The Government of Cuba has announced that travelers will have to present proof of health insurance in order to enter the country as of May 1, 2010. Upon arrival, travelers may be required to present an insurance policy, insurance certificate, or medical assistance card valid for the period of their stay in Cuba. Those who do not have proof of insurance coverage may be required to obtain health insurance from a Cuban insurance company when they arrive.
Temporary residents will also have to hold valid health insurance policies.
Although proof of Canadian provincial health insurance will be sufficient for visitors to enter Cuba, your provincial plan may cover only part of the costs and will not pay the bill up-front, as required. It is therefore recommended that travellers purchase supplemental health insurance. Note that some private insurers also require the traveller to pay costs up-front and be reimbursed later. Travellers should note that Cuban authorities will not allow anyone with outstanding medical bills to leave the country.
All health insurance policies will be recognized except those issued by U.S. insurance companies, as they cannot provide coverage in Cuba.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Discover Rocky Mountaineer
Only have a few days to explore the most spectacular scenery in the world? Lloyds Travel offers short packages with Rocky Mountaineer that are perfect short retreats in the Canadian Rockies.
The Rockies are vast and expansive, spanning from the northern border of Canada into the United States. The rich, vast, unspoiled nature of the Canadian National Parks is treasured by all who know the beauty that lies within them. People travel from around the world to vacation and experience the rare and rugged Canadian Rockies region that has been preserved for more than a century.
The Rocky Mountaineer travels by rail through five of these protected areas: Mount Revelstoke National Park, Glacier National Park, Yoho National Park, and the oldest and the largest of the Rockies parks, Banff and Jasper. Three provincial parks combined with the four National Parks located in the Rockies, comprise the UNESCO Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site. This ranks as one of the largest protected areas on the planet. The rail routes you'll travel are unlike any other in the world.
The Rockies are vast and expansive, spanning from the northern border of Canada into the United States. The rich, vast, unspoiled nature of the Canadian National Parks is treasured by all who know the beauty that lies within them. People travel from around the world to vacation and experience the rare and rugged Canadian Rockies region that has been preserved for more than a century.
The Rocky Mountaineer travels by rail through five of these protected areas: Mount Revelstoke National Park, Glacier National Park, Yoho National Park, and the oldest and the largest of the Rockies parks, Banff and Jasper. Three provincial parks combined with the four National Parks located in the Rockies, comprise the UNESCO Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site. This ranks as one of the largest protected areas on the planet. The rail routes you'll travel are unlike any other in the world.
Adventure in Southern Arizona
If you seek adventure try a vacation to Southern Arizona. This dry, desolate area has been inhabited by humans for a long time, however, the climate has made it difficult if not impossible for the area to become over populated.
Southern Arizona hiking trails are really off the beaten path. Traveling by dirt road to The Superstition Mountains, you will find an endless area of mountain desert. Embark on a hiking exploration and you may stumble upon the Lost Dutchman's Mine. The story goes that a miner brought millions of dollars of gold out of the mountain, never returned to the area and died before telling a living soul where the mine was located. Located near Yuma, Madera Canyon rises to 8,000 feet and is a great way to hike from the desert to the trees. The elevation can make this area really cold, so hiking is best done in the summer.
Ghost Towns in Southern Arizona are full of history and fun for everyone. If you have children, Tombstone will create a memory your family will not soon forget. Actors reenact the 1900 train robbery of the Wells Fargo Train. It can be a little cheesy for adults, but kids love it. Fairbanks is a true ghost town and people last lived there in 1970. Fairbanks was once a bustling mining and milling town located along the San Pedro River in Southern Arizona.
Some delicious wines can be found in Southern Arizona, with the grapes thriving at the 5,000 to 6,000 elevation in the Sonita-Elgin area. Producing a nice Petit Verdot, local winemakers man there own tasting rooms. There are 39 licensed wineries in Arizona. The area is lovely and if you want to miss the rush of tourist, avoid coming during the Thanksgiving weekend.
Overall, Southern Arizona is a wonderful destination for adults and children alike. Whether you seek adventure or a relaxing tour of wineries, Southern Arizona can accommodate you.
Cruise News
Royal Caribbean International recently announced the cruise line’s 2011-12 Southern Caribbean deployment and Mariner of the Seas’ South America circumnavigation cruises. Serenade of the Seas will sail its eighth consecutive season in the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, Puerto Rico, where Adventure of the Seas also will return for winter 2011-12. Vacationers also can choose from two sailings in January 2011 aboard Mariner of the Seas, which combined, circumnavigates the South American continent, or the Royal Caribbean Machu Picchu Adventure Cruisetour, which combines a sailing aboard Mariner of the Seas with a five-night escorted land tour itinerary. In total, the three ships will offer 73 sailings on 19 distinct itineraries that include 25 unique ports of call. Bookings for these 2011-12 sailings are open today.
Royal Caribbean’s Machu Picchu Adventure Cruisetour will offer guests a most memorable South America land and sea vacation. Adventurers can choose the January 16, 2010, sailing aboard Mariner of the Seas followed with the five-night land tour itinerary from Valparaiso, Chile, to cultural centers and major Incan archeological sites of Chile and Peru. The highlight of the land tour features a full day to explore Machu Picchu. Vacationers also can choose the pre-cruise land tour itinerary, followed by a grand South America odyssey to Brazil aboard Mariner of the Seas, sailing February 1. All Royal Caribbean cruisetours are escorted by a Tour Director who specializes in the region and includes guests’ transportation, hotel accommodations, certain activities and some meals for an exciting, stress-free vacation, where Royal Caribbean takes care of all the planning and reservations.
Mariner of the Seas’ guests also have a wide array of shore excursion options, at an additional charge, to take in the color and culture of South America’s most vibrant centers. In Peru, guests also can rediscover the mysterious Lost City of the Incas on “Cuzco & Machu Picchu Adventure.” In Ushuaia, Argentina, guests can cruise Lapataia Bay and the Beagle Channel in the Tierra del Fuego National Park by catamaran to view a colony of Magellanic penguins on “Penguin Rookery Navigation.” On one of the two days in Montevideo, Uruguay, guests can chose a visit to a Uruguayan gaucho ranch and enjoy a barbeque lunch on “Day at the Estancia.”
Guests have a variety of exciting Royal Caribbean shore excursion options to enhance their Southern Caribbean cruise, such as relaxing like a Rockefeller on the 150-acre, eco-friendly Carambola Resort at St. Croix on “Carambola Beach Break,” or enjoying Aruba’s countryside from a four-seat SUV as guests make their way to De Palm Island for lunch, swimming and snorkeling on “Jeep Off-Road Adventure.” To get the blood pumping, guests can take on “Antigua Canopy & Challenge,” a unique eco-tour with 21 unforgettable journey-elements through the island’s lush rainforest.
Serenade of the Seas will offer a third consecutive year of seven-night roundtrip cruises to the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, beginning in April 2011. Serenade of the Seas will depart weekly on Sundays in the summer 2011 season and on Saturdays during the winter season. The two alternating summer itineraries will offer guests no repeating ports when booking two consecutive sailings, whereas the two alternating winter itineraries have St. Kitts in common. Vacationers also have the choice of a one-time eight-night and a six-night itinerary that will sail on May 7 and November 13, 2011, respectively.
Adventure of the Seas will begin its winter 2011-12 season in November, alternating two distinct seven-night itineraries that also will offer guests, booked on two consecutive sailings, no repeat calls at any port for a more comprehensive Southern Caribbean adventure. Two special holiday itineraries, an eight-night and a seven-night cruise, departing on December 18 and December 26, 2011, respectively, will feature onboard holiday celebrations and a shipwide New Year’s countdown party. Vacationers also can choose a one-time, six-night Southern Caribbean itinerary, sailing on January 2, 2012.
For its part, Mariner of the Seas will depart Los Angeles on January 16, 2011, on a 16-night repositioning itinerary to Valparaiso, Chile, followed by a 14-night itinerary to Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil, via Cape Horn and the southern tip of South America. The 14-night sailing features an overnight in the embarkation port of Valparaiso and then at Montevideo, Uruguay, before arriving in Santos, Brazil on February 15.
Royal Caribbean’s Machu Picchu Adventure Cruisetour will offer guests a most memorable South America land and sea vacation. Adventurers can choose the January 16, 2010, sailing aboard Mariner of the Seas followed with the five-night land tour itinerary from Valparaiso, Chile, to cultural centers and major Incan archeological sites of Chile and Peru. The highlight of the land tour features a full day to explore Machu Picchu. Vacationers also can choose the pre-cruise land tour itinerary, followed by a grand South America odyssey to Brazil aboard Mariner of the Seas, sailing February 1. All Royal Caribbean cruisetours are escorted by a Tour Director who specializes in the region and includes guests’ transportation, hotel accommodations, certain activities and some meals for an exciting, stress-free vacation, where Royal Caribbean takes care of all the planning and reservations.
