Tips for Travel in Cyprus

Cyprus is an enchanting island on the eastern Mediterranean. It’s a mix of Eastern and Western cultures and boasts a breathtaking landscape dotted with charming little villages. The weather is a huge factor – it’s warm all year round but gets a little cooler from September onwards with just a little rain in December – it’s still one of the driest countries in the Meditteranean though!

Cyprus is not just stunning beaches and sunshine, there are endless possibilities for exploring and a fascinating history and impressive architecture also form part of this amazing country.

Cyprus Car Hire Tip – Driving in Cyprus is easy and there are relatively few traffic problems. Cypriots drive on the left hand side and the road signs are also in English making it easy to navigate the island. All motorways are toll free. Traveling between main towns is a possibility using public transport but if you want to discover the real Cyprus the best way to get around is by car. Public transport is not reliable and won’t let you experience the true lifestyle of the Cypriots.

Cyprus Car Hire Tip – The speed limit on motorways is 100km/hr, on regional roads its 80km/hr and in built up areas it’s 50km/hr.

Taking a tour of this breathtaking island by car will leave you with amazing memories. The 40km or so stretch between Larnaca and Agia Napa on the south coast of the island has the best beaches. For much of the journey you’re overlooking Larnaca Bay. Larnaca is steeped in history and you’ll find the Turkish Fort, Lazarus Church and Pierides Museum here.

Travel route A5 south from Larnaca to Limassol and follow the coastline to Paphos. Larnaca is a town with plenty of activity. There are lots of restaurants and lively pubs and great nightlife as well as loads for the kids with a fun park, camel rides and karting. Limassol is not as touristy as other parts of the island. It’s more of a cosmopolitan town with lovely shops, busy markets and shopping centres. Limassol has great beaches and like Larnaca has a bustling nightlife.

The town of Paphos is situated on the coast of Cyprus. Here you can visit the Baths of Aphrodite, the Odeon Theatre, The tombs of the Kings and many museums. For the kids there is the Aphrodite Waterpark. This waterpark is situated in the tourist area of Paphos and hosts the biggest family rafting ride in Europe. It’s the ideal spot to stop if you have kids in tow and it’s a great way to spend a day. There’s just so much to do here – the kids young and old are guranteed to have a ball!

Cyprus Car Hire Tip – Children under 5 years must be strapped into a proper child car seat in the back of the car. Children aged between 5 and 10 can sit in the front passenger seat, provided a safety belt is worn.

Limassol is also a great base for visiting the Troodos Mountains. Travel deep into the countryside and explore the quaint little villages in the Troodos mountain area, which covers a large area of central Cyprus. Troodos is the largest mountain range in Cyprus. It’s peak, Mount Olympus, stands at 1,952 metres tall. Some of the villages in this region well worth checking out include Louvaras, Palaichori, Kourdhali and Pelendri.

While driving around this area you’ll stumble across numerous churches and monasteries and the beauty about having a car is that you can stop at whichever ones you like. One of the more famous monasteries is in Kykkos, about 20km west of Pedoulas – the holy Monastery of the Virgin of Kykkos.

Further north (from Paphos) and close to the town of Polis which overlooks the pretty Chrysochou Bay you’ll find The Baths of Aphrodite. Legend has it that this is where Aphrodite bathed. In historic times people thought that bathing here would aid their fertility. You can travel north of Limassol to Nicosia (Lefkosia), the capital of Cyprus. Nicosia has an abundance of restaurants, pubs, a great nightlife and pedestrianised streets with lovely shops. There are lots of historic sites and it’s surrounded by delightful villages.

If you’re a golf fanatic there are two great courses on the island. Secret Valley is about 18km east of Paphos and 50km from Limassol, while the Donald Steel designed Tsada Golf Course is on the outskirts of Paphos.

Wildlife and Breathtaking Scenery Aboard Rocky Mountaineer

Scenery

Rocky Mountaineer boasts the most breathtaking and scenic train tours this country has to offer. The rich, vast, unspoiled nature of our 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. Because of this, Rocky Mountaineer scenic train rides are unlike any other in the world.

Wildlife

Canada is a premium vacation destination for wildlife tours, where visitors are privileged to see animals in their natural habitat. The Canadian West is especially fortunate to still be home to a wide variety of plants and animals. The wildlife in the Canadian Rockies helps to distinguish this region from all others, and makes for a perfect vacation with many opportunities both on and off the Rocky Mountaineer trains for wildlife tours.

Along the Rocky Mountaineer train route you may see any of the large mammal or bird species for which this area is known. Black and grizzly bears, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, cougar, wolves, lynx and caribou are some of the many species that rely on the large tracts of protected land to survive.

All guests in the National Parks have the opportunity to experience the diverse environment that is home to these creatures.

The Gorgeous Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands consist of over a dozen islands in the Strait of Georgia, off the coast of British Columbia’s mainland. Some of the most popular islands include: Denman, Salt Spring, Mayne, Pender, Galiano, Saturna, and Hornby. These islands enjoy a mild, sub-Mediterranean climate year round. The landscape is characterized by dramatic coastlines, beautiful beaches, and a diversity of plants and animals.

