV along the beach and partake in a glow Worm cruise, Kayak tour and more. the Sands at grace bay’s 4th night free promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion, and the complimentary fourth night will be applied to the resort bill the end of the stay. guests can book it online using promo code 4nf. the Sands at grace bay has received the inaugural travelocity excellence award. an elite group of 500 hotels were recognized by travelocity from the more than 70,000 that are offered on their site. the resort will receive a special award designation with an icon adjacent to its property card on all of travelocity’s global websites.

The Sands at Grace Bay, 877-777-2637, www.thesandstc.com

MOUNT CINNAMON RESORT HOTEL IN GRENADA NAMES CYNTHIA O’CONNELL NEw GM peter de Savary, chairman of the mount cinnamon resort Hotel on the beautiful caribbean “spice island” of grenada, has announced the appointment of cynthia o’connell as new general manager. cynthia, a canadian, has enjoyed multiple successes in the management of resort hotels in the luxury market, with experience derived from her activities in canada and several caribbean countries. She has CYNTHIA O’CONNELL a four-diamond background and has received many accolades. mount cinnamon is a “de Savary family” boutique chic hotel with 21 villas, restaurant, bar, spa, beach club and other resort facilities. property-owning opportunities exist for those wishing to own a home at the resort with the ability to participate in the hotel’s rental program. Located on grand anse on the enchanting and friendly island of grenada, the resort is included in the Sunday times of London top 100 resorts worldwide. direct flights from London, new York, miami, toronto and regional airports make the refreshing delights of grenada easily accessible to the international market.

Mount Cinnamon Resort Hotel, www.mountcinnamongrenada.com; peter de Savary, www.desavary.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

d o m i n i c a n R e p u B l i c B2B EXCHANGE 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.

princess-hotels.com

Best Rated

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Punta Espada Golf Club Corales Golf Club La Cana Golf Club Iberostar Bavaro Golf Teeth of the Dog

La Estancia Barceló Bavaro Cana Bay Golf Club Caribe Golf Cocotal Golf Dye Fore

www.caribbeangolftours.com Europcar Dominican Republic car rental offers low prices, great service and new vehicles.

Located at airports, railway stations and in city centers.

where you can combine the romanticism of the Belle Epoque with the modernism and comfort of today.

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We are a DMC who assembles a team of experienced professionals, committed to service, aimed at maximizing customer satisfaction and complete dedication – conveying the same spirit to each and every one of the employees of Blue.

www.bluetps.com

For business or pleasure, Europcar has the right rental car or truck for you.

Rent a car with Europcar today.

Sosua and Cabrete – two charming and lively seaside towns offering an abundance of fun recreational options by day and night.

Elegant and carefully appointed, one or two bedroom apartments, with large balconies or terraces overlooking the ocean, the pool or the exuberant tropical gardens.

www.europcar.com

815-467-9071 / 791-2978

a private residential enclave consisting of 116 luxury residences designed with a modern ropical approach in a serene, Zen-like atmosphere. the uniquely designed residence club offers a variety of lodging preferences with an array of conveniences all within the same address. along the 17th fairway of the famed dye fore golf course it enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and evergreen hills cascading into the chavon river.

www.losaltosclub.com

An historic, low-impact eco-lodge located in Valle Nuevo National Park.

Its seven comfortably equipped cabins provide the setting to experience this unique landscape. Come explore this diverse eco-system, or sit simply sit and enjoy the quiet and unhurried pace of the countryside.

The ideal place to discover the many possibilities that Valle Nuevo has to offer.

www.villapajon.do

caribbean A TASTE Of CUBAN CULTURE AND CUISINE AT HYATT REGENCY TRINIDAD

Hyatt regency trinidad recently came alive with the flavors of cuba and successfully hosted its first cuban food festival. as part of the 2011 cuban arts & food festival, which took place in trinidad from may 23 to June 4, authentic cuban cuisine by chef Santiago gutierrez and entertainment provided by cuban trio Son de cuba were featured. the hotel, in collaboration with copa airlines, Y art & framing gallery and Horizons framing and décor Ltd., showcased the best of cuba’s artistry and culinary talents at its Waterfront restaurant. from the Sevilla Hotel in Havana, chef Santiago gutierrez shared his culinary talents and with Hyatt regency trinidad’s own executive chef, fernando franco, presented a specially created menu highlighting the best of cuban cuisine. a fusion of Spanish, african and caribbean cuisines, cuban recipes include spices and techniques from Spain and africa with some caribbean influence in the spices and flavor. this results in a unique, interesting and flavorful blend of the different cultural influences.

“We were pleased to be a part of this celebration and to share a taste of cuba with our guests and the community, “said russell george, general manager of Hyatt regency trinidad. “We enjoy supporting cultural events and were excited about this first cuban arts and food festival.”

Hyatt Regency Trinidad, 800-233-1234, www.hyatt.com

vILLA TAINA IS IN THE ADvENTURE SpORTS CApITAL Of THE CARIBBEAN, CABARETE according to experienced travelers, cabarete is one of the few places in the caribbean island paradise with a reputation for being a center of action sports and adventures. the once so small fishing village rapidly transformed into a world-known water sports destination, adding all kinds of daredevil sports and adrenaline rush adventures throughout the decades following the early 80s. to this day, the development of cabarete keeps steady course, with expansion of real estate and tourism and displaying a market unlike any other in the dominican republic and the surrounding island communities. beyond its adventure capital status, traditional 22 • JULY 2011

tourism with very normal activities and services flourish, just like those found in other beach towns in the region—with daytime relaxation, family-friendly surroundings, wining and dining and a hectic nightlife. it is all there, with a bit more in cabarete. over the past few years, it’s become visibly noticeable that besides the dominican republic undergoing changes with respect to tourism, cabarete is too, and perhaps more than the rest of the country. cabarete is evolving from its former “underground backpacker” type of tourism, to what some local businesses compare to the trendy miami lifestyle tourism. at first glance, this impression might be true. but given a second glance, one discovers that cabarete is nothing like miami. cabarete is uniquely cabarete.

Local business owners and event organizers a few months ago launched the nonprofit project promotions cabarete to inspire and motivate the community to make cabarete visible to the world. the area is on the threshold of not only being known, but also widely recognized, as “the adventure Sports capital of the caribbean.” establishments such as Hotel Villa taina have set an excellent example to fit the needs of travelers who come to enjoy all that cabarete offers. Located right in the heart of this kite- and windsurf mecca, Villa taina offers great value for its comfort. it features its own Kite- and Windsurf center right on the premises in addition to free internet throughout the hotel, and a great beachfront restaurant where visitors may savor international cuisine. villa Taina, www.villataina.com

fREE ‘RENEwAL Of vOwS’ pACkAGE AT pRINCESS HOTELS IN DR princess Hotels and resorts in the dominican republic is offering a renewal of Vows package for groups celebrating at the resort until october 2011. this free package includes a welcome fruit basket for the special couple, organization of the ceremony with a personal in-house wedding specialist, a bouquet and a boutonniere with tropical flowers for the couple, gazebo with Standard decoration (other decorations with fresh flowers available on request at additional cost), a special celebratory cake and toast time (champagne and water) for up to 20, the group dinner at one of the all-inclusive restaurants (just for guests staying at the hotel), use of bathrobes during the entire stay, a keepsake for the couple, their room with a king-size bed, nightly turn-down service, a bottle of rum, special floral decoration in the room, a special cocktail and dinner for the couple, a complementary photo souvenir during cocktail, and late checkout free of charge (upon availability). this offer is valid only for uS tour operators and cannot be combined with any other group offer. a minimum of 10 rooms must be booked under the same booking number. many optional services such as a live caribbean trio, dJ service, a private beach party, open bar, gala ballroom dinner and private dinner on a yacht are available at extra charge. princess Hotels & Resorts, weddings@princess-hotels.com, bodas@bavaroprincess.com.do, www.princess-hotels.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

caribbean SAY “I DO” AGAIN AND SAvE 40% AT BOLONGO BAY IN ST. THOMAS a growing number of married couples, especially baby boomers, are jetting off on romantic getaways to renew their wedding vows. to help celebrate, St. thomas’ bolongo bay beach resort has a special anniversary gift—40% savings on a vow renewal hotel package. the relaxed beach resort, popular for destination weddings, has seen destination vow renewals double in the last year. from planned beach nuptials to surprises organized by a husband or wife to spontaneous affirmations by the sea, every vow renewal is special thanks to the resort’s dedicated romance director. available now through december 22, 2011, couples can escape to the caribbean—no passports required—and re-tie the knot for less with bolongo’s forever again vow renewal package. included are 5 nights in a beachfront room—the sand just steps from the door; a welcome gift in room; a beautiful beach vow renewal ceremony with officiant, tropical flower bouquet, favorite song played as the bride walks down the aisle, and personal wedding specialist; a champagne toast for two after the ceremony; a personalized vow renewal certificate to celebrate the occasion; and a romantic Sunset Harbor cocktail cruise aboard bolongo’s 53’ catamaran, Heavenly days. the affordable 5-night vow renewal package is $1,446 per couple, including tax, resort fees and energy surcharge (retail value $2,322.50). couples can spend days relaxing on the beach in a hammock, snorkeling over coral reefs, learning how to paddle board and discovering scuba diving. once the sun sets, there’s delicious cuisine at two oceanfront restaurants and live nightly entertainment.

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

THE pALMYRA, A SOLíS RESORT & SpA, OffERS fREE STAY IN MONTEGO BAY the palmyra, a Solís resort & Spa, is a striking new beachfront resort in montego bay with an incredible limited-time offer for a free stay of five nights or more. there are no points to accumulate, no rewards to cash in, and no programs to join for guests to receive a free “twice as nice” vacation stay at the palmyra, a Solís resort & Spa. agents need simply book their client’s minimum five-night stay in a one- or two-bedroom suite for travel anytime in 2012, and they also receive a complimentary stay between September 1 and october 31, 2011, for the same number of nights, in the same room category. both stays must be booked concurrently by September 1, 2011. rates start at $429 per room, per night plus tax for a one-bedroom suite.

Situated on sixteen, oceanfront acres of idyllic beach, the palmyra offers unsurpassed customer service and amenities with Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

views of the caribbean from every suite. exquisite high-end features and design touches in the resort’s spacious accommodations feature a private terrace, living room, full kitchen, dining area and a signature, open layout in each master bedroom highlighted by an en suite bathroom with a soaking tub, separate shower and marble vanities. nature’s palette of the surrounding seashore, mountains and greens inspire the colors for the interior décor.

Luxury amenities include complimentary in-room, highspeed wired internet access, a 40” flat-screen tV and molton brown toiletries. guests also enjoy complimentary Wifi in public areas including the beach, 24-hour concierge service, and complimentary membership in the rose Hall golf association with preferential tee times at three of Jamaica’s three premier golf courses: the White Witch, cinnamon Hill and Half moon golf courses—each just minutes from the resort. travel agents may book the “twice as nice” free vacation offer with their preferred tour operator or direct by calling the resort toll-free.

The palmyra, a Solís Resort & Spa, 855-589-5899, reservations.palmyra@solishotels.com, www.thepalmyrasolis.com

Experience Jamaica at the Ultimate All-Inclusive Beachfront Resort.

Be yourself at the Hilton® Rose Hall Resort & Spa. Enjoy a simplified, all-inclusive experience that includes: ]

] ]

Contemporary guestrooms and suites, each with private balcony Beautiful private beach Popular kids programs

] ] ] ]

Exhilarating water park Nightly live entertainment Award-winning Executive Chef 15 minutes from MBJ Airport

Also available at the oceanfront resort is the championship Cinnamon Hill Golf Course and full-service Soothe Spa.

Montego Bay, Jamaica RoseHallResort.com For inquiries e-mail Semone Clarke, at SClarke@LuxuryResorts.com

JULY 2011•

23

caribbean MANGO BAY, ISLAND INN HOTEL RECEIvE TRIp ADvISOR AwARD fOR ExCELLENCE

the mango bay Hotel group, barbados, has been honored with the 2011 trip advisor certificate of excellence award at two properties—mango bay and island inn Hotel. the award is given to hotels that have received positive reviews on tripadvisor.com from guests who deem the quality of their vacation and the property to be of high value. both hotels received a “4.5 out of 5” in this year’s poll, which earned them the certificate.

“What sets mango bay and island inn apart from other hotels is our boutique-style properties mixed with all-inclusive value,” said peter odle, chairman of the mango bay Hotel group. “We strive to give our visitors a vacation to remember, and since the most important feedback to us comes from of our guests, we thank those who took the time to write reviews, as well as tripadvisor for this honor.” travelers looking to experience a mango bay or island inn Hotel vacation can enjoy an all-inclusive vacation experience that includes hotel accommodations, all meals, afternoon tea, all local and brand name drinks including wine with lunch and dinner and use of watersports equipment. all-inclusive rates start at $425 at mango bay and $300 at island inn Hotel through december 14, 2011. rates are quoted per room, per night, based on single or double occupancy with government tax included.