Mariner of the Seas’ guests also have a wide array of shore excursion options, at an additional charge, to take in the color and culture of South America’s most vibrant centers. In Peru, guests also can rediscover the mysterious Lost City of the Incas on “Cuzco & Machu Picchu Adventure.” In Ushuaia, Argentina, guests can cruise Lapataia Bay and the Beagle Channel in the Tierra del Fuego National Park by catamaran to view a colony of Magellanic penguins on “Penguin Rookery Navigation.” On one of the two days in Montevideo, Uruguay, guests can chose a visit to a Uruguayan gaucho ranch and enjoy a barbeque lunch on “Day at the Estancia.”
Guests have a variety of exciting Royal Caribbean shore excursion options to enhance their Southern Caribbean cruise, such as relaxing like a Rockefeller on the 150-acre, eco-friendly Carambola Resort at St. Croix on “Carambola Beach Break,” or enjoying Aruba’s countryside from a four-seat SUV as guests make their way to De Palm Island for lunch, swimming and snorkeling on “Jeep Off-Road Adventure.” To get the blood pumping, guests can take on “Antigua Canopy & Challenge,” a unique eco-tour with 21 unforgettable journey-elements through the island’s lush rainforest.
Serenade of the Seas will offer a third consecutive year of seven-night roundtrip cruises to the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, beginning in April 2011. Serenade of the Seas will depart weekly on Sundays in the summer 2011 season and on Saturdays during the winter season. The two alternating summer itineraries will offer guests no repeating ports when booking two consecutive sailings, whereas the two alternating winter itineraries have St. Kitts in common. Vacationers also have the choice of a one-time eight-night and a six-night itinerary that will sail on May 7 and November 13, 2011, respectively.
Adventure of the Seas will begin its winter 2011-12 season in November, alternating two distinct seven-night itineraries that also will offer guests, booked on two consecutive sailings, no repeat calls at any port for a more comprehensive Southern Caribbean adventure. Two special holiday itineraries, an eight-night and a seven-night cruise, departing on December 18 and December 26, 2011, respectively, will feature onboard holiday celebrations and a shipwide New Year’s countdown party. Vacationers also can choose a one-time, six-night Southern Caribbean itinerary, sailing on January 2, 2012.
For its part, Mariner of the Seas will depart Los Angeles on January 16, 2011, on a 16-night repositioning itinerary to Valparaiso, Chile, followed by a 14-night itinerary to Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil, via Cape Horn and the southern tip of South America. The 14-night sailing features an overnight in the embarkation port of Valparaiso and then at Montevideo, Uruguay, before arriving in Santos, Brazil on February 15.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wilpattu National Park in Sri Lanka
Wilpattu national park is a park in Sri Lanka forming a part of the island. The exclusive feature of the National Park is the presence of the “Willus”. The park forms the north – west shore lowland which experiences a dry season. It lies in the dry zone of the country. Thepark is situated on the western side of the Anuradhapura at a distance of 30 km from Puttalam. The word Wipattu means “Land Of lakes”.
The park occupies the area of 131,693 hectares and ranges between 0 to 152 meters above the sea level. Initially this park was a sanctuary but later on it was converted in to a national park in 1908. The climate experienced by the national park is monsoon oriented. It rains only during the months of February and March. Because of the amount of rainfall received here the park is full of greenery.
There are lots of plants and animal species fund in the Wilpattu national park. There are 31 species of mammals out of which the elephants are the most cherished and admired by the tourist. You can also come across various other species like the mouse, shrew and mongoose. Also you can find colorful bird species that includes eagles, owls, kites buzzards etc.
It is also the home for the different varieties of reptiles. These embrace the monitor lizard, crocodile, cobra, rat snake, turtles etc. it is the largest park of Sri Lanka that is known for the exotic animal species including the leopards, bears, pigs and many more.
Initially it was the most visited amongst all the parks but due to the deterioration it had to be closed down. Later on it was open again and then a large number of animals were brought in. Till then the number of visitors has been increasing every year. It is very mush a spectacular view to watch the animals and their activities. Visiting it is more like being apart of any festival.
Though January to May is the peak season when this national park is most visited but it can be also visited in the months of October even. There are special tours organized by the government who takes the visitors for exploring the wildlife of the Wilpattu national park.
So if you love animals and wish to see them you can definitely visit the Wilpattu national park. Therefore plan your trip and go ahead to make your trip a life long experience for you and your family.
The park occupies the area of 131,693 hectares and ranges between 0 to 152 meters above the sea level. Initially this park was a sanctuary but later on it was converted in to a national park in 1908. The climate experienced by the national park is monsoon oriented. It rains only during the months of February and March. Because of the amount of rainfall received here the park is full of greenery.
There are lots of plants and animal species fund in the Wilpattu national park. There are 31 species of mammals out of which the elephants are the most cherished and admired by the tourist. You can also come across various other species like the mouse, shrew and mongoose. Also you can find colorful bird species that includes eagles, owls, kites buzzards etc.
It is also the home for the different varieties of reptiles. These embrace the monitor lizard, crocodile, cobra, rat snake, turtles etc. it is the largest park of Sri Lanka that is known for the exotic animal species including the leopards, bears, pigs and many more.
Initially it was the most visited amongst all the parks but due to the deterioration it had to be closed down. Later on it was open again and then a large number of animals were brought in. Till then the number of visitors has been increasing every year. It is very mush a spectacular view to watch the animals and their activities. Visiting it is more like being apart of any festival.
Though January to May is the peak season when this national park is most visited but it can be also visited in the months of October even. There are special tours organized by the government who takes the visitors for exploring the wildlife of the Wilpattu national park.
So if you love animals and wish to see them you can definitely visit the Wilpattu national park. Therefore plan your trip and go ahead to make your trip a life long experience for you and your family.
How to Pack a Bike for your Holiday
Thinking of taking a bike on a plane for a cycling holiday? Worried about potential damage to the bicycle or how much it will cost to take all that extra weight on board?
This article shows how easy it is to pack a bike for either plane or sea travel and offers some useful tips on the best type of bike case together with advice on making sure potentially breakable bike components do not get damaged during the journey.
Best Bike Bags for Air Travel
Bike bags for air travel can be either soft or hard cases or even a cardboard box. Which to choose depends largely on budget and the cost of the actual bike as hard cases may be the best for protecting delicate bike components but cost 3 to 4 times more than a soft bike bag.
Whichever bike bag is used, the method for packing a bicycle is essentially the same as outlined below.
Pack a Bicycle for Air Travel
While some last minute travelers have been known to shrink-wrap their bikes in cling film on arrival at the airport, common sense demands that a bike is partially dismantled before shipping to protect key bike components. This may sound time consuming but only takes around half an hour once after the first few attempts. Just follow these guidelines:
• Remove the seat post, pedals and both wheels.
• Deflate tires as required by most airlines.
• Unscrew the stem and detach the handlebars, turning them sideways so that they can be placed flat in the bike case.
• Remove the rear derailleur – optional but recommended for soft bags or cardboard boxes.
• Place all loose components like pedals into a bag and tape to the frame so they do not get lost if the bike case opens in transit.
• Wrap insulation foam or thick newspaper around the frame for additional protection and secure with zip-ties. It’s also a good idea to bubble-wrap any discs (on bikes with disc brakes) as they are prone to bending in transit.
• Place the bike frame in the bike bag and check that all components are seated as flat as possible.
• Put the wheels on either side of the frame. Some bike bags come with separate wheel bags; if unavailable, wrap the wheels in bubble wrap or paper.
• Close the bike case and secure with strong tape.
Cost of Taking a Bike on a Plane
Most airlines make a charge for taking a bicycle on a plane. Costs vary between £30/$50 to £50/$80 per return journey but to get the lowest price it is essential to pre-book the bicycle as part of the baggage allowance.
Expect to pay a higher cost as a percentage of the air-fare for short haul budget airline flights, popular with UK based mountain bikers heading for the Alps. Long haul destinations like New Zealand are usually cheaper as baggage allowances are greater and bikes can often be taken on board for no additional charge.
Pack a Bike with Confidence
With a little practice, it is quick and easy to pack a bike for air travel whether using a cheap cardboard box or an expensive hard bike case. Take care to bubble wrap easy-to-bend bike components like brake discs and your trusty steed will arrive in perfect condition for that much needed cycling holiday.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Top Travel Destinations in Africa
Choosing top travel destinations in Africa is not an easy job known for the size and assortment of the continent. However, below are some destinations to add to your bucket list.
In Kenya, Masai Mara is the place to be. From July to October is the dry season and the wildlife sight is unmatched. You can also watch the yearly migration of over a million wildebeest from a hot-air balloon.
In the middle of Zambia and Zimbabwe lies Victoria Falls. Getting a thorough sopping from the boisterous, powerful Victoria Falls is quite an experience of its own. People actually feel as if they are in the middle of a torrential rainstorm. Mosi-oa-Tunya means smoke that thunders; is a name given to Victoria Falls because the hard to believe amount of water generates a huge amount of spray which shoots thousand feet into the sky and can be seen thirty miles away.
Outside Cairo and in Egypt lies the Pyramids of Giza. It’s one the greatest architectural feats by mankind. The great Pyramid of Giza is one of the world’s oldest tourist attractions and also known as the last surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the World. The great pyramid of Khufu, Kafhre and Menkura are the three main pyramids in Giza.
One of the Africa’s oldest cities is Djenne in Mali. Situated on an island in the Niger delta; Djenne was a natural hub for traders who used to shuttle their goods between Sahara Desert and forests of Guinesa. Market square subjugated by the beautiful Grand Mosque is a center of Islamic learning. Located a few miles from Timbuktu, the market there is held on every Monday. It is suppose to be one of the most appealing and sparkling markets in Africa.
The highlight of any trip to Africa has to be Cape Town. This city is known for its natural beauty. With its beautiful beaches and real impressive Table Mountains, wines and restaurants over here are world class. Cape Town has a reputation for social tolerance and is one of the most culturally assorted cities in Africa.
The imperial city if Marrakech is situated at the foot the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. This city is large, noisy, polluted and at the same time, fascinating. You are going to have lots of fun if you enjoy daily assaults on all your senses. There are actually many things to see over here because this is where all the action is. Djemma el Fnaa, the heart of the medina, should be on priority list who visits here.
Another fascinating travel destination in Africa is Omo River Region of Ethopia. Anyone looking for a cultural adventure, this is the perfect place to be. Virunga Mountains in Uganda is known for inhabit Gorillas. For adventure travel, Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, known for adventure lovers’ who come here for hiking. Last but not the least, Zanzibar in Tanzania is famous for its beaches.
In Kenya, Masai Mara is the place to be. From July to October is the dry season and the wildlife sight is unmatched. You can also watch the yearly migration of over a million wildebeest from a hot-air balloon.
In the middle of Zambia and Zimbabwe lies Victoria Falls. Getting a thorough sopping from the boisterous, powerful Victoria Falls is quite an experience of its own. People actually feel as if they are in the middle of a torrential rainstorm. Mosi-oa-Tunya means smoke that thunders; is a name given to Victoria Falls because the hard to believe amount of water generates a huge amount of spray which shoots thousand feet into the sky and can be seen thirty miles away.
Outside Cairo and in Egypt lies the Pyramids of Giza. It’s one the greatest architectural feats by mankind. The great Pyramid of Giza is one of the world’s oldest tourist attractions and also known as the last surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the World. The great pyramid of Khufu, Kafhre and Menkura are the three main pyramids in Giza.
One of the Africa’s oldest cities is Djenne in Mali. Situated on an island in the Niger delta; Djenne was a natural hub for traders who used to shuttle their goods between Sahara Desert and forests of Guinesa. Market square subjugated by the beautiful Grand Mosque is a center of Islamic learning. Located a few miles from Timbuktu, the market there is held on every Monday. It is suppose to be one of the most appealing and sparkling markets in Africa.
The highlight of any trip to Africa has to be Cape Town. This city is known for its natural beauty. With its beautiful beaches and real impressive Table Mountains, wines and restaurants over here are world class. Cape Town has a reputation for social tolerance and is one of the most culturally assorted cities in Africa.
The imperial city if Marrakech is situated at the foot the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. This city is large, noisy, polluted and at the same time, fascinating. You are going to have lots of fun if you enjoy daily assaults on all your senses. There are actually many things to see over here because this is where all the action is. Djemma el Fnaa, the heart of the medina, should be on priority list who visits here.
Another fascinating travel destination in Africa is Omo River Region of Ethopia. Anyone looking for a cultural adventure, this is the perfect place to be. Virunga Mountains in Uganda is known for inhabit Gorillas. For adventure travel, Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, known for adventure lovers’ who come here for hiking. Last but not the least, Zanzibar in Tanzania is famous for its beaches.
Tips for Taking Your Bike on Vacation
Planning on taking your bike on an adventure with you? Before you do, here are some tips for taking your bike on vacation:
Careful Set Up.
Whether you rent or take your own bike, make sure, your saddle height exactly matches what you ride at home. Take a tape measure. If you vary your saddle height by more than a few mms, you can cause injuries, especially on the knees. It is important to have other measurements the same or very similar – though saddle height is the most important.
Take Own Pedals and Shoes.
If you can’t take your own bike, at least take your own pedals and shoes, this helps maintain same cleat position.
Take Your Whole Saddle Bag.
Getting a puncture in a foreign country can be even more frustrating than in your own country. In a foreign country, you need to more self-sufficient should anything go wrong. If you take your whole saddle bag, you are less likely to forget anything like tyre leavers or chain tool.
Carrying Your Bike on A Plane.
For the best cycling experience, you really want to take your own bike. Taking a bike on plane is not as bad as it first appears. Just take care to pack and pad the bike really well. It may well be worth taking a training bike, rather than your top of the range bike. Because it may be more difficult to keep bike locked and there is always the possibility of something going wrong in transportation.
Full Suitcase.
The problem of cycling is the sheer volume of extra clothes you will need. Unless the weather is ultra predictable, you will need to plan for every weather condition, from overshoes to suncream. There is nothing worse than wandering through a Bulgarian shopping Mall hoping they will sell a size XL armwarmer.
Be Prepared for Distance.
If you plan a week long cycling holiday, there is nothing worse than killing yourself on the first day, so you spend the next three days limping around as your muscles recover. Be careful of getting carried away – especially if you are riding with much stronger cyclists. Don’t let your ego make you do too much.
Recovery Days.
If you have a long hard day, the best way to recover is still to go out the next day, even if for just half an hour or an hour to spin the legs.
Stretching on Plane.
If it is a long plane journey, be careful to remain well hydrated and take the opportunity to stretch. This is especially important if you have been training hard before travelling.
Bottled Water.
If you’re travelling anywhere where tap water is suspicious don’t risk getting a stomach upset. Drink bottled or filtered water, be careful also of salads washed in water. Locals may have developed immunity, but, you won’t have that immunity from our chlorinated variety.
A Rocky Mountaineer Experience
In most travels, it's the destination, not the journey. Getting there is not half the fun. Sitting in a cramped seat for eight or more hours is a means to an end. Even if you have seen many of the world's great cities and wonders, the memories of the actual trips to those wonderful places often are bad ones — flight delays, cancellations.
Rocky Mountaineer is different. The Canadian train trip from Vancouver to Jasper is the attraction. Of course, the two-day ride wouldn't be the same without the Rocky Mountains, but the railroad experience is the reason for going to Canada.
Rocky Mountaineer Vacations railroad starts its 21st year this spring and offers a variety of daylight trips ranging from a three-hour ride from Vancouver to Whistler, in British Columbia, to a 16-day trip cross-country from Vancouver to Halifax, Nova Scotia. The five routes in between all feature the spectacular Rockies.
The dilemma is picking a route. How do you choose between Jasper and Banff? What about the side trip to Lake Louise and a helicopter view of the mountains? You also can end your trip in Calgary. There are no bad options.
Time dictated the Journey Through the Clouds, a two-day trip from Vancouver, a pretty good destination itself, to Jasper, with an overnight stop in Kamloops, British Columbia. It was is a perfect fit. Anything longer might have be too much, and anything shorter, too little.
A Travelers Experience of Rocky Mountaineer:
We arrived at the Mountaineer terminal, a rehabbed former Canadian National Railroad station, in the dark at 6:30 a.m. The terminal is airy with many large windows. My wife and I were filled with anticipation as we stood in line, waiting for our seat assignment.
We were given two seats in the middle of the last car on the 24-car train — always wanted to ride in a caboose. The seats were individual, adjustable and quite comfortable, though not plush. With 40 passengers, all adults, in the 66-capacity car, we had plenty of room.
The first day got off to a slow start. We pulled out of the station as Mountaineer employees waved goodbye, and the train crawled through Vancouver. Once we hit the open rails, we saw a variety of the British Columbia landscape ranging from Fraser Valley farmland to the Cascade Mountains. The route hugs the banks of the Fraser River, providing numerous photo opportunities, including Hell's Gate, where 200 million gallons of water rush through the narrowest part of the river each minute.
The ride was leisurely, less than 50 miles per hour at top speed and slowing for photo ops, such as the spectacular Pyramid Falls we crept past on the second day. This waterfall, actually two streams that flow together, can be seen only from the train. There is no road running past it and no hiking trail. The Rocky Mountaineer gives you a unique view of the Canadian countryside.
Providing commentary and excellent service in our car was Rocky Mountaineer attendant Cameron, who also served meals and snacks. Overall the food was good (ham sandwiches, salmon, fresh fruit, for example); one breakfast was just OK. The service couldn't have been better, with Cameron providing coffee, tea, juice and pop. As for the sights, there were few instances when a dome view was missed.
"With the great service we've had, I can't imagine what the Gold Leaf service is like," said a retired teacher from England.
Interestingly, the Rocky Mountaineer draws travelers from all over the world, not just North America. Most of the estimated 90,000 riders in 2009 weren't Americans. "We have an international clientele, as a rule," Cameron said. "We have passengers from the United States, England, Australia and Germany on this trip."
After eight hours in the train, we arrived at Kamloops, a city of 90,000 people. Its dry climate features mild winters and hot summers. As we pulled into the station, we were greeted by three members of the Kamloops Mounted Patrol on coal-black horses, waving us home. We spent the night in a small but clean motel, resting up for the big finish.
In the morning, half of our train broke off for Banff while we continued on to Jasper. There were no horsemen at the station when we boarded, but the next eight hours more than made up for it. We followed the clear, energetic Thompson River with mountains on both sides. It was the beginning of the climb to the sky.
The thrills were in ascending order, one jaw-dropping mountain after another in the afternoon. Three hours from Jasper we entered the Premier Range, named for Canada's prime ministers.
It is said to be the most impressive group of mountains in Canada. No argument here.
Mount Robson, the tallest at more than 12,000 feet with snow dotting the peak, is quite a sight. You can only imagine what it looks like in the Gold Leaf car.
Although Mount Robson was the visual highlight, the final two hours of the trip didn't lack for excitement. The very deep Moose Lake, an eerie green because of glacial particles; impressive Thunder Falls; Yellowhead Pass on the Continental Divide; and the two-toned Mount Fitzwilliam keep you from taking a nap before you step off the train at Jasper National Park.
And the ride was just as spectacular.
Rocky Mountaineer is different. The Canadian train trip from Vancouver to Jasper is the attraction. Of course, the two-day ride wouldn't be the same without the Rocky Mountains, but the railroad experience is the reason for going to Canada.
Rocky Mountaineer Vacations railroad starts its 21st year this spring and offers a variety of daylight trips ranging from a three-hour ride from Vancouver to Whistler, in British Columbia, to a 16-day trip cross-country from Vancouver to Halifax, Nova Scotia. The five routes in between all feature the spectacular Rockies.
The dilemma is picking a route. How do you choose between Jasper and Banff? What about the side trip to Lake Louise and a helicopter view of the mountains? You also can end your trip in Calgary. There are no bad options.
Time dictated the Journey Through the Clouds, a two-day trip from Vancouver, a pretty good destination itself, to Jasper, with an overnight stop in Kamloops, British Columbia. It was is a perfect fit. Anything longer might have be too much, and anything shorter, too little.
A Travelers Experience of Rocky Mountaineer:
We arrived at the Mountaineer terminal, a rehabbed former Canadian National Railroad station, in the dark at 6:30 a.m. The terminal is airy with many large windows. My wife and I were filled with anticipation as we stood in line, waiting for our seat assignment.
We were given two seats in the middle of the last car on the 24-car train — always wanted to ride in a caboose. The seats were individual, adjustable and quite comfortable, though not plush. With 40 passengers, all adults, in the 66-capacity car, we had plenty of room.
The first day got off to a slow start. We pulled out of the station as Mountaineer employees waved goodbye, and the train crawled through Vancouver. Once we hit the open rails, we saw a variety of the British Columbia landscape ranging from Fraser Valley farmland to the Cascade Mountains. The route hugs the banks of the Fraser River, providing numerous photo opportunities, including Hell's Gate, where 200 million gallons of water rush through the narrowest part of the river each minute.
The ride was leisurely, less than 50 miles per hour at top speed and slowing for photo ops, such as the spectacular Pyramid Falls we crept past on the second day. This waterfall, actually two streams that flow together, can be seen only from the train. There is no road running past it and no hiking trail. The Rocky Mountaineer gives you a unique view of the Canadian countryside.
Providing commentary and excellent service in our car was Rocky Mountaineer attendant Cameron, who also served meals and snacks. Overall the food was good (ham sandwiches, salmon, fresh fruit, for example); one breakfast was just OK. The service couldn't have been better, with Cameron providing coffee, tea, juice and pop. As for the sights, there were few instances when a dome view was missed.
"With the great service we've had, I can't imagine what the Gold Leaf service is like," said a retired teacher from England.
Interestingly, the Rocky Mountaineer draws travelers from all over the world, not just North America. Most of the estimated 90,000 riders in 2009 weren't Americans. "We have an international clientele, as a rule," Cameron said. "We have passengers from the United States, England, Australia and Germany on this trip."
After eight hours in the train, we arrived at Kamloops, a city of 90,000 people. Its dry climate features mild winters and hot summers. As we pulled into the station, we were greeted by three members of the Kamloops Mounted Patrol on coal-black horses, waving us home. We spent the night in a small but clean motel, resting up for the big finish.
In the morning, half of our train broke off for Banff while we continued on to Jasper. There were no horsemen at the station when we boarded, but the next eight hours more than made up for it. We followed the clear, energetic Thompson River with mountains on both sides. It was the beginning of the climb to the sky.
The thrills were in ascending order, one jaw-dropping mountain after another in the afternoon. Three hours from Jasper we entered the Premier Range, named for Canada's prime ministers.
It is said to be the most impressive group of mountains in Canada. No argument here.
Mount Robson, the tallest at more than 12,000 feet with snow dotting the peak, is quite a sight. You can only imagine what it looks like in the Gold Leaf car.
Although Mount Robson was the visual highlight, the final two hours of the trip didn't lack for excitement. The very deep Moose Lake, an eerie green because of glacial particles; impressive Thunder Falls; Yellowhead Pass on the Continental Divide; and the two-toned Mount Fitzwilliam keep you from taking a nap before you step off the train at Jasper National Park.
And the ride was just as spectacular.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Tips For Taking Your Pet On Holiday
Planning a family getaway is fun, but the mere thought of leaving behind our furry friends can be painful. Fortunately, pet-friendly lodging and restaurants are plentiful. You'll also find a slew of gear and other pet products making it easier than ever to take your cat or dog along. Here are tips:
Plan ahead. You may need to take a few extra steps to include your pets in the fun. Don't let that dissuade you from taking your pet. Let your children help make a list of the extra gear and supplies you will need as well as advance reservations you may require. Airlines can refuse your reservation if there are already too many pets scheduled for a flight, so let them know as soon as you decide to take a pet.
If you travel by car, pack your animal's food, litter, waste disposal bags, leashes, toys, beds, medications and pet carrier. To be on the safe side, include notes regarding your pet's medical history as well as your veterinarian's contact information.
Practice round. If your dog or cat isn't accustomed to car or plane travel, introduce him to the pet carrier well before your departure date. Toss a favorite toy or familiar object into the carrier and take a spin within familiar territory. Be sure the carrier is airline-compliant and sturdy enough to make the trip.
Keep moving. Just like humans, your pets need as much exercise away from home as they do in their own environment. On the road, make plenty of stops to allow every member of your family to stretch their legs and breathe fresh air. At your destination, include your pet in hikes, walks on pet-friendly beaches or visits to local parks.
Drink up. Make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water throughout your travels. Just like our body, a pet's consists of 80 percent water. Proper hydration is key to good health at home and on the road.
Have fun. Enjoy this extra-special time with your family and pet. Take photos and include your cat or dog in your vacation photo album. Visit a local dog park. It's likely that your pet will introduce you to new friends on the way.
Plan ahead. You may need to take a few extra steps to include your pets in the fun. Don't let that dissuade you from taking your pet. Let your children help make a list of the extra gear and supplies you will need as well as advance reservations you may require. Airlines can refuse your reservation if there are already too many pets scheduled for a flight, so let them know as soon as you decide to take a pet.
If you travel by car, pack your animal's food, litter, waste disposal bags, leashes, toys, beds, medications and pet carrier. To be on the safe side, include notes regarding your pet's medical history as well as your veterinarian's contact information.
Practice round. If your dog or cat isn't accustomed to car or plane travel, introduce him to the pet carrier well before your departure date. Toss a favorite toy or familiar object into the carrier and take a spin within familiar territory. Be sure the carrier is airline-compliant and sturdy enough to make the trip.