The Gulf Islands rich, natural beauty is one of the reasons why visitors keep coming back every year. The extensive sea life includes Orcas, dolphins, seals, a variety of fish and kelp, which provides a habitat for sea lions. Garry Oak ecosystems which are largely extinct can be found in the Gulf Islands. There are many conservation strategies in place on the islands to protect these endangered ecosystems.

The Gulf Islands is home to many provincial parks that work towards conserving the untamed beauty of this region of BC. Bodega Ridge Provincial Park on Galiano Island is offers breathtaking scenery. The islands high cliffs are home to bald eagles, falcons and turkey vultures. Another provincial park on Galiano is Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park, which is home to the lovely Shell Beach. All over the Gulf Islands you will find parks with rolling hills covered in wildflowers, lush forests and calm beaches.

Galiano Island is one of the most popular of the Gulf Islands. On the west coast discover the naturally formed sandstone caves. This island is on the flight path for many different bird species, so it’s a birdwatchers paradise. There are numerous provincial parks and multiple hiking trails. Long, sandy beaches are perfect for beach combing, swimming or simply relaxing under the sun. This is a perfect destination for nature lovers, avid hikers or someone simply looking for a relaxing getaway.

Pender Island is another popular Gulf Island. Pender Island is actually composed of two islands: North Pender Island and South Pender Island. The north is much more populated and has many shops and restaurants while the south is more rural and less populated. This island is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts as you can see pods of Orca, deer, seals and eagles. In the summer, many visitors come to enjoy the warm weather and the many local events such as art exhibitions, concerts and plays. Pender Island is a perfect getaway for families and couples. Some popular activities on Pender include sea kayaking, hiking, and visits to the winery and the spa.

Salt Spring Island is the most popular of the southern Gulf Islands. Salt Spring boasts a beautiful landscape with vast meadows and amazing vistas. The island is home to many sheep and deer, however, cougar and bears have been known to travel over to Salt Spring from Vancouver Island. Hiking and mountain biking are two popular activities on Salt Spring and one of the most popular trails is leading up to Bruce Peak. Ruckle Provincial Park is the largest Gulf Island provincial campground and a great place to take kids on a camping adventure.

Many visitors have taken advantage of the Gulf Islands stunning beauty by capturing it in photographs. If you enjoy photography, there are several photo tours which operate on several of the islands. The Gulf Islands are a great place to try many outdoor activities. Try biking, fishing, golfing, hiking, tennis, skydiving, kayaking, diving, swimming, rafting, sailing, horseback riding, parasailing, roller blading and so much more!

If you’re not an outdoorsy type there are plenty of fairs, markets and exhibitions as well as museums and historic landmarks to keep you entertained.

Spotlight on River Cruising

The River Cruise Advantage

Are you looking for a vacation that takes you to intriguing and historic places in luxury and comfort - and gives you time to relax and enjoy the scenery? If so, a river cruise could be for you.

Advantages of this leisurely mode of travel

• Unpack once and the river boat is your floating hotel.
• There are plenty of picture windows and open deck space for you to enjoy the passing scenery.
• In most ports, river boats can dock conveniently downtown allowing passengers to step ashore in the heart of the city at their leisure.
• Local guides lead sightseeing tours in each town which are included in the fare. Additional organized excursions are also available for purchase.
• Tour guides and staff speak English on the cruises offered by Ensemble's preferred suppliers, Uniworld River Cruises, Avalon Waterways and Viking River Cruises.
• There's no problem with motion as you aren't on the open sea.
• Packages offer great value as they include pre and post cruise stays in great cities, transfers, port excursions, and complimentary wine.

So many travellers are discovering the joys of river cruising, it has become one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry. Companies are expanding their fleets and renovating existing vessels to meet the demands of today's savy passengers. Wesley Bosnic of Uniworld River Cruises, the second largest U.S. based river cruise company in number of berths, remarks:

“Consumers are finding that river cruising on small intimate ships is a great alternative. River cruising is a fantastic way to see Europe …. All of our company owned ships (8) have either been completely refurbished or newly built in the last two years. We are not obsessed with growth, we are however, obsessed with delivering an outstanding experience to our customers.”

Life On Board

Today's river boats offer levels of luxury rivalling that of cruise ships. Here are some important features of these beautiful vessels:

• With only 100 to 300 passengers, there is great camaraderie on board. These are very friendly cruises.
• You'll find a variety of public rooms: a restaurant, lounge for scenic viewing, bar, open deck space with deck chairs and a canopy for shade, gift shop, hair dresser and sometimes a whirlpool, fitness centre, spa and swimming pool.
• Cabins are well appointed and designed for your comfort. They are usually outside, often with a picture window, and many of the new boats feature cabins with a balcony.
• Meals are served in the restaurant. In Europe, breakfast and lunch tend to be buffet-style, while dinner is a-la-carte, served in one seating at about 7 p.m. There's lots of choice and food is well prepared. Complimentary wine is usually served with dinner.
• Evening entertainment consists of a piano bar, or small ensemble in the lounge. Local entertainers may be brought on board to display the regional culture.
• Service on board has a reputation of being prompt, attentive and friendly while the overall cruise experience is well organized by the cruise/tour director.
You'll travel in comfort and style as you sail down the river. No rush, no hurry. Just relax and let the river boat take you to the next place of interest.