Mango Bay, reservations@mangobaybarbados.com, www.mangobaybarbados.com; Island Inn Hotel, bookings@islandinnbarbados.com, www.islandinnbarbados.com

ANSE CHASTANET, ST. LUCIA, IS wHERE ADvENTURE MEETS ROMANCE for the adventurer and romantic, anse chastanet in St. Lucia offers the unique combination of physical challenge and total pampering. guests enjoy two nights free on basis of their weekly amazing adventure package for travel through September 30, 2011, as long as there is availability. booking must be made by July 15. few places offer such enchanting accommodations amidst spectacular scenery and the choice of an adventure a day. and while the sensuous seclusion of the rooms provides some guests with the perfect excuse for lolling away the day on the balcony, many head out to par24 • JULY 2011

take in the many activities available—yoga, snorkeling, scuba diving, tennis, sunset sailing, sea kayaking, jungle biking, hiking and birdwatching among the ruins of the 18th-century colonial plantation. anse chastanet has created the amazing adventure package just for the energetic romantic. the week includes seven nights’ accommodation in a chosen room category; breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner; all taxes and service charges; airport transfers both ways; a welcome cocktail plus a drinks package in room fridge; a basket of local fruit; daily scheduled scuba diving for certified divers (or one scuba beginner resort course including two dives for non-certified divers); jungle biking with bike St. Lucia; boat snorkel trips; guided walks and hikes on the anse chastanet 600-acre estate; one rain forest Hike; use of tennis and tennis equipment; use of watersports equipment (snorkeling, ocean-kayaking, windsurfing, sunfish sailing); use of beach chairs and beach towels; and complimentary resort water-taxi to anse mamin beach. guests can exchange a day of scuba diving or jungle biking for a “Kool Kayaking” adventure. on the basis of this limited promotion, a one-week stay for two is $4,615, $5,235, $5,530 and $6,240 in superior, beachside deluxe, hillside deluxe and premium accommodation respectively. unused package features are nonrefundable.

Anse Chastanet Resort, 800-223-1108, ansechastanet@candw.lc, www.ansechastanet.com

HOLIDAY INN RESORT ARUBA SETS HURRICANE pROTECTION fOR 2011 the Holiday inn resort aruba has announced that it has reinstated its “risk-free SunSpree” hurricane guarantee for the 2011 hurricane season. the valuable program is included at no extra cost on all bookings for resort stays during the entire atlantic hurricane season—June 1 to november 30, 2011—affording travelers the following types of protection: pre-Vacation. guests holding confirmed reservations with nonrefundable deposits who are unable to travel due to the closure of reina beatrix aruba international airport caused by a category one or higher hurricane can rebook their reservations without penalty. a one-category room upgrade will also be provided based on space availability (excludes suites). mid-Vacation. Should a category one or higher hurricane interrupt resort operations for more than 24 hours, guests already on property will receive a certificate valid for a free future stay. certificates will be valid for resort stays equal to the number of days that hotel operations are interrupted as determined by the resort. certificates must be redeemed within one calendar year from the date of issuance at the same resort where the original stay occurred. free future stays will be awarded subject to space availability and certain blackout dates may apply. the “risk-free SunSpree” hurricane guarantee program is valid for uS bookings only, excluding groups, and is subject to change at any time.

Holiday Inn Resort Aruba, 800-HOLIDAY (465-4329), www.caribbeanhi.com/aruba www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

Bringing the Americas Together www.sata-usa.com

Selva Negra eco lodge aNd coffee eState

a multi-faceted estate with the eco lodge as the primary tourism destination, the coffee estate exporting organic, sustainable coffee, and a

Located just opposite to south west corner of the Central Park, across the street south to Anthropology Museum.

The Hotel has two main premises: the Hotel itself and a Recreational and Convention Center located nearby.

world-class sustainable farm. our nature loverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s destination, offers the pristine rainforest with wonderful wildlife including reptiles, amphibians, mammals and birds.

www.selvanegra.com

www.caminomayahotel.com

5 J L B M

B U

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#F T U

WWW PET ENES PL ENDI DO C OM

Antigua, Guatemala introducing their mobile webs ite:

PANAMA

m.copaair.com

Where time has stopped, declared Humanityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. The perfect combination for those looking for a romantic and hidden treasure for work or for leisure.

The cobblestone streets and the architecture will make you travel through timeâ&#x20AC;Śand still enjoy the comforts of the modern life.

www.copaair.com

www.hotelasfarolas.com

the launch of its mobile webs ite makes the airline the firs t in Latin America to offer travelers the ability to us e electronic boarding pas s es .

Tocumen International Airport in P anama is the firs t airport in Latin America to accept boarding pas s es for international flights from mobile phones .

The Canopy Tower is a prime location from which to observe the birds and other wildlife of the forest canopy.

Because the birds and mammals are at eye level, it is common to get fantastic views otherwise nearly impossible from the ground.

And all this without having to venture away from the Tower!

www.canopytower.com

As a Wyndham Grand Hotel, Veneto offers the utmost in service and guest relations.

Allow our staff and our concierge to take care of you at this Wyndham Panama hotel and casino.

www.venetopanama.com

www.devillehotel.com.pa

A birdwatchers jungle lodge with comfortable accommodations in a private reserve at Panamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tropical rain forest.

Caribbean slope of the Panama Canal.

The lodgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grounds offer beautiful panoramic views including the City of Colon, Galeta Point, Bahia Las Minas and the Caribbean Sea.

www.sierrallorona.com

LATIN AMERICA ViaVenture SponSorS Mayan trip to tikal and uaxactun Site With caMping l

to Belize than last year. Their special Honeymoon Package provides 3 nights accommodation in a Regal Room, roundtrip transfers from/to the Belize International or Municipal airport, daily breakfast and dinner, a special romantic dinner with a bottle of wine, a chilled bottle of champagne on arrival, one 60-minute Aromatherapy massage per person, a full-day tour of choice, a halfday tour of choice and the Iguana Project and Medicinal Trail Tour.

This package is priced from $935 per person (taxes and service charge not included). the Belize collection, www.centralamericacollections.com; San ignacio resort hotel, www.sanignaciobelize.com

hidden Valley inn celeBrateS roMance

On this Viaventure trip, guests transfer to Uaxactun in Guatemala, one of the longest-occupied Maya sites and where the oldest complete Maya astronomical complex is found. It’s also where the Chicleros (gum collectors) have lived for over 100 years.

Many of Uaxactún’s residents nowadays make their living from gathering forest products such as chicle (exported to Japan), allspice and xate palm leaves (ornamental plant exported to the US and used for floral arrangements).

Guests will tour the site and the community and will learn more about the chicle process and the different crafts. The community has also a small interesting archaeology museum that will be visited. For sunset guests will go to the lookout tower for sunset drinks.

If they are lucky, the visitors will be able to see the ruins from Tikal rising above the jungle. After drinks they will head back to the campsite where they will have a simple local candlelit dinner at the camping site. The night is spent in tents in this impressive site in the middle of the jungle with its wonderful sounds.

The next morning after breakfast at the site, guests are transferred to Tikal National Park where they will receive a private guided tour of this fabulous site with huge temples rising up through the jungle canopy and a variety of tropical animals and birds on show. The sights and sounds of the howler and spider monkeys as well as many colorful tropical birds and other mammals are fascinating. At the end of the tour, guests are transferred to their hotel.

Viaventure, www.viaventure.com

loVe iS in the air at San ignacio in Belize With all the hullabaloo over the royal wedding in England and a staggering estimated 2 billion people watching the event, love must surely be in the air and this is a perfect match for the Belizean experience. Clients don’t have to be getting hitched, however, to enjoy Belize and all its romance, but if they are getting married they will for sure be thankful for having been sent to Belize on their honeymoon. Air access to Belize has never been better and despite rocketing airline fuel costs, increased competition on the short-haul US market to Belize has meant from certain gateways even lower fares 26 • July 2011

Hidden Valley Inn, a luxury hotel with only 12 cottages, is located on a 7,200-acre private reserve in the Mountain Pine Ridge area of Belize. The flora, wildlife and birding here are like no place on earth.

A Deluxe Honeymoon Package is currently being offered at this intimate eco resort, with 4 nights accommodation in a Standard Luxury Suite or Deluxe Suite if available; daily full breakfast, lunch and 3-course dinner; a private tour of Caracol Maya Site, Rio Frio Cave and Rio on Pools; a private half-day horseback riding tour; a private waterfall experience with sparkling wine and a picnic lunch at one of Hidden Valley’s secluded spots (either Cubs Dens or Secret Pools and Falls); wine and a special gift basket in the guestroom; and return charter flight transfer from Belize City International Airport.The package is priced from $1,554 per person. the Belize collection, www.centralamericacollections.com; hidden Valley inn, www.hiddenvalleyinn.com

roatan charter BreakS the ‘MoM, i’M Bored’ SuMMer Vacation dileMna Roatán is exotic. It is a western Caribbean island rich in history, cloaked mystery, and yet only a 2 1/2 hours non-stop flight from Houston or Atlanta. While over 800,000 cruise guests are predicted this year—more than quadruple that of Costa Rica—true aficionados of the island (the ones that return year after year), know the secrets both above and below sea level.

Roatán is on every scuba diver’s bucket list. Roatán diving is spectacular and surprisingly easy. On the island’s south shore at CoCo View Resort, the extensive coral reef system grows to within a few steps from the guest’s over-the-water bungalow. There’s no better place to enjoy or start the lifelong sport of scuba.

This summer CoCo View is offering a “Kids Free” special for children 10–12 that are junior diver certified or taking a certification course and staying in the same room with parents. Older kids 13–17 are half the adult price. A 20% discount on all introductory scuba courses, for both children and adults, is being offered by onsite PADI 5 Star Dockside Dive Center.

A free, no obligation, airfare quote is available; the Roatan catalog can be seen online. roatan charter, 800-282-8932, info@roatan.com, www.roatan.com/bulletins/ccvmay2011.html, www.roatan.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA hotel parador, hotel Si coMo no, hotel gaia and hotel arenaS del Mar Join traVelerS aid prograM Hotel Arenas Del Mar, Hotel Gaia, Hotel Si Como No and Hotel El Parador have joined the La Mansion Inn and Hotel Kamuk in the Travelers Aid Program initiated last year by Costa Rica’s Chamber of Commerce Security Committee.

Being robbed or assaulted while on vacation is traumatic. Not knowing what to do in a foreign country, who to call (with language and communication problems), losing information, cash, credit cards, passports, and having to call family, etc. all compound the experience. In more developed countries, governmental institutions and NGOs are on hand to help handle these negative experiences more professionally than in Costa Rica.

For that reason the Chamber of Commerce of the Canton de Aguirre, through its Security Committee, initiated a Travelers Aid Program for the Greater Manuel Antonio area. Participating hotels and members are willing to provide food, beverages, emergency shelter and communication means to help travelers in need.

To qualify, victims must be referred by a governmental law enforcement institution such as the Policia Turistica, Fuerza Publica or O.I.J. The idea of the program is assist travelers and to minimize public relations fallout. Affected travelers would be asked for a voluntary donation for any expenses incurred once they return to their place of origin.

Harry Bodaan, President of the local Chamber Commerce, Industry and Tourism said, “I am very proud of my colleagues who represent the best hotels in the area and who recognize the importance for such a program. It is not important that these visitors stay in other hotels. What is important that we have a “safety net” that minimizes the impact of a negative experience in the Manuel Antonio area. I hope that others in the Canton de Aguirre and other areas of Costa Rica will follow our example. ” Information on joining the program is available from the Chamber office in Costa Rica. la Mansion inn, www.lamansioninn.com

thatched cottage room, guests may wish to stroll about their beautiful grounds and gardens or relax in the convivial jungle bar before enjoying a candlelit dinner under the huge thatched roof of the airy Mariposa restaurant. The first night on a private veranda under the enormous canopy of stars surrounded by the soft sounds of jungle nightlife is guaranteed to create magic.

The Chabil Mar portion of the package includes the luxury Seaview Villa (upgrades to Honeymoon Suite available); all breakfasts, lunches and dinners; flowers, Belizean chocolates and a bottle of champagne, a half day of snorkeling, one-way airfare from BZE/Placencia; the Monkey River Howler Tour, one Couples Massage; and two and a half days of golf cart usage.

The Chaa Creek portion of the package includes Luxury Cottage accommodation; full breakfasts, lunches and dinners; roundtrip ground transportation; flowers and wine; a Romantic Canoe Trip; a Horseback Ride or Mountain Biking; 2 Nature Walks or a half-day Jungle Walk; tours of the Natural History Center & Butterfly Farm; and a Sunset Canoe Trip.

Spa treatments include Facial (Special Mask), Body Wrap, Massage, and Manicure & Pedicure.

Prices are from $3,227 pp (based on a minimum of two persons) and include all accommodations, meals, tours, transfers, local flights, taxes and service charges. chabil Mar resort, 866-417-2377, info@chabilmarvillas.com, www.chabilmar.com

Maya and honeyMoon Magic at chaBil Mar With chaa creek Chabil Mar and The Lodge at Chaa Creek—two award-winning resorts in Belize—have teamed up provide one unforgettable honeymoon experience.

Guests will land in beautiful Belize and be swept away to the quiet luxury of Chabil Mar in Placencia Village, at the end of a 16-mile slice of heaven that’s home to some of Belize’s most stunning beaches. After settling into their lovely luxury seaview villa, they may wish to unwind on a personal verandah, take a swim or relax among our beautiful gardens poolside, before enjoying a candlelit dinner under the stars on the resort’s private palapa pier.

The next stop is the Lodge at Chaa Creek, Belize’s highly regarded eco resort, set in a private 365-acre nature reserve, alive with colorful tropical birds and exotic wildlife. After settling into a lovely Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

July 2011 •

27

LATIN AMERICA Victoria houSe turnS 30

hotel guests, friends and staff gathered with owners and founders Browne rice iii and ab Fay Jr. to express thanks to andrea carrillo for her invaluable role in making Victoria house a success since day 1. andrea was named honorary Founder and presented with an engraved watch in appreciation of her 30 years of service. rice and Fay also expressed their gratitude to the more than 80 other employees who help make Victoria house the destination of choice for so many visitors.

Belize’s Victoria House is celebrating 30 years of providing Belizean hospitality and memorable barefoot luxury for generations of guests. Once a destination for adventurous travelers looking for an undiscovered paradise this acclaimed destination resort boasts world-class cuisine, beachfront and thatch roof beach-view villas and 4 swimming pools.

Some things haven’t changed with time. The most often heard compliment is “Wow! In all my travels I’ve never experienced friendlier, more personalized service!” Repeat guests are greeted by familiar faces and first timers warmly welcomed to the family.

Victoria is currently offering 2011 Summer & Fall Specials.

Guests who reserve 5 nights enjoy the 6th night for free. The offer is valid from June 1 until December 22, 2011, and is exclusive to Casita Room Categories or higher. The offer does not apply to existing reservations, peak season dates such as Thanksgiving or the following room types: State Rooms, Casa Playa Blanca, The Rainforest Suite or The Tower Suite.

Victoria house, 800-247-5159, donald@victoria-house.com (Sater, reservations), www.victoria-house.com

Birthday BaSh For chaa creek’S 30th, and Belize too Two big birthdays will be celebrated in the Caribbean/Central American region this year as Belize and its first eco-resort, The Lodge at Chaa Creek, both turn 30.

Chaa Creek, which had previously been a small family farm, first opened its doors to paying customers the same year that Belize, the former British Honduras, gained independence from Great Britain in 1981, and the celebration of these two milestones is turning into a major party.

Mick and Lucy Fleming first came to Belize in the 1970s when it 28 • July 2011

was so far off the beaten track as to be virtually unknown. Little did they imagine that the small farm they resurrected on the banks of the quiet Macal River would become one of Belize’s biggest and most well respected eco-resorts.

In recognition of Chaa Creek’s and Belize’s unique beginnings and growth, guests will be encouraged to join in the celebratory mood throughout the year, and especially during the month of September, which marks the anniversary of the battle of St George’s Caye and Belizean Independence Day. There will be a number of special events and promotions on offer in the months leading up to the September 21 nationwide celebrations and throughout the rest of the year.

While specifics are still being finalized, Ms Fleming said there will be an emphasis on interaction between visitors and resort staff. For example, a bi-weekly Family and Friends Dinner will give guests the opportunity to dine with the Fleming family, ask questions and get a unique perspective on their journey from 1970s world travelers to farmers, environmental activists and eco-resort owners. “We picture it sort of like dinner at the captain’s table on ships, and are really looking forward some lively and entertaining meals with our guests,” she said, adding that interested visitors will be able to put their names into a lottery-type draw upon registration to secure a seat at the table.

Other birthday initiatives involve special tours of the 365-acre private nature reserve and Maya sites, educational talks, environmental awareness activities and a new display detailing the history of Chaa Creek from ancient Maya days to the present. the lodge at chaa creek, 877-709-8708, reservations@chaacreek.com, www.chaacreek.com

it iS a FaMily aFFair—the Bodaan FaMily and la ManSion inn When the La Mansion Inn opened ten years ago, Wesley LederBodaan joined his mother and father together with his brother Harry to help their uncle with the opening festivities of the hotel.

Now, exactly ten years later, he and his brother have returned to Costa Rica to take the helm of the food and beverage facilities of the 5-star hotel facilities.

For the past ten years, Wesley finished his culinary education in the Netherlands and worked in several first-class hotels in Europe in order to prepare himself for the biggest challenge of his life, to get ready and work side-by-side with his well-known uncle Harry Bodaan, owner of the La Mansion Inn and former President of the International Press Center and Club, Moscow, and long-time General Manager of the National Press Club in Washington D.C. While at the National Press Club in Washington D.C., Uncle Harry was famous for his composition of unorthodox menus—which included the Presidential Menu Series and his Wild Game Menus which featured items such as Loin of Lion, Giraffe Shoulder and Round of Hippo—as well as his personal attention to detail to the needs of his thousands of national and international VIP guests. la Mansion inn, 800-360-2071, www.lamansioninn.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

book

Latin america with the foLLowing Destination speciaLists

Choosing the right partner to best service the needs of your clients is of critical importance.

Our commitment is to give you the best quality product at the best price. Our mission is to care for and to provide an enjoyable and educational experience to your customers.

We specialize in markets worldwide expanding our operations in the last few years; we have been extremely successful with our new destinations and programs.

www.aat.travel

Our philosophy is fulfilled when participants travel to other regions and destinations, and interact with their counterparts.

We arrange social gatherings with hosts and take part in cultural activities.

This social interchange is also an effective forum for increasing mutual understanding and collaboration.

www.anglatin.com

We at EcoAdventures specialize in individual itineraries and small groups and take every precaution to minimize the ecological impact of tourism on the areas visited.

We also believe and hope that the growing economic sector of ecotourism will supplant more exploitative activities.

We have practiced a consistent policy of extending the personalized, affordable and reliable travel service to our clients.

The traveler benefits from the attention and assistance of our local guides and representative offices, while still enjoying a high level of freedom.

Our experience in Central & South America and other destinations that we service has been gained through activity in these areas and a commitment to promote the diverse and multifaceted cultures found there.

www.ecoadventures.com

www.mena.tr ave l

A boutique travel company that specializes in providing exceptional travel experiences to Latin America.

We specialize in customized luxury vacations, family reunions, romantic getaways, private villa experiences, exotic and active honeymoons, eco tours and high-end adventure family vacations in Latin America

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

With offices in Miami, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, MK Travelplan serves thousands of passengers annually, through charter and major airline scheduled flights from the U.S. to the Caribbean and Mexico. The company specializes in all inclusive vacation packages to the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

www.mktravelplan.com

Our only focus is Latin America, we are not distracted by selling other destinations, additionally we focus only on customized independent travel.

We provide our clients unique adventures, exceptional service, and superior value with each booking.

We are committed to offering the highest caliber of adventures and strive to provide unique travel experiences that will last a lifetime.

www.crownexpeditions.net

Our trips are educationally-oriented and are accompanied by a Tour Leader / Biologist in addition to a local Naturalist Guide.

The tours are oriented to the traveller who wants to observe and learn as much as possible about the Galapagos - the animals and plants - on land and in the water.

www.galapagostravel.com South America is a spectacular continent with so much to offer – from the soaring peaks of the great Andes Mountain range, to the lowland Rain Forest of the Amazon Basin and the alluring Galapagos Islands.

Great pride is taken in educating each traveler about the destination and tour chosen.

We take meticulous care in choosing hotels, ground services and great destinations.

Our experts review packages for Special Interest Tours such as fishing, diving archeology, bird watching, beaches, lakes, mountains and more – adding these for a journey of a lifetime!

www.toursinternational.com July 2011 •

29

LATIN AMERICA

Explore the South Pacific…in Costa Rica PETER Lowy

C

30 • July 2011

peter lowy

osta Rica is putting out the welcome mat to encourage visitors to explore its lesser traveled southwest – extending from Manuel Antonio National Park in Puntarenas province to the Panama border, encompassing the region known as the South Pacific.

Recent infrastructure investments and an expanding schedule of internal flights to Golfito and Puerto Jiménez, combined with a growing network of rainforest lodges, hotels, and eco-attractions, make the South Pacific—one of the greenest, most ecologically diverse parts of the country—inviting and accessible. The coastal road, now fully paved, provides easy access from San a leisurely trip along the rio Sierpe (Snake river) in the osa peninsula lets visitors safely José, enabling visitors to bypass the view abundant wildlife, including scarlet macaws, capuchin monkeys, cayman crocodiles, iguanas, and, of course, snakes such as the northern tree boa. slower mountainous route.

Consider making the Diuwalk Hotel & Beach Resort in Dominical your base for an initial explo- group through forest trails. Five-inch Blue Morpho butterration of the region. It offers 36 air-conditioned rooms, a flies, among the world’s largest, will escort you as macaws roofed, open air dining area offering fresh fish and other tasty herald your way through lush vegetation.

Breakfast at Don Lulo’s house halfway to the falls—bananas local fare, swimming pool, lounge area, and even its own pineapple, papaya, and cornbread, with freshly squeezed surfing school.

Then head out to Hacienda Barú National wildlife Refuge fruit juice and coffee—will fortify you for the rest of the ride. just north of Dominical. Formerly a cattle ranch employing on the way back, you’ll dine like a local on a lunch of succuthree people, the 815-acre site is living proof that, when done lent, baked chicken, white rice, black beans, papas (potathe right way, ecotourism works. In danger of becoming de- toes), mixed green vegetable salad, and fresh pineapple forested, a decision was made three decades ago to convert juice.

The real destination, however, is the double-cascade the area to a wildlife refuge. Today, the cattle are gone, the land has been replanted, and 40 employees help tourists dis- Nauyaca falls, the higher one dropping 45 meters and the cover a cornucopia of wildlife – from three-toed sloths, ca- lower tumbling 20 meters. Having made the five-kilometer puchin monkeys, and nine-banded armadillos to more than trek, be sure to reward yourself with a swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls and sit under the falls to get a natural back 350 species of birds and abundant native plants.

Costa Ballena – or the whale Coast – runs about 20 miles massage.

A key element of Costa Rican archeology is a collection of from Dominical to ojochal, and offers a full range of water sports, including surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. mysterious stone spheres, dating back to 200 B.C., the meanBecause the area is unspoiled, many of its beaches can be ing and purpose of which have yet to be deciphered. About reached only by boat. Incorporating Marino Ballena National 300 of the spheres (which inspired the opening scene of Park, a coral reserve, Costa Ballena is ideal for watching dol- “Raiders of the Lost Ark”) have been found, mostly in the phins and humpback whales. Migration patterns from the Diquis Delta region south of Costa Ballena. They range in dinorth and south Pacific ocean create two whale watching ameter from a few inches to eight feet. The best place to view seasons each year – January through April and August them is at the actively worked archaeological site of the Boruca people at Finca 6 (Villa 6) near the Rio Sierpe. through November.

Continuing south to the osa Peninsula, Golfito can serve as Not to be missed are Nauyaca waterfalls on the Rio Barú.

And the recommended way to get there is by horseback. another base to further discover of the South Pacific. Formerly Expert guides will match you to a horse and lead you or your the main banana exporting center of the South Pacific, the www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA city fell on hard times after the United Fruit Company left in the 1980s. To help the area rebound, the government declared Golfito a duty-free zone. while it may be more rustic than other parts of the country, the osa Peninsula accommodates all types and levels of tourists.

If you stay in Golfito, Casa Roland with its wide hallways and wooden accents throughout provides an old world feel with all the modern amenities; every room is air conditioning and features original Costa Rican art. Alternatively, the Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge on nearby Golfo Dulce, one of only three tropical fjords in the world, and the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge in Piedras Blancas National Park let you relax in insect-proof cabins that bring you, literally, face to face with nature. why Golfito? Because it provides access to national parks, mangrove and gallery forests, rainforests, ecological sanctuaries, wildlife refuges, bird watching, waterfalls, beaches, sport fishing, and, in Pavones, some of the world’s best surfing.

Costa Rica is actively seeking to connect visitors with the cultural life of the country – from the bustle of San José’s Central Market to the Bribri people, who welcome visitors at the Salitre Bribri Indigenous Terriotory near Buenos Aires northwest of Golfito.