Keep moving. Just like humans, your pets need as much exercise away from home as they do in their own environment. On the road, make plenty of stops to allow every member of your family to stretch their legs and breathe fresh air. At your destination, include your pet in hikes, walks on pet-friendly beaches or visits to local parks.
Drink up. Make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water throughout your travels. Just like our body, a pet's consists of 80 percent water. Proper hydration is key to good health at home and on the road.
Have fun. Enjoy this extra-special time with your family and pet. Take photos and include your cat or dog in your vacation photo album. Visit a local dog park. It's likely that your pet will introduce you to new friends on the way.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Take Your Motorbike on Holiday
If you're a keen bike rider, the chances are you're loath to leave your bike behind when you set off on your holidays. Luckily, you don't have to. One of the beauties of motorbikes is their flexibility, no other motor vehicle offers the same freedom of choice as motorbikes do, so it's little wonder they are so popular among free spirited adventurers. So why not make sure you make the most of your bike and your holiday time, by taking your bike on your travels with you?
Motorbike holidays are great for adventurous travelers who enjoy seeking out the most fabulous sights on their trips. It's necessary for bikers to travel light and to make sure they don't pack a whole but of unnecessary items that could slow them down.
However, this is more than made up for by the fact that holidaying bikers have the freedom to choose the best accommodations and most interesting trails. With a bike, you aren't tied down to tourist traps - you can explore off the road destinations and make sure you enjoy the kind of holiday you like best. What's more, if you take your bike on holiday you can make sure you never get stuck with substandard accommodation - if you don't like the look of your hotel or area, you're free to drive off and find a new one.
If you're keen to go far a field, you could consider flying to your chosen destination and renting a bike when you get there. It may not be quite the same as exploring on your own set of wheels, but it can be a great compromise if you want to hit the open road on your far-flung holiday.
Whether you're keen to holiday abroad or at home, ensure you've got yourself covered with bike insurance when you travel and don't forget to scrub up your leathers before you embark on your trip.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Tips for Roadtrips with Children
For those who are willing to try it, a road trip vacation with the kids will be a source of treasured, ever-lasting memories. But for a successful sojourn on the great open road, pre-planning must occur before putting the pedal to the metal.
Vehicle Maintenance Before the Road Trip
There's some serious business that cannot be overlooked. It's the not so fun but very important issue of vehicle maintenance. Have the car inspected and serviced. Check tire pressure, top up fluids, and have any suspicious noises checked out.
Keep an Emergency and First Aid Kit in the Trunk
Don't leave home without emergency equipment. Things like windshield-wiper fluid, a flashlight, batteries and a first aid kit are mandatory. Kits should include at minimum: waterproof matches and candle, flashlight, road flares, whistle, blanket, first aid, towel, jumper cable, rope, cutting device (box cutter, pocket knife), duct tape, tool kit, gloves and water are a few suggestions.
Involve the Children in Planning Their Trip
Children are part of the experience so make sure to involve them. Use an atlas to find stops along the way that will interest them. Google pictures of the places you're going to see. It will give them something to look forward to. Another idea is to provide each child with a survey — would they like to stop at an old fort, see sea lions, take a walk in the woods? Let each child select a stop for the family.
Entertainment for the Car Will Battle Boredom
Children do not have an accurate grasp of time. Minutes in boredom truly feels like hours. Be prepared to deal with the question and to help them combat the boredom. Consider both fun and comfort when bringing items that will help children pass time. Being strapped in a seat for a prolonged period of time is not easy for children. Ensure they have access to favourite items from home such as blankets and stuffed toys. Definitely bring along coloring books, colored pencils or markers. Crayons are not recommended because they can melt in a warm car.
Even parents who are not fans of electronic entertainment in the car may have to bend the rules for a long drive. A laptop works well. Children can share it to play games and watch movies. Don't forget to purchase a battery charger too. It will help pass long hours on the road. Reading books, looking at pictures and card games also make the trip fun. Story tapes can be borrowed from the library. Choose stories everyone will enjoy. Some suggestions are the Narnia series, fairy tales, and sing-along songs. Pack an easily-accessible box of games and activities for the kids such as window stickers, loot bags filled with small surprises, travel puzzles, games and action figures to play with.
Plan to stop at places that will add fun and adventure along the way. Lunch can be a picnic and a quick game of catch or soccer. If there's room bring a ball and baseballs gloves, Frisbee or rackets and ball. It's a great way to burn some energy in a positive way. The last thing children want or need when they finally have the opportunity to venture out of the car is to sit at a restaurant table.
Snacks and Drinks in the Car
If this is something not normally allowed, the rules might have to be bent for a road trip. Bring plastic shopping bags bag for garbage and dump them out in the trash along the way. Avoid chocolate or sugary treats as they tend to melt and leave a mess. Plus, sugar-hyped children in a confined space is not a good thing. Consider instead low-sodium pretzels, animal crackers, fruit, raisins, and granola bars as options. Hungry children are invariably going to get grumpy so pack food that is fun and not too messy. Bring water bottles. They are perfect for quenching thirst and providing liquid for clean-ups. Speaking of clean-up, wet wipes, washcloths, towels, paper towels for cleaning up messes are a must.
Share the Drive with Teens
Teenagers with a license can share driving time. Make sure one parent is in the front passenger seat awake and alert at all times. Teen drivers give adults a break and give the teen driving experience.
Discuss the Rules of the Road Before the Vacation
Before embarking on the journey, write a set of car rules. Things like, keep hands to yourself… quiet voices…share…are simple rules but making them clear is important. A lack of rules invites misbehaviour. And if everyone behaves, promise a reward at the end of the drive.
Road Trips are About Making Memories
Even the worst road trips eventually become memories to laugh about later. Bring a camera and let children also take pictures. You'll see your holiday from a totally new perspective. A successful road trip does depend on time invested in planning. So don't be daunted, go ahead ang build those fantastic family memories. They will last a lifetime.
Adventure Travel Tips
Planning an adventure any time soon? Here are some top tips for staying healthy from a few seasoned experts.
I bring enough PowerBars so I can eat them three times a day if necessary. I bring gels, and I always travel with a few packs of all-natural turkey jerky, so I have protein.—Andrew Zimmern, host of the Travel Channel’s Bizarre Foods
It’s important to stay clean. Iodine to clean wounds. Purell. People make fun of Purell, but touching things, shaking hands—that’s how you’ll pick something up.—Antonin Kratochvil, photojournalist and former conscript of the French Foreign Legion
What’s got me in most places is heat exhaustion. I’ve made fun of this in the past, when I was a younger traveler. But I’m telling you, that’s it. When you’re at home, you’re not in the sun for 12 hours. This is what is right in your face that will sidetrack a trip really quickly. Wear a hat, drink a lot of water, and take a break in the middle of the day.—Robert Reid, U.S. Travel Editor, Lonely Planet
I bring enough PowerBars so I can eat them three times a day if necessary. I bring gels, and I always travel with a few packs of all-natural turkey jerky, so I have protein.—Andrew Zimmern, host of the Travel Channel’s Bizarre Foods
It’s important to stay clean. Iodine to clean wounds. Purell. People make fun of Purell, but touching things, shaking hands—that’s how you’ll pick something up.—Antonin Kratochvil, photojournalist and former conscript of the French Foreign Legion
What’s got me in most places is heat exhaustion. I’ve made fun of this in the past, when I was a younger traveler. But I’m telling you, that’s it. When you’re at home, you’re not in the sun for 12 hours. This is what is right in your face that will sidetrack a trip really quickly. Wear a hat, drink a lot of water, and take a break in the middle of the day.—Robert Reid, U.S. Travel Editor, Lonely Planet
Monday, April 12, 2010
Safe Travel with Children
For most travelers, the biggest threat to their safety is vehicle accidents. And on road trips, both in the Canada and abroad, it's important to take along a car seat or booster seat to protect infants and young children.
About 1.2 million people die in vehicular accidents and as many as 50 million are injured each year, says the World Health Organization in its "Global Status Report on Road Safety." So how do you keep your child safe? Here's what the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends:
• Use a rear-facing seat in the back seat until the child is at least 1 and weighs at least 20 pounds. (The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that a child should ride facing the rear as long as possible. Some seats now accommodate kids as heavy as 35 pounds.)
• Use forward-facing toddler seats in the back seat from age 1 and 20 pounds to about 4 and 40 pounds.
• Use booster seats in the back seat from about age 4 to at least 8, unless the child is 4 feet 9 inches tall.
• Use seat belts at age 8 or if the child is older or taller than 4 feet 9 inches. Make sure the belt fits properly, says Lorrie Walker, training manager and technical adviser for Safe Kids Worldwide, over the bony part of the hips and over the collar and shoulder bones. Those 12 and younger should ride in the back seat.