Culinary Magnificence Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer

A meal on the Rocky Mountaineer train is truly an experience like none other. The coach alone can rival many of the city's finest restaurants in terms of elegance, grace, comfort and style. The bi-level glass domed coach offers stunning panoramic views from the upper level and an intimate dining room setting.

Onboard Rocky Mountaineer's GoldLeaf Service, guests are treated to three-course a la carte meals, complete with white linen tablecloths and napkins, polished silverware and fresh cut flowers on the main level. It's more like a five-star fine dining restaurant on wheels. Menus feature a selection of local cuisine -from prime Alberta beef and famed west coast wild salmon, to pork tenderloin with onion compote -accompanied by award-winning wines from the renowned Okanagan Valley.

At the helm of the moving kitchen is French-born Frederic Couton. The executive chef trained at some of the most exclusive Michelin Star restaurants, honing his culinary skills in the kitchens of the Hilton Paris and Geneva. His culinary skills then took him to other five-star restaurants in Montreal, Bangkok and Vancouver. Prior to joining Vancouver's prestigious Cannery Seafood Restaurant in 1996, Couton held the position of executive chef at the esteemed British Columbia Club.

Over the years, Couton has amassed many international awards in culinary competitions at home and abroad. His latest achievement is a cookbook masterpiece published in 2006 outlining his outstanding creations as executive chef of The Cannery Seafood Restaurant.

Couton and his team of three world-renowned chefs -Joseph Lassaga, Jean Pierre Guerin and Raoul Prigent - will tempt and surprise you every time with their gastronomic genius. They create menus using ingredients indigenous to B.C. and Alberta. Each day, these culinary masters prepare dishes that are both mouthwatering and pleasing to the eye ... all your senses will be enticed. Couton went on to explain that the chefs spend time to artistically plate each meal because they believe food is an all encompassing experience.

Meanwhile, all of its signature sauces and dressings are prepared at the Rocky Mountaineer kitchen in Kamloops and brought on board every second day, ensuring the freshest ingredients possible. But your elegant dining experience doesn't stop with exceptional fare. Dining on the Rocky Mountaineer is a magnificent experience with the finest wines and gourmet menu in an opulent, sophisticated atmosphere. Whether you are on a one-day or eight-day trip, Couton and his team promise to tantalize your taste buds with outstanding cuisine.

P.S. You will also come back for the impeccable and friendly service that makes the dining experience even more memorable.

Preparing for a Backpacking Adventure

If you are desperate to get away but only have a few days to spare a backpacking adventure may be the perfect solution. Backpacking adventures are often much simpler to plan and offer a nice break from ones everyday routine. Here are some tips for how to prepare for a backpacking holiday:

Before you start to plan your getaway, decide how long you have. If you plan on being going for only a day, a daypack should suffice. However, if you’re planning a multi-day backpacking adventure, you should opt for a larger bag. When choosing your backpack, keep a few things in mind. Your backpack should come with strong, sturdy shoulder straps. Try on the backpack and make sure that it isn’t clunky or awkward; you should be able to walk comfortably with it on your back. In addition make sure your backpack has enough padding and curves in order to protect your collarbone from chaffing.

When selecting your backpack, make sure the zippers are strong and durable. Your backpack should also come with a good waist strap. A waist strap is essential as it takes much of the weight off of your shoulders so you don’t get as tired. Don’t pick a bag based on the price tag; make sure that the backpack is made of quality material even if it costs more. (Imagine having your backpack give out in the middle of your vacation!)

Now that you have your backpack, here are some things you should remember to take with you. First and foremost is water. Don’t get dehydrated; make sure that you bring a sturdy water bottle with you on your vacation. Depending on where you are traveling, you may need to bring iodine tablets with you to treat the water. Bring a sufficient amount of iodine tablets if the water does need to be treated, as you cannot carry all the water you will need on your adventure and will need to fill up periodically.

If you are planning to go backpacking through the mountains, and won’t have access to grocery stores or restaurants, you will need to pack some food. A good way to do this is to pack each meal separately to save space in your bag. Always pack a little extra food just in case. Bring a good pair of comfortable walking shoes and clothes that are appropriate for the destination you’re traveling to.

Keep in mind that your preparation will greatly depend on the location you choose for your backpacking adventure. Check the areas type of terrain and weather conditions. Be sure to perform as much research as possible before you depart in order to ensure your experience is fantastic.

What You Can Expect on a Rocky Mountaineer Vacation

The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the finest sightseeