November 2010 Edition

NOVEMBER 2010

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s o u t h e a s t r e g i o n a l c o r r e s p o n d e n tJoan Gonzalez

w e s t e r n r e g i o n a l c o r r e s p o n d e n tConnie Skoog

Travel World News (ISSN 1044-4602) is published monthly byTravel Industry Network, Inc., 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT06851-4707. The cost of a subscription in the USA is $25, inCanada $40. For subscribers outside USA or Canada, the rate is$80. Please send check or money order in U.S. dollars payable toTravel World News. For change of address, please enclose yourmailing label and send to: Circulation Department, Travel WorldNews, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Periodicalspostage paid at Norwalk, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Address advertisinginquiries and/or editorial copy to: Travel World News, 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT 06851-4707. Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Printed in USA. No part of this publication maybe reproduced without permission.

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NOVEMBER 2010 ISSUE NO. 269

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

INDUSTRY EVENTS 4CALENDAR OF EVENTS 8INDUSTRY NEWSNORTH AMERICA 12EUROPE‘Meet Poland 2010’ Workshop In WarsawAttracted Participants From Over 20 Countries 14

Cruise From the Heart of the Mediterranean 16

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

CARIBBEANFree Nights, “Honeymoon Magic’ PackageOffered This Winter at Grand Case Beach Club 20Caribbean Dive Travel on Special This FallWith Maduro Travel 22La Source Grenada Teams Up WithAquanauts Grenada 24

MEXICOFITA Launches in Mexico City; Aims to Be a Leading Tourism Fair 26Fall Rates at Award-Winning Sandos Hotelsin Mexico Start at $60 All-Inclusive 30Grand Velas Riviera Maya Earns 2011AAA Five Diamond Award 32

LATIN AMERICABrazil’s Mesmerizing Minas Gerais 34Tara Tours Offering ‘Cuzco & Machu Picchu Private’ for $2,240 Per Person 38Three-Destination Chilean Experience Offered byTierra Atacama Hotel & Spa 40Roatan Charter Anounces 2011 Whale SharkWeek Activities at Utila Lodge and WSORC 43

AFRICAAfrican Leaders Discuss Raising Tourism’s Profileat ATA’s Annual Presidential Forum on Tourism 48Omong’we Travel & Tours Discounts Christmas,New Year Family Packages 50Kumuka Worldwide Shows the Magic ofAfrica and Beyond 52Baobab Expeditions Offers Treks to theGorillas and the Big Five 54

EUROPE / MALTA - page 16

INDUSTRY EVENTS / NETM - page 4

AFRICA / ATA - page 48

LATIN AMERICA / MINAS - page 34

MEXICO / FITA - page 26

COLEMAN INTRODUCES NETM SALES EVENTFOR ‘NEW EUROPE’ IN DUBROVNIK

New Europe Travel Mart (NETM), a new tourism sales/business de-velopment event designed to increase leisure travel to the region fromthe Baltic to the Balkans increasingly referred to as “New Europe,”will be launched April 13-15, 2011, in Dubrovnik by event manage-ment firm William H. Coleman, Inc.

NETM will bring buyers of leisure travel services from global mar-kets to Dubrovnik to meet senior sales and marketing executives rep-resenting supplier organizations from the entire “New Europe” re-gion. The Coleman NETM format enables buyers and suppliers tohave two days of 20-minute prescheduled appointments in supplierbooth/offices, similar to meetings in their own offices.

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

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

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

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

Buyer Registration fees are $175 including three nights’ single roomaccommodations at the Radisson Blu, roundtrip airport transfers, allbusiness sessions with prescheduled appointments, all official hostedsocial functions, and ground transportation. Buyers will arrange theirown air travel on Host airlines that will be offering reduced airfaresto all NETM delegates.

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

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

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

William H. Coleman, Inc. is an international events managementfirm headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, with offices in Londonand Toronto.New Europe Travel Mart (NETM), [email protected],www.neweuropetravelmart.com

www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News4 • NOVEMBER 2010

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INDUSTRY EVENTS

USTOA TO GRANT AWARDS OF RECOGNITIONTO BOB WHITLEY, JOHN STACHNIK AT NTA CONVENTION THIS MONTH

The late Bob Whitley, USTOA Presidentfor 32 years, will be honored this year withthe NTA Pioneer award and John Stachnikof Mayflower Tours will receive the BobEveridge Lifetime Achievement award.Both awards will be presented at the 2010NTA Convention November 13–17 inMontreal, Quebec.

The Pioneer award, established by theNTA Board in 2005, honors individualswhose accomplishments have resulted in asignificant change in the travel industryfrom which NTA and its members have ben-efited. Established in 2003, the BobEveridge award honors an individual who’sbeen actively dedicated to the mission ofNTA and the best interest of its memberswhile making professional and personal con-tributions over a span of at least 20 years.

Whitley’s distinguished career in tourismspanned over 40 years. He was President of

USTOA in 1978 and served in that role until his passing earlier thisyear. Before joining USTOA, Whitley was Director of the Florida andPennsylvania Departments of Tourism and of the Virginia Beach(Virginia) Convention and Tourist Bureau.

A graduate of Marquette University, Stachnik began his career in1966 with a hotel company based in Washington, D.C. In 1970, heco-founded a Midwestern regional tour company, and, along with hiswife Mary, established Mayflower Tours in 1979. John served on theboard of Tourism Cares, TIA (now U.S. Travel Association), and 14years on the NTA Board of Directors, including a year as NTAPresident in 1982.NTA (National Tour Association), 800-682-8886, www.ntaonline.com

34TH ANNUAL TRAVELMART LATINAMERICA2010 IN LIMA SETS ATTENDANCE ANDAPPOINTMENT RECORDS

Record-setting attendance of over 1,000 delegates and a recordnumber of 8,150 prescheduled appointments showed the tourism in-dustry is “alive and well” in Latin America as buyers and suppliersgathered in Lima, Peru, for the 34th Annual TravelMartLatinAmerica, September 22–24.

“Buyers” from global markets met “Suppliers” from every LatinAmerica country during three days of carefully structured businessand social activities. The focal point was two days dedicated toprescheduled business appointments at Lima’s recently remodeledReal Felipe Fortress Convention Center. Other activities included awelcome reception at the Nuevo Museo Larco hosted by PromPeru

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

Carefully selected member Hotels of the Socieded Hoteles del Peruprovided accommodations for the international buyers, and offeredspecial discounted rates for Latin America suppliers. Host hotelswere Casa Andina Private Collection, Country Club Lima Hotel,Crowne Plaza, Delfines Hotel, Doubletree El Pardo by Hilton, JWMarriott, Libertador San Isidro, Melia, Miraflores Park OrientExpress, Novotel, Plaza del Bosque, Sheraton, Sofitel Royal Park,Sonesta El Olivar, Thunderbird Pardo and Thunderbird Principal.

Over 350 industry buyers from the world’s most important mar-kets, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and thePacific, and over 260 supplier companies from all Latin Americadestinations attended. International travel industry journalists alsoparticipated. The exclusive William H. Coleman, Inc. “Select-Match” prescheduled appointments system arranged 8,150 meet-ings between “Buyers and Suppliers” in advance, and more werearranged on-site during the business sessions. TravelMartLatinAmerica attendance is always sold out to assure delegates havea productive and enjoyable experience.

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

Most delegates visited tourism sites throughout Peru by taking ad-vantage of special pre- and post-tours. PromPeru also offered com-plimentary Lima city tours.

Irma Coleman, President & CEO of William H. Coleman, Inc., theorganizing company, said: “We were very excited about once againbringing TravelMart LatinAmerica back to Lima, the event’s actual“birthplace!” Many TravelMart LatinAmerica Buyers and Suppliershave visited Peru before, but this was an excellent opportunity forthem to personally experience the changes and advances that arecontinually happening in the Peru travel industry.” She also stated:“The TravelMart LatinAmerica Host committee is a group of dedi-cated professionals who worked very hard for almost two years tomake this event successful, and we were delighted to be back “home”in Lima.” This was the fourth time the event returned to Peru, firstheld there in 1978.

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

TravelMart LatinAmerica is produced and managed by William H.Coleman, Inc., an international events management firm headquar-tered in Jacksonville, Florida, with offices in Toronto and London. TravelMart LatinAmerica, [email protected], [email protected],www.travelmartlatinamerica.com;William H. Coleman, Inc., www.whcoleman.com

BOB WHITLEY

JOHN STACHNIK

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

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

Following the first day’s La Cumbre’s Conference Program, themedia delegation took part at the opening press conference onboardthe USS Midway Aircraft carrier-Museum, where Gastón Isoldi,Director of the Event for Reed Exhibitions Latin America; CarolineBeteta, President and CEO of the Tourism Commission ofCalifornia; and Kerri Verbeke Kapich, Vice-president of Marketingand Strategic Partnerships from the San Diego CVB, applauded LaCumbre’s return to the U.S. West coast after 10 years. It empha-sizes the Latin American market’s influence and the growth of SanDiego, with its multiplicity of cultures including the importantHispanic community.

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

Concluding the event, Las Vegas was introduced as host city for the2011 edition of La Cumbre, set to take place September 7–9 at TheVenetian Resort, Hotel, Casino. During the closing luncheon, RafaelVillanueva, Director of International Sales of the Las Vegas Conven-tion and Visitors Authority, presented the vast possibilities the citywill present, and attendees enjoyed a brief presentation by Venetianresident musical theatre performing ensemble Blue Man Group.

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

La Cumbre 2010 was sponsored by San Diego CVB, Las VegasCVA, Hilton Worldwide and Hilton San Diego Bayfront (Platinumsponsors); Volaris (Gold); Travel Ace Assistance (Silver); and CopaAirlines, Gerencia de Viajes, Royal Caribbean, Universal Orlandoand Universal Studios Hollywood as Bronze sponsors.

La Cumbre is associated with Brazilian Tour OperatorsAssociation (BTOA), California Alliance, and Ancoradouro Viagens. La Cumbre, [email protected],www.lacumbre.com; Reed Exhibitions, www.reedexpo.com

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com NOVEMBER 2010 • 7

INDUSTRY EVENTS

IF YOU WANT YOURBUSINESS TO GO A LONG WAY,

THIS IS YOUR DESTINATION.

JANUARY 19-23

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ORGANISED BY

Member of:Member of:

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TO LIST YOUR EVENTS EMAIL: [email protected] • FOR ADDITIONAL EVENTS VISIT: www.travelworldnews.com/calendar


2010/2011 • CALENDAR OF EVENTS

D E C E M B E R6-9 ILTM 2010 Cannes, France www.reedexpo.co.uk10-12 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace New Orleans, LA www.ustoa.com

J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 111-16 Vakantiebeurs Utrecht, The Netherlands www.vakantiebeurs.nl15-16 Travel & Adventure Show Santa Clara, CA www.adventureexpo.com16-18 Caribbean Marketplace 2011 Montego Bay, Jamaica www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com18-21 Blossom Japan Tokyo, Japan www.blossomjapan.com19-23 FITUR 2011 Madrid Spain www.fituronline.com20-23 Matka Helsinki, Finland www.matkamessut.fi20-23 ITF SlovakiaTour Bratislava, Slovak Republic www.incheba.sk20-24 SATH 14th Annual World Congress Fort Lauderdale, FL www.sath.org22-23 The Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show Philadelphia, PA www.inquirertravelshow.com23-25 Florida Huddle Daytona Beach, FL www.floridahuddle.com27-30 Tourism & Leisure Show Ljubljana, Slovenia www.tourism-fair.com29-30 Travel & Adventure Show Chicago, IL www.adventureexpo.comF E B R U A R Y1-5 PATA AT&RT Conference/Mart Kathmandu, Nepal www.pata.org8-9 IMTM 2011 Tel Aviv, Israel www.ortra.com/imtm10-13 Holiday World 2011 Prague, Czech Republic www.incheba.sk10-13 EMITT Instanbul, Turkey www.ite-exhibitions.com11-13 Boston Globe Travel Show Boston, MA www.bostonglobetravelshow.com17-20 BIT 2011 Milan, Italy www.hospitalitynet.org17-20 Discover American Pavilion at BIT 2011 Milan, Italy www.discoveramericapavilion.com18-26 OTM 2011 Mumbai & New Delhi, India www.ttfotm.com/otm18-26 Discover American Pavilion at OTM 2011 Mumbai & New Delhi, India www.discoveramericapavilion.com25-27 The NY Times Travel Show New York, NY www.nytts.comM A R C H9-13 ITB Berlin 2011 Berlin, Germany www1.messe-berlin.de9-13 Discover American Pavilion at ITB Berlin Berlin, Germany www.discoveramericapavilion.com12-13 Travel & Adventure Show Washington D.C. www.adventureexpo.com16-19 MITT 2011 Moscow, Russia www.mitt.ru/en16-19 Discover American Pavilion at MITT 2011 Moscow, Russia www.discoveramericapavilion.com19-20 Travel & Adventure Show Los Angeles, CA www.adventureexpo.com23-25 UITT Kiev, Ukraine www.ite-exhibitions.com24-27 TUR 2011 Gothenburg, Sweden www.nemonet.swefair.se24-27 Discover American Pavilion at TUR 2011 Gothenburg, Sweden www.discoveramericapavilion.comA P R I L7-10 SITC 2011 Barcelona, Spain www.saloturisme.com13-15 New Europe Travel Mart Dubrovnik, Croatia www.neweuropetravelmart.com14-16 Toursib Novosibirsk Russia www.travel-exhibitions.com19-22 2011 ASTA IDE San Juan, Puerto Rico www.asta.org20-22 Kazakhstan Intl. Travel & Tourism Fair Almaty, Kazakhstan www.ite-exhibitions.com28-30 AITF Baku, Azerbaijan www.ite-exhibitions.comM A Y12-15 TPOC Conference & Trade Show Louisville, KY www.tpoc.org16-18 Global Spa Summit Bali, Indonesia www.globalspasummit.org19-20 Faith Travel Conference & Expo Atlanta, GA www.adventureexpo.com21-25 International Pow Wow San Francisco, CA www.ustravel.org26-29 OneWorld Travel Mart San Francisco, CA www.oneworldtravelmart.com J U N E3-5 Karibu Travel Fair Arusha, Tanzania www.karibufair.com9-12 ITE Hong Kong Hong Kong, China www.itehk.com S E P T E M B E R11-13 Travel Mart Latin America Florianopolis, Brazil www.travelmartlatinamerica.com11-13 THETRADESHOW Las Vegas, NV www.thetradeshow.org22-25 FITA 2011 Mexico City, Mexico www.fitamx.com

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

Introducing a new kind of business development event for “New Europe.”

NEWEUROPETRAVELMART


INDUSTRY NEWS

SUE HAMILTON JOINS EXPLORER VENTURES Explorer Ventures Liveaboard Diving has announced that Sue Hamilton has joined the company, effective

September 20. As an integral part of the Explorer Ventures sales team, her responsibilities will include businessdevelopment and sales, with initial focus on the international market.

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

Hamilton commented, “I really like what I see at Explorer Ventures and am looking forward to working withthis team of dedicated dive professionals. They have a very basic formula that I believe equates to success—a

commitment to providing uncompromised diving adventure at an exceptional value.”Sue joins Sales Manager Diana Heaton, Marketing Manager Lynn Rodell, Galapagos General Manager (and PADI Course Director)

Jennifer Cumming, and Mary Franklin and Wendy Barclay in providing personalized pre- and post-trip service complementing guest ex-periences aboard EV vessels. In addition to the Republic of the Maldives, the Explorer Ventures fleet offers itineraries in the SouthernBahamas, the Galapagos Archipelago, the Northeastern Caribbean (Saba, St. Kitts) and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Explorer Ventures, 800-322-3577, [email protected], www.explorerventures.com

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

Dimopoulos is based at Wendy Wu’s China’s New York office, which opened September 9.While supervising sales managers and office personnel, she implemented new programs and systems that gen-

erated additional business as well as increased corporate sales. She successfully opened up the company’sEuropean and South Pacific markets. She also served on the board of the Italian Travel Promotion Council andthe international committee of the Student Youth Travel Association (SYTA). Other appointments were JohnGilchrist to Vice President Sales—Western USA, and Christina Mucha as Vice President Sales—Eastern USA.

Wendy Wu Tours’ prizewinning formula consists of fully inclusive tours, unique offerings, prices starting at$140 per day, entry to areas not accessible to other operators, and top-notch customer service.

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

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

TRAVELSAVERS EXPANDS NATIONWIDE SERVICE TEAM IN RESPONSE TO NEW BUSINESS WINSMelissa Zenuk, MCC, has joined TRAVELSAVERS as Senior Director, Business Development, with responsi-

bility for overseeing TRAVELSAVERS’ Business Development Managers across the country.Melissa has been in the travel industry for the past 20 years, with proven expertise in sales, marketing, pre-

ferred vendor account management, human resources and agency operations. Most recently she was RegionalFranchise Consultant for a major agency franchisor where she was responsible for a 12-state region of fran-chisees. She was also General Manager for a Dallas company that developed and administered travel loyaltyprograms for senior travelers. She also spent several years as a travel agent.

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

SUE HAMILTON

CAROL DIMOPOULOS

MELISSA ZENUK

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

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SDCVB ANNOUNCES HOTEL PACKAGESCELEBRATING THE SEASON IN SAN DIEGO

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

Now through March 31, 2011, the Sè San Diego Hotel is offer-ing a Fall Experience package that includes a night’s accommoda-tion with complimentary room upgrade (based on availability), 25percent off breakfast or dinner at the hotel’s Suite & Tender restau-rant, a free spa treatment with the purchase of one of equal orgreater value and parking at $22 per night (originally $32). Ratesstart at $149, plus tax; rooms must be booked by December 30;blackout dates apply. Total retail value depends on the price of themeal and spa treatments. www.sesandiego.com

Now through December 30, 2010, Pechanga Resort & Casino in theTemecula Valley Wine Country north of San Diego is offering a FallInto Fun package that includes one night’s accommodation, a $10Pechanga casino credit, free gift at Spa Pechanga, $25 discount ongreen fees for golf at Journey at Pechanga, $15 discount on any 50-minute or greater service at Spa Pechanga, two-for-one admission tothe Comedy Club at Pechanga (Wednesday/Thursday nights), 15-per-cent discount at the Shops at Pechanga or for Spa Pechanga retailproducts and complimentary dessert with purchase of entrée atKelsey’s restaurant. Rates start at $109, plus tax; offer valid Sundaythrough Thursday. Total retail value of items in package starts at $80.Promotional code: FALL. 888-732-2642, www.pechanga.com

Now through December 31, 2010, the Westin Gaslamp Quarterdowntown is offering an opportunity to kick-start holiday shoppingwith the Macy’s Package that includes a night’s accommodation anda $100 Macy’s gift card. Rates start at $199, plus tax. The offer isbased on availability; blackout dates apply. Reservations require anon-refundable prepayment. Total retail value of package items:$100. Promotional code: CMY. 866-716-8137, www.westin.com

Now through December 31, 2010, luxurious US GRANT hotel isoffering the Bloomingdale’s Holiday Shopping package that in-cludes two nights’ accommodations, daily breakfast for two atGrant Grill, a $100 Bloomingdale’s gift card plus 10-percent shopping discount at Bloomingdale’s in San Diego’s Fashion Valley shopping center, a consultation with a Bloomingdale’s

‘At Your Service Personal Stylist’ and after-shopping specialtycocktail and appetizer at Grant Grill. Rates start at $500, plus tax; blackout dates apply. The discount is valid only at the Bloomingdale’s Fashion Valley location for purchases in conjunction with the gift card. Total retail value of items: $245.866-716-8136, www.usgrant.net

Westin San Diego is offering two packages November 18 throughJanuary 1, 2011. The Holiday Cheer package includes a night’s ac-commodation, a $50 gift card to nearby Westfield Horton Plazashopping mall, complimentary gift wrapping for up to five boxedgifts and seasonal cocktail and appetizer amenity. The offer’s pricedat $179, plus tax. Total retail value of package items: $125.Promotional code is HOLISHOP. A Family Traditions package in-cludes two nights’ accommodations, a professional portrait sessionagainst the backdrop of the hotel’s sparkling holiday decorations andCD of digital photos, dinner for four featuring classic holiday fare atthe hotel’s 400 West restaurant and an in-room holiday movie withchocolate treats and caramel corn. The offer is priced at $358, plustax. Total retail value of items in package: $200. Promotional codeis FAMTRAD. Both offers are based on availability; blackout datesapply. 800-Westin-1 (937-8461), www.westin.com/sandiego

Available November 20, 2010 through January 1, 2011, theiconic Hotel del Coronado has two deals. The Holiday StockingStuffer includes a night’s accommodation, a $75 resort credit validat resort boutiques and 50-percent off self-parking. Rates start at$299, plus tax and $25 resort fee. Total retail value of items:$87.50. Holiday Escape includes a night’s accommodation, a com-memorative 2010 Hotel del Coronado holiday ornament, breakfastbuffet for two adults at Sheerwater and 50 percent off self-park-ing. Rates start at $299, plus tax and $25 resort fee. Total retailvalue of items: $90.50. Both offers are based on availability andblackout dates apply. 800-HOTEL-DEL (468-5335),www.hoteldel.com/holiday-packages

Available November 1, 2010 through February 28, 2011, the Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego’s North County is offering the Sugar & Spice Ultimate Girlfriends’ Getaway package that includes one night’s accommodation, an in-room amenity featuring a selection of Oprah-approved books andSex In The City DVD, spa manicures and pedicures paired with mi-mosas and muffins, a pair of spa amenities, gourmet spa lunch andafter-spa wine flight and bites for two. Priced at $589 ppdo, plustax and $20 resort fee, total retail value of items in this package is$520. Promotional code is SUGAR&SPICE. 877-517-9340,www.ranchobernardoinn.com

On December 31, 2010, the luxurious AAA Five Diamond-ratedGrand Del Mar is offering the Grand Finale package that includesone night’s accommodation, sparkling wine and savory snacks onarrival, a romantic seven-course New Year’s Eve dinner for twowith wine pairings at the award-winning Addison restaurant, ad-mission to the resort’s Grand New Year’s Eve Party featuringWayne Foster Entertainment, breakfast-in-bed for two and com-plimentary overnight valet parking. Rates start at $995, plus tax


NORTH AMERICA

and gratuity. Total retail value of items: $416. 888-314-2030,www.thegranddelmar.com

Available December 1, 2010, through February 28, 2011, theHoliday Inn San Diego Bayside is offering the Whale of a Dealpackage that includes two nights’ accommodations and two ticketsfor a three-hour whale watching excursion. Priced at $99 per night,plus tax; the offer is available for Friday and Saturday stays only;blackout dates apply. Reservations must be made at least two daysin advance of arrival and require a non-refundable prepayment.Total retail value of items in package: $50. Promotional code:“Whale of a Deal.” 800-662-8899San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.sandiego.org

FAIRBANKS CONVENTION AND VISITORSBUREAU RELEASES NEW WINTER GUIDE

The 2010-2011 Fairbanks Winter Guide is now available for free.The 32-page full color booklet with winter activity listings and an ac-tion-packed events calendar offers an informative, yet lightheartedview of winter in interior Alaska and the Arctic.

Winter in Fairbanks emanates a quality of light, energy and warmthfound nowhere else on earth. It’s not just the northern lights that mys-tify, but vast panoramas astound. It’s the shimmering light from alarger-than-life-sized ice sculpture, and the glow from the woodstovein a rustic cabin five minutes from downtown, the enthusiasm of sleddogs ready to run and the warmth of a natural mineral hot springs inenergizing temperatures. Surrounded by miles of pristine wilderness,Fairbanks enjoys the amenities and energy of a vibrant downtown andthriving cultural scene linked closely to outdoor action. Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau (FCVB), 800-327-5774, www.explorefairbanks.com

4 DIAMONDS FOR ANDALUZ IN FIRST YEARNewly opened and remodeled Hotel Andaluz recently received the

AAA Four Diamond Award, the only hotel property in Albuquerqueto receive this distinction and one of the only boutique hotels in thecountry to achieve this rating in its first year of operation. The AAAFour Diamond Rating is North America’s premier rating.

Hotels that receive the Four Diamond rating must excel in 27 sep-arate criteria. According to AAA, “Four Diamond establishmentsare upscale in all areas. Accommodations are progressively morerefined and stylish. The physical attributes reflect an obvious en-hanced level of quality throughout. The fundamental hallmarks atthis level include an extensive array of amenities combined with ahigh degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail.”

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

Hotel Andaluz is managed by Gemstone Hotels & Resorts. Hotel Andaluz, www.hotelandaluz.com; Gemstone Hotels &Resorts, www.gemstoneresorts.com

HOTEL PARQ CENTRAL OPENS IN 1920s HOSPITAL

Recently-opened Hotel Parq Central was built on the renovatedsite of Santa Fe Hospital. first opened in 1926. The hospital was built by the Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad to serve their employees and is listed on the National Register ofHistoric Places.

Hotel Parq Central was designed by local Studio SouthwestArchitects Inc., Klinger Constructors, and HVL Interiors with anod to the past while keeping in mind today’s guest needs. Originalclay tiles, 1926-era windows, and a grand staircase provide thebackdrop for modern touches such as free wireless Internet, iPoddata connectors, and LCD flat-panel TVs.

Local residents and guests alike will enjoy sipping 1920s-themedcocktails at the new rooftop “Apothecary Lounge” while admiringskyline and mountain views. The lounge features a wall decoupageof vintage-era medicinal labels, an original operating lamp and atable formed from a 1940s coffin carrier.

Starting rates begin at $139/night and include amenities such asfree parking, gourmet continental breakfast, free wireless Internetin public areas and guestrooms, and complimentary coffee/tea ser-vice on each floor.Hotel Parq Central, www.hotelparqcentral.com; Albuquerque Convention & Visitors Bureau, www.itsatrip.org


NORTH AMERICA

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EUROPE

Meet Poland 2010,” the Polish incomingtourism workshop in Warsaw,September 30-October 1, sponsoredby the Polish Tourism Organization

(the Polish National Tourist Board) and the PolishAirlines LOT was a smash success. It attracted repre-sentatives from over twenty countries, and many planto return to Poland next year, or the following year forthe Euro 2012 football championships organized byUEFA in Warsaw and other Polish cities.

The fifth workshop of its kind, this year’s event or-ganized by the Polish Consortium of IncomingTourism in Warsaw, attracted buyers and sellers fromEurope’s Baltic Sea region, namely, Lithuania, Latvia,Germany, Russia, Sweden, and Poland, as well asNorway the USA, Japan, Turkey, Syria, Israel,Cyprus, Georgia, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, and Ukraine.

Most interesting to overseas travelers from the UnitedStates, was the variety of different languages spoken at thisevent. If you thought that Polish and English were the onlylanguages spoken at “Meet Poland 2010”, then think again.Besides these languages, since a high number of participantscame from Italy, the Italian language could be heard almosteverywhere. Dr. Antonino Maressa, General Manager,Gruppo Parisi Italia in Viaggio, Messina, Italy, kept the flowof travel talk and exchange of viewpoints going in both Italianand English. Overall, the Italian sense of humor, love ofmusic, and joy of life kept spirits soaring throughout.

In fact, even Lithuanian Rasa Indilaite, ConferenceDepartment Manager, West Express, Vilnius, Lithuania, whostudied tourism in Italy, spoke fluently in Italian, as well asin English and Lithuanian. On the other hand, NonaBuzueva, Travel Consultant, Incoming Travel, Estravel,based in Vilnius, as well, used her language skills in Polish,Russian, English, and Lithuanian to promote business dur-ing the workshop which was held in the Gromada HotelConference Centre. Latvians Elina Vitola, Group Manager,Relaks Ture, and Ruta Skindra, Product Manager, ExpressTravel, both from Riga, were satisfied with the outcome of theWorkshop and other events.

The Ukrainians sent a sizeable group to the Workshop, andboth the Ukrainian and Russian languages, along withEnglish were widely spoken. Together with Poland, Ukraine

will co-host the Euro 2012 football events organized by the UEFA.

In interviewing several buyers and sellers, it was obviousthat the participants felt that joint promotions really do work,and the Polish incoming tourism workshop was an effectiveway of finding the right partners within a short period oftime, while discovering Warsaw, the capital of Poland, andother fascinating regions such as Mazovia and Lodz, one ofPoland’s youngest cities.

The organizers of Meet Poland 2010, namely, the IncomingTourism Forum, the Hospitality Polish Chamber ofCommerce, the Polish Chamber of Tourism, the WarsawChamber of Tourism, Stowarzyszenie Zarzadcow ObiektowRekreacyjno-Turystycznych and ITG Events, the organizer/coordinator, put together a well-balanced program that wasorganized to get the best possible results for members of thetourism industry.

Playing a key role in the success of the workshop wasMarek Traczyk. Fluent in several different languages, andskilled in handling any situation with a good sense of humor,Marek did make a difference. Whether he greeted us uponarrival at the hotel, or was the Master of Ceremonies in open-ing up the official progam at the Hotel Gromada Centrum inWarsaw, Marek was someone we could count on. Besides, asa US President Bill Clinton look-a-like, he was easy to spot.At the opening, that delicious display of freshly baked breadby Piekarnia Ratuszowa, created a warm friendly atmos-phere instantly.

‘Meet Poland 2010’ Workshop In Warsaw Attracted Participants From Over 20 CountriesA N N C H A R L E S

The Mermaid Fountain in the old town square in Warsaw, Poland.

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EUROPE

During the introductions to the “Meet Polish 2010”Workshop, the organizers, including the Polish Tourist Board(Polish Tourism National Board) said they hoped that the ne-gotiations conducted during the Workshop would be fruitful,participants would have a good time in Poland, and that theywould return next year. Besides the more than 20 countriesrepresented, over 80 representatives of Polish travel agen-cies were in attendance. In other words, this was a very suc-cessful turnout, and no matter whom you spoke to, the re-sponse was definitely positive.

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

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

followed by a typical Polish feast at Hawira Restaurant.Outside Warsaw, there were visits to Frederyk Chopin’s

birthplace and childhood home in Mazovia, and a stay in thecontemporary Andel’s Hotel in Lodz with its sky spa. Thecharming Grand Hotel in Lodz known for the many famous actors, directors, and eminent personalities whostayed there, is called the “film hotel”, said host, TomaszTomaszenski.

In looking ahead, according to tour operators like MishaJovanovic, Owner/General Manager of Misha Tours in SanDiego, California, he was very interested in the 2012 Eurofootball championships in Warsaw and other Polish cities. Amember of a soccer team for older men himself, Mishaspeaks Serbian, English and living in San Diego, no doubtsome Spanish. Even the Polish tour director, KazimierzKwasiborski, Agence Des Voyages “Kwatour” spoke to usboth in Spanish and English at the airport.

Sharing a similar interest in packages to the 2012 Eurogames was Madalina Grosu from a travel management com-pany in Bucharest, Romania called Happy Tour. Easy to talkto, and enthusiastic about the tourism industry, she expectscontinued growth for this type business in the future.Meet Poland 2010, www.meetpoland.pl; Polish NationalTourist Office North America, www.poland.travel


EUROPE

Cruise From the Heart of the MediterraneanExperience the Maltese Islands

A ll year round Cruising in the Mediterranean isgaining popularity with cruise companies whoare beginning to appreciate the competitive ad-vantage of the Maltese Islands and their position

in the Mediterranean that allows diversified itinerary plan-ning. The possibility of Malta being utilised as a permanenthub for Eastern, Western and Southern Mediterranean cruis-ing is being favourably considered by key players in thecruise industry due to the Islands’ undisputed proximity tomajor European Cities and strategic positioning 60 milessouth of Sicily and 120 miles from North Africa. With a multi-lingual resident population, stable economic & commercialinvestment opportunities, a pleasant year-round climate,competitive refurbishment services and state of the art Portservices, TUI has been quick to step in and confirm the homeport presence of it’s elegant Mein Schiff as from Spring 2011.Mein Schiff is in fact offering a choice of three itineraries toits passengers, further confirming Malta’s competitive edgein cruising diversification. TUI’s move will undoubtedly beunder scrutiny by other major liners in the industry, who areclearly seeking an alternative base in effort to pull away fromcrowded ports in the Mediterranean. In their 2010 marketoverview, the Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA)claims that close to 50 million North Americans intend to em-bark on a Cruise over the next three years. In fact, the bednight capacity for Liners targeting the US market for theMediterranean has already increased from 17,536 in 2009, to18,538 in 2010.

The MSC Splendida which successfully graced the quay ofthe Grand Harbour since its launch, a little more than a yearago. This beauty shall make way for its twin sister, the elegantMSC Fantasia, which shall be operating a turn-around fromthe Valletta waterfront between November 2010 and April2011. The strong presence of such prestigious liners strength-ens Malta’s Cruise & Stay offer, which is being cheered on byall stakeholders on the Maltese Islands. With its agreeable

climate well into the winter months, multi-lingual culture, 76flight connections on schedule to airports in Europe, NorthAfrica and Middle East on both scheduled and low cost aircarriers and an abundance of quality 3 star to 5 star accom-modation, visitors are finding that a Malta + Cruise packageis definitely great value for money. Passengers that opt to em-bark or disembark in Malta from their Mediterranean cruiseare privy to the deeper secrets that this Island has to offer.From gastronomy delights found in the quaint villages andrestaurants hidden along the colourful fishing town seafronts,to the City of Valletta – a baroque city listed as a UNESCOWorld Heritage City. A passenger’s first experience on sail-ing into the Grand Harbour is an unforgettable one. Valletta’simposing walls are reminiscent of fortified Rhodes only moremajestic & overpowering. This is a living testament to theKnights of St. John and the unified vision that have held theIslands together, not only against the Turks in the infamoussiege of 1565, but throughout history. It is no wonder thatMalta is referred to as the Fortress Island. The most recentand prestigious honour bestowed upon Malta, was by Britain,in the form of the George Cross. This reward was in recogni-tion for the Island’s Bravery, gallantly displayed during a re-lentless siege of bombings and attacks during WWII.

The Maltese Islands offer a rich cultural entertainment Fall& Winter calendar for all palettes. Combined with excellentclimate for outdoor trekking, diving, water sport or a roman-tic get-away on the sister island of Gozo, you can also findyourself being spoilt at one of the fantastic Spas & Resort onthese Islands.

For in-the-know events happening in Malta over the wintermonths, take a peek at the events page on our website.Malta Tourism Authority, [email protected]; www.visitmalta.com

© Francesca Vincenti, Malta Tourism Authority

The magnificent MSC Splendida entering Valletta.

Mein Schiff to Home Port in Malta from 2011.

EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN RESOURCE DIRECTORY

800-451-8097www.caravan-serai.com www.egypttours.com

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

www.sti-travel.com

800-836-6836www.gmtours.com

800-223-4978www.misrtravel.org

800-783-7839www.sunnylandtours.com

800-441-8908

www.worldexpresstravel.com800-644-1595

www.yallatours.com

Caravan-Serai Toursknows and understands our destinations.

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

culture and traditions for our clients.

EGYPT TOURS AND TRAVEL is a Land and Cruise Tour operatorwhichspecializes in tours to Egypt,

Jordan, Israel, Syria, Turkey,Lebanon, Kenya, Greece, and Iran.

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

the Nile today!

For more than 25 years, Foreign IndependentTours has been dedicated to providing

travelers with the experience of a lifetime...one filled with excitement, comfort,

luxury, and great memories.We offer an array of escorted group tours

and vacations featuring Africa, Bali, BudgetTravel, Central and Eastern Europe, Egypt,India, Italy, Jordan, Luxury Edition, Malta,

Morocco, Small Groups, Turkey, and we specialize in private car and custom tours.

Relying on the experienceof its Egyptian sister

company Sakkara Tours, STI Voyages has become

one of the top French tour operators,serving over 70 thousand travelers.

We thrive to provide our customers with tailor made programs while focusing on

memorable voyages of discovery and relaxation where

every destination,cruise, cultural

circuit, safari andsea resort can

be relished individually or

in groups.

The exotic Mediterranean is our home, where eachone of our visitors is welcome and treated asour personal guest.We recognize the significant responsibility of sending travelers to this region, rich in cultural, historical, spiritual and emotional significance.Ya’lla Tours USA has made a commitment toexcellence that will meetand often even surpass all expectations.

GMTours specializes in programs to Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Turkey, Greece,

Spain, Dubai & Morocco. In addition to our advertised packaged

tours, which offer excellent value, we customize a program to suit specificrequirements. Our tours can be booked

individually or in your choice of combinations. GMTours strives to maintain

superior customer satisfaction.

We will be happy to customize any short orlong program to meet your budget and

schedule. Call on us for ideas, imaginative programs, pricing,

transportation, including deluxe coachesand limousines, reservations for hotels,

cruises on the Nile or Lake Nasser, air and rail travel, scuba diving and desert safaris.

World Express offers one-of-a-kind worldwide services with a special

emphasis in Israel and the neighboringcountries of Jordan, Egypt, Greece and

Turkey. Today, World Express is the leading tour operator to Israel, offering

exciting, informative, affordable travel to the Holy Land and the

world beyond for touristsof all religions and nationalities.

SUNNY LAND TOURS is one of the largest specialists to Egypt and the Middle East, and had been known as a Mediterranean

and Middle East specialist tour operator untilthe company expanded its product line to

Central America and South America, and as aresult of this move Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru

and Galapagos have become one of Sunny Land’s most important destinations.

FAMOUS ITALIAN VILLA NOW AVAILABLE TO RENT THROUGH DOORWAYS LTD.

After four years, a labor of Italian love is now complete—VillaLaura, the famed setting for the film Under the Tuscan Sun hasbeen completely restored and is available to rent for the first time.The famous Italian villa was purchased by the owners of theCalifornia winery Cline Cellars after consulting with DoorwaysLtd., experts who rent villas across Europe.

Much as the lead character in Under the Tuscan Sun, Villa Laurawent through its own rebirth. Kitchens and bathrooms were cus-tom-crafted by a Tuscan artist, using marble surfaces and restoredoriginal stonewalls. Wooden beds were replaced with wrought-ironed handcrafted frames from a local artisan and topped with thefinest English linens.

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

charm and magic. Designer Jane Thompson incorporated an eclec-tic mix of both contemporary and antique furniture from acrossEurope.

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

SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES PUTS ECONOMYEXTRA ON SALE

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

The offer is available on SAS flights from New York (Newark),Chicago and Washington D.C (Dulles), plus more than 60 other U.S.cities, to Scandinavia and Finland, via Copenhagen and Stockholm.The offer is valid for outbound travel until March 31, 2011, with theexception of December 15–23, 2010. Other conditions and restric-tions also apply.

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

For more information about Economy Extra and SAS’ three ser-vice classes—Economy, Economy Extra and Business—or to bookflights, those interested should log on to the website.Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), www.flysas.com/us


EUROPE

The Mediterranean’sbest kept secret.

Malta, Gozo& Comino

Grand!

C A R I B B E A N R E S O U R C E D I R E C T O R Y

888-409-3506www.baoase.com

866-604-3764www.tuckerspoint.com

866-237-3491www.longbay.com

www.rosaliebay.com www.sanddollarbonaire.com www.sugarcaneclub.com

BIRD OF PARADISE VILLAAnguilla, BWI

Named one of the top 20 villasin the world by Islands magazine.

All the services and amenitiesof a resort at a far lower cost.

USA: [email protected]

www.AnguillaBird.com

Nestled amidst tropical gardens and caressed by the azure water

of the Caribbean Sea, the Baoase Luxury Resort

is an idyllic retreat tucked away on the stunning island of Curacao. Featuring luxury villas and suites.

The Only Grand CaymanIsland Beachfront Resort

We offer full service amenities:

~Pelican’s Reef – international cuisine, full wine list

~Rusty Pelican – casual fare with mojitos to mango margaritas

~Full-service Spa

~Concierge Service

Hidden away on an estate in Tortola, Long Bay it rises up the hillside from a mile

of talcum-powder sand caressed by the gentle Caribbean Sea. Dive or sail around the island’s hidden treasures, or just relax

in the spa. Pampering, ocean views, adventure, relaxation come standard at

Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas.

A flawless setting for life’s superlative moments, from

weddings and family reunions tosocial gatherings and private

celebrations, perfectly tailored for couples, families, and groups

of all kinds to uphold traditions and create new memories.

Rosalie Bay’s mission is threefold:1. Protect the local environment

2. Empower local residents by boosting their livelihoods

3. Showcase the beauty of Dominica to the outside world by developing a world class nature resort

All our Condos are owned by private owners, and rented via

our two reservation offices. At Sand Dollar, every condo faces the ocean.

All rooms are situated to catch the trade winds and

the bedrooms are air-conditioned.

Discover the harmonious blend of luxury,tranquillity and seclusion of

Sugar Cane Club Hotel and Spa, a select hill top boutique hotel overlooking

the exotic West coast of Barbados. The Mediterranean architecture and warm ambiance, combined with lush

Barbados tropical beauty forms a welcoming elegance and atmosphere.

888-232-0541 www.thereef.com


CARIBBEAN

FREE NIGHTS, ‘HONEYMOON MAGIC’PACKAGE OFFERED THIS WINTER AT GRAND CASE BEACH CLUB

Guests starting and finishing their vacations at the Grand CaseBeach Club in St. Martin between November 1 and December 18,2010, and January 2–31, 2011, will have their fifth night free. Thisspecial offer only applies to new reservations and may not be com-bined with any other promotion.

The oceanfront resort, located just a few hundred yards from GrandCase Village, the gastronomic capital of the island, is again offeringits “Honeymoon Magic” package from December 19, 2010, to April15, 2011. This package is popular not only for honeymooners, butfor second honeymooners and incurable romantics as well.

Available for either three or seven nights, the package includes air-conditioned accommodations with either balcony or terrace; conti-nental breakfast daily; a bottle of red or white wine; welcome cock-tail; match-play vouchers for use at the Dutch side casinos; carrental one day (gas and insurance extra); a Grand Case beach bag;island floral bouquet; picnic basket for two one day; use of their ten-nis court and all non-motorized water sports equipment. Ratesbegin at $1,055 per couple for three nights and $2,375 for seven.

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

There are new mattresses and colorful fabrics on all furnishings. TheGrand Case Beach Club has again been named to Expedia’s InsidersSelect List, which includes only about two per cent of all of Expedia’stotal hotel and resort listings. The resort has been cited for excep-tional service and hospitality by readers of Caribbean Travel & LifeMagazine, participants in Apple Vacations tours, and TripAdvisor.

The oceanfront resort’s amenities include a swimming pool, fit-ness and water sports centers, car rental facility and an island bou-tique. The Boardwalk, which wraps around the hill overlooking theocean, now connects to the Sunset Cafe, which serves breakfast,lunch and dinner as well as Happy Hour seven days a week. Grand Case Beach Club, 800-340-3016, [email protected],www.grandcasebeachclub.com

WINAIR ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL FLIGHTS TO DOMINICA’S CANEFIELD AIRPORT

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

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

WinAir is operating a 19-seat Twin Otter aircraft between Antigua(ANU) and Dominica (DCF) each Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday onthe following schedule: (Antigua to Dominica) flight WM 381 de-parts 6:30 a.m. and arrives 7:30 a.m. and flight WM 387 departs3:55 p.m. arriving 4:55 p.m.; (Dominica to Antigua) flight WM 382departs 7:50 a.m. and arrives 8:50 a.m. and flight WM 388 departs5:15 p.m. arriving 6:15 p.m.

Of volcanic origins with mountains reaching heights of nearly 5,000 feet, rainforests that are considered among the last true oceanic rainforests in the world, more than 365 rivers, waterfalls the second largest Boiling Lake in the world andpristine coral reefs, Dominica’s natural diversity is unique. NationalGeographic’s Center for Sustainable Destination ranked the islandas the top sustainable island in the Caribbean and among the top tenin the world. Dominica was recognized by Islands Magazine and wasincluded in its 2007 Blue List for being a leader in responsibletourism and ensuring an environmentally and culturally sound is-land for future generations. Travel + Leisure also announcedDominica as one of the most compelling destinations to visit in their100 Greatest Trips 2008 edition. Dominica was recognized as thesecond most “pure island” in the world in the April/May 2010 issueof Islands Magazine.WinAir, 866-466-0410, www.fly-winair.com; Discover DominicaAuthority, 866-522-4057, www.discoverdominica.com

BUCUTI & TARA BEACH RESORTS ACHIEVEENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION FOR

EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

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

Members of Bucuti’s management team celebrated the newswith ISO auditor Peter Hackett: (left to right) Pete Hackett,Robert Habes, Toine Schoofs, Dany Lopez Henriquez, NashetteWouters, Jelitza Loopstok, Frank Briezen, DeborahDintelman, Agnes de Palm, Kimberly de Cuba, Romy Ras,Ignacio Ortiz and Fernando Caro.Bucuti Beach Resort Aruba/Tara Beach Suites & Spa,www.bucuti.com

Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com NOVEMBER 2010• 21

CARIBBEAN

STUART COVE’S DIVE BAHAMAS AND SHERATON TEAM UP FOR HALF-OFF DIVE DEAL

Good for a short time only, an incredible half-off dive special isbeing offered jointly by Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas and SheratonNassau Beach Resort. Priced at just $429.50 ppdo, the SheratonDive Bahamas Half Off Fall Deal includes three nights at the beau-tiful resort along with two days of two-tank morning dives at world-famous Stuart Cove’s. Total package price for two persons is $859,available through December 23, 2010.

Diving caters to certified divers who want to explore the walls,reefs, and wrecks surrounding New Providence Island. The priceincludes tanks, weights and roundtrip transfers to shop.Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas, 800-879-9832,[email protected], www.stuartcove.com

QUEEN’S GARDENS RESORT, SABAANNOUNCES ROYAL SPA TRYST

Queen’s Gardens Resort in Saba, the “Unspoiled Queen” ofCaribbean islands, is inviting guests to a royal escape with the TotalRelax Spa Package. This four-night offer, priced at $1,600 ppdo, isdesigned as a sanctuary through massages, fine dining and excursions.

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

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

Back at the resort, daily indulgences come standard. Guests mayrelax by the pool or in the lounge shaded by mango trees. A wel-come cocktail, WiFi, fitness room, chaise lounges and beach tow-els and farewell gift are included in all stays.

Queen’s Gardens Resort embodies Saba intimacy. Nicknamed“the Unspoiled Queen,” the Caribbean’s smallest island receives anaverage of just 25,000 visitors a year, ensuring the intimacy trav-elers crave. Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Award named Sabaas 2010 Top Island in the Caribbean.Queen’s Gardens Resort, www.queensaba.com

ALL WEST APARTMENTS & DIVING OFFERING PRIZE CONTEST AT DEMA

Ocean Encounters West, All West Apartments & Diving and theKura Hulanda Lodge will be represented at DEMA 2010 at booth#444 in the Curacao pavilion.

This year, show guests will get a chance to experience awesomeCuracao packages and enter a contest for prizes that will be raf-fled off every day. These prizes will include a one-week accommo-dation at Allwest Apartments, Nos Krusero Apartments or theLodge Kura Hulanda plus a rental vehicle for the week and six days’non-limit diving or a five-days/two-tank boat diving with OceanEncounters West. The Grand Prize at the end of the show will also

include a round trip ticket from Miami to Curacao.For complete details and to enter this contest, guests are asked to

stop by booth #444 at the show.All West Apartments & Diving, www.allwestcuracao.com

NEW WATERFRONT SUITES AT TRUE BLUEBAY RESORT READY FOR DECEMBER

Ready in December, 10 spectacular suites are designed to bringthe natural beauty of Grenada’s True Blue Bay into a room full ofCaribbean comfort and leisure at True Blue Bay Resort. Featuringtropical-designed furnishing, indulgent fabrics and easygoing col-ors, these two level suites each have a relaxing living room, kitchenand dining area, and generous balcony with comfy beach beds onthe lower floor. The upper level has a queen bed, ample bathroomwith shower and an intimate veranda with cozy outdoor chairs tosit and enjoy the astounding panoramic view of the bay.

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

To celebrate, booking a True Blue style Standard room byNovember 30, 2010, earns a free upgrade to their new WaterfrontSuites. A seven-night minimum stay is required. The offer is basedon availability, and no other discounts apply. True Blue Bay Resort, [email protected], www.truebluebay.com


CARIBBEAN

PRIVATE CHEF FOR HOLIDAY DINNER ATANGUILLA’S BIRD OF PARADISE

Anguilla’s Bird of Paradise offers the perfect gathering placefor friends and family this Thanksgiving or anytime of the year.Whether it’s a party of two or ten, clients will have exclusive useof the award-winning villa, offering all the spaciousness and com-forts of a private home with all the services and amenities of a re-sort. Each suite has a private veranda and equal views of thebeach. No one will get the dreaded “garden view.”

For those who mention Travel World News when calling, clientswill receive a complimentary dinner prepared by a private chef.There are four exquisite dining experiences at the Bird ofParadise that include dinner by one of the lagoon-style pools orin front of a roaring fire in the exterior living room. The cost ofthe chef, servers, food and a bottle of wine for each couple arecomplimentary. This is a $1,000 value and is available throughJune 1, 2011.

Also included is meet and greet at the ferry or dock, daily con-tinental breakfast and housekeeping, Bvlgari amenities, wirelessInternet, and complimentary phone calls to North America andEurope. The concierge is available to arrange golf, in-villa spatreatments, yacht charters and more. A five-night minimum is re-quired. Rates for a party of eight start at $275 per person perday, not including tax and service charge.

Details are available by emailing Melody Dill. The Travel WorldNews special must be mentioned to take advantage of the special offer.Bird of Paradise, [email protected],www.anguillabird.com

CARIBBEAN DIVE TRAVEL ON SPECIAL THIS FALL WITH MADURO TRAVEL

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

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

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

This special is also good through December 18, 2010.At All West Apartments in Curacao, a special that includes a free

night and one free day of shore diving plus a vehicle is available forjust $657 ppdo.

Included in the offer are seven nights’ studio accommodationswith seven-day double-cabin pickup truck rental, and six days ofunlimited air for shore diving. The offer is available throughDecember 15.

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

At Captain Don’s Habitat, Bonaire, divers can take advantage oftwo nights free for just $766 ppdo from November 27 to December18, 2010.

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

Maduro’s Best Rate Guarantee is applicable to all packages. Assistance with airfare and travel insurance, and further info

about group travel, air-inclusive packages and custom quotes areavailable toll-free or by email.