The slogan of Costa Rica is “No artificial ingredients.” It also aptly describes the South Pacific.

costa rica tourism, www.visitcostarica.com

up to 60% oFF high SeaSon rateS at el palMar Beach & tenniS reSort El Palmar Beach & Tennis Resort located in Melaque, Mexico on the Pacific coast, is announcing SUNsational Summer Savings.

Those who book a weeklong vacation receive 40 percent off winter rates; if they stay for the month, they will save 60 percent. That represents rates as low as $40 a night. Travelers can enjoy these special rates through August 31, 2011.

Every uniquely decorated room features a fully- equipped kitchen, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, daily maid service, a large private bathroom and a comfortable bed. Guests may choose from oversized suites to one- or two-bedroom apartments.

“The property is across the street from the beach, a few steps from local stores and restaurants and a pleasant bike or walk to the town’s main square,” said John LaPointe, the hotel’s owner. “Our location, charming guestrooms, and friendly staff make El Palmar Beach & Tennis Resort an ideal choice for leisure travelers. The summertime is a great time to be in Melaque. It’s quiet and you have the chance to experience an authentic Mexican seaside village.”

El Palmar staff can arrange excursions from snorkeling to volcano tours. There is an in-house tennis pro available as well as transportation to and from the clay courts.

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

Located 30 minutes from Manzanillo airport, El Palmar Beach & Tennis Resort is a small, family run vacation resort. The owners live onsite and welcome guests from all over the globe. Located across the street from the beach, its grounds feature a swimming pool, lush outdoor patios and free bikes for clients. Downstairs suites are wheelchair accessible. el palmar Beach & tennis resort, www.vacationinmexico.com, www.visitlamanzanilla.com

SuMMer SaVingS proMotion at coSta careyeS

Now until through September 15, Costa Careyes is inviting guests to experience four nights for the price of three in a romantic beachfront Bungalow, or a vibrant one- or two-bedroom Casita de las Flores. The Summer Savings promotion also includes complimentary daily breakfast and round-trip transfers to Manzanillo International Airport.

This package represents a total savings of 35 percent, and starting rates per night are $320 for the beachfront Bungalow; $400 for the one-bedroom Casita de las Flores; and $600-$750 for the two-bedroom Casita de las Flores. Rates do not include tax/service charges.

Founded by Italian Gian Franco Brignone in1968, secluded Costa Careyes is conveniently located between Manzanillo and Puerto Vallarta. This untouched land on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is best known for its preserved natural landscape, innovative mix of Mexican and Mediterranean architecture, and pleasant year-round climate. The resort offers an array of luxury accommodations featuring innovative design, eye-catching colors and unparalleled craftsmanship. Commonly referred to as the Castles of Careyes, Casa Mi Ojo, Sol de Oriente and Sol de Occidente comprise the resort’s most famous villas, featuring six to eight bedrooms and full culinary and housekeeping staffs. Though already considered one of Mexico’s safest destination, the resort feature 24-hour security, allowing guests to further relax with ease as they enjoy activities ranging from kayaking, surfing, scuba diving, fishing, snorkeling, horseback riding, polo, tennis, mountain biking and golf. costa careyes, www.careyes.com July 2011 • 31

LATIN AMERICA Vallarta and caBo adVentureS launch neW tourS in caBo and Vallarta

Vallarta Adventure and Cabo Adventures have recently launched two new, exciting tours.

In Vallarta, Vallarta Adventures’ dolphin center, Dolphin Adventure, recently launched “Dolphin Extreme”—a one-of-a-kind, underwater experience designed for those seeking a more adventurous marine mammal encounter. Activities include two free-swim snorkeling sessions, an underwater tow-ride with two dolphins, power-snorkel session with motorized water scooters, Boogie Board push and an acrobatic performance by four dolphins. As an added bonus, guests also get the chance to swim and interact with a playful sea lion.

In Cabo San Lucas, Cabo Adventures recently launched the “Snorkel & Sea Adventure,” an intimate tour departing from the Cabo San Lucas marina in high-speed, Apex inflatable boats. Guests get an up-close introduction to the Land’s End arch and resident sea lions before heading off to the area’s best snorkeling and swimming coves. Once in the cove, guest swim, power-snorkel with motorized water scooters and kayak with guides trained in marine ecosystems, learning about the sea life below. The trip will conclude with a light snack on the boat or beach.

“We are really excited about these new tours and the feedback has been outstanding,” says Rich Biswell, Marketing Director for Vallarta and Cabo Adventures. cabo adventures, www.cabo-adventures.com, Vallarta adventures, www.vallarta-adventure.com

MexitourS’ platinuM collection oFFerS intriguing Variety Mexitours always tries to discover and provide new and unique product in order to innovate, change and go beyond the passengers’ needs. And Mexico can offer a first-class product—therefore, Mexitours has created the “Platinum Collection.”

“Hang Glide in Valle de Bravo.” During this unforgettable experience, guests enjoy a 30-minute flight as they hang-glide over Valle de Bravo. No training or previous experience is needed as a qualified instructor guides the traveler during the entire flight. If the weather conditions allow, the flight can last up to 45 minutes. These spectacular views are not to be missed.

32 • July 2011

“A Day With Frida and Diego.” This full-day tour will show The Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Museums (places where they also spent most of their lives) and the Dolores Olmedo Museum. Mexico City is one vibrant city just like this incredible Mexican woman who called it her home. There will be a visit to Frida Kahlo’s blue house and her neighborhood in Coyoacan, the Blue House, and other special places in Mexico City.

“Winery Tour of Freixenet Cavas.” Guests will see winemaking from harvesting the juice of each grape to bottling and labeling.

Each tour includes a special visit to cellars 82 ft below the surface where the temperature is stable enough to encourage the aging of the wine. The tour continues to Tepozotlan, recently named Magic Town by Mexican authorities because of its enchanting buildings and unique history. The tour includes a 17th-century Jesuit monastery that houses the world-renowned Colonial Religious Art Museum as well as exquisite Mexican Baroque art at the San Francisco Javier Temple.

Mexitours, www.mexitours.com.mx

VelaS reSortS naMed top hotelS in 2011 expedia inSiderS’ Select liSt Expedia has named three Velas Resorts—Casa Velas, Grand Velas Riviera Maya and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit—among the top-ranked hotels on this year’s Expedia Insiders’ Select list. The Insiders’ Select list formally recognizes the best hotels worldwide that consistently deliver excellent service, a great overall experience and a notable value. Casa Velas, a boutique adults-only hotel and ocean club located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course in Puerto Vallarta, and AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit were selected for the second year in a row. The latest and most sophisticated iteration of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort experience with jungle and beach settings, Grand Velas Riviera Maya received its first selection to the list. All three resorts received an average above 4.7 stars from travelers, with Grand Velas Riviera Maya maintaining a 5 star rating.

Of the 130,000 hotels and resorts on Expedia, only 500 hotels are deemed Insiders’ Select 2011. Based on travelers’ opinions, value and Expedia Hotel Expert input, Expedia Insiders’ Select includes just the top one percent of all Expedia hotels and resorts.

Velas Resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have earned 26 AAA Diamonds, including the prestigious Five Diamond Award. Other esteemed international awards for their services and facilities are Virtuoso’s “Best Spa,” Conde Nast Johansens’ “Most Excellent Resort,” Conde Nast Traveler’s “Gold List” and the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences’ Five-Star Diamond Award. Casa Velas was also recently chosen a Top 10 in three categories—Luxury, Relaxation/Spa and Hotel for Romance—by TripAdvisor in its 2011 Travelers’ Choice awards. casa Velas, www.hotelcasavelas.com; grand Velas riviera Maya, www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com; grand Velas riviera nayarit, www.vallarta.grandvelas.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

m e x i c o Our vision: “To transcend by creating and living the best travel experiences” In addition to the Volaris mission, we have the best people and the lowest costs, enabling more people to travel… WELL!” The Discovery Americas I and Columbia Equity Partners joined efforts with TACA Airlines to create a new low-cost airline to serve the Mexican market, in a cost efficient approach that allows a greater number of Mexicans to experience air travel.

866-988-3527 www.volaris.com.mx

Inspired by the exquisite colonial architecture of Mexico –

suites decorated with unique features, harmonizing with the beauty of the gardens colorful flowers and exotic plants.

Located in an exclusive area on the island of Cozumel in the Mexican Caribbean, where the peace and beauty of nature in harmony with tranquility, e legance and comfort.

Personalized Service at its Best

B 2 B

E X C H A N G E

The incredible natural beauty and a unique location of Cabo San Lucas combine to make the Hotel Finisterra an unforgettable choice for your Los Cabos getaway.

Resisting the temptation of modern commercialism, La Paz continues to reflect “The Peace” in which it was named for – your starting point: Hotel Los Arcos.

From here, anything is possible.

www.bajahotels.com

A company that was founded to optimize hotel operations, and human and financial resources, in order to increase the value of the destination.

Honesty in all actions and attitudes.

Confidence in employees and partners.

Transparency in providing information and decision making.

Excellence in services we offer to our guests, clients and suppliers.

A modern star, 122 room condominium conveniently located on one of Cancun’s most beautiful beaches and within walking distance from the main entertainment places, night clubs, famous gourmet restaurants, the most complete shopping areas and the Convention Center. Our guests has access to our tennis court, Sauna, swimming pool and Gym and of course to the sandy beaches of the Caribbean Sea.

www.carisaypalma.com

Two UniqUe BeachfronT PUerTo VallarTa hoTels and one in MazaTlan Playa del sol costa sur Puerto Vallarta

crowne Plaza Mazatlan Blue seas old Town Puerto Vallarta

www.haciendasanmiguel.com

Long an oasis in beautiful central mexico, el atascadero has a long and storied background. this refurbished hacienda has been a silk farm, a convent, a ranch, and for 50 years has been considered one of mexico’s most pleasant and famous hotels.

www.hotelelatascadero.com

www.magicresortgroup.com

The Terramar family is dedicated and enthusiastic about working with you to create a mutually beneficial experience that will meet all of your expectations. Delivering the best level of service and value in the Los Cabos area Terramar´s wide range of services include: Groups & Incentives, Wholesale, Leisure Individual Travel and Weddings.

www.terramar.com.mx

www.playadelsolpv.com

We believe that satisfaction and comfort are directly related to the success of our company, so we strive to provide unique excursions, expert tour guides, and high-quality equipment to ensure a fun, educational and safe adventure.

www.vallarta-adventures.com

LATIN AMERICA Shirley dunn hankS iS neW director oF SaleS & Marketing at capella pedregal Capella Pedregal in Cabo San Lucas has appointed Shirley Dunn Hanks Director of Sales & Marketing. As an accomplished sales and marketing executive, Hanks is highly skilled in positioning four- and fivestar hotels and restaurants as leaders in the marketplace. She has extensive experience in developing talent, building high performance teams, driving revenue and achieving profitability in the hospitality Shirley dunn hankS industry.

Prior to joining the Capella Pedregal team, Hanks worked as the Director of Sales and Marketing for Rosewood Hotel’s flagship property, the Mansion on Turtle Creek, for seven years. While there, she was responsible for branding and marketing the launch of the property’s Crescent Spa, re-invention of the Mansion’s Five Diamond restaurant and consistently positioning the hotel as a leader in the luxury market both on a national level and within the local community. Hanks left Rosewood Hotels after being recruited to join Hyatt in marketing their new Dallas luxury residences.

Hanks studied hotel and restaurant management at the University of Houston and has taken extensive communications, crisis management and media training courses during her tenure at Rosewood Hotels.

Capella Pedregal luxury resort and residences lies on an extraordinary, 24-acre site at the southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. The centerpiece of the resort is the 12,000sq-ft signature Auriga spa, wellness and fitness facility. capella pedregal, www.capellapedregal.com; capella hotels and resorts, www.capellahotels.com

oScar aValoS naMed director oF SaleS & Marketing at MarquiS loS caBoS reSort Oscar Avalos has been named Director of Sales & Marketing of Marquis Los Cabos, the 237 all-suite beachfront Leading Hotel of the World located on the southernmost tip of the Baja California peninsula. He brings to his new position more than 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry.

“We are very proud to have Mr. Avalos with us at Marquis Los Cabos,” said oScar aValoS General Manager Ella Messerli.

“The Marquis Los Cabos resort recently rolled out new premium services and amenities included in the rate that provide greater luxury and value to our hotel guests. Oscar is very enthusiastic about becoming an integral part of our new “Marquis Magic” service program.”

Prior to joining Marquis Los Cabos, Avalos worked extensively 34 • July 2011

with Fairmont Hotels throughout Mexico. Most recently as Acting Director of Sales & Marketing for The Fairmont Acapulco Princess & The Fairmont Pierre Marques, he was in charge of all international and domestic group business as well as leisure sales and marketing. He also received valuable experience at The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences’ International Star Diamond Award recipient Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort.