• If you're taking a taxi or other private car, make sure there's a seat belt in the back seat.
About 1.2 million people die in vehicular accidents and as many as 50 million are injured each year, says the World Health Organization in its "Global Status Report on Road Safety." So how do you keep your child safe? Here's what the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends:
• Use a rear-facing seat in the back seat until the child is at least 1 and weighs at least 20 pounds. (The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that a child should ride facing the rear as long as possible. Some seats now accommodate kids as heavy as 35 pounds.)
• Use forward-facing toddler seats in the back seat from age 1 and 20 pounds to about 4 and 40 pounds.
• Use booster seats in the back seat from about age 4 to at least 8, unless the child is 4 feet 9 inches tall.
• Use seat belts at age 8 or if the child is older or taller than 4 feet 9 inches. Make sure the belt fits properly, says Lorrie Walker, training manager and technical adviser for Safe Kids Worldwide, over the bony part of the hips and over the collar and shoulder bones. Those 12 and younger should ride in the back seat.
• If you're taking a taxi or other private car, make sure there's a seat belt in the back seat.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Visiting Death Valley with Kids
Allow me to share one of my best travel secrets: despite its ominous name, Death Valley National Park is not only very welcoming, but in fact one of our top favorite family vacation destinations. Don’t let the barren landscape fool you. Family vacations in Death Valley have it all: warm weather, outdoor adventure, swimming, biking, and hiking.
When to Go:
Death Valley is open year-round, but for most families’ purposes, it is a seasonal national park. Summer temperatures can reach record-breaking highs in the 130s and usually don’t dip below the 100F mark until October, soaring up again as early as April. As such, their busy season runs from late fall through early spring.
Where to Stay:
Death Valley is located 2 1/2 hours’ drive northwest of Las Vegas, NV. The closest towns are Beatty, NV (1 hour) and Pahrump, NV (1 1/2 hours), and neither offer much in the way of choice accommodations. In other words, you’re limited to staying in the national park.
The good new is that you have several wonderful options to choose from. The bad news is you’ll need to make reservations early if you’re planning to visit during the peak season.
1. The Ranch at Furnace Creek, centrally located in the Furnace Creek area next to the main visitor’s center. The ranch is much more than just a motel. It’s an entire, well, ranch, complete with a general store, three restaurants, stables, bike rentals, a shady, grassy oasis, a playground, and best of all, a spring-fed swimming pool in the middle of the complex.
2. The nearby Inn at Furnace Creek is touted as the ‘jewel of Death Valley’. The Inn is a beautiful resort nestled on a hillside, surrounded by palms, has its own pool with patio firepits, fine dining, and luxurious rooms. The Inn is lovely, but not entirely kid-friendly.
3. For a budget option, consider Stovepipe Wells Village, 25 miles north of Furnace Creek.
What You Don’t Want to Miss:
With many degrees of difficulty and trail lengths to choose from, hiking in Death Valley is very kid-friendly. (But you want to get out there early to avoid the baking sun.) Some of our favorite things to do:
1. Hike Golden Canyon (1 mile each way, trail head located three miles from Furnace Creek on Hwy 190). A moderate interpretive trail leading up a washed out road through a beautiful canyon, this trail offers great views of Manley Peak. If your kids are sturdy hikers, continue on from Manley Peak to Zabriskie Point (2.5 miles). Kids will love walking up and down the rippling borax deposits and will spot the entrances to long-abandoned opal mines.
2. Scramble up a sand dune. Located 20 miles from Furnace Creek at Stovepipe Wells, the extensive sand dunes are iconic of Death Valley. Young hikers can stroll out just a matter of yards to play in small peaks and valleys of sand, while older kids will love the challenge of trekking out to the largest dune (2+ miles over tough terrain). Our kids live for the moment they can roll down the other side!
3. Marvel at the marble in Mosaic Canyon. Just past Stovepipe Wells, Mosaic Canyon is tucked in the Panamint Mountains, offering a cool alternative to the desert’s more open-to-the-elements hikes. You can go as far as you want (from 1/2 mile to 2 miles) up through rock surfaces slowly eroded by flash flood rainwater. The marble canyon walls are beautiful, and kids love trying to climb up them! (Note: there are several places where hikers need to step up and through tight rock formations.)
4. Reserve afternoons for swimming in the pool! After a lunch and nap break for younger kids, we hit the spring-fed pool at Furnace Creek every single afternoon, while the sun is its hottest. If not staying at The Ranch at Furnace Creek, day passes to the pool can be purchased at the registration house.
What to Skip:
1. Unless you’re prepared to entertain kids in the car for a long period of time, I’d skip the drive out to The Devil’s Racetrack (located at the end of a 30 mile all-terrain vehicle-only dirt road at the far corner of the park).
While the geological head-scratcher is interesting (where boulders have slowly moved without cause over a period of millions of years), the natural phenomenon might be lost on young kids.
2. Likewise, Artist’s Palette, a short driving tour of colorful deposits in the canyon walls, can be boring to kids who cannot get out of the car for more than an overlook here and there.
When to Go:
Death Valley is open year-round, but for most families’ purposes, it is a seasonal national park. Summer temperatures can reach record-breaking highs in the 130s and usually don’t dip below the 100F mark until October, soaring up again as early as April. As such, their busy season runs from late fall through early spring.
Where to Stay:
Death Valley is located 2 1/2 hours’ drive northwest of Las Vegas, NV. The closest towns are Beatty, NV (1 hour) and Pahrump, NV (1 1/2 hours), and neither offer much in the way of choice accommodations. In other words, you’re limited to staying in the national park.
The good new is that you have several wonderful options to choose from. The bad news is you’ll need to make reservations early if you’re planning to visit during the peak season.
1. The Ranch at Furnace Creek, centrally located in the Furnace Creek area next to the main visitor’s center. The ranch is much more than just a motel. It’s an entire, well, ranch, complete with a general store, three restaurants, stables, bike rentals, a shady, grassy oasis, a playground, and best of all, a spring-fed swimming pool in the middle of the complex.
2. The nearby Inn at Furnace Creek is touted as the ‘jewel of Death Valley’. The Inn is a beautiful resort nestled on a hillside, surrounded by palms, has its own pool with patio firepits, fine dining, and luxurious rooms. The Inn is lovely, but not entirely kid-friendly.
3. For a budget option, consider Stovepipe Wells Village, 25 miles north of Furnace Creek.
What You Don’t Want to Miss:
With many degrees of difficulty and trail lengths to choose from, hiking in Death Valley is very kid-friendly. (But you want to get out there early to avoid the baking sun.) Some of our favorite things to do:
1. Hike Golden Canyon (1 mile each way, trail head located three miles from Furnace Creek on Hwy 190). A moderate interpretive trail leading up a washed out road through a beautiful canyon, this trail offers great views of Manley Peak. If your kids are sturdy hikers, continue on from Manley Peak to Zabriskie Point (2.5 miles). Kids will love walking up and down the rippling borax deposits and will spot the entrances to long-abandoned opal mines.
2. Scramble up a sand dune. Located 20 miles from Furnace Creek at Stovepipe Wells, the extensive sand dunes are iconic of Death Valley. Young hikers can stroll out just a matter of yards to play in small peaks and valleys of sand, while older kids will love the challenge of trekking out to the largest dune (2+ miles over tough terrain). Our kids live for the moment they can roll down the other side!
3. Marvel at the marble in Mosaic Canyon. Just past Stovepipe Wells, Mosaic Canyon is tucked in the Panamint Mountains, offering a cool alternative to the desert’s more open-to-the-elements hikes. You can go as far as you want (from 1/2 mile to 2 miles) up through rock surfaces slowly eroded by flash flood rainwater. The marble canyon walls are beautiful, and kids love trying to climb up them! (Note: there are several places where hikers need to step up and through tight rock formations.)
4. Reserve afternoons for swimming in the pool! After a lunch and nap break for younger kids, we hit the spring-fed pool at Furnace Creek every single afternoon, while the sun is its hottest. If not staying at The Ranch at Furnace Creek, day passes to the pool can be purchased at the registration house.
What to Skip:
1. Unless you’re prepared to entertain kids in the car for a long period of time, I’d skip the drive out to The Devil’s Racetrack (located at the end of a 30 mile all-terrain vehicle-only dirt road at the far corner of the park).
While the geological head-scratcher is interesting (where boulders have slowly moved without cause over a period of millions of years), the natural phenomenon might be lost on young kids.