Recognized as an innovative leader in dive travel, Maduro DiveFanta-Seas offers dive packages to over 36 countries worldwide.Currently there are more than 225 resorts and adventure opera-tors along with over 48 liveaboard dive vessels in their SelectDive Destinations program. Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas, 800-327-6709, [email protected], www.madurodive.com

COCOS HOTEL LAUNCHES PHOTO IMAGELIBRARY AS FOTOSEEKER CLIENT

Fotoseeker, the world’s travel photo library, has announced thatits newest client, Cocos Hotel in Antigua, has successfully launchedan integrated photo image library in its revamped website. The ser-vice assists travel operations in promoting images constantly re-quested by journalists and travel magazines, along with tour oper-ators updating brochures and online sites.

The romantic Caribbean boutique hotel utilized Fotoseeker’s ad-vanced software allowing users to download high-resolution imagesquickly and efficiently while facilitating full control of the imagesby the hotel.

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

Director of the Fotoseeker Caribbean operations, LorraineHeadley, outlined the ease of start-up and immediate resultsachievable from the system. “We were really pleased to be able toset up the Cocos account in less than a week, and within two daysof the launch of the new site with the image gallery, we had imagedownloads from an operator in Germany. We are positive that anycompany that tries the system will see the benefits straight away,hence our willingness to allow interested companies to try the sys-tem free of charge and then make a decision.”

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

The Fotoseeker Caribbean team having just returned from a suc-cessful trade show at the Caribbean Hotels and TouristAssociation Small Hotels Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico,has received positive feedback and growing interest fromCaribbean hotels, international hotel management companies andexcursion companies wishing to promote their images to the30,000 globally registered users. Cocos Hotel, www.cocoshotel.com; Fotoseeker, [email protected], www.fotoseeker.com

ST. THOMAS’ BOLONGO BAY BEACH RESORTREVEALS 24-HOUR BLACK FRIDAY SALE

Bolongo Bay in the Caribbean has announced a Black Friday dealfor travelers seeking a fall or pre-holiday vacation. Available for24 hours on Black Friday, Bolongo Bay is offering more than 50percent off its Oceanview rooms and more.

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

The Black Friday sale is valid for any length of stay, but travelerswho stay five nights or more will also receive a free sail onBolongo’s own 53-foot catamaran. Guests can choose from a Swimwith Turtles half-day snorkel trip or Sunset Harbour Cocktailcruise. From sailing, diving, snorkeling or the resort’s “snorkelbooze hunt” during the day to live entertainment at night, there’salways something going on at Bolongo Bay.

To book the Black Friday deal at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort,clients must call November 26 or speak to a travel agent.

No passport is needed for U.S. citizens to travel to the U.S.Virgin Islands. Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, 800-524-4746, www.bolongobay.com


CARIBBEAN

U N S P O I L E D

U N C O M M O N

UNPRETENTIOUS

A leisurely swim in sparkling

azure waters. A soothing

massage on your own private

balcony. An afternoon spent

gazing at the sun-splashed

Atlantic with not a cruise ship

or a care in sight.

The Sands at Grace Bay

offers a soul-satisfying

tranquility along with inspired

cuisine, considerate service

and as much – or as little –

activity as you choose.

Providenciales • Turks & Caicos

For reservations, see your travel professional or call

1.877.77.SANDS (72637)www.thesandstc.com

an exceptional all suite beachfront resort

LA SOURCE GRENADA TEAMS UP WITHAQUANAUTS GRENADA

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

Aquanauts will add Nitrox and Rebreather services to the excit-ing diving product of the resort. Its ideal location provides for shortboat rides to famous dive sites like “Bianca C” and “Purple Rain.”Boat dives are offered three times a day as well as night dives orday trips to the offshore islands of Isle de Rhonde. Non-certifiedguests may choose a trial dive, join a snorkel trip to Grenada’sMarine and Underwater Sculpture Park or sign up for a certifica-tion course.

Dive professionals may meet Aquanauts at the DEMA trade showat Las Vegas in November. La Source Grenada, [email protected], www.theamazingholiday.com, www.divelasource.com

LADERA’S NEW WEDDING PACKAGESPROVIDE THE VENUE WITH A VIEW

Ladera has announced three new wedding packages inspired bythe resort’s new open-air Paradise Pavilion in the rainforest, nowone of the Caribbean’s most sought-after settings for ceremoniesand receptions of up to 80 guests. The three new packages start at$950 and offer a streamlined, affordable way to arrange a desti-nation wedding at the St. Lucia resort.

The Basic Romance Package, priced at $950, includes legalarrangements, witnesses and a simple ceremony by Ladera’s infin-ity pool overlooking the Pitons and Caribbean Sea.

The Wedding in Paradise, beginning at $1,550, upgrades thebasic package to include a private ceremony in Paradise Pavilion,flowers, a small champagne reception and a wedding cake.

The Dream Wedding gives couples the ultimate Ladera weddingexperience. It includes all of the essential legal and planning ele-

ments, as well as Mel Barlow Photography in addition to the fol-lowing: a private ceremony in Paradise Pavilion with a 1,100-footvista overlooking the Unesco World Heritage Pitons and CaribbeanSea; an elegant floral wedding arch, a lush tropical bouquet for thebride and a boutonniere for the groom; champagne and canapés forfour (or up to 80 guests for an additional cost); a two-tiered wed-ding cake; one hour of entertainment, steel pan drums orguitarist/vocalist; four nights’ bed and breakfast accommodationin Hilltop Dream Suite; spa treatment at for two at Ti Kaye PoséSpa; a candlelight dinner for two with one bottle of wine at the re-sort’s acclaimed Dasheene Restaurant, or in the couple’s room; aprivate sunset cruise for two; and a wedding memento from Ladera.

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

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

Brides may contact a Ladera wedding planner toll-free or by email.Ladera, 866-290-0978, [email protected], www.ladera.com

HALF MOON LAUNCHES IMPROVED WEBSITEHalf Moon, the luxury resort located in Jamaica’s upscale Rose

Hall community, has announced the launch of its newly redesignedwebsite. Acting as a primary source of information for guests andtravel agents, visitors will notice an updated user-friendly interfacewith streamlined specials and promotions, an expanded selectionof photos and video, real time updates, a more intuitive bookingsystem and a simplified travel agent portal.

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

“We are very excited to introduce our new Half Moon website tothe world,” says Myrtle Dwyer, Director of Sales and Marketing.“The website truly reflects the history, spirit and high degree of at-tention to service for which Half Moon is renowned, and we areconfident that guests will recognize those attributes when selectinga vacation destination.”

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

And for the resort’s valued travel agents, the improved travel por-tal includes a clear presentation of facts about the property and aneasier-to-use booking system.Half Moon, www.halfmoon.com

CARIBBEAN

24 • NOVEMBER 2010 www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News


CARIBBEAN

GUESTS CAN COMBAT WINTER BLUES WITHMALLIOUHANA’S GETAWAY PACKAGE

Travelers who get away this winter to Malliouhana Hotel & Spain Anguilla will enjoy the sun, the sea, gourmet dining and morewith their Winter Getaway Package.

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

Food and beverage credits can be used to explore the menu at the award-winning Michel Rostang at Malliouhana Restaurant with the perfect pairing of wine selected from theWine Spectator Grand Award winning 20,000-bottle wine cellar.Calorie-busting activities abound at Malliouhana with compli-mentary water sports including water-skiing, tennis, and a luxu-rious oceanfront spa.

Perched on a bluff overlooking the ocean, the picturesque 55-room Malliouhana Hotel & Spa is owner-managed by Leon and Nigel Roydon. The Malliouhana Hotel & Spa is a member of Small Leading Hotels of the World and one of theprestigious hotels listed in the Conde Nast Traveler 2009 Gold List and the only hotel in the Caribbean to be named Best Hotel for Food in the 2010 Gold List by Conde NastTraveller UK. Malliouhana Hotel & Spa, 800-835-0796,[email protected], www.malliouhana.com

‘CRAZY FOR CONCH’ WEEKEND TAKINGOVER AT SANDS AT GRACE BAY FOR ANNUAL FESTIVAL

To celebrate the 7th Annual Turks & Caicos Conch FestivalNovember 26–28, The Sands at Grace Bay will be providing free transfers to Festival events paired with a 25-percent rack rate discount and several unique experiences for guests“Crazy for Conch.”

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

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

The festival will take place in Blue Hills, Providenciales, andthe lineup of family-friendly weekend events includes tasting tentswhere local restaurants will compete for the best conch dishes, a

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

The Sands at Grace Bay has partnered with Reef Peeperssnorkel and dive facility in Turtle Cove Marina to offer the op-tional half-day Reef Peepers Snorkeling Adventure for $85 peradult/$55 child (3–12). This includes roundtrip transportationfrom the resort to the marina, a ride in a power catamaran to thecays and secluded beaches around Providenciales, snorkelingequipment, beverages and fresh conch salad served with chips and salsa.

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

The offer is subject to availability and cannot be used in con-junction with any other offers or promotions, and is not applica-ble for groups.The Sands at Grace Bay, 877-777-2637,http://www.reefpeepers.com/index.html, www.thesandstc.com

Emerald green mountains as a backdrop. The turquoiseCaribbean Sea at your feet. Could there be any placemore charming than this picture perfect cove called theGrand Case Beach Club? Two powder white beaches.Fresh water pool. Day and night tennis.Delightful dining. Invigorating water sports. Shopping and excursions.Everything your heart desires.

For reservations see your travel professional or call 1-888-845-5821.

www.grandcasebeachclub.com

The beach is so close,shoes are strictly optional.


MEXICO

Tourism industry professionals from around theworld descended on Mexico City in September toparticipate in the launch of FITA—the InternationalTourism Fair of the Americas—which organizers

predict will become one of theworld’s leading tourism fairs.

The four-day event, held Sept.23-26 at Expo Bancomer SantaFe, signaled a major effort byMexico City to re-establish itselfas a key destination after taking aback seat during the last severaldecades as Mexican beach localesbecame increasingly popular.

Government and tourism offi-cials, from the mayor of MexicoCity on down, consistently deliv-ered a single major message:Mexico offers more than sun andsand, and Mexico City is worthyof being on everyone’s itinerary.

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

More than 5,000 professionals, including 1,500 buyers, from55 countries—including Japan and China, in addition to theAmericas and the European Union—attended, surpassing thegoals of its organizers, who were looking for participation from35 countries.

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

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

The expo center is located in the Santa Fe district of MexicoCity, the city’s newest, high-end business and commercial dis-trict, which boasts architecturally striking office buildings, ho-tels, and shopping centers.

Among the world class hotels within walking distance of theexpo center is The Westin Santa Fe, which opened in August.Overlooking green valleys and the Popocatepetl andIztaccihuatl volcanoes, the completely smoke-free property of-fers 265 rooms, including eight for physically challengedguests. It also features a spa, workout room, and outdoor,

rooftop pool.FITA was modeled after the annual FITUR show in Madrid,

which annually draws more than 100,000 professionals. Morethan just a tourism fair, FITUR, held for the last 30 years, hasbeen an integral part of a larger strategy to transform Spaininto a diverse destination that caters to a wide range oftourists, from family vacationers to travelers with highly spe-cialized interests.Initial indications among attendees from theUnited States is that FITA 2010 was worth attending.

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau exhibitedat FITA to attract more Mexican tourists. While 112,000Mexicans visited the Miami area in 2009 (down 4.7% from2008), Mexico ranks number eight among Latin Americantourists who travel to Miami.

“Heavy government support for the show gives it potentialto supercede other tourism fairs. We already work with touroperators and agencies, but wanted to be here to reach morepeople,” said Larissa Valero, the bureau’s director of sales forLatin America and the Caribbean.

San Diego-based Fox Rent a Car, a privately held companywith 700 employees operating in six western states, attendedFITA 2010 as part of an initiative to attract Mexican business.Jose Giraldo, international tour director for Fox, said he madea contact at the show who was “ready to sign up” as a generalsales agent for the company, and plans to participate againnext year.

With Delta Air Lines planning to inaugurate daily direct ser-vice from Mexico City to Minneapolis on Dec. 18, the Mall ofAmerica in Bloomington, Minn., felt FITA offered a timely op-portunity to build relationships with Mexican-based tour op-erators and travel agents.

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

Steve Prats, vice president with Arizona-based HelmsBriscoe, reportedly the highest volume purchaser in the meet-ings and event industry, said he knew only three suppliers inMexico before FITA, but was able to meet with about 40 oth-ers during the show.

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

FITA Launches in Mexico City; Aims to Be a Leading Tourism FairP E T E R L O W Y

ALEJANDRO ROJAS DIAZ DURÁN,

MEXICO CITY’S MINISTER OF TOURISM

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28


MEXICO

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

Mexico City Is Investing to Attract TouristsFollowing a dramatic 31% decline in international tourist ar-

rivals in Mexico City last year– from 2.85 million in 2008 to1.95 million in 2009 – the downward trend seems to be level-ing off.

Today, about 75% of all international travelers to Mexicohead for beach sites, with the remaining 25% focused on his-torical, archeological, and cultural destinations. While the bal-ance is beginning to shift away from beach vacations, MexicoCity is undertaking significant efforts to regain its historicalstatus as a destination in and of itself. For example:

•Cab drivers, police officers, and waiters are receiving spe-cial training in English as well as in general tourist services.Through September, 15,000 had been trained in 2010, with400,000 slated to get instruction within three years.

•The 16 delegaciones (boroughs) that comprise Mexico Cityare working together to promote tourism, such as by publiciz-ing celebrations that traditionally had been strictly local events.

•The opening of Terminal 2 at Benito Juárez InternationalAirport three years ago to handle all international arrivals hassignificantly increased passenger capacity.

•Improvement to the Viaducto, the main road from the air-port through the city, is part of an effort to increase traffic flow.Helping on this score is a bicycle promotion campaign that en-ables anyone, including tourists, to “rent” a bicycle in the citycenter for the day at no charge.

While news reports of crime, particularly along U.S. borderareas, may raise safety concerns in the minds of tourists, therate of reported crime in Mexico City is lower thanWashington, D.C. The always lively historic city center, cul-tural sites, and upscale neighborhoods like Polanco nearChapultepec Park, are especially tourist friendly.

Juan Carlos Arnau Ávila, who heads strategic planning forthe city’s Tourism Ministry, said Mexico City is adoptingstrategies that have proven successful in reducing crime inNew York City, such as zero tolerance of minor offenses andvandalism. In addition, within the last two years the city hasinstalled 30,000 public surveillance cameras.

Traveling within Mexico City—the third most populous met-ropolitan area in the world (after Tokyo and Seoul) with morethan 21 million residents—remains a challenge, given trafficcongestion and distances, which means it is not a walking cityin the sense that Paris or Rome are. That said, travelers withan interest in the development of Mexico’s culture and history,especially the Aztec empire, will make Mexico City an impor-tant destination.Fita 2010 Mexico City, www.fitamx.com;Mexico City Experience, www.MexicoCityExperience.com

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

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

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

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

Guests staying at Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa can choosefrom the traditional vacation option, which includes hotel accommo-dations European Plan (EP). Vacationers choosing the “totalgourmet experience” will enjoy hotel accommodations as well asbreakfast, lunch and dinner at the hotels restaurants; all nationalbrands and limited premium drinks including cocktails beers, softdrinks and house wines; themed dinners at Aioli and St. Trop restau-rants; a variety of martinis at the Martini Lounge; in-room mini bar(beer, soft drinks, water, snacks—replenished daily); 24-hour roomservice; free use of exercise equipment in the gym; daily newspaperdelivered to the room; 30-percent discount on all international andpremium liquors and wines; 50-percent discount on Internet usage;and all tips and taxes. At Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa, nightlyrates start at $121 ppdo.Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, (agent email)[email protected], www.sandos.com

MEXICO FROM PAGE 26


MEXICO

FALL RATES AT AWARD-WINNING SANDOS HOTELS IN MEXICO START AT $60 ALL-INCLUSIVE

Sandos Hotels & Resorts is inviting singles, couples and families tohead to the magnificent Riviera Maya, Mexico, with all-inclusiverates starting as low as $60 pp. Vacationers will enjoy the brand newAqua Park with 17 water slides and water play areas, a wide arrayof eco activities, romantic canoe rides and more at Sandos CaracolEco Resort & Spa, with rates beginning at $60 ppdo. Travelers canalso visit Sandos Playacar Beach Resort & Spa, situated on the bestbeach area in Playa del Carmen, with rates starting at $70 ppdo.Rates vary based on travel dates and room category chosen.