Avalos received his hospitality education at the Colegio Nacional de Educacion Profesional Tecnica.

Marquis los cabos resort, oavalos@marquisloscabos.com (avalos), www. oavalos@marquisloscabos.com

Villa group openS luxuriouS Villa del palMar at the iSlandS oF loreto Pristine beaches and ecotourism adventures await travelers at the new Villa del Palmar Beach Resort and Spa at the Islands of Loreto. Located in Baja California South, the resort offers 181 spacious suites (studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom villas as well as an Ambassador Suite, Royal Suite and Presidential four-bedroom Suites) with views of the sparkling Sea of Cortez.

Future developments include tennis courts and a 35,000 square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center and spa, which will open this summer.

Loreto was named the number eight destination to visit in a recent New York Times “Where to Go in 2011” article. Just a 90minute flight from Los Angeles, this ecological wonderland is home to one of the world’s largest marine parks and the oldest colonial town on the peninsula.

The resort faces Danzante Island and is surrounded by the majestic Sierra de la Giganta Mountains. With the calm waters of the Sea of Cortez, a unique turtle-shaped pool and the largest Jacuzzi in the entire Baja California South, Villa del Palmar Beach Resort and Spa at the Islands of Loreto offers a variety of water activities including snorkeling, kayaking and scuba diving. The resort also offers ecological activities such as mountain hiking, climbing, camping and more in the Bay of Loreto, home to close to 900 species of reef-dwelling and migratory fish.

Villa del Palmar is the only five-star resort in the area and the first property in the Villa Group Resort’s planned 1,800-acre development in Loreto, “Danzante Bay,” which will include seven resort hotels, 240 home sites, additional restaurants and a Rees Jones golf course.

Guests can receive the third and fifth nights free with special summer rates starting at $208 ppdo. They can also book an “UltraInclusive” getaway including meals, beverages, golf and many outdoor activities starting at $350 ppdo, reflecting a 30-percent discount.

These rates are valid for bookings from now through October 31, 2011.

Villa del palmar at the islands of loreto, 888-844-8169, www.villadelpalmarloreto.com; the Villa group, www.villagroupresorts.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

s o u t h a m e r i c a B2B

The PANTANAL, the largest continuous wetland on the planet, declared a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, is South America’s primary wildlife sanctuary.

This fantastic biodiversity includes: 698 birds species, 80 mammals, 260 fish species and 50 reptiles.

www.araraslodge.com.br

We are a Colombian company with a great team, committed to serving high-level competitiveness, productivity and we strive to serve our guests and visitors with courtesy and excellence.

We are growing not only in numbers of hotels but in technology, efficiency and service.

We have established hotels in two major lines: Line Carlton, consisting of five star hotels and the Traditional Line, formed by the four-star hotels.

www.hotelesdann.com

Our Hotel rises on one of the widest avenues in the world due to its typical central boulevard, a few steps away from the most emblematic symbol of Buenos Aires: the Obelisk. It is located in one of the city’s historic neighborhoods, distinctive for its architecture – the Government House and the National Congress and it is also close to the major tango centers.

www.grandboulevardhotel.com

Our Guest Ranches and Country Inns have been restored and refurbished and tourists will find charm and hospitality to feel at home.

Pleasant activities, magic landscapes, nice accommodations, traditional meals, specialized guides and friendly people – we offer unique experiences.

Learn first-hand about our culture, customs, and natural wonders through genuine travel experiences.

We are a company specializing in educational adventure in the environmentally rich areas of the Amazon Rainforest departing from MANAUS in Brazil.

Our aim is to improve the understanding of our environment and biodiversity.

www.lares.com.uy

www.naturesafaris.com.br

EXCHANGE

BOP is the marketing alliance that groups together the most exclusive hotels and cruises of Sudamerica.

They are leaders in the industry and icons of the region where they are located.

BOP members promote together the Southern Cone at its highest lever.

An incomparable travel experience, combing remote regions full of mystery, catering to the luxury discerning traveler. www.thebestofpatagonia.com

Experience the wild of Patagonian adventure travel in lavish style with H2O Patagonia.

Join us for a week-long adventure trip at our all-inclusive adventure lodge on the breathtaking Futaleufu River in Patagonia, Chile – an experience you’ll never forget! Our exclusive adventure trips are designed for travelers seeking heart-pounding adventure by day, plush amenities and comfort by night.

www.h20patagonia.com We promote ecologically sensitive tourism through a responsible and concerned attitude towards the environment, providing the maximum benefit to the local communities by operating in a honest, thoughtful and concerned manner towards their customs and involving the communities so as to afford them the greatest financial benefit possible.

At the same time we offer professional tourism services of an international standard to our clientele.

www.wilderness-explorers.com

LATIN AMERICA SoneSta collection openS SoneSta hotel guayaquil in ecuador

Sonesta Collection has announced the opening of its first hotel in Ecuador, the 112-room Sonesta Hotel Guayaquil. Located in the financial, commercial and tourist center in Guayaquil, the city is just 165 miles south of Quito (the capital of Ecuador) and a four-hour flight from Miami. This hotel and its sister properties in Colombia, Peru, and Chile are all branded Sonesta Hotels and managed by Colombia-based GHL Hoteles.

The hotel is located within La Gran Manzana, a modern new building complex in Guayaquil with offices and retail space and next to the Mall del Sol, the biggest and most important shopping center in Ecuador. First-class amenities are offered, with a full-service modern concept restaurant, terrace area, fitness center and spa, pool, E-corner, 2,700 sq ft of meeting space, a business center, 24-hour room and concierge service. The hotel can be booked in the GDS at: Sabre: Chain code is SO and Guayaquil Property code is 140637; Amadeus: Chain code is SN and Guayaquil Property code is GYESON; Galileo: Chain code is SN and Guayaquil Property code is 14602; Worldspan: Chain code is SN and Guayaquil Property code is GYESO. Guayaquil, a port city with a tropical climate, is considered the gateway to the Galapagos Islands 500 miles offshore. Ecuador’s largest city has the beautiful Parque Centenario in the center and wonderful neighborhoods including the historic barrio of “Las Peñas,” an artistic center with 400-year-old houses converted into art galleries and restaurants giving an impression of the old, picturesque colonial Guayaquil. Malecón 2000 is a new urban park on the Simón Bolívar Pier overlooking the Guayas River and home of the tall ship Guayas. The Mercado Artesanal is the largest artisan market in the city offering 240 shops. Guayaquil is home to a theater, film and art scene that’s growing alongside an already lively club and bar scene supported by several large universities.

The Sonesta Collection is a distinctive international collection of upscale hotels, resorts and cruise ships. They will soon be adding to their collection with openings in Panama City, Miami, and San Carlos, Mexico.

Sonesta hotel guayaquil, www.sonesta.com/guayaquil; Sonesta hotels, 800-Sonesta (766-3782), www.sonesta.com 36 • July 2011

delta BeginS Sixth nonStop atlanta-BraSilia Frequency Delta Air Lines has launched a sixth nonstop frequency between Atlanta and Brazil’s capital city, Brasilia, as of May 31.

With the new frequency operating Tuesdays, Delta offers the following itinerary between Atlanta and Brasilia: Flight 221 departs Atlanta at 9:20 pm, arriving Brasília at 6:54 am on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; Flight 222 departs Brasilia at 10:15 pm and arrives Atlanta at 5:55 am on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. These flights use a Boeing 757-200 with capacity for 162 passengers: 15 in First Class and 147 in Economy Class.

Delta currently offers 32 nonstop flights between the U.S. and Brazil, including service connecting Atlanta, Detroit and New YorkJFK to Sao Paulo as well as Atlanta and Rio de Janeiro.

Earlier this year, Delta announced the beginning of codeshare service and frequent flier program reciprocity with GOL. Delta flight numbers are currently available on 56 GOL flights between Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasília and 15 Brazilian destinations: Belem, Belo Horizonte, Cuiaba, Curitiba, Florianopolis, Fortaleza, Goiania, Iguassu Falls, Joao Pessoa, Navegantes, Porto Alegre, Recife, Salvador, Teresina and Vitoria.The number of codeshare markets is expected to increase to more than 30 by summer. delta air lines, www.delta.com

goWay South aMerica oFFerS pre- and poSt-cruiSe ModuleS Recognizing the growth in cruise travel, Goway Travel has expanded their product offers to include pre- and post-cruise options as well as shore excursions in all of their destinations.

Popular shore options include Buenos Aires and Iguassu Falls (Buenos Aires Highlights), three days $491, Iguassu Falls, two days $418), wine tours in the Valparaiso valley and around Santiago, Chile (Santiago Stop Over, three days $244) and one- and two-day options for Rio de Janeiro as well as Carnaval add-ons (Rio, Jewel in the Crown, four days $692).

As Lima, Peru, becomes a more popular port of call, Goway has introduced three Machu Picchu options (Machu Picchu by Train, two days $604, Machu Picchu Wonders, five days $910, Discover Machu Picchu, three days $630) as well as Lima city options (Lima–Ancient Cultures, three days $195).

Goway’s Latin America travel planner features these modules and more, identified with an icon of a ship. This icon designates that the module is a perfect pre- or post-cruise idea or an ideal shore excursion. Offering a complete choice of travel ideas in Central and South America, the Goway Latin America Travel Planner covers travel styles from moderate to luxury as well as Goway’s own selection of small-ship cruising in Latin America.

More info on pre- and post-cruise modules as well as well as Goway’s comprehensive choice of Latin America product is available by contacting them toll-free or by email and on their website. goway, 888-469-2955, info@goway.com, www.goway.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA WilderneSS explorerS itinerary honored By national geographic traVeler

tions offered in this exciting city.

Mamaji restaurant has an interesting menu that combines traditional dishes and typical ingredients with audacious fusions in a search to satisfy the most demanding palates. A pleasa nt environment and an excellent service complement the exquisite menu, making this one of the most attractive restaurants in the Imperial City.

Sonesta hotel cusco, www.sonesta.com; ghl hoteles, www.ghlhoteles.com

cartagena iS hot With tara tourS

National Geographic Traveler has added a Wilderness Explorers journey to Guyana’s interior to its vaunted 50 Tours of a Lifetime list. Amerindian Guyana was chosen—a 16-day tour focusing on eco lodges run by the Amerindian communities at Caiman House at Yupukari Village, Maipaima Eco-Lodge at Nappi Village, Rewa Eco-Lodge, and Surama Eco-Lodge.

“This recognition by the prestigious international National Geographic Traveler Magazine is an endorsement of the world-class nature and quality of the visitors’ experience, the Guyana tourism product and Guyana’s largest inbound Tour Operator, Wilderness Explorers,” said the Honorable Manniram Prashad, Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce.

John Gimlette, author of Wild Coast—Travels on South America’s Untamed Edge, commented, “Wilderness Explorers know this country like no one else. Their Amerindian Guyana trip promises to be a quite remarkable experience.”

The itinerary takes in some of the most remote and pristine rainforest left on earth, with excellent chances for spotting endangered species. Guides help identify the hidden gems of the rain forest and savannah, introduce travelers to Amerindian medicinal plant traditions, and share time-honored stories about their people’s history and way of life.

Wilderness explorers, www.wilderness-explorers.com

SoneSta hotel cuSco totally renoVated With Bright, Modern decor Totally renovated, with a privileged location, Sonesta Hotel Cusco in Peru now features a modern décor with high-quality service. In front of the most important Inca Market, only a few blocks from the Main Square and 10 minutes from the local airport, it offers easy access to the exciting nightlife and the different tourist attracTravel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

Tara Tours Inc. has announced the release of a new brochure to Colombia in conjunction with the Colombia Tourist office (proexport).

The new brochure includes a fantastic program to Cartagena where passengers will spend 7 days/6 nights at the Beach Resort Decameron, all-inclusive for just $1,195, including airfare from Miami via Avianca Airlines.

The tour package includes roundtrip airfare from Miami to Cartagena; 6 nights at Hotel Beach Resort Decameron (4-star hotel); transfers on arrival and departure (the hotel is 5 minutes away from the Historical Center of Cartagena and 20 minutes from the airport); all meals at any of the 5 restaurants (breakfast and lunch are buffet style and dinners a la carte); unlimited domestic and international alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; daily activities program; non-motorized water sports (wind glider, kayaks, snorkeling and sailboats); beach towels, chairs, volley; nightly entertainment; unlimited drinks at the discotheque; and taxes and tips are included.

Not included are insurance, airport departure taxes (from USA $72–120, from Cartagena $20), tourist card $5 and any other service not specifically mentioned here.