2. Likewise, Artist’s Palette, a short driving tour of colorful deposits in the canyon walls, can be boring to kids who cannot get out of the car for more than an overlook here and there.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
BC Ferries Schedule
Tsawwassen to Pender Island (Otter Bay)
IN EFFECT: September 8, 2009 to June 29, 2010
Leave Days Stops/Transfers Arrive
8:35 AM Sat 1 stop Galiano, transfer at Mayne 11:05 AM
10:10 AM Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 12:20 PM
11:10 AM Sun 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 1:20 PM
4:05 PM # exceptions - see below Fri 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 6:15 PM
5:00 PM!! Sat transfer at Swartz Bay 7:50 PM
6:30 PM ^ exceptions - see below Fri 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 8:35 PM
6:40 PM Sun & Holiday Mon transfer at Mayne, 1 stop Galiano 9:10 PM
7:20 PM Mon*, Tue, Wed, Thu** 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 9:30 PM
# exceptions - see below
Oct 2, 9, 2009, Apr 1, 2, May 21, 28, Jun 4, 11, 18, 25, 2010 only
^ exceptions - see below
Not available: Oct 2, 9, 2009, Apr 1, 2, May 21, 28, Jun 4, 11, 18, 25, 2010
* On Oct 12, 2009 & Apr 5, May 24, 2010, the Monday schedule is in effect until 2:00 pm, the Holiday Monday Schedule is in effect after 2:00 pm.
** Thursday April 1, 2010 will be a friday schedule all day
!! Please Note: This service is offered to passengers travelling from Tsawwassen to Pender Island or Saturna via Swartz Bay. We suggest you guarentee your 7:00 am or 5:00 pm departure from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay by calling 1-888-BCFERRY and reserving your vehicle. At a Tsawwassen ticket booth, ask for a throughfare voucher to Pender or Saturna. At that ticket booth you will be given information on obtaining a credit at Swartz Bay for the reservation fee that you paid for the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay ferry. Upon arrival at Swartz Bay present your voucher at a ticket booth and catch either the 9:00 am sailing to Saturna, or the 7:10 pm sailing to Pender or Saturna.
Note: This is not a guaranteed connection. See Other Travel Options - Throughfare Tickets.
IN EFFECT: September 8, 2009 to June 29, 2010
Leave Days Stops/Transfers Arrive
8:35 AM Sat 1 stop Galiano, transfer at Mayne 11:05 AM
10:10 AM Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 12:20 PM
11:10 AM Sun 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 1:20 PM
4:05 PM # exceptions - see below Fri 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 6:15 PM
5:00 PM!! Sat transfer at Swartz Bay 7:50 PM
6:30 PM ^ exceptions - see below Fri 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 8:35 PM
6:40 PM Sun & Holiday Mon transfer at Mayne, 1 stop Galiano 9:10 PM
7:20 PM Mon*, Tue, Wed, Thu** 2 stops Galiano, Mayne 9:30 PM
# exceptions - see below
Oct 2, 9, 2009, Apr 1, 2, May 21, 28, Jun 4, 11, 18, 25, 2010 only
^ exceptions - see below
Not available: Oct 2, 9, 2009, Apr 1, 2, May 21, 28, Jun 4, 11, 18, 25, 2010
* On Oct 12, 2009 & Apr 5, May 24, 2010, the Monday schedule is in effect until 2:00 pm, the Holiday Monday Schedule is in effect after 2:00 pm.
** Thursday April 1, 2010 will be a friday schedule all day
!! Please Note: This service is offered to passengers travelling from Tsawwassen to Pender Island or Saturna via Swartz Bay. We suggest you guarentee your 7:00 am or 5:00 pm departure from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay by calling 1-888-BCFERRY and reserving your vehicle. At a Tsawwassen ticket booth, ask for a throughfare voucher to Pender or Saturna. At that ticket booth you will be given information on obtaining a credit at Swartz Bay for the reservation fee that you paid for the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay ferry. Upon arrival at Swartz Bay present your voucher at a ticket booth and catch either the 9:00 am sailing to Saturna, or the 7:10 pm sailing to Pender or Saturna.
Note: This is not a guaranteed connection. See Other Travel Options - Throughfare Tickets.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Destinations for Short Adventure Vacations
Looking for an idea for your next adventure vacation? Only have a week to spare? Here are two fabulous adventure destintions!
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Trail dolphins and dodge dirt bikes under 'Apocalypse Now' sunsets.
It’s a long way to go for eight nights, but even brief exposure to Cambodia’s anarchic beauty can feel restorative. First, check off the must-sees: Book a guided tuk-tuk trip to the phantasmal ruins of Angkor Wat through the concierge at Viroth’s Hotel in Siem Reap. Next, take a dirt-bike tour of the ancient capital Koh Ker. A four-hour, $10 bus ride gets you to Kratie, home to over 50 endangered Irrawaddy freshwater dolphins. Two hundred miles down the Mekong River, in Phnom Penh, Colonial style waits at the Pavilion. Grab a bowl of fried rice at the Russian Market in the Boeng Kak lake district and flag a cab ($40) for a three-hour drive to the seaside resort of Kep, where the Gulf of Thailand nearly laps against the open-air beds at the Veranda Natural Resort.
Transylvania, Romania
Raft, hike, horseback ride, and rappel in deepest Dracula country.
Full of climbable cliffs, fantastic scenery, and vampire-chic lodging, Transylvania has become a sort of outdoor defibrillator for jaded Europeans. Book a white-water-rafting trip through the gorges of the Crisul Repede River or an “adventure weekend” of canyoning, rappelling, and kayaking. Back in semi-civilization, stay at the Kálnoky Estate’s guesthouses in Miklósvár, where proprietor Count Kálnoky (his real title) can organize riding and hiking expeditions.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Trail dolphins and dodge dirt bikes under 'Apocalypse Now' sunsets.
It’s a long way to go for eight nights, but even brief exposure to Cambodia’s anarchic beauty can feel restorative. First, check off the must-sees: Book a guided tuk-tuk trip to the phantasmal ruins of Angkor Wat through the concierge at Viroth’s Hotel in Siem Reap. Next, take a dirt-bike tour of the ancient capital Koh Ker. A four-hour, $10 bus ride gets you to Kratie, home to over 50 endangered Irrawaddy freshwater dolphins. Two hundred miles down the Mekong River, in Phnom Penh, Colonial style waits at the Pavilion. Grab a bowl of fried rice at the Russian Market in the Boeng Kak lake district and flag a cab ($40) for a three-hour drive to the seaside resort of Kep, where the Gulf of Thailand nearly laps against the open-air beds at the Veranda Natural Resort.
Transylvania, Romania
Raft, hike, horseback ride, and rappel in deepest Dracula country.
Full of climbable cliffs, fantastic scenery, and vampire-chic lodging, Transylvania has become a sort of outdoor defibrillator for jaded Europeans. Book a white-water-rafting trip through the gorges of the Crisul Repede River or an “adventure weekend” of canyoning, rappelling, and kayaking. Back in semi-civilization, stay at the Kálnoky Estate’s guesthouses in Miklósvár, where proprietor Count Kálnoky (his real title) can organize riding and hiking expeditions.
Fishing in Beautiful British Columbia
The winding rugged coast of British Columbia spans more than 20,000 kilometers through the Pacific Ocean, which creates incredible opportunities for fans of ocean shoreline and deep sea fishing. There are a number of popular destinations for anglers along the coast of British Columbia, where salmon, cod and halibut are found in huge populations.
Depending on the type of fishing you prefer, you may want to spend your entire vacation in one location or move around sampling the opportunities at different locales along the coast. Charter fishing in British Columbia gives you the opportunity to see more of the area than you might otherwise enjoy. Chartering your own vessel for a vacation will provide the freedom to explore the coast freely without the limitations that a group charter might impose. This gives you the capability of designing an itinerary that suits your needs and interests. It can also allow you to take the advice of some knowledgeable locals who can direct you towards the prime spots.
The coastline waters off British Columbia enjoy a very long salmon fishing season. Every winter as the salmon return to spawn, the many islands along their migration path interrupt their journey towards the rivers where they return to spawn. This creates a surprisingly long salmon season that lasts from May to September.
In order to bring home a treat from the open waters of Canada you will need a Tidal license for saltwater fishing. You can apply for a Tidal license online from the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website, although in order to fish for halibut, you must apply for that license in person. The Ministry of Environment issues Non-tidal licenses. Through the license website, you can also download and review regulations for the season, to be certain you understand the rules in the region you hope to visit.
King salmon fishing in British Columbia is especially popular. If salmon fishing is on your agenda, you will need to pay a conservation surcharge in the form of a Salmon Stamp, the profits of which help to fund restoration projects for this species. If you are chartering a boat in Canada, or are using a package tour operator who specializes in vacation, charter or tour directors should be able to advise you on required licenses and other paperwork for your trip.
There are many companies that offer charter fishing in British Columbia. It is a popular destination for traveling, due to the beauty of the area, the abundant opportunities and waters in Canada, as well as the excellent facilities and tour operators that are available. British Columbia also has a lot to offer to any non-fishers in the party, so if you want to bring the rest of the family along then there will be plenty for them to do while you are off enjoying the water.
All visitors entering Canada are required to present a passport, even if traveling from the U.S. While U.S. citizens are exempt from visa requirements, it is required for other tourists, so you should check before you try to enter the country.
Depending on the type of fishing you prefer, you may want to spend your entire vacation in one location or move around sampling the opportunities at different locales along the coast. Charter fishing in British Columbia gives you the opportunity to see more of the area than you might otherwise enjoy. Chartering your own vessel for a vacation will provide the freedom to explore the coast freely without the limitations that a group charter might impose. This gives you the capability of designing an itinerary that suits your needs and interests. It can also allow you to take the advice of some knowledgeable locals who can direct you towards the prime spots.
The coastline waters off British Columbia enjoy a very long salmon fishing season. Every winter as the salmon return to spawn, the many islands along their migration path interrupt their journey towards the rivers where they return to spawn. This creates a surprisingly long salmon season that lasts from May to September.
In order to bring home a treat from the open waters of Canada you will need a Tidal license for saltwater fishing. You can apply for a Tidal license online from the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website, although in order to fish for halibut, you must apply for that license in person. The Ministry of Environment issues Non-tidal licenses. Through the license website, you can also download and review regulations for the season, to be certain you understand the rules in the region you hope to visit.
King salmon fishing in British Columbia is especially popular. If salmon fishing is on your agenda, you will need to pay a conservation surcharge in the form of a Salmon Stamp, the profits of which help to fund restoration projects for this species. If you are chartering a boat in Canada, or are using a package tour operator who specializes in vacation, charter or tour directors should be able to advise you on required licenses and other paperwork for your trip.
There are many companies that offer charter fishing in British Columbia. It is a popular destination for traveling, due to the beauty of the area, the abundant opportunities and waters in Canada, as well as the excellent facilities and tour operators that are available. British Columbia also has a lot to offer to any non-fishers in the party, so if you want to bring the rest of the family along then there will be plenty for them to do while you are off enjoying the water.
All visitors entering Canada are required to present a passport, even if traveling from the U.S. While U.S. citizens are exempt from visa requirements, it is required for other tourists, so you should check before you try to enter the country.
Club Med to Open Resort in China
Skiing in Asia is often associated with Japan and South Korea. But now, China is touting its slopes as this market is predicted to boom. According to China's Ski Association, there will be 20 million skiers in the country by 2014, compared to just five million, five years ago. Skiers in China's Heilongjiang Province can expect powdery slopes, efficient facilities and a great run.
In Yabuli, one of the most popular skiing destinations in China, the local government reportedly spent US$400 million upgrading the facilities last year. Being the main training base for China's ski team, Yabuli has Asia's longest Alpine ski run here. It has 11 primary, intermediate and advanced ski runs.
This year, it garnered a top 10 ranking in China's skiing industry and more foreigners are heading to Yabuli to ski. And hoping to cash in on this potentially lucrative market is Club Med.
It has teamed up with Melco China Resorts to open the first Club Med snow resort in Yabuli in November.
"Why China? Because it is the largest country in the world and Club Med since 60 years has always been a pioneer, and we wanted to be the first to establish an all-inclusive upscale resort in China," said Henri Giscard d'Estaing, Chairman and CEO of Club Mediterrane.
The resort will mark the beginning of Club Med's expansion into mainland China. It plans to open five resorts in four years in key locations like Hainan and Yunnan Province.
In Yabuli, one of the most popular skiing destinations in China, the local government reportedly spent US$400 million upgrading the facilities last year. Being the main training base for China's ski team, Yabuli has Asia's longest Alpine ski run here. It has 11 primary, intermediate and advanced ski runs.
This year, it garnered a top 10 ranking in China's skiing industry and more foreigners are heading to Yabuli to ski. And hoping to cash in on this potentially lucrative market is Club Med.
It has teamed up with Melco China Resorts to open the first Club Med snow resort in Yabuli in November.
"Why China? Because it is the largest country in the world and Club Med since 60 years has always been a pioneer, and we wanted to be the first to establish an all-inclusive upscale resort in China," said Henri Giscard d'Estaing, Chairman and CEO of Club Mediterrane.
The resort will mark the beginning of Club Med's expansion into mainland China. It plans to open five resorts in four years in key locations like Hainan and Yunnan Province.
Top European River Cruises
If you have a limited time for your vacation, a cruise is a wonderful way to visit multiple destinations while avoiding feeling stressed out or rushed. If you love traveling and want to see Europe, a river cruise is an excellent getaway! Here are some of the top European river cruises:
1. Rhine River
The journey is a spectacular one, encompassing five different countries. Travel through the Black Forest region of Germany, a truly majestic region with fairytale castles. Often a stop in beautiful Amsterdam is included. This is a great way to see the heart of Europe without having to navigate train stations and taxis.
2. Danube River
Cruises can starts in Passau, Germany, winding through six European countries, filled with incredible landscapes, architecture and museums, before ending in Budapest.
3. Dnieper River
This is a spectacular holiday choice, with 17 days traveling from Kiev to Istanbul which for centuries was the meeting point of European, Middle Eastern and Asian cultures. It is perfect for exploring the many jewels of Eastern Europe, including Kiev and the Black Sea, as well as Sevastopol and Constanta.
4. Rhone River
A European river cruise down the Rhone is an excellent way to capture the essence of the Rhone Valley. Excursions can include a look through the former Papal seat of Avignon, wine tasting and visiting the casual bistros in Lyon.
5. Guadalquivir River
Travel through the majestic region of Andalucia, taking in the cities of Seville and Jerez, the wine and horse capital of Spain. It’s a chance to really discover the essence of the region and its culture.
6. Douro River
The Douro is one of Europe’s lesser-known rivers, running through some excellent wine-making parts of Northern Spain and Portugal. Start the trip in the historic citadel of Porto, traveling into Spain, before returning to Porto.
7. Elbe River
The journey begins in Berlin, travels through Dresden and incorporates some of the most opulent Baroque palaces and gardens in Europe.
8. Volga River
Sailing down the longest river in Europe is still something of an emerging market but its uniqueness makes it worthwhile. Immerse yourself for 13 days in the incredible history and culture of Russia.
9. Po River
This charming European river cruise encompasses the amazing scenery of Northern Italy and the romance of Venice. The Po Valley is awash with Renaissance art and architecture.
10. Gota Canal
One of Europe’s forgotten waterways, the Gota Canal travels through the heart of Sweden, traveling from Gothenburg to Stockholm with plenty of time to explore the beautiful northern landscape.
1. Rhine River
The journey is a spectacular one, encompassing five different countries. Travel through the Black Forest region of Germany, a truly majestic region with fairytale castles. Often a stop in beautiful Amsterdam is included. This is a great way to see the heart of Europe without having to navigate train stations and taxis.
2. Danube River
Cruises can starts in Passau, Germany, winding through six European countries, filled with incredible landscapes, architecture and museums, before ending in Budapest.
3. Dnieper River
This is a spectacular holiday choice, with 17 days traveling from Kiev to Istanbul which for centuries was the meeting point of European, Middle Eastern and Asian cultures. It is perfect for exploring the many jewels of Eastern Europe, including Kiev and the Black Sea, as well as Sevastopol and Constanta.
4. Rhone River
A European river cruise down the Rhone is an excellent way to capture the essence of the Rhone Valley. Excursions can include a look through the former Papal seat of Avignon, wine tasting and visiting the casual bistros in Lyon.
5. Guadalquivir River
Travel through the majestic region of Andalucia, taking in the cities of Seville and Jerez, the wine and horse capital of Spain. It’s a chance to really discover the essence of the region and its culture.
6. Douro River
The Douro is one of Europe’s lesser-known rivers, running through some excellent wine-making parts of Northern Spain and Portugal. Start the trip in the historic citadel of Porto, traveling into Spain, before returning to Porto.
7. Elbe River
The journey begins in Berlin, travels through Dresden and incorporates some of the most opulent Baroque palaces and gardens in Europe.
8. Volga River
Sailing down the longest river in Europe is still something of an emerging market but its uniqueness makes it worthwhile. Immerse yourself for 13 days in the incredible history and culture of Russia.
9. Po River
This charming European river cruise encompasses the amazing scenery of Northern Italy and the romance of Venice. The Po Valley is awash with Renaissance art and architecture.
10. Gota Canal
One of Europe’s forgotten waterways, the Gota Canal travels through the heart of Sweden, traveling from Gothenburg to Stockholm with plenty of time to explore the beautiful northern landscape.
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