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

Out of the more than 700 hotels offered by MLT Vacations inMexico, the Caribbean, Latin America, Hawaii and Las Vegas, only117 qualified to receive the MLT Vacations Quality Assurance Awarddesignation for 2010.Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandos.com

FLAMINGO HOTEL COZUMEL EXHIBITINGWORKS OF ART BY LOCAL ARTIST

Flamingo Hotel is supporting local artist, Antonio Carcamo, by ex-hibiting his art through out the hotel. Antonio was born in Mexico Cityand began his artistic journey through self-taught painting. At age 10,he began formal art classes and at 22 made his way to the U.S. wherehe began the art of sculpture. Antonio recently moved to Cozumel andwas introduced to Tom Fryer, owner of the Flamingo, who is now dis-playing his paintings throughout the hotel. Guests may purchase andtake home one of Antonio’s works after a stay; his paintings [of theunderwater reef] range in price from $100–350 each.

Hotel Flamingo is a 22-room boutique hotel with tastefully decorated accommodations and a high level of guest services. TheHotel Flamingo’s Aqua Restaurant and Bar offers complimentarybreakfast with all stays, and serves lunch along with cocktailsthroughout the day and into the evening. Scuba Diving, horsebackriding, snorkeling, sailing, parasailing, fishing and tours of Mayanruins are also available for booking by Hotel Flamingo’s English-speaking staff.

Flamingo Hotel is currently offering 30 percent off for two-nightstays until December 17, 2010. Courtyard rooms are $52.50 pernight, Superior rooms $62.30 per night and the Penthouse Villa is$149 per night including full breakfast each morning.Hotel Flamingo, 800-806-1601, [email protected],www.hotelflamingo.com

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SANDOS CARACOL FIRST TO OFFER GUESTSMAGIC PLANET EDUCATIONAL TOOL

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa has become the first resort inthe world to offer guests the Magic Planet, an exclusive educationaltool that is used by the National Oceanographic AtmosphericAdministration (NOAA) and NASA to teach guests the impact thattheir daily activities have on land, ocean and atmosphere.

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

Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa offers this educational tool at noadditional cost to guests. In addition, other complimentary eco-edu-cational activities include an Eco Tour, Snorkel Tour and EcoWorkshops in the Kids Club. Guests can enjoy a complimentary EcoTour where they discover nature areas within the resort, and also ob-serve the Mayan jungle’s treasures, such as 16 natural cenotes (un-derwater caves), indigenous animals and exotic fauna.

Guests can sign up for one of two complimentary Snorkel Tours helddaily where they can explore the resort’s largest on-property cenoteand discover three unique caves below the surface that connect to

other cenotes throughout the resort. Each cenote’s clear turquoisewaters are home to a few species of small fish.

Children enrolled in the Kids Club will participate in a variety ofEco Workshops to learn about the wildlife and fauna on the property.Sandos Hotels & Resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandos.com

GRAND VELAS RIVIERA MAYA EARNS 2011AAA FIVE DIAMOND AWARD

Less than two years after opening, Grand Velas Riviera Maya hasbeen awarded the acclaimed American Automobile Association’s(AAA) Five-Diamond Award for lodging. Grand Velas Riviera Maya,located five minutes from Playa del Carmen, represents the latestand most sophisticated iteration of the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive re-sort experience and the only family-friendly all-inclusive resort onMexico’s Caribbean coast to merit the award.With 491 suites, GrandVelas Riviera Maya is the largest hotel in Mexico to receive the 5Diamond Award, one of numerous accolades in its short history.

Every year more than 60 AAA/CAA tourism editors visit over60,000 lodgings, campgrounds, restaurants and attractions through-out the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Tourism editors conduct unannounced evaluations, scrutinizingsuch areas as cleanliness, ambiance, amenities and service. Only anestimated 0.25 percent of the estimated 60,000 properties will re-ceive the Five Diamond Award each year.Grand Velas Riviera Maya, www.riviermaya.grandvelas.com

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LATIN AMERICA

The most mesmerizing baroque colonial cites inBrazil lie nestled in the mountainous mineral-richstate of Minas Gerais, the “province of mines.”With American Airlines recently-inaugurated non-

stop service from Miami to Belo Horizonte, the capital of thestate, this region is now within easy reach of travelers. AdamCarter, President of the Brazilian Tour Operators Association(BTOA) said, “We’ve designated this amazing state to be ourdestination of the year.”

Belo Horizonte, Brazil’s first planned city, was built in 1897,just 270 miles north of Rio de Janeiro. This delightful, sophis-ticated metropolis is surrounded by the Serra do Curralmountain range at an elevation of 2,720 feet; its populationsome five million in the metropolitan area. Temperatureshover around 75 Fin the summer, the rainy season extendingfrom November to March; around 63 F in the winter. It is oneof Brazil’s most prosperous states and its size exceeds that ofFrance. “The quality of life here is one of the best in SouthAmerica,” vouches Daniel Anilton Duarte Marques, Directorof Events of Minas Gerais. The city will be one of the hosts ofthe 2014 FIFA World Cup. Its huge soccer stadium, theEstadio Mineirao, is the country’s third largest.

Visitors are welcomed in traditionally hospitable “mineiro”style to enjoy its world-class restaurants and bars, fine hotels,shopping centers, and beautiful parks. And as everywhere inBrazil, samba and jazz rhythms pulsate. It is the bar capitalof Brazil because of the number of botecos or inter-genera-tional meeting places to imbibe a beer, a cachaca (the sugar-cane rum national drink), or a caipirinha! You can even graba drink in the unusually attractive and clean Mercado Centralwhich dates back to 1929. And, no surprise, the coffee is thebest ever. The hearty cuisine, the comida mineira, is a savorycombination of Portuguese, Indian and African flavors. Trythe feijao tropeiro (a mix of bean stew, sausage and cassavaflour) and frango com quiabo (chicken cooked with okra).The scrumptious pao de queijo, cheese bread, is downrightaddictive! The beautiful people meet and mingle for delec-table cuisine at elegant award-winning A Favorita. PossiblyBelo’s best-loved restaurant is Xapuri. Its rustic interior be-lies a most succulent gastronomical experience… includingmany ridiculously delicious desserts! Traveling to Brazil with-out gorging oneself at a churrascaria would be unheard of; tryBelo’s Ambrosios! All different tempting cuts of pork,chicken, beef are presented to you until you can are beyondstuffed! Dieting here is not possible. Favored hotels includeSavassi-situated Liberty Palace and luxurious Ouro MinasPalace.

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

of Assisi in the Pampulha region. This is Brazil’s first listedmodern monument. Located on beautiful Lagoa daPampulha, this controversial church was designed by livinglegend Oscar Niemeyer. Although constructed in 1943, six-teen years passed before its consecration. Religious ortho-doxy viewed the Chapel with skepticism, even alarm, be-cause its construction of concrete parabolic arches deviateddramatically from the norm. Blue Portuguese azulejos (tiles)painted by Candido Portinari depict the life of St. Francis onthe facade. Portinari’s mural and Alfredo Ceschiatti’s bas-re-lief sculptures beautify the interior. Gardens were designedby Roberto Burle Marx.

Niemeyer’s latest daring project, completed in March 2010,presents an audacious visual treat. The enormous TancredoNeves Administrative City is a complex of buildings whichwill enable all government facilities to be based in one space.One of the buildings is balanced off terra firma by massiveconcrete pillars. By the end of the year, some 10,000 people

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

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

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 36


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LATIN AMERICABRAZIL FROM PAGE 34will be working here! “It’s bigger than most ofour cities,” exclaimed Marquez.

Reputed to be one of the world’s best contempo-rary art centers, the Inhotim Institute inBrumadinho can be reached in ninety minutes bycar. This vast eclectic outdoor art gallery com-bines an avant-garde collection of art with exoticbotanical gardens. Guide Luana Camara ex-plained, “Inhotim provides a unique dialogue be-tween man-made art and the natural realm.”American Doug Aitken in collaboration withDamian Francis Wagner created the “Sounds ofthe Earth” exhibit featuring eerie sounds fromdeep within the earth as magnified by micro-phones. After viewing numerous thought-provok-ing exhibits, lovely Inhotim restaurant offers abountiful buffet luncheon of mineiro delicacies.

“Belo Horizonte is the gateway to Brazil’s mostimportant cultural heritage and historical scenery,” com-mented Marquez. These are the fabulous Gold Towns ofMariana, Tiradentes, Congonhas, and Ouro Preto whichsprang into existence with the discovery of gold in 1695.Precious stones mined here include diamonds, tourmalines,citrines, amethysts, and the exquisite Imperial Topaz, foundonly in Minas Gerais.

Mariana, the first capital of the state, founded in 1695, wasnamed after the Queen of Austria, Mary Ana, who was mar-ried to the King of Portugal. When adventurers from SaoPaulo, the “bandeirantes”, crossed over the forbiddingEscarpment mountain range to search for gold, they discov-ered metal blackened by iron oxide. Once melted, it shonewith great brilliance. “Ouro preto”: black gold! News spreadlike wild fire, and tens of thousands rushed to seek their for-tunes!

Here you can still ascend into the very bowels of the earthby cable car into the oldest and largest gold mine in Brazil,the Mina de Ouro Passagem, mined from 1718 - 1985.Thousands of slaves perished here. The Catedral Basilica daSe in Mariana holds a most unusual gift from the Portuguesecrown to the first diocese in Brazil: a magnificentArpSchnitger organ transported over the mountains in 1752,still heard every Sunday!

The city of Tiradentes (formerly named Sao Jose de Rey)was founded in 1702 in the foothills of the Serra de Sao Josemountains. This is the birthplace of Joaquim Jose da SilvaXavier (1746 – 1792), nicknamed Tiradentes (“teethpuller”)as he’d practiced dentistry. He was the leader of a band ofidealistic conspirators, the Inconfidencia Mineira, inspiredby enlightened ideas from Europe and the U.S. Constitution.They witnessed the exploitation of Brazilians and yearned tofree the country from the yoke of Portugal. A Judas in thegroup betrayed their plans…and Tiradentes was sentenced to

die by the order of Empress Dona Maria I. Not just “off withhis head!” but also drawn, quartered, and severed into pieces.Thus was the rebellion quelled. To this day, Tiradentes is hon-ored as Brazil’s foremost hero every April 21, the day of hisexecution, a national holiday. That is why Brasilia, the na-tion’s extraordinary new capital, was inaugurated on thatexact day, in 1960.

The eighteenth century charm of Tiradentes is contagious,population just 6,000. Much in favor with wealthy residentsof Belo Horizonte and other cities, many old mansions havebeen lovingly transformed into pousadas (guesthouses, smallinns) or restaurants. Sure to please discriminating travelersare the stunning Solar da Ponte pousada and enchantingPequena Tiradentes. Restaurants with rave reviews includeSantissima Gula, Padre Toledo, and Tragaluz (“come into thelight”). Try its amazing chorizo beef!

A world of passion unfolds in Ouro Preto, two hours outh-east of Belo, a fairytale city come to life with a population of65,000. The former state capital (1711 – 1897), formerly calledVila Rica, will celebrate its 300th anniversary next year! Thiswas the first site in Brazil to be recognized by UNESCO as aWorld Heritage Site, in 1980. Beautiful baroque architecturedelights the eye at every turn. Its curved cobblestone streetsare built on steeply rising green hillsides at an altitude of over3,600 feet. Red-tiled roofs, whitewashed buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and the colors of the doors and window framesin vivid blues, greens, yellows, reds, are a feast for the senses.The iconic cast of characters who played their parts on thismagnificent stage come swiftly to mind. Shakespeare him-self could not have imagined more fascinating heroes and vil-lains, men of faith and of greed, the romantics and idealists,incredible artists and intellectuals, all interacting in a whirl-wind of events.

The population of Ouro Preto swelled to over 80,000 by

The oldest Opera House/Theater in Latin America, the spectacular Teatro Municipal, inOuro Preto. It opened in 1770 and still stages performances.

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1750, exceeding that of New York City. Vast fortunes weremade, some literally overnight. Opulent churches were con-structed to reflect the wealthy gold-barons’ expressions offaith. Lay brotherhoods of these rich individuals financed thebuilding of the churches as the Portuguese crown forbade re-ligious orders from the region. Between 1695 –1820, hun-dreds of tons of treasure were transported on muleback, a per-ilous passage over forbidding mountains, the Estrada Real(the Royal Road) from Ouro Preto to Paraty and Rio and fromthere shipped to Portugal.

A compelling spirituality permeates these environs. You areawed when you step foot in the renowned Igreja de SaoFrancisco de Assis and view the sculptures of AntonioFrancisco Lisboa, “Aleijadinho” (1738-1814) and the paint-ings of Manuel da Costa Ataide (1762-1830 ); when you ex-plore the oldest opera house in Latin America, the TeatroMunicipal, which opened in 1770 and still stages perfor-mances; when you visit the Museu do Oratorio to view thefabulous treasury of 18th and 19th century sacred art. Whatbreathtakingly beautiful legacies to inspire and enrich ourworld!

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

Among intriguing museums to visit, the Museum of Scienceand Technology displays a large selection of incredibly spectacular precious gems. Ouro Preto is the place to shopfor precious stones, as well as soapstone carvings and otherhandicrafts.

The pilgrimage site of Congonhas do Campo, built in 1757,was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1985.Every September, thousands of the faithful gather at this hillysite at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matozinhos . Herestand Aleijadindo’s twelve lifelike soapstone sculptures of theprophets. Aleijadinho means “the Little Cripple”, so calledbecause his hands were maimed. He worked with hammerand chisel strapped to his wrists… and produced some of themost artistic religious masterpieces in the world. Sixty-sixfigures carved in cedar wood, painted by Ataide, are housedin six chapels, depicting The Stations of the Cross.

Mesmerizing Minas Gerais provides countless soul-stir-ring experiences. It will likely capture your heart. You vowto return and this time, you mean it. BTOA’s members can berelied upon for expert firsthand knowledge of the region, sup-plied with that special mineiro touch!Brazil Tour Operators, www.braziltouroperators.org;Liberty Palace, www.libertypalace.com; Solarda Ponte,www.solardaponte.com.br; Hotel Solardo Rosario,www.hotelsolardorosario.com.br; Exapuri, www.restaurantexapuri.com.br

PERURAIL LAUNCHES NEW EXPEDITIONSERVICE TO MACHU PICCHU

Perurail, operator of the southern and southeast railway in Peru,has introduced a new service, the Expedition, which is intended toreplace its existing Backpacker service between Cuzco and MachuPicchu. The service consists of refurbished and improved carriagesfrom PeruRail’s Backpacker trains. Large panoramic windowshave been installed to allow passengers to fully appreciate the im-pressive landscape of the Urubumba River and the Andes mountainrange as they make their way to and from Machu Picchu.

The seat layout on the Expedition train has been redesigned toallow for more legroom on the four-hour journey. The newpanoramic windows will give passengers an excellent opportunityto capture every step of their voyage on film. The renovated car-riages also have several features not previously available on theBackpacker service, including air conditioning and heating, tradi-tional Andean music, and a typical Andean snack.

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

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

PeruRail is owned by Orient-Express Hotels Ltd and their part-ners Peruvian Trains and Railways (Grupo Peruval). The networkcomprises the Cuzco–Sacred Valley–Machu Picchu route, as wellas Cuzco–Lake Titicaca (Puno), Puno–Arequipa and Arequipa tothe ports of Mollendo and Matarani. Services incorporate bothpassenger and freight operations.Perurail, www.perurail.com


LATIN AMERICA


LATIN AMERICA

TARA TOURS OFFERING ‘CUZCO & MACHU PICCHU PRIVATE’ FOR $2,230 PER PERSON

Tara Tours Inc. is promoting a wonderful journey with a great af-fordable price. The new program, “Cuzco & Machu PicchuPrivate,” will visit Cuzco and Machu Picchu for six days/five nightsfor $2,230 including local airfare from Lima to Cuzco.

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

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

All rates are 10-percent commissionable to retail travel agencies.Tara Tours Inc, 800-327-0080, www.taratours.com

LIBERTADOR’S TAMBO DEL INKA PRESENTS THE QUINOA TRAIL FOR TASTE OF PERU’S SACRED VALLEY

Peru’s largest and most distinguished hotel group, LibertadorHotels, Resorts & Spas, is introducing The Quinoa Trail at Tambodel Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in the Sacred Valley ofUrubamba for a full-day adventure with an array of quinoa-themedinclusions and activities. Quinoa, an ancient Andean grain, pos-sesses wellness properties that have been harnessed for centuries.

To start, quinoa enthusiasts can enjoy quinoa pancakes and vari-ous quinoa-based breads and cereals pre-departure. The day willcontinue with Libertador’s activity specialists, T’ikary, who willlead guests on a kayaking, moderate mountain biking and hikingadventure through picturesque quinoa-filled landscapes with agourmet picnic lunch in a stunning lakeside setting before continu-ing on to the legendary Salt Mines and Agriculture Circles ofMoray Village.

On return, the spa will beckon with an (optional) exquisite QuinoaFacial combining a unique cleansing, exfoliation, mask and mas-sage to maximize the power of the grain—a natural emollient richin fatty acids, minerals, Vitamin E and B Complex; this ‘supergrain’ also assists in cellular regeneration, forming a protectivebarrier over the skin to reestablish hydration. There’s also an op-tional Chef’s Daily Grain menu available for dinner with small por-tions of different dishes that have quinoa as a main ingredient.

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

are recommended. Tambo del Inka debuted in May 2010 as the second Peruvian

member of Starwood’s Luxury Collection, a brand renowned forexclusive properties in exceptional destinations. With its contem-porary approach to the ancestral aesthetic and the hospitality tra-ditions of the Andes, the 128-room resort offers a quiet, luxuriousretreat and an array of modern amenities while fully embracingand honoring the surrounding nature. Tambo del Inka also featuresa full-service spa, two heated swimming pools and its very owntrain station to facilitate trips to the legendary hilltop city ofMachu Picchu.Libertador Hotels, Resorts & Spas, www.libertador.com.pe,www.luxurycollection.com

UNFORGETTABLE GALAPAGOS CRUISE FORTHE ENTIRE FAMILY FROM CANODROS

The exceptional all-suite, 100-passenger Galapagos Explorer hasspecial rates for winter and early specials for 2011. By taking ad-vantage of Canodros’ packages that can include a stay at any of thefour different regions of Ecuador, travelers can combine theirGalapagos cruise with an extended visit to the Ecuadorian mainland.

During September in Guayaquil, the company continued its mas-ter renovation plan initiated in 2008, which consists of redesigningthe stairs, halls and front-desk area, replacing carpets in cabins,restaurant, conference room, Piano Bar, halls; mirror cabins in thehead bed will be replaced also. The Explorer II now offers 24 bal-cony suites, the highest number of balcony cabins offered by cruiseoperators in the Galapagos. The ship assures comfortable accommo-dation necessary to enjoy the unique flora and fauna of this histori-cally vibrant natural paradise. The itinerary allows travelers to viewthe Galapagos through different vantage points and perspectives, in-cluding underwater views, bird watching activities, and guided walks.They can observe the wildlife, or sunbathe on Galapagos Ecuador’smulticolored beaches.

All spacious suites are fully air-conditioned and have marblebathrooms, spacious closets, and sitting areas. Some suites pro-vided with the Galapagos cruise tour package have private bal-conies with intimate sitting areas. Each room comes with a TV,mini-bar, and wireless Internet via satellite communication. Theareas have been designed to offer many different points of view, allof which provide exceptional places of rest and leisure.

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

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and we specialize in custom-made toursfor groups and individuals.

Our expertise is Special Interest Tours:archaeology, eco-tourism, bird

watching, agriculture, and mystic and spiritual tours. Congresses and

Incentives are also some of our lines ofwork. Besides Spanish we are fluent in English and French.

NATURE is our PASSIONPEOPLE our COMMITMENT

Rainforest Expeditions operates three award winning Amazon lodges:

Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and

Tambopata Research Center. Each Amazon lodge uncovers a wide array of fascinating

ecotourism experiences in the middle of our jungle, in the heart of the

Amazon rainforest in Tambopata.


LATIN AMERICA

ECUAHOTEL PRESENTS THEIR NEWEST INECUADOR, ANAHI BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN QUITO

Ecuahotel has introduced Anahi Boutique Hotel, a charming andstylish Ecuadorian hotel located in the best sector of Quito, withinwalking distance from the financial and commercial center and sur-rounded by the gastronomic, cultural and leisure spots of the capitalcity. The boutique hotel, built in 2010, was guided by the prestigevalue of traditional hospitality, catering to very discerning travelers.

At Anahí, each suite is a world of its own, decorated individuallyusing ethnic fabrics and stylish art pieces, each using a differentEcuadorian theme drawing from its history, regions and richness.The fifteen suites are genuine works of art, with their historical andcultural touches joining first-class facilities and state-of-the-arttechnology. They also include a luxurious bathroom, dual telephoneline, high-speed Internet access, cable flat plasma 32” television,digital safety box, mini-bar and hairdryer.

Although the feel is that of a bed and breakfast, Anahí has a restau-rant, a “cava,” a petit spa, Orchids lounge, and a terrace with a greatview of the city. The property is not only a hotel, but also a stylish ex-perience of Ecuador’s diversity and richness.

Anahí Boutique Hotel has been awarded the Smart VoyagerCertification, demonstrating that it adheres to strict environmental,social, safety and comfort standards. Management helps travelerspractice sustainable tourism; for their part, being certified means thatguests enjoy peace of mind as they appreciate Ecuador responsibly.Ecuahotel, [email protected], www.ecuahotel.com; Anahí Boutique Hotel, [email protected], www.anahihotelquito.com

THREE-DESTINATION CHILEAN EXPERIENCEOFFERED BY TIERRA ATACAMA HOTEL & SPA

Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa is bringing in the Chilean spring withthe extension of one of its most popular promotions until December15, 2010. For the purchase of five nights in their all-inclusive pro-gram, guests will receive a complete three-destination experiencewith a complimentary night at The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago, as wellas a complimentary night at the boutique hotel La Casona at MateticVineyards, recognized globally for its award-winning wines and bio-dynamic philosophy.

Guests from around the world come to Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa

to experience the beauty of the Altiplano and the Atacama Desert.The boutique hotel is just a 20-minute walk from the village centerof San Pedro de Atacama. The cultures of Aymara, Atacameña, andInca all left their mark on the region.

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

Chile is a wonderful country for food with its long Pacific Oceancoast and its many excellent climatic zones for agriculture. Menus atTierra Atacama feature traditional dishes highlighting the fresh in-gredients of the area—seasonal fruits and vegetables including thosefrom their own garden, the freshest fish and seafood, the best beefand Chilean lamb. The wine menu is carefully selected to allow gueststo taste the best wines of Chile, both little-known vintages and thewell-known local labels.Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, 800-829-5325, [email protected], www.tierraatacama.com

NEW VIRTUAL EXPEDITION AND EXCURSIONTOUR SHOPPING WITH GALEXTUR

With new and modern purchasing tendencies in the market, glob-alization, constant changes and development in technology are be-coming more demanding. Organizations must take immediate ac-tion to adopt a well-designed website that facilitates all the searchoptions a client would need in specific areas. These pages are notonly an option in the virtual marketplace, but they act as a tool tosupport the corporative presentation of a company and a connec-tion with potential clients despite schedule differences and geo-graphical distances. Galextur is aware that the key to success forany evolving application is to offer a user interface that’s easy tounderstand and use.

Matching these characteristics with the idea to offer toGalextur’s contacts the opportunity to interact with them, they cre-ated a website that offers the following: 365 days a year supportwith live chat, toll-free access numbers, up-to-date information,company resources, and current promotions. They also allow directaccess to available programs and detailed itineraries, online reser-vations, customer references, and an area for suggestions. Theirmultiple touristic packages include the most fascinating destina-tions throughout South America and Ecuador. The EcuadorianAmazonia owns abundant reserves with extraordinary vegetation,and the Andes contain extensive mountain range allowing the exis-tence of vegetal and animal species. From snow-white peaks to theimpressive deserts and valleys, there’s an impressive and wide va-riety of flora and fauna.

All these characteristics make Ecuador a perfect place to planactivities such as diving, cruises, combined tours, island hopping,hiking, camping, mountain biking, climbing, rafting, surfing, etc.with the possibility of exploring and discovering new adventures of-fered by communitarian tourism.Galextur (Galapagos Expedition Tours), www.galextur.com

E C U A D O R R E S O U R C E D I R E C T O R Y

www.cafecultura.com

www.oroverdehotels.com866.481.7790

www.quasarnautica.com

800-647-2251www.expedition.com.ec

www.ehhec.com

www.andeantc.com

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

We consider ourselves an inner city retreat,with an out-going personality

and inspirational food. The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden, with secluded

seating areas for relaxing –or watching our resident hummingbirds,

doves and peacocks do their thing.So don't be shy, ring the bell, come in, and

discover it yourself!

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

Where untamed wildlife outnumber the travelers. Sip morning mimosas as giant tortoises

sunbathe on the shore outside your window. Enjoy a rejuvenating hot stone massage as

Galápagos sea lions doze on the beach just off the port bow. Make moonlight toasts

under the stars that led sailors and scientists alike to this extraordinary archipelago.

EHHEC has now been successfully running for

over 5 years, offering visitors to Ecuador the

best in what this distinctive country has to offer.

800-217-9414www.ecuadoradventure.ec

Ecuador Adventure’s logo not only represents

unrivalled experiences in nature, culture,

learning, comfort, and adventure –

it is an ancient Andean symbol

representing the center of life and time.

Our logo is The Sun of Eight Points,

a powerful emblem that dates back to

pre-Incan times adoring the sun god, Inti.

We are fully committed to our client’s satisfactionand responsibility towards tourism, providing the

highest standards in safety, quality and value.

ORO VERDE HOTELS

stand out from local

competiton thanks

to the superior range of

quality services provided

and our sensitivity to

the local

lifestyle and tradition.

We offer the best quality

and truly personal service

to our guests,

all our efforts are directed

to the PEOPLE.

The Galapagos cruise, guided by the finest andmost experienced naturalists, gives a feeling ofbeing the first to come to this natural paradise.To compliment the Galapagos tour experience,special amenities and service are found only onQuasar’s distinctive private Galapagos cruises–a boutique hotel, outfitted for a true expedition.

25 YEARS OF UNMATCHED GALAPAGOS TRAVEL


LATIN AMERICA

ADVANTAGE TRAVEL’S MANATEE EXPLORERFUNDS EDUCATION EFFORTS IN AMAZON

As an effort to empower communities, the Manatee AmazonExplorer, with the assistance of passengers’ donations, is awarding acomplete college scholarship to the best student in various communi-ties in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

The effort looks to equality in conditions for access and permanencein technical and professional education for students in the differentcommunities, through an educational offer Manatee consolidatedwith Yanacha Foundation. The program is directed toward those in-digenous students who wish to start and continue their studies atYanacha Technical College. Increments in performance are achievedby offering classes, workshops, and collective reflection spaces.

The Manatee Amazon Explorer began the program with internaland external financing (50 percent given by Manatee AmazonExplorer and the remaining 50 percent by external donors). The ob-jective was to institutionalize the program. For the project, it’s nec-essary for donations to support both the program and its tutors—teachers providing students the close and personal walkthroughduring the process of getting scholarships, academic assessment, andany affective situation the students encounter by being away fromtheir communities.

The public can participate in the project by making a contribution,and following the progress of these students and the program.Further information on the program is available by contactingAdvantage Travel by email.

Advantage Travel is owner and operator of the exclusive expeditioncruise onboard the Manatee Amazon Explorer, a floating hotel oper-ating in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rain Forest. Advantage also ownsthe Mantaraya Lodge located at Machalilla National Park, consid-ered one of the best places for humpback whale watching, fishing,snorkeling and diving. Advantage Travel, [email protected], www.advantagecuador.com, www.manateeamazonexplorer.com

ENCHANTED EXPEDITIONS CONDUCTS INTIMATE TOURS OF ECUADOR AND GALAPAGOS

Enchanted Expeditions is an inbound tour operator in Ecuador andthe Galapagos Islands. With 35 years of cruise experience in theGalapagos, the company is a pioneer in Galapagos adventure. Itsguests travel aboard their Smart Voyager and SOLAS-certifiedyachts Beluga and Cachalote I, viewing wildlife up close duringtwice-daily shore visits, experiencing this nature sanctuary to its ut-most with the help of very qualified naturalist guides and crew.

Visitors to mainland Ecuador are provided cultural and adventuretours to the three regions: the Amazon jungle, the Andes with its col-orful markets, historical cities and majestic mountains, and thecoastal region.

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

Several on the team at Enchanted Expeditions are avid travelersthemselves with an in-depth knowledge of Ecuador and its people andoff-the-beaten-path areas of this Andean country.Enchanted Expeditions, [email protected],www.enchantedexpeditions.com

MAGIC OF BOLIVIA SHOWN WITHPERSONALIZED SERVICE BY CRILLON TOURS

Crillon Tours is announcing its new Hydro-Pier at Cocotoni Bay onLake Titicaca, staying at the Inca Utama Hotel & SPA and theAdventure Travel Bag Camping at Cocotoni Bay with fabuloustrekking through idyllic and bucolic sceneries, under a joint venturedeal with the community of Cocotoni.

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

Crillon Tours’ new project in the bay of Cocotoni has involved in-stalling a hydro-pier in the area. The untouched bay on Lake Titicacawill captivate visitors for its authentic pastoral sceneries, where theindigenous and nature seems to be one smooth synchronicity of peaceand freedom. A camping project has been developed in this paradisi-acal bay as the base for a Highland Adventure Program with un-matched treks and other activities. Cocotoni was known as the“Lovely Corner” and it was chosen for elites as their living place.Nowadays it is abandoned with only some few and small communi-ties close to it living from fishing.

Under the clearest southern skies, the small village of Jirira at theshore of the Uyuni Salt Flats is one of the most pollution-free zoneson the planet, where the Milky Way, Scorpio, Jupiter and Capricornand the two constellations Southern Cross and Centaur shine over-head. From Jirira, travelers are embraced by dazzling white surrealpentagons of crystalline salt, while the sounds of silence will makethe heart beat faster; there is no place like this in the world.

From Jirira, gorgeous treks and visits throughout the Salt Flats are done, as well as unforgettable activities like bicycling on thewhite Flats; soft and short trekking to a small island with petrifiedcactus with a complete view over Uyuni Salt Flats; and a trek to Ojosde Agua with its pink flamingos. Within 20 minutes’ walking dis-tance, there’s a cave with “chulpares”—native graves. The magnifi-cent Thunupa volcano is just in front of Jirira, a view and a momentfor reflection.

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

Crillon Tours, www.titicaca.com


LATIN AMERICA

ROATAN CHARTER ANNOUNCES 2011WHALE SHARK WEEK ACTIVITIES AT UTILA LODGE AND WSORC

Guests are invited to join Utila Lodge and WSORC (Whale SharkResearch and Oceanic Center) for a week of lectures, research, andactivities that focus on the largest fish in the sea. The seven-nightpackage includes double-occupancy accommodations, all meals,three boat dives per day for certified divers and special whale sharktrips (snorkeling only, no scuba permitted with the whale sharks.)

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

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

For travel information including local and international airarrangements and ticketing, Roatan Charter may be contacted toll-free or by email. Free, no-obligation airfare quotes are available.Roatan Charter Inc., 800-282-8932, [email protected],www.roatan.com; Utila Lodge, 800-282-8932,[email protected], www.utilalodge.com; WSORC,www.wsorc.com

FAMILY WILDLIFE ADVENTURE AT PARADOR RESORT & SPA

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, has an array of surprises for fami-lies looking for a tropical escape. The adventure starts the momentthey’re picked up by the Parador Resort and Spa private shuttle atthe Juan Santa Maria International Airport.

On their way to the resort (aproximately two hours), passingthrough tropical landscapes and cattle fields, they stop at theTarcoles River to see dozens of crocodiles swimming and sunbathingin their own habitat, as scarlet macaws fly by along the stretches ofroad. After about an hour, a winding three-mile road fringed byocean views and tropical rainforest leads to Central America’s lead-ing hotel 2009: Parador Resort & Spa.

All excursions meet the security codes obliged by the resort, punctual pick-up times, professional bilingual guides and

personalized service. All tours are a short distance from the hotel, providing the remain-

der of the day for enjoying the resort’s outstanding grounds. Complimenting the adventure, the resort is now offering attractive

promotional packages and a variety of accessible rates for familiesand groups of friends. Guests may pay one night get the second at50-percent off (restrictions apply).

More information about the destination, packages and transportare available by contacting Moises Duran.Hotel Parador, 877-506-1414, [email protected],www.hotelparador.com/tours, www.hotelparador.com

PANAMA EXPLORER TOURS OFFERING 12% COMMISSION ON 2010–11 PACKAGES 7 DAYS OR MORE

Panama Explorer Tour is offering travel agents a 12-percentcommission for booking any seven-day or more package toPanama for 2010 and 2011. All bookings must be paid in full byNovember 30, 2010, to qualify.

The Highlights of Panama package for 2010 is going for a remarkable 25 percent off its regular price. Customized tours are available. The Honeymoon Beach Destination is on sale for 2011.Panama Explorer Tours, 800-928-7076, www.panamaexplorertour.com

10%

OFF

Early B

ird D

iscount

Season 2011

-2012


LATIN AMERICA

RAINFOREST ALLIANCE FAM HIGHLIGHTS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN PERU By Steve Carr

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

This year, in conjunction with TMLA, the Rainforest Alliancehosted a fam for press and tour operators from around the worldto see and understand firsthand the details and benefits of sustain-able tourism practices endorsed by the RA and implemented by re-sponsible hotels and lodges in Peru.

Participants learned about important sustainable practices usedby the properties that reduce energy and water use, recycle andreuse resources wherever practical, encourage guest understand-ing and participation in the programs, and support community-based tourism.

Community-based tourism is an important concept embraced by the properties and enables local indigenous communities to participate in and benefit from the development of tourismthrough training, partnerships and support of native cultures and ways of life. Through native guides and community visits, the traveler’s experience in these areas is greatly enhanced.Nature walks on forest paths and canopy bridges specialize inwildlife encounters, herbal and medicinal plants, while communityvisits show the visitor native practices and traditions, schools,

and farming techniques. Spiritual values and traditions are demonstrated by the shaman

whose families have practiced them for centuries.While in the Amazon, participants witnessed the critical need to

focus on conservation and sustainability in the face of slash-and-burn agriculture, rapidly expanding population, and imminentcompletion of the transoceanic highway linking the Atlantic andPacific Oceans via the new suspension bridge nearing completionat Puerto Maldonaldo. Settlement along the highway will increaseexponentially putting even more pressure on the endangered frag-ile environment.

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

Participants unanimously voiced enthusiastic support for the sustainable and community-based tourism initiatives of theRainforest Alliance, and applauded the efforts of the featured properties to embrace and implement responsible practices.Rainforest Alliance, www.youtube.com/rainforestalliance,www.rainforest-alliance.org

METROPOLITAN TOURING LAUNCHES NEWTOURS FOR NEW LAN FLIGHTS

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

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

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

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

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

Rainforest Alliance group at Machu Picchu, Peru


LATIN AMERICA

MADURO TRAVEL HAS DIVE DEALS FOR FALL Fall is a good time to go diving and, with Maduro Travel’s special

dive travel offers, a great time to save money. Some fabulous dealsmean divers will enjoy both—the savings and the diving experience.

Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas is offering a commissionable, seven-night vacation/dive package with accommodations at CoCo ViewResort in Roatan, the Bay Islands of Honduras, at just $938 ppdo.The package includes seven nights’ oceanfront accommodations atCoCo View, airport transfers, a welcome cocktail, three full mealsdaily (including arrival dinner, one picnic and a barbeque on pri-vate cay and breakfast on departure day), unlimited beach divingincluding a Barrier Reef wall dive and Prince Albert Wreck dive,six days of two-boat dive trips including one tank at a selected siteand optional drop-off wall, free use of ocean kayaks, non-motor-ized beach equipment and exercise equipment. The package is validfor travel from November 17 until December 17, 2010 (only $200additional if traveling December 18–31, 2010). Airfare and com-missionable travel insurance are also available. Direct flights arealso available to Roatan from Miami, Atlanta and Houston (basedon availability and travel dates).

At Utopia Village, Utila, in the Bay Islands of Honduras for just$743 ppdo average, there’s a Thanksgiving week special offeringhalf off to the second diver (save $250). The first diver pays $988;the second pays $498. The package provides seven nights’ accom-modations, land and boat transfers, a welcome cocktail, threemeals daily, five days of two-tank morning boat dives, and unlim-ited shore diving. The offer is good for travel November 20–27,2010.All packages come with Maduro’s Best Rate Guarantee.Information on all specials including group travel, air-inclusivepackages or a custom quote is available toll-free or by email.Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas, 800-327-6709, [email protected],www.madurodive.com

CHAA CREEK EXPLORES 2012 MAYA PROPHESIES

The Lodge at Chaa Creek, situated in Belize’s Heartland of theMaya, is providing an authentic Maya travel adventure experiencethat should put to rest misleading media hype surrounding the WinterSolstice of 2012—a pivotal day in Maya history and culture.

The Belize Maya Heartland 2012 package immerses visitors inthe history, culture, religion, art, architecture, healing and agricul-tural practices that are still very much alive in Belize. Fleming de-scribed the package as combining exciting learning activities withcomprehensive adventure tours.

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

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

a massive Winter Solstice 2012 celebration December 21, 2012,for which early bookings will be essential.The Lodge at Chaa Creek, 877-709-8708,[email protected], www.chaacreek.com

‘BEST OF CAYO’ ADVENTURE ANDACCOMMODATION AT SAN IGNACIO RESORT HOTEL

Visitors to the Cayo region of Belize, Central America, have usu-ally done their research prior to arrival and mostly head forCaracol Ruins, the phenomenal Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave sys-tem (ATM) and relax with cave tubing and zip lining.

The smart folks at the San Ignacio Hotel in town have come upwith a winning package that combines all of it—aptly called Bestof Cayo—that starts at just $875 ppdo (exclusive of taxes, servicecharge and park entrance fees) for four nights’ accommodation,transfers, breakfast, three dinners, and the full-day adventuresJaguar Paw cave tubing and zip-lining, a tour to Actun TunichilMuknal cave, and a tour to Caracol Maya Site with stops at RioFrio Caves and Rio On Pools. Not included in the rate are the nine-percent hotel tax, 12.5-percent government tax and five-percentservice charge, as well as the park entrance fees and zip-lining fee.Room upgrades are available at extra cost.San Ignacio Resort Hotel, [email protected],www.sanignaciobelize.com

PANAMA

Reservations (507) 232-3700

www.radisson.com/panamacity_golf

An unforgettable experience


LATIN AMERICA

RAINY SEASON RENAISSANCE AT CHAN CHICH IN BEAUTIFUL BELIZE

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

The Lodge is hoping to please guests by adding more color andvariety to the main area. They also aim to attract more of the hum-mingbirds, manikins and other little birds. Added to its focus oncolorful flowering plants, they are adding several fruiting speciessuch as bananas, plantain and avocado. Guests will be welcome topick their own fruit as well as order it in the restaurant.

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

Chan Chich is well known to bird watchers, nature lovers andarcheology enthusiasts, but it’s ideal for anyone looking for a greatvacation. For the fitness minded, there are mountain bikes, a swim-ming pool, and miles of great jogging roads. Chan Chich Lodge, 800-343-8009, www.chanchich.com

SNORKEL GETAWAY, FREE NIGHTS FROMSUNBREEZE HOTEL, SUNBREEZE SUITES

SunBreeze Hotel, situated on the beach, within immediate accessto the tranquil and friendly town of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, of-fering 43 generously spaced Premier, Deluxe and Standard roomswith views of the Caribbean Sea, Barrier Reef and a lush tropicalgarden. Facilities include its Beachfront Restaurant and Bar, fresh-water pool, Massage Studio and Wellness Center, 24-hours frontdesk, PADI Dive Shop and art gallery.

A special Snorkel Getaway package is now being offered atSunbreeze Hotel for travel through December 18, 2010. In additionto roundtrip local air transfers (Belize–San Pedro), it features sevennights’ deluxe accommodations with room taxes included, a full day’ssail with three snorkel stops, and one Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alleysnorkel tour. Park fees, equipment, and lunch are not included. Theprice is just $820 ppdo per snorkeler.

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

Currently on offer at Sunbreeze Suites are extended free nights spe-cials, where guests can stay seven nights and pay for five only, or stayfive nights and pay for just four.SunBreeze Hotel, 800-688-0191, [email protected],www.sunbreeze.net; SunBreeze Suites, 800-820-1631, [email protected], www.sunbreezesuites.com

RADISSON FORT GEORGE GIVING BACK TOTHE COMMUNITY IN BELIZE

The Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina is involved in assisting local community wherever possible. In that spirit, during Carlson’s Worldwide Responsible Business Action Month in September, Green Team leader Pat Lamb, along with some staff members and two students of the University ofBelize, headed over to the Stella Maris School’s compound tohelp out.

The team of Radisson’s 23 staff members and two students ofthe University of Belize were welcomed by Stella Maris’ PrincipalJoy Westby. Radisson’s team assisted with repairing of chickencoop and preparing garden beds for the school’s REAP Programand with cleaning the grounds and painting. The Radisson teamlogged a total of 80 service hours in one day.

Two of Radisson’s employees are past students of Stella MarisSchool. Radisson also assisted the school by donating the doorproceeds of the Film Showcase held September 12–16 at the hotel. The showcase included local and cultural shortmovies/stories. Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina, www.radisson.com/belizecitybz


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800-513-5222www.fisheaglesafaris.com

866-988-7575www.naturalmigrations.com

800- 545- 1910www.premiertours.com

866-466-0301www.safariline.net 866-948-9494

www.zizinisafaris.com

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CORTEZ TRAVEL INC. &CORTEZ EXPEDITIONS

The foremost outfitter / tour operator to this distant and captivating land. Air and land arrangements areoffered to individualsand small groups ofnature lovers eager to discover a land still untouched,unspoiled and farfrom the touristcrowd –Madagascar.

It is our ongoing mission to sort through thevast options to find you the best value for your

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Natural Migrations prepares luxury and adventure trips to

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AfricaMiddle EastAsiaAustralia/New Zealand

North AmericaCentral & South America

Central, Northern &Eastern EuropeFranceGreat Britain &IrelandGreece & theMediterraneanItalySpain and Portugal

800-590-1170www.goaheadtours.com

800-854-1029www.cortez-usa.com


AFRICA

Ten African tourism leaders gathered at New YorkUniversity recently to discuss the need to raise theprofile of tourism on Africa’s economic agenda.The event was organized by the Africa Travel

Association (ATA) and hosted by New York University’s AfricaHouse as world leaders gathered for the United NationsGeneral Assembly meetings.

“The Presidential Forum brings together a diverse group ofpeople from around the world, who all share a common inter-est in Africa and tourism,” said Edward Bergman, ATAExecutive Director. “Together, they have the ability to growthe sector and to increase the number of tourism arrivals andinvestment on the African continent.”

Program participants included leaders from Benin, Burundi,The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Morocco, andTanzania, along with senior representatives from the AfricanUnion and the World Bank’s Africa Region. CNN ChiefBusiness Correspondent and Host of Your $$$$ Ali Velshimoderated the event.

Newly elected ATA President and The Gambia TourismMinister Fatou Mas-Njie Jobe called on African states towork together and with ATA to “make tourism to Africa eas-ier, safer, competitive and a rewardingly richer experiencethat affords the traveler, tourist or investor with immense op-portunities to savor the diversity of Africa.” To make this hap-pen, she invited all African states to join ATA and highlightedthe need for African states to create joint ventures, partner-ships and collaborative efforts.

Dr. Elham Ibrahim, African Union Commissioner forInfrastructure and Energy, participated in this year’s pro-gram, following the signing of a memorandum of understand-ing between ATA and the AU in May. Dr. Ibrahim spoke aboutthe need for African nations to work together to achieve acompetitive edge in the global tourism market. She also em-phasized the multi-sectoral nature of tourism and the need forcross-sector cooperation.

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

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

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

The Tanzania Tourist Board presented three awards duringthe program. Kent Redding, President of Adventures inAfrica, received the Tour Operator Award Southern/WesternCircuit. Rumit Mehta, President of Immersion Journeys re-ceived the Tour Operator Award for Product Development,and Dave Sirulnick and Justin Wilkes of News & Docs, MTVreceived the Media Broadcast Award. Tanzania NationalParks was an event sponsor.Africa Travel Association (ATA), www.africatravelassociation.org

African Leaders Discuss Raising Tourism’sProfile at ATA’s Annual Presidential Forum on TourismS H A R O N R O L I N G

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

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ATA Board of Directors members, Africa-House New York Universityrepresentatives and participating speakers at the Africa TravelAssociation’s Fifth Annual Presidential Forum on Tourism at New YorkUniversity .

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A F R I C A R E S O U R C E D I R E C T O R Y

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ADIKA TOUR AND TRAVEL works hard to remain a leading and reliable in the

hospitality industry in Ethiopia, and strives to bring about a change through:

Construction of guest houses, lodges andhotels in different touristic areas of Ethiopia

Opening different branch offices at all destinations of Ethiopia and abroad

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The only safari operator in thissouthern section of the park.

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AFRICAYour Adventure,Our Expertise

We have built a solid reputation for safe, comfortable, reliable and fun-filled tours

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AFRICA

BONGO TOURS & SAFARIS, EQUITANZRESORTS SHOW AFRICA’S TREASURES

Overlooking the Ngorongoro Crater, Afrikan Sunstar Resort ab-sorbs sunset and sunrise from its balconies. Guests hear playful birdsounds at the resort and a little over four miles away, they enjoygame drives at the Ngorongoro Crater. The resort is renowned forexquisite cuisine, affordable accommodations and scenic views Itconsists of 20 exclusively furnished cottages all en-suite, mainbuilding lobby, restaurant, bar and open-air terrace. Visitors canalso relax at the swimming pool facility with poolside bar.

At the foot of Africa’s rooftop, Fortune Mountain Resort is justabout three miles from the Mt. Kilimanjaro gates. With its 18 bigluxury suites all en-suite, the resort prides itself on glorious ambi-ence, the Kibo Restaurant and Mawenzi Bar, Shira Lounge as wellas magnificent gardens and warm friendliness. Fortune Mountainoffers excursions from cultural tours to village walks, historicalsites, and of course the Kilimanjaro challenge.

Bongo Tours and Safari offers favorable rates for all expertguided tours, tailor-made safaris, a Mt. Kilimanjaro climbing

package, bird-viewing and photographic safaris, comprehensivetransfer, and hotel reservations. From luxury to adventure tours,nature walks to cultural tours, from the shores of Zanzibar to thehighest peak of Mt, Kilimanjaro, the group enables visitors to ex-plore the best places in Tanzania.Equitanz Resorts, [email protected], www.equitanzresorts.com; Bongo Tours & Safaris, [email protected], www.bongotours.com

OMONG’WE TRAVEL & TOURS DISCOUNTSCHRISTMAS, NEW YEAR FAMILY PACKAGES

Omong’we Travel & Tours, a travel company based in Dar EsSalaam, Tanzania is now offering special, discounted family pack-ages for groups of four or more people touring Tanzania’s beautifultourist attractions during Christmas and New Year’s period.Discounts will range from five to 10 percent of normal prices, de-pending on the number of the people on the booking. The packagesinclude famous attractions such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro,Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar; however recently, Omong’we has also fo-cused on smaller and niche markets such as Pangani, GombeNational Park and Selous Game Reserve.

Clients can customize vacations by choosing a combination of sa-fari to endless plains of Serengeti, world-famous Ngorongoro Crater,Lake Manyara or Tarangire National Parks, climb MountKilimanjaro or visit white-sandy beaches of Zanzibar. By combiningclient choice and Omong’we expertise, a dream vacation can becomea reality. In addition, Omong’we Travel is now offering tourist pack-ages to some niche markets in the country. The historical town ofPangani has been attracting crowd of tourists who want to be in a re-mote and quiet place for inner peace and tranquility. Another pack-age is to Gombe National Park, around 13,000 acres, famous world-wide for its chimpanzees and Jane Goodall research. Omong’we alsoprovides tours to Selous Game Reserve, one of the largest fauna re-serves in the world, situated in Southern Tanzania.Omong’we Travel, [email protected],www.omongwetravel.com

TTB PRESENTATION AT ATA PRESIDENTIALFORUM IN NEW YORK

At Africa Travel Association’s prestigious Fifth AnnualPresidential Forum September 22 at New York University, Dr.Aloyce K. Nzuki, Managing Director of the Tanzania TouristBoard, presented the 2010 Tanzania Tourist Board TourOperator Product Development Award to Rumit Mehta,President of Immersion Journeys. (Left to right) EddieBergman, Executive Director, Africa Travel Association; Dr.Nzuki; Rumit Mehta; and Karen Hoffman, President, theBradford Group/Tanzania Tourist Board USA Representative.The company won the award for providing programs inTanzania for universities, corporations and public sector insti-tutions, as well as identifying investment opportunities inTanzania.

Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) together with TTB andAfrica House of NYU sponsored the ATA event. Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB),www.tanzaniatouristboard.com; Africa Travel Association(ATA), www.africatravelassociation.org

Contact us to for all of your safari needs

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Tranquility at the foot ofKilimanjaro.

Tanzania’s new luxury lodge set in lush tropical gardens with breathtaking views of

Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru.

A recognized leader in the aviation industry in Tanzania.

We are affiliated to the long-established Nairobi-based

domestic airline, Airkenya. We arebased in the northern Tanzanian

town of Arusha, the starting point ofsafaris into northern Tanzania.

Overlooking the Rufiji River, Selous Riverside Safari Camp consists of

ten of the largest and most luxurious tentedchalets in Tanzania. They have been carefullyplaced to provide privacy and blend into the

nature’s surrounding, overlooking the Rufiji River and its hippos and crocodiles.Attention has been paid to every detail to

make sure you experience the true essence of an adventures safari of a lifetime.

Where the slopes of majesticKilimanjaro reach far out into the African savannah a dream hascome true – Hatari Lodge opened its doors to the public sharing notonly a beautiful but also a

historic and especially ecologically interesting area.

Ahsante Tours is located in Moshi, a smalltown on the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro,

the ideal location not only for Kilimanjaro or Meru climbing but for game viewing

in the parks in the northern circuit.A locally-owned tour operator that specializes in mountain climbing,

wildlife safaris and beach holidays.

Amazing Tanzania focuses on dreams anddesires and enjoys the challenge of working

with a client to achieve the perfect combination that meets their needs and interests and shows the best of what a

safari in Tanzania has to offer.We look forward to assisting in the designing

of the perfect Tanzania Experience.Welcome to Amazing Tanzania!

Zanzibar is one of the most exotic of African islands, and Bwejuu is its

wide and blindingly white beach.For pampered luxury stay at

The Palms in one of six large villas.

Bwejuu Beach voted one of the 30 bestisland beaches in the world.

~Conde Naste

Globeinter Safaris Africa is a brand dedicated to offering Tours and Safaris

in the East African region with the opportunity of consulting in other regions.

We will also offer Hotel and Lodges reservations, conferencing and events, airline

tickets, airport transfers and car rental.We can tailor safaris to tastes and budget. Be confident that we can create a special

itinerary at affordable rates.


AFRICA

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

Specialists in customized luxury African Safaris, ExtraordinaryJourneys (EJ Africa), is offering a new special to Africa: an eight-night package across Botswana, Namibia and Zambia starting at$3,950 per person.

Travelers will stay the first three nights in an exclusive Meru-styletent at Kalahari Plains in Botswana’s Central Kalahari GameReserve—one of the largest reserves in the world. Next, they’ll fly tothe lush area of the Okavango Delta on Paradise Island where they willspend two nights at either Jacana, Xigera or Seba Camp; the newXigera (opened in May 2000) consists of eight luxuriously furnishedwalk-in tented rooms with superb views of the floodplain and attrac-tive waterhole. Then they will fly to the Kwando airstrip where a boatride on the magnificent Kwando River takes them to scenic LianshuluLodge in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip for a two-night stay. The trip comesto an end with a night at either Toka Leya Camp or The River Clubnear Livingstone, Zambia and the stupendous Victoria Falls.

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

EJ Africa organizes trips for honeymooners, families and individ-ual travelers to Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia,South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. Mixing and matchingsafaris, camps, lodges, and villas, with travel by private planes, 4x4s,hot air balloons, elephant, camel and even horse, EJ Africa hasplanned over 300 trips to Africa and not one has been the same.Extraordinary Journeys, www.ejafrica.com

NEW KCH TRAVEL PORTFOLIO SERVES NICHE AND SPECIALTY TRAVEL PROVIDERS

KC Hoppe & Kathleen Cook-Hunter, two travel industry insiders,have partnered together to form the KCH Travel Portfolio, a salesrepresentation and marketing consulting company designed for nicheand specialty travel providers. The firm manages a distinguishedportfolio and offers more than 20 years of experience and expertisein the U.S. luxury and leisure travel markets.

KC and Kathleen work on their clients’ behalf to increase brandawareness and market share, designing cost-effective, strategic plansfor action working toward growth with sustainable results. Areas of

expertise include strategic marketing and branding, business devel-opment, product and sales training, and consortium navigation.

KC and Kathleen have collaborated over the past ten years on ini-tiatives including events and trade shows, business/project develop-ment, marketing plans, familiarization trips, and more. Each hasrepresented award-winning luxury travel companies for decades.Their current portfolio represents Baobab Expeditions, BlueParallel, Cape Grace Hotel, EuroPanache, Lindblad Expeditions,and Victoria Falls Hotel.KCH Travel Portfolio, [email protected],[email protected], www.kchportfolio.com

KUMUKA WORLDWIDE SHOWS THE MAGIC OF AFRICA AND BEYOND

Travelers who want to see the beautiful, majestic gorillas andwildlife of Uganda will love two of Kumuka’s new Small Group toursthat provide comfort camping, lodge accommodation and have amaximum group size of 10 people for a personalized experience. TheGorilla Safari tour gives the opportunity to trek with a mountain go-rilla in the scenic Uganda highlands and to see Queen ElizabethNational Park’s vast mammal and bird species.

The Gorilla & Wildlife Encounter visits Uganda’s best locations forprimate and game viewing. Highlights include a boat trip on LakeVictoria to visit the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, theKibale Forest National Park, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, QueenElizabeth National Park and a trek with mountain gorillas.

Madagascar Explored, recently featured in National Geographic’stop 25 tours, allows travel in a traditional dhow boat where travelersenjoy kayaking, fishing, snorkeling over colorful coral, relaxing onunspoiled beaches and even swimming with whale sharks.

In West Africa, Kumuka’s Markets, Coasts and Voodoo tour cov-ers Ghana, Togo and Benin. Highlights include the rainforests ofKakum National Park, seeing and playing with drum masters inGhana, dancing to West African beats on the beach and the opportu-nity to give something back with Kumuka’s short volunteering pro-grams. Travelers will also learn about Voodoo and explore the fetishmarkets of Togo and Benin.

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

In total Kumuka Worldwide has 83 Adventure tours throughoutAfrica and The Middle East, including Small Group Tours andOverland Tours. Kumuka also offers Family Adventures and LodgeBased Safaris in Africa and the Middle East.

Kumuka Worldwide offers the peace of mind of knowing that oncepaid in full, tour price will remain the same regardless of any ex-change-rate fluctuations.Kumuka Worldwide, 800-517-0867, [email protected], www.kumuka.com


AFRICA

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

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

Members of the press, leading travel agents and guests of Jack’sfrom the Big Apple joined Adrian Gardiner and his Mantis team forthe launch of Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild TV series. The series wasfilmed at two of the Mantis game reserves, Shamwari andSanbona, only six months ago. The seven-part series will be broad-cast across the U.S in the coming months with coverage in 90 per-cent of the American market.

In introducing Jack Hanna, Adrian Gardiner said, “We are verypleased that Jack has become such a great ambassador, not onlyfor Mantis, but for all of South Africa, and his incredible followingwill have an opportunity to see the best of our country. ”

Gardiner went on to announce that Mantis and SAA Vacationswill be introducing “Jack Hanna Safaris” in the near future.

Jack and his crew will now venture to Mantis’ Chilean propertiesbefore returning to Southern Africa to film a series at the RoyalChundu Zambezi River Lodge in Zambia and other Mantis proper-ties north of the South African border.The Mantis Group, www.mantiscollection.com

MADURO DIVE FANTA-SEAS OFFERS 2011 SARDINE RUN EXPEDITIONS

National Geographic calls Sardine Run the Most Exciting Diveon Earth. Every year, the world’s greatest marine migration takesplace off the South African coast. Multiple millions of sardines fol-low the cold winter currents moving north toward the warm IndianOcean, bringing with them thousands of predators: dolphins,sharks, whales, seals and marine birds.

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

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

The price is $4,850 ppdo and comes with Maduro’s Best RateGuarantee. Special airfare pricing to South Africa and a pre- orpost-Safari is available. Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas, 800-327-6709, [email protected],www.madurodive.com

TRUMARKETING ANNOUNCES BLUE TRAIN’SSPECIAL JOURNEYS FOR 2011

The Blue Train provides a window to the soul of South Africa, of-fering luxury travel with superior service and fine gourmet cuisine.Travelers experience it all the moment they step aboard The BlueTrain, where every need is catered at the level of sophistication of afive-star hotel.

The signature Blue Train/Safari package will have two departuresin 2011 that provide the opportunity to combine a Blue Train experi-ence with an exciting two-night stay at beautiful Ivory Tree GameLodge in Pilanesburg. The package includes a roundtrip Blue Trainjourney from Pretoria to Sun City, transfers to the lodge, two nightsat Ivory Tree including two game drives per day and meals, plus anR400 spa voucher. The trip is available September 15-18, 2011, andDecember 29, 2011 through January 1, 2012.

For those interested in a luxurious rail journey combined with agolf/spa holiday, the Blue Train/Fairmont Zimbali package is avail-able for two departures in 2011. Guests experience the best of thebest with a round-trip journey aboard the Blue Train from Pretoriato Durban, two nights at the exquisite luxurious Fairmont ZimbaliLodge, daily breakfast, an R550 per person food and beverage credit,and choice of two rounds of golf at Zimbali Estate or an R760 spavoucher for use at the property's signature Camelot Spa. This trip isavailable September 8–12 and November 17–21, 2011.Trumarketing, [email protected], www.trumarketing.com

Let us put you on the right track!

Visit www.apta.biz or [email protected].

APTA IS AFRICAWE’LL PUT YOU ON THE RIGHT TRACK!APTA is recognized as the foremost Travel Trade Association for the Promotion

of Tourism to the Continent of Africa and its islands. Join us and connect with

hundreds of fellow Travel Counselors, Tour Operators, Tourism Boards, Airlines,

and other Suppliers for unique and invaluable information on travel to Africa.

Your APTA Membership Includes:

Educational Dinner Programs

Guest Speakers

New Sales Tools

Destination/Product Presentations

Networking Opportunities

Access to Informative Website

Member Supplier List on Website

Special Discounts

Invitation to Annual Travel Show “Discover Africa”

Quarterly Newsletter Subscription and Submissions

Unique Educational Opportunities


AFRICA

ATO TEWOLDE G. MARIAM APPOINTED NEW CEO OF ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES

Ethiopian Airlines has appointed Ato Tewolde G. Mariam as CEO–Designate of Ethiopian Airlines to succeedAto Girma Wake as CEO effectiveJanuary 1, 2011.

Ato Girma Wake served as ChiefExecutive Officer of Ethiopian Airlinessince February 2004, leading the airlinethrough one of the most ambitious growthperiods in its history. With the implemen-tation of Vision 2010, Ethiopian

was ranked the 16th most profitable airline in the world.Of Ato Tewolde G. Mariam’s appointment, H.E. Ato Seyoum,

Chairman of the Board of Management for Ethiopian Airlines,said, “Vision 2025, 15-year strategic road map for the growth ofthe airline, has been laid out and the airline is on the first year ofits implementation. The Management Board has noted that whenAto Girma retires, it should appoint a successor capable of contin-uing implementing this strategic direction to make Ethiopian theforemost Aviation Group in Africa and to continue contributing tothe socio-economic development of Ethiopia.”

Ato Tewolde has served Ethiopian for the last 25 years in variouscapacities in the Marketing Division at the head office and at areaoffices including India, Saudi Arabia and the U.S.A. He also hasserved the airline as Executive Officer of the Marketing and SalesDivision. Prior to his appointment as CEO Designate, he had beenserving as the Chief Operating Officer of Ethiopian, successfullysteering the operations of the airline during a period of unprece-dented and profitable growth.

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

AFRICA CONNECTION TOURS SHOWCASING PHENOMENAL CULTURAL EVENT IN DECEMBER

The World Festival of Black Arts and Culture is a 20-day cultureand arts festival that will take place in Africa, December 10–31,2010. The theme is “African Renaissance.” The Republic ofSenegal, known for its artistic wealth, is the host country for theevent. The country of honor is Brazil.

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

perience unforgettable. Known for their spirit of teranga (hospitality) and fabulous de-

sign tours, Africa Connection Tours will provide the perfect way toexperience this event. Travelers’ days will be full of excitement, ex-periencing everything from the traditional to the newest Africanand Diaspora creations in all fields of culture.

Africa Connection Tours also offers cultural tours, business tradegroups, educational tours, echo-tourism, wedding parties, gastro-nomic tours and more.Africa Connection Tours, [email protected], www.actours-senegal.com

BAOBAB EXPEDITIONS OFFERS TREKS TO THE GORILLAS AND THE BIG FIVE

In 2011, Baobab Expeditions will again offer exclusive guidedexpeditions to discover the gorillas in Rwanda’s Parc National desVolcans and the Big Five across Kenya’s wild bush. For every book-ing, Baobab will generously donate to both the Dian Fossey GorillaFund International and the Born Free Foundation.

Clare Richardson, President of the Dian Fossey Gorilla FundInternational, will guide travelers through the Parc National desVolcans (where about half the world’s remaining mountain gorillassurvive). Stays will be at the Volcanoes Virunga Lodge, and thenback in Kigali at five-star Kigali Serena Hotel. Nairobi is next,with guide Lynne Leakey. Lodging is at five-star Sarova Stanleyhotel, where Ernest Hemingway, Denys Finch Hatton and EdwardPrice of Wales all stayed.

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

Shaba National Park will be visited next, home to the reticulatedgiraffe, the Waller’s Gazelle, Somali ostrich, and the endangeredGrevy’s Zebra. While here, travelers will stay at Joy’s Camp, builton the site of Joy Adamson’s tented home (also home to Penny theleopard, the heroine of Adamson’s last book).

The adventure ends with a visit to magnificent Masai Mara—a200-square-mile reserve widely considered to be Africa’s greatest.

Baobab’s eleven-day Dian Fossey’s Gorillas and Born Free’s BigFive adventures are set for June 18, 2011, and November 5, 2011.Pricing begins at $10,998 ppdo. Prices include all domestic flights;all ground transportation; meals as described; all accommodation,beverages and laundry at Virunga Lodge; bed and breakfast ac-commodation in Nairobi; all meals and accommodation on safari;game drives as indicated; park entrance fees; expert guides; andgenerous donations to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Internationaland the Born Free Foundation. International flights, visa entry feesfor Kenya and Tanzania, medical and travel insurance, all personalexpenses, and any other additional costs that may be incurred as aresult of alterations in the itinerary are not included.Baobab Expeditions, [email protected],www.baobabexpeditions.com

ATO TEWOLDE G. MARIAM


AFRICA

LAKANI WORLD TOURS OFFERS AFRICANADVENTURE BY LUXURY PRIVATE JET

Lakani World Tours has unveiled a new private jet tour for 2011.The 19-day all-inclusive African Adventure is a journey of discov-ery to the many diverse wonders of the African continent. Travelerswill explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leptis Magnaand the archaeological site at Sabratha in Libya; trek the elusivegorillas in Rwanda, home to the world’s largest number of endan-gered mountain gorillas—numbering over 300; view abundantwildlife on safari in Botswana; ascend Table Mountain by cable carand taste exquisite wines in South Africa; witness traditionalDogan and Tuareg culture and dance performances in Mopti andTimbuktu, Mali; and marvel at the exotic sights of ImperialMarrakech in Morocco.

Lakani will take only 14 guests on this exclusive journey and par-ticipants will be transported throughout Africa on a luxury VIP ex-ecutive jet. Normally carrying up to 40 passengers, the private jetis custom-fitted with luxurious leather club seats to provide the ut-most comfort for the group of 14. They will be accompanied by twocabin attendants who will attend to their every need and serve topcuisine and vintage wines while aloft.

This luxury voyage begins and ends in Madrid, Spain, and will beescorted by experienced and professional Lakani Tour ManagerJohn Webley. The tour includes deluxe accommodations at fine andlegendary hotels and lodges, all meals, a la carte dining withLakani’s exclusive Dine By Choice allowing flexibility and person-alization (where available), comprehensive sightseeing, special en-tertainment and much more.

Lakani’s African Adventure by Luxury Executive Private Jet,September 18 through October 6, 2011, is priced at $67,900 ppdo.Single rooms are available upon request for an additional $5,750.Brochures on African Adventure by Luxury Executive Private Jet,Europe Rediscovered by Luxury Executive Private Jet, CulturalConnections Around the World by Luxury Private Jet, Best of theAmericas by Luxury Private Jet and Escorted Tours are available.Lakani World Tours, 888-565-5554, [email protected],[email protected], www.lakani.com

ARIK AIR REACHES MILESTONE CARRYING 5 MILLIONTH PASSENGER DURING SUMMER PERIOD

Arik Air, Nigeria’s leading commercial airline, has finished thesummer season by registering a growth in uplift of 10.3% for thethree-month period ending August, 31 2010, compared to the sameperiod last year. Arik carried nearly 60,000 more passengers duringthis period compared to 2009, with August (2010) realizing an11.9% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers.

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

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

Dr. Michael Arumemi-Ikhide, Group Chief Executive Officer of ArikAir, commented; “The figures for the period just ended are very en-couraging and reflect the steady growth that we have been experienc-ing since launching the first long-haul route in December 2008.Additional long-haul routes that we have added towards the end of lastyear have undoubtedly complemented the significant increase in pas-senger numbers for this quarter and we’re confident that we will buildon this demand domestically and internationally. Arik Air underwenta rapid expansion in 2009 and this year the focus has been on consol-idating in these new markets—from introducing our truly unique ser-vice and offering on new and under utilized routes, the aim has beento maintain those standards that set us apart from our competitors; Ifeel we have achieved this and the figures speak for themselves.”Arik Air International Ltd., www.arikair.com

ELEPHANT BEDROOM CAMP IN SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE REOPENS

Set on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu NationalReserve, Elephant Bedroom Camp has finally reopened after recon-struction and it’s business as usual.

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

The main area which hosts the lounge, dining room and the bar isnow also on a raised deck allowing guests an excellent view of theriver and stunning views of Koitogo, Nakadeli and Lolpopong Hills. Elephant Bedroom Camp, Atua-Enkop Africa Ltd., [email protected], www.atua-enkop.com

YOUR AFRICAN TRAVEL DREAMS COME TRUE WITH

F L Y S A A SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS

Documents

November 2010 Edition