Add-ons via Avianca or Copa Airlines are from New York $250, Los Angeles $290, Orlando $150, and Washington $350. tara tours, 800-327-0080, www.taratours.com/colombia.htm, www.taratours.com

opuntia galapagoS eco JourneyS and hotelS haS FaScinating WildliFe tour Opuntia is inviting travelers to explore the wonders of the Galapagos Islands on its exciting 5-day/4-night Wildlife Tour.

Guests will follow Darwin’s footsteps and interact with endemic wildlife while enjoying the experience of a lifetime.

Visitors to this eco-paradise will discover Galapagos animals like Darwin’s finches, sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas, Galapagos turtles, incredible tropical fish, Galapagos sharks and much more.

Every step of the journey is expertly led by top-rated naturalist guides.

This is truly an amazing journey. Special departures are arranged for August 11–15, September 8–12, October 8–12, November 9–12, and December 15–19. opuntia, 800-217-9414, www.opuntiagalapagoshotels.com July 2011 •

37

LATIN AMERICA kleintourS MakeS traVeling With kidS Fun in the galapagoS

Kleintours has planned different choices for families from taking part in a mangrove reforestation program to swimming and snorkeling with curious sea lions in the Galapagos Islands, and, importantly, learning about a foreign culture by immersing themselves in local activities. The company can work with any itinerary and any party size, from individuals and families with children to small and large groups.

The Galapagos adventure is a learning experience. It is not only about specific facts, but rather the bigger picture. People don’t come to the Galapagos to see nature; they come this far to understand life—and Kleintours creates the perfect blend of unforgettable vacations and learning. Their fleet M/V Galapagos Legend and M/Y Coral I & II with their outside facilities, pool and Jacuzzi allows immersion in the volcanic landscape of these enchanted islands. On family departure dates there will be more children to play with, and kids will enjoy the different activities offered onboard like stargazing, a visit to the bridge to meet the Captain, T-shirt dye, Wii, and much more. They will also have their special menu.

Waking up to the sights of a new island each morning sets the stage for their very own evolutionary process, from initial curiosity to the sheer excitement of knowing something new and wonderful is out there waiting to amaze them. Every day brings new surprises and they will want to be ready. Kids can come face-to-face with cool animals, swim and snorkel with colorful fish, learn about evolution in a fun way, and meet the famous Lonesome George that has become the icon of conservation. kleintours, www.ecuadortrain.com, www.gogalapagos.com, www.kleintours.com

FriendlineSS a Specialty on latin trailS’ M/y galapagoS odySSey With so many options to pick from within the first-class yacht segment touring the Galapagos Islands, Latin Trail’s M/Y Galapagos Odyssey offers a close experience that stands apart.

Breaking from the classical Galapagos itinerary and even the lines that exist between staff and client, this 16-passenger cruise maintains a wonderful tradition that is guaranteed to become a high38 • July 2011

light of an unforgettable Galapagos Islands vacation.

What is this tradition? Well, once every tour the chef prepares a delicious outdoor barbeque in the boat’s top deck. Besides combining delicious Galapagos seafood with the classical house BBQ treats, this special meal works to bring not only passengers, but also every single person on board together. Just like with any other BBQ that takes place in a friendly neighborhood, the M/Y Galapagos Odyssey is one big, welcoming family that enjoys hosting their guests with the best.

However, what makes this experience so unique is that while guests enjoy their food outside and the majority of the staff is also eating the very same meal inside, both parties inevitably become intertwined in one big party. As the relaxed environment and happy music work to loosen everyone up, lifelong friendships have developed from one of the crew’s fascinating stories or from a passenger’s inquiries. It’s really a tradition that makes Latin Trails proud.

M/Y Galapagos Odyssey features 8 spacious cabins all equipped with panoramic windows to enjoy the landscapes and open toward fresh airflow, private bathrooms with hot/cold water, air conditioning, minibar and television. Social areas include spacious and comfortable saloons, dining room areas, bar, mini library, Alfresco setups, and Jacuzzi. latin trails, www.latintrails.com

peru iS great For FaMilieS With ViaJeS paciFico “Peru, offers and exciting blend of active, outdoor adventure and authentic cultural interaction,” says Eduardo Doig, Commercial Director of Viajes Pacifico–Gray Line Peru. With nonstop flights from several cities of the US and no jetlag from the Eastern Coast, the plane ride is manageable for those traveling with kids.

Several itineraries are offered for families including the Amazon Rainforest that allows learning about the extraordinary flora and fauna of the region.

The adventure can be arranged with staying in a wildlife lodge or cruising the river in small cruise ships with outstanding service like the Delfin Amazon Cruises. The naturalist guides are bilingual and knowledgeable in the area, and interaction with local communities is a must.

Traveling to Peru is also a learning experience in art, culture and gastronomy. Archaeology and strong history content are found almost everywhere, from colonial Lima to the extraordinary city of Cusco—capital of the Inca Empire, the magnificent Sacred Valley and the stunning Machu Picchu that is celebrating its 100 years discovery by Yale professor Hiram Bingham.

Viajes Pacifico can help design the perfect itinerary for the family, choosing the right hotels, lodges or river cruise along the way and even be part of cooking, textile or ceramic classes given by local indigenous families. Itineraries can be combined also with river rafting, trekking and horseback.

Viajes pacifico, 888-392-9793, www.vipacperu.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

LATIN AMERICA Metropolitan touring announceS neW galápagoS itinerarieS For 2012

From the same date, the classic Yacht Isabela II will begin its new itineraries, offering one full-week and two 5-day/4-night journeys: “Northern Galápagos” 7 days/6 nights, Tuesday to Monday, beginning at San Cristóbal Island and ending in Baltra; “Central Galápagos” 5 days/4 nights, Monday to Friday, beginning and ending in Baltra; “Southern Galápagos” 5 days/4 nights, Friday to Tuesday, beginning in Baltra and ending in San Cristóbal; The company’s largest vessel, the 90-guest M/V Santa Cruz will benefit from three great new itineraries of two 5-night and one 4-night: “Eastern Galápagos” 6 days/5 nights, Friday to Wednesday beginning in San Cristóbal Island and ending at Baltra Island; “Western Galápagos” 6 days/5 nights, Wednesday to Monday, beginning at Baltra and ending at Baltra; “Northern Galápagos” 5 days/4 nights, Monday to Friday, beginning in Baltra and ending at San Cristóbal Island.

Metropolitan touring, www.metropolitan-touring.com

enchanted expeditionS’ galapagoS aBoard the Beluga iS unForgettaBle

Metropolitan Touring’s vessels in the Galápagos Islands will operate new itineraries approved by the Galápagos National Park beginning January 20 next year.

“This change is the result of the National Park Service exploring alternatives to ease the pressure on the local wildlife at the 14 most popular visiting sites in the archipelago, by redistributing visitor numbers across more sites,” explains company President, Paulina Burbano de Lara. The new system in the national park allows for a maximum of three itineraries within a 14-night period, during which time no site can be repeated—apart from the Charles Darwin Research Station, which may be visited twice.

Benefits of these changes for Metropolitan Touring’s vessels include: sites that at present cannot be visited by vessels of more than 40 guests will be opened, such as Genovesa, Tagus Cove, Santa Fe Island and South Plaza Island; optional activities such as panga rides, glass-bottom boat rides, swimming, snorkeling and kayaking can be enjoyed at more sites and with improved zoning; a wider range of options and more enriching experiences; new itineraries are more finely-tuned to the company’s vessels’ attributes.

From January 20, 2012, the upscale Yacht La Pinta will operate three separate itineraries: “Western Galápagos” for a full week, 8 days/7 nights, Friday to Friday, beginning in Baltra Island and ending in San Cristóbal Island; “Eastern Galápagos” 4 days/3 nights, Friday to Monday, beginning in San Cristóbal and ending in Baltra; “Northern Galápagos” 5 days/4 nights, Monday to Friday, beginning and ending in Baltra.

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

Enchanted Expeditions is one of the pioneers of small-boat cruises and tours to the Galapagos Islands and the mainland of Ecuador.

Founder Judy Carvalhal and her three partners have over 125 years of collective field experience as tour guides, researchers, conservationists and community tourism advocates in Ecuador. The company’s ready-made and custom active travel vacations are designed for active, curious and conservation-minded travelers looking for uncompromising value and who crave authenticity and making genuine connections with people, communities and wildlife while traveling with a ‘small footprint.’

Over the summer, travelers have a chance to book a tour in the Galapagos Islands aboard the Smart Voyager-certified motor/yacht Beluga, at incredibly reduced rates on prescheduled departures, with savings of more than $1,000 over published rates.

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 equipped with hot and cold-water showers, fully air conditioned, spacious social areas with all the comfort and facilities of a superior first class motor yacht, and panoramic windows in the salon/dining area.

The itinerary consists of daily excursions ashore the islands, snorkeling and swimming in this unique undisturbed ecosystem, surrounded by exotic, fearless animals. 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 July 2011 •

39

LATIN AMERICA rh hotelS in argentina oFFer Winter Variety

rh Bariloche

Each beautiful RH Hotel in Argentina shows its own lifestyle. rh calafate, with spectacular views of the Argentine Lake and the Patagonian hills, is the only RH hotel that provides skating on frozen ice. Besides Perito Moreno Glacier, visitors enjoy great food, tours, trekking the hills and city nightlife. rh Bariloche is near Cathedral Hill Ski Resort, one of South America’s largest, with a variety of snow activities in the winter. Two national parks, Nahuel Huapi and Los Arrayanes, are close by too, well as nightlife and culinary attractions. rh Serena Buzios is near Rio de Janeiro at the exclusive Geribá beach. Besides surf lessons, circus workshops, dance, kids club and music shows, the hotel offers massages, a solarium and sun beds— and VIP access to the 18-hole Die layout at Buzios Golf Club.

In Buenos Aires, rh classic and rh concept offer much stimulation: historical monuments, famous neighborhoods, tango lessons, fairs and theme walks. Buenos Aires has shows for both children and adults, and Argentine gastronomy is exquisite.

Rochester Concept is strategically located near the Obelisk, the subways, and Florida Street, with shopping, tourist and cultural attractions. Rochester Classic in the heart of the city is very modern with room categories for leisure, family or business trips. rh hotels, www.rochester-hotel.com.ar

canodroS haS reMarkaBle rateS on galapagoS iSland cruiSeS On a Galapagos island cruise on the M/V Galapagos Explorer II, guests experience wildlife and geology of the islands in a luxurious vessel with all of the services that they might expect from a luxury cruise. Three-, four- and seven-night journeys are accompanied by accommodations in astonishing suites, all with sea view and some with private balconies. Each has a television, minibar, central air conditioning and satellite communication. The cruise is staffed by an Ecuadorian bilingual staff.

Canodros is sponsoring a Flamingo Promo 2011 starting at just $1,291 (high season) for cruise only. The program package includes 40 • July 2011

Explorer II cruise accommodation in selected category, air ticket to and from the Galapagos Islands; cruise fuel and air ticket surcharges; and the Galapagos National Park fee and transit control card. All meals and activities on board also included. Single-supplement charge is 50 percent higher.

Rates are for double or triple occupancy; kids 7–12 get a 50-percent discount over the cruise rate (applied per every adult confirmed on same reservation). The rate applies to 3 cabins per departure, subject to availability. Limited number of suites is per cruise, not per partner. The program applies to individual bookings only. Rates are for new reservations received until September 15 for 2011 departures. Other conditions apply.

Departure dates are July 6–9, 13–16, 20–23; August 24–27, August 31–September 3; October 26–29; December 3–7 and 17–21.

Canodros also has a Galapagos Summer Special targeted to children that includes a Young Naturalist Program, a special surprise souvenir package, daily snacks in the cabin and soft drinks and snorkeling equipment rental for kids. canodros, www.galapagosexplorer.com, www.canodros.com

aracari traVel conSulting proMoteS Machu picchu With peter FroSt Aracari’s trip to Machu Picchu with Peter Frost runs from August 15 to 22 (8 days), with just a few weeks remaining to book. Guests on this fantastic journey will travel to Machu Picchu on its 100th anniversary arriving in style on the luxury Orient Express Hiram Bingham train; stay right beside the ruins at the iconic and ideally located Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge; access private art collections, archeological sites and buildings of high historical importance in Lima, Cusco and the Sacred Valley; and experience cultural expositions, a weaving demonstration, a Paso horse show and have the unrivaled opportunity to experience some of the very latest of Aracari’s “musts.”

Having participated in more than one National Geographic expedition to explore remote Inca sites, Peter Frost is more than simply a guide; he is a renowned explorer who’s written numerous guidebooks about Peru and the Andean region, as well as having accompanied the most discerning of clientele. Guests will appreciate his knowledge of Inca history and architecture.

As well as accompanying the group, he will be giving three illustrated lectures during the trip. Agents should not miss out on one of the last opportunities to offer clientele this truly special and timely trip to Peru.

Aracari’s 15th anniversary coincides with the centenary of Machu Picchu’s scientific discovery, and they put together three escorted journeys to celebrate the occasion. The recently completed Trip of the Century led by Dr. John Hemming was a huge success. Clients shouldn’t miss the opportunity to participate in the last of three iconic and unrepeatable journeys hand-tailored by Aracari. aracari travel consulting, www.aracari.com; www.youtube.com/watch?v=n34Srm6pBl8 (Frost interview) www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

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The IndoChine Group of bars, restaurants, clubs, villas and resorts is a unique reflection of contemporary Asian lifestyle and is synonymous for its authentic ‘nutriceutical’ cuisine, award-winning designs and internationally famed parties.

Venues in Singapore, Kalim Bay, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Germany, India, and most recently in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Journeys Within is a boutique Southeast Asia tour company dedicatedto delivering its guests unforgettable, customized trips through Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

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Explore the diversity of the Mongolian when you experience the iconic Trans Siberian Railway.

You will never forget the romance of a train journey from Moscow to Beijing while the beauty of nature and cultures unfold along the journey.

Take in all that Mongolia has to offer to the inquisitive mind of the sophisticated traveler during your stopover in Ulaanbaatar.

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In house educational training programs for staff, tour coordinators and guides.

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We provide the best travel programs available throughout Indonesia.

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A specialty tour company that explores ancient Chinese culture. We specialize in providing educational and spritually focused tours related to the history of Zen Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and other deep cultural currents in Chinese history.

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Historical sites little known and seldom seen by westerners, including, the traditional homes of Lao-tsu, Chuang-tsu and scores of Chinese historical figures and places.

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JULY 2011 •

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

41

PACIFIC ASIA GowaY’s DowNUNDER MEGa FaMiL a GREat sUccEss

Following the success of their 40th Anniversary Famil in 2010 for 40 North American agents, this May Goway invited 44 agents to journey from North America on one of four itineraries for special Downunder training.

The groups arrived in Sydney having explored Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand or other parts of Australia. Each educational was designed to offer firsthand experience of the destinations—from shark feeding in Bora Bora; an Amazing Race in Fiji; to helicopter rides over the Great Barrier Reef.

Melanie Gatzke from AMA Travel loved “holding Walter the Koala (Goway’s sponsored koala), feeding kangaroos, snorkeling for the first time on the Great Barrier Reef and taking my first helicopter tour over the Great Barrier Reef. Oh, and the photos I was able to get!”

The company’s commitment to the South Pacific made this Mega Educational unique. In Sydney, the agents attended a training workshop with over 50 suppliers and a celebratory dinner, all handled by the management and staff of the Sydney office, the local contact for all travelers booked with Goway.

Ruth Louie from Best Connections Travel chose to celebrate her birthday with Goway. “It was a great trip. I got a really good feel for the country for my clients. The awesome beauty of the New Zealand landscape was breathtaking. As agents we’re always looking for ways to offer new and diverse activities to our clients.

And Goway pulled it all together for us and kept the program moving along.”

Goway’s 132 page Downunder Travel planner is available on their website or by toll-free contact.

Goway, 888-469-2944, www.goway.com

FiJi FoR FREE EN RoUtE DowN UNDER with aPt toURiNG APT has the perfect stopover on the way to Australia and New Zealand with three nights at one of Fiji’s fabulous resorts, Outrigger on the Lagoon on the Coral Coast. The stopover is available for free when booking APT’s 21-day Royal Escorted or 24-day Southern Explorer vacations by July 31, 2011. There are many guaranteed 42 • JULY 2011

departures through March 31, 2012, and savings are offered up to $1,010 per couple.

In New Zealand, guests can choose to do a country home stay with a local family in Rotorua, explore the panoramic beauty of Mount Cook during a stay at the famous Hermitage Hotel, step aboard the TranzAlpine Train for an award-winning journey across the Southern Alps and discover the magic of Milford Sound while cruising in the Fiordland National Park.

In Australia guests stay at The Pier One Sebel uniquely situated under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, experience the rainforest and Great Barrier Reef in tropical Cairns, ‘Sounds of Silence’ dining under the stars in the outback at Uluru (Ayers Rock) and on the Colonial Tramcar in Melbourne and much more. Southern Explorer also includes travel on The Ghan railway.

The offer must be asked for at time of booking. $1,010 Free Fiji savings are based on new E21 (21-Day Royal Escorted)/E24 (24Day Southern Explorer) bookings with air from Los Angeles.

Savings for travelers not using international air are $780 per couple. Seats are limited and subject to availability. Airline taxes are additional.

The following departure dates are guaranteed and more will be guaranteed as the season progresses: (2011) September 4, October 23, November 6, and December 18; (2012) January 1, 15, 22; February 5, 12, 19, and March 4, 11, 18.

At Outrigger on the Lagoon in Fiji guests will stay in a luxurious Superior Resort View Room with a private lanai (balcony). The resort’s many facilities include a freshwater pool, one of the largest in the South Pacific. The stopover includes three nights accommodation, transfers and breakfasts each morning. aPt touring, 800-290-8687, reservations@aptouring.com, www.aptouring.com

aYRavata cRUisEs oFFERs GRaND voYaGE oF chiNDwiN RivER Ayravata Cruises is presenting a Grand Voyage of the Chindwin River. This river is the second most important river in Myanmar as well as being the largest tributary of the mighty Ayeyarwaddy. It flows entirely within Burma, meandering through beautiful valleys and jungles. Lofty blue mountains rise in the distance and tower over the towns and villages on its banks.

Apart from its spectacular scenery, Chindwin offers many old religious monuments. Grand Voyage of the Chindwin River is a river journey to discover the hidden treasures of the Golden Land, visiting Bagan, Pakkoku, Pakhan-Gyi, Monywa, Mingit, Kalewa, Mawlayik, and Mandalay. A journey on the Chindwin is perhaps one the most beautiful river cruises of Southeast Asia.

This journey runs September 20–29. 2011 (10 days/9 nights), and starts from $3,150 pp.

Ayravata Cruises has been operating cruises on the Chindwin since 2003. ayravata cruises, res@ayravatacruises.com, www.pandaw1947.com, www.ayravatacruises.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

PACIFIC ASIA iNtERNatioNaL sociaL MEDia coNvERGE FoR GvB’s 2ND aNNUaL MaiLa ta FaN Boka

More than 50 social media from seven countries converged on Guam for the 2nd Annual Maila Ta Fan Boka sponsored by Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) May 26–28 in an effort to promote the island’s authentic food culture. Bloggers and photographers from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, China, Philippines, and Taiwan arrived for the three-day event that allowed them to see everything from crops grown on Guam to how dishes are prepared.

Media were welcomed with an orientation breakfast at Toh-Lee Restaurant in Nikko Hotel, where an expansive view of Tumon Bay greeted them. Bus transportation secured through MHI them transported them to Johnny Castro’s mango farm in Talofofo, Hamomoto Fruit World in Yona, and a hydroponic lettuce farm in Mangilao before capping the day off at the Muna home, where media learned how to prepare dishes like hineksa’ agaga’ (red rice), lechen biringhenas (barbecued eggplant with coconut milk) and gollai appán lemmai (breadfruit in coconut milk) in the family’s backyard kitchen.

Cultural entertainment was also provided by Inetnon Gef Pa’go.

Before venturing off to individual group tours with their respective market ground operators May 27, the 54-member group was treated to a special introduction of Lina’la’ Chamorro Cultural Park in Tumon. On Saturday, the event capped off with the 2nd Annual Maila Ta Fan Boka Culinary Competition and lunch at the Agat Mango Festival.

Sponsors for Maila Ta Fan Boka included the Guam Hotel & Restaurant Association (GHRA), The Westin Resort Guam, Lina’la’ Chamorro Cultural Park, the Micronesian Chefs Association, Farmer’s Cooperative Association of Guam, GPO, Pacific Islands Club, Guam Community College, Fiesta Resort Guam, Hotel Nikko Guam, Continental Airlines, the Agat Mayor’s Office, the Department of Chamorro Affairs, IT&E, Nippon Rent-a-Car, DFS Guam, Outrigger Guam Resort, Sandcastle Cocktail Show, Gyoza Yatai, Skydive Guam, Alupang Beach Club, Two Lovers Point, Capricciosa, and Atlantis Submarine.

Guam visitors Bureau (GvB), www.visitguam.org

wttc cEMENts its tiEs with chiNa’s haiNaN PRoviNcE Reflecting the shift of the World Travel & Tourism Council’s focus toward emerging economies and the growing success of their China Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

Initiative, the Chinese delegation at the recently concluded 11th Global Travel & Tourism Summit in Las Vegas exceeded 60 industry and government representatives, four of them new WTTC members.

The Chinese region best represented (delegation of 20) was Hainan, led by WTTC member Chen Feng, Chairman of the HNA Group, a large multi-industry enterprise group that operates in many sectors of Travel & Tourism and related industries—from air transport (with seven airlines) and airports, to hotels, real estate, logistics and retail.

Attendance included the Hainan People’s Government led by Tan Li, Vice Governor and Director General of the Hainan Tourism Development Commission, together with Lu Zhiyuan, Assistant Governor of Hainan Provincial People’s Government.

The study, soon to be completed, was especially timely since Hainan Island has been earmarked as an international resort island

by China’s State Council. As a result, there is huge growing interest in the destination among tourism and hospitality investors and management companies—not least among WTTC Members.

Jean-Claude Baumgarten, a WTTC Vice-Chairman and the association’s former President & CEO, was invited to chair the Tourism International Advisory Board of Hainan Province. “I am very honored to accept this invitation,” Baumgarten said, “as this is the first time that a non-Chinese from the world of Travel & Tourism has been honored in such a way by the Hainan People’s Government.” world travel & tourism council (wttc), www.wttc.org

MaLaYsia LEaPs thREE PositioNs iN woRLD RaNkiNG FoR MEEtiNGs Malaysia leaped a notable three places to the 28th position in the latest ICCA, International Congress and Convention Association, country rankings. The number of meetings the country hosted grew by 24 percent, from 96 meetings (2009) to 119 meetings (2010).

Malaysia retained its position as one of the top 10 meeting destinations in the Asia Pacific.

Malaysia’s ranking was assisted by an additional seven international meetings held in Kuala Lumpur, from 72 (2009) to 79 (2010). The largest meeting held during 2010 was the 18th World Congress of Accountants, which attracted a record attendance of over 6,000 delegates.

In 2010, Malaysia welcomed 1.3 million international business event visitors, contributing an estimated $6 billion in economic impact. Key developments in the pipeline include the expansion of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre by the end of 2013, the Penang International Convention and Exhibition Center by 2014, and the proposed development of the MATRADE Centre by 2014.

In addition, new infrastructure will support the growing industry, which includes the upcoming Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) 2, an integrated urban mass rapid transit (MRT) system, and the construction of a series of pedestrian walkways throughout the capital city as part of the Greater Kuala Lumpur plan.

Malaysia convention & Exhibition Bureau (MycEB), www.myceb.com.my JULY 2011 •

43

PACIFIC ASIA FRiENDLY PLaNEt tRavEL tURNs UP hEat oN sUMMER tRavEL DEaLs

Ustoa PRoGRaMs hiGhLiGht tastE sENsatioNs iN FivE asiaN coUNtRiEs

While the cost of traveling this summer continues to increase, Friendly Planet Travel is dropping their prices even more. They have recently announced their nine-day Taste of Thailand tour for $1,199 and 14-day Incredible Thailand tour for $1,599.

Here’s what’s included in the price. Roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles via China Airlines, including fuel surcharges; intra-Thailand transportation; accommodations at first class hotels; daily American buffet breakfast; a welcome dinner; sightseeing tours as per itinerary and all transfers; professional, English-speaking tour guides; and more.

The Taste of Thailand tour brings travelers to Thailand’s historic Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Kanchanaburi. The tour begins in Bangkok, was once known as the “Venice of the East” due to its extensive canal and boating transport system. Travelers will experience the iconic canal boat rides and gain a closeup view of traditional Thai life. They will also visit historic temple sites, including Wat Po, the oldest temple in Bangkok, and Wat Traimit, where the 5-ton, 700year-old Golden Buddha resides—the largest in the world.

Then it’s on to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Bang Pa, King Rama IV’s summer palace. Travelers will head to Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai, where they can ride on elephants through the lush jungle and enjoying a bamboo raft ride.

The Incredible Thailand tour stops at all the above destinations while also visiting Sukhothai Historical Park in Sukhothai, Chalermchai Kositpipat’s “White” Temple, Chiang Rai with option to take an elephant ride to the Yao Hilltribe Village and Akha Hilltribe Village for lunch. A boat trip is offered to the Golden Triangle, and then travelers can continue on to Chiang Mai. Travelers can also choose from two optional extensions on either tour. The first is Phuket Island, Thailand’s largest island, also known as “the Pearl of the Andaman Sea.” This stop includes a relaxing stay at Thailand’s famous Novotel Resort with plenty of sundrenched days on the pristine beaches of Kalim Bay. There’s also an optional tour to the astonishing Angkor Wat in Cambodia for travelers looking to explore one of the most magnificent archaeological sites in the world.

Friendly Planet travel, jaime@gregoryfca.com, www.friendlyplanet.com

Tour companies are serving up a menu of Asian food adventures, from cooking classes to culinary feasts to suit varying tastes and palates.

On A Portrait of India (18 days/17 nights), foodies enjoy a cooking demonstration and dinner at the home of a noted Indian chef on this Tauck trip, with visits to New Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Cochin, Kumarakom, and Mumbai. Priced from $7,890 pp land only, the tour must be booked by December 1 for travel until December 21, 2011. According to Tauck, this virtually all-inclusive price reflects savings up to 40% over making the same arrangements on one’s own. 800-468-2825, www.tauck.com.

With Explorations’ Treasures of Angkor Wat and Vietnam (16 days/15 nights), guests experience a half-day Vietnamese cooking class in Hoi An, including a visit to the market and preparation of five traditional dishes. The trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam is for a small group of twenty-eight passengers. Price begins from $2,999 pp, saving travelers up to 25% over independent booking, according to Collette Vacations. Booking must be made

by March 1, 2012, for travel through April 12, 2012. International airfare is additional. 877-451-8687, www.explorationstouring On International Expeditions’ Laos and Vietnam: Sacred Jewels of Southeast Asia (16 days/15 nights), travelers sample the famous roast chicken at Anh Tuyet’s restaurant in Hanoi featured on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations.” In Laos, culinary offerings include lunch at Makphet Restaurant in Vientiane and Italian cuisine at Xe Pian ecolodge. Also offered is an elephant fish lunch in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Activities include sightseeing by cyclorickshaw, tuk-tuk, long boat, sampan boat and elephant back. An overnight cruise on Halong Bay in Vietnam aboard a Chinese junk, plus visits to Luang Prabang in Laos and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam are also included, as are excursions to local markets, villages, and sustainability projects, a private baci welcome ceremony, and a sacred tak bat ceremony. Hotel accommodations are for thirteen nights, with three nights in secluded Xe Pian National Protected Area.

The tour can be booked at any time and costs from $4,298 pp land only, available until December 1, 2011. 800-633-4734, www.ietravel.com/explore-laos China Impressions (10 days/9 nights) lets guests savor a Beijing duck dinner and local culinary lunches. Cost starts from $2,199 pp, representing up to a 40% savings over booking independently, according to Pacific Delight Tours. The itinerary visits Beijing, Xi’an, Suzhou, and Shanghai, and includes international airfare from Los Angeles (add $200 for New York), deluxe hotels, meals, sightseeing, and transfers. This tour is available through March 2012. 800-221-7179, www.pacificdelighttours.com All tour prices are based on double occupancy. Restrictions and additional security fees, departure and local taxes and fees may apply. Prices may vary based on departure date.

Ustoa, www.ustoa.travel.com, www.ustoa.com

44 • JULY 2011

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PACIFIC ASIA cENtURY cRUisEs LaUNchEs MaJoR U.s. MaRkEtiNG PRoGRaM

Delta has expanded significantly into China in recent years, and will operate 47 weekly flights out of China this summer. In addition to the new Atlanta service, Delta is beginning nonstop flights between Detroit and Beijing July 1. Delta also offers service from Beijing to Seattle and Tokyo-Narita; Shanghai to Detroit and TokyoNarita; and Hong Kong to Detroit and Tokyo-Narita.

On June 1, Delta announced a new codesharing agreement with China Eastern, one of China’s largest international airlines, which will allow US customers to enjoy convenient connecting service in Shanghai to more than 20 cities throughout China.

Delta air Lines, www.delta.com

Century Cruises has launched initiatives supporting its preferred tour operator partnerships in the US. The campaign includes increasing its outreach to travel agents through trade shows and emarketing, and inaugurating a public relations program to enhance brand recognition, distinguish the cruise line from its competition, and increase its share of the US market. The move comes as Century finalizes the timetable for the introduction of two new luxury ships to its Yangtze fleet. With the addition of these new ships, Century will have one of the strongest presences on the river.

The Century fleet is composed of the Century Star, Century Sky, Century Sun, Century Diamond and Century Emerald. Century is the only 5-star cruise line on the Yangtze with all ships built after 2003.

Century cruises are currently featured in the programs of many leading tour operators that include Viking River Cruises, Gate One Travel, Princess Cruises and Tours and Travel Bound.

Century Cruises recently became the first river cruise company to issue an Initial Public Offering (IPO) on a major stock exchange, the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in China. Its river cruise experience provides world-class service and accommodations, Western style and Chinese cuisine, and amenities that include a wide range of entertainment, cultural, and other leisure activities, as well as Internet access and top international cable channels.

Info is available from Senior US Rep Jeff O’Rourke. century cruises, 888-980-8747, jeff@centuryrivercruises.com (Rourke), www.centuryrivercruises.com

toP 10 UNFoRGEttaBLE asiaN tRavEL ExPERiENcEs with iNtREPiD tRavEL

DELta REsUMEs FLiGhts BEtwEEN GatEwaY iN atLaNta aND shaNGhai Delta Air Lines has launched nonstop service between Atlanta and Shanghai, connecting its largest hub and global gateway with one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

The flight operates twice weekly on 269-seat Boeing 777 aircraft, featuring full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite as well as Delta’s new Economy Comfort class with additional legroom.

Delta first launched service between Atlanta and Shanghai in 2008, but later suspended the service amid the economic slowdown.

The Atlanta-Shanghai schedule is: Tuesdays and Sundays, Flight 229 departs Atlanta at 9:55 am, arriving Shanghai the next day at 1:40 pm; Flight 228 departs Shanghai at 3:45 pm and arrives Atlanta at 6:25 pm Mondays and Wednesdays.

46 • JULY 2011

Sustainable travel company Intrepid Travel has been operating small group adventures to Asia for 22 years and knows the continent—and its quirks—inside and out. Here’s what they list as the Top 10 Unforgettable Asian travel experiences: 1– Tuck into Tarantulas in Cambodia. A popular, protein-filled snack, eating tarantulas became common during shortages. Now they’re a roadside treat—for those who dare.

2– Get hyper-colored at India’s Holi Festival, a swirling mass of revelers showering each other with vibrant, colored powder in celebration of the arrival of the harvest season.

3– Meet the “Man of the Forest” in Borneo. Watching an orangutan swing from the trees in unbridled joy is one of life’s simple pleasures.

4– Celebrate two humps at the Pushkar Camel Fair in India.

Snake charmers, acrobats, magicians, musicians, mystics and travelers appear for the annual five-day event where camels are dressed up, traded and raced. Timing depends on lunar cycles.

5– Experience the Eighth Wonder of the World in the Philippines.

Remarkable feats of engineering, the verdant Banaue Rice Terraces were carved into the mountains by hand more than 2,000 years ago by the indigenous people of Ifugao.

6– “Float” in a sea of volcanoes in Indonesia. While many tourists head to the popular Bali beach spots, Indonesia’s volcanic lakes and seabeds are a rewarding find.

7– Get Spiritual in Varanasi. Witnessing an evening Aarti ceremony on banks of the River Ganges is life-affirming, with incense and chants filling the air.

8– Trek to the Tiger’s Nest in Bhutan. Perched on a Himalayan cliff, Tiger’s Nest Monastery is a transcendental trip.

9– Get “stuck” during Thaipusam in Malaysia. This annual Hindu festival sees brave worshippers and devotees take elaborate sacrificial measures, including impaling themselves with hooks and metal skewers. Some would say the climb of 272 steep stairs up to Batu Caves is torturous enough, but there’s comfort in the form of a colossal, golden statue of Lord Murugan who looks on with pride.

10– Go nomadic in Mongolia. Spending an overnight in an environmentally-friendly tentlike ger allows travelers to experience how the native people lived for eons. intrepid travel, 866-360-1151, www.intrepidtravel.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News

PACIFIC ASIA PaNDaw RivER cRUisEs iNtRoDUciNG sEcoND shiP iN BURMa

Pandaw River Cruises has announced the construction of its second ship on the Irrawaddy River. As demand continues to grow briskly for Myanmar (Burma), this new addition expands the Pandaw fleet to 7 vessels plying the rivers of Southeast Asia by the end of 2012. The intimate 16-cabin RV Katha Pandaw is slated for completion in November 2011. When completed, the ship will join the RV Pandaw II and RV Orient Pandaw (repositioning to Burma in September 2012) offering 10- and 14-night cruise programs from Mandalay to Prome or reverse.

“An increasing number of westerners who experience our popular Mekong River program are returning to us for further exploration of Southeast Asia,” says Sales & Marketing VP Tom Markwell.

“They truly enjoy their onboard experience with us; accommodations, cuisine and service far exceed their expectations while visiting one of the most culturally enriching destinations in the world.”

Decorated with brass and teak finishes and spacious well-appointed cabins with French doors, the new vessel will be similar in style to the others in the fleet.

Since 1995, Pandaw has been exploring the rivers of Southeast Asia, beginning with the Irrawaddy and Chindwin Rivers in Burma, then the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia, and most recently the Rajang River in Borneo. The largest cruise company in the region, Pandaw has pioneered river exploration in Southeast Asia.

Pandaw River cruises, 800-798-4223, www.pandaw.com

BLUE ocEaN REsoRt tEEs UP GoLF hoLiDaY oN viEtNaM coastaL coURsEs The Blue Ocean Resort is taking a swing at the notion that firstrate golf holidays must come with absurd price tags. In May, the Life Resorts-managed hotel launched a golf package that couples rounds on two of Phan Thiet’s spectacular seaside courses with a two-night stay in one of Mui Ne’s premier resorts.

The $180 net pp package “Enjoy, Stay and Play” includes green fees for 18 holes at Ocean Dunes Golf Club, 18 holes at the Sea Links Golf and Country Club, two nights’ accommodation in a Superior Room with breakfast, plus discounts for additional nights Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com

and non-golfing guests.

The two golf courses hug the winding coastline of Phan Thiet less than 15 minutes’ drive from Blue Ocean Resort. The two courses recently launched a golf destination marketing effort, Golf the Beach.

“We decided to include both courses so guests wouldn’t have to choose, and so there would be an array of opportunities appealing to golfers of every stripe,” said Chris Duffy, general director of Life Resorts Management.

Built on rolling sand dunes over 260 ft above sea level, the Golfplan-designed Sea Links course offers famously beautiful panoramic views of the sparkling East Sea, while the 9th Hole on the Ocean Dunes course, designed by former world number one Nick Faldo, was rated “One of the Top 500 Holes in the World” by Golf magazine.

“When people think of world-class courses and upscale hotels, what first springs to mind are the steep costs. But with “Enjoy, Stay and Play” we were able to pack a premium golf holiday that’s actually affordable,” said Duffy.

“There are no frills, just great golf,” he said. “Blue Ocean Resort stripped the package of the non-essentials because we wanted to offer the best possible price to visitors who come to Vietnam and Mui Ne, above all else, to play these stunning coastal courses. And when I see the tag, I think we succeeded there.”

“Enjoy, Stay and Play” is valid until the end of the 2011, and does not include golf cart or club rental.

Blue ocean Resort, www.blueoceanresort.com.vn

PLaNhotEL GRoUP PREsENts DiaMoNDs watER viLLas iN MaLDivEs’ aRi’s atoLL Located in the lagoon of Diamonds Athuruga Beach & Water Villas, the 25 exclusive Water Villas, recently built, are the ideal place for a dream-filled holiday.

Each of the 25 water villas have a private large terrace with direct access to the water. All rooms are equipped with personalized climate control and tasteful furnishings that include custom-made rattan furniture with canopy king-size beds, Italian contemporary lighting and handmade inlaid wooden parquet floors. The villas offer ample living space with comfortable sofa bed and a mini bar corner with in-room coffee- and tea-making facilities. The large bathrooms have twin basins, vanity mirror, bathrobes and slippers plus a choice of personalized fine toiletries. Spacious walk-in showers feature a double showerhead and private access to the outside terrace.

Set on a spectacular over-water deck, the exclusive restaurant serves a sumptuous breakfast plus an a la carte lunch and dinner menu featuring a choice of Italian dishes, Asian and Oriental cooking and Maldivian specialties. On the open-air terrace are also served international cocktails, selected spirits, beer, wine, fruit juices and soft drinks.

Guests have access without additional cost to the bar and to the restaurant’s buffet where on selected days, evening theme nights offer fresh-caught fish prepared on the barbecue.

Planhotel Group, www.planhotel.com JULY 2011 •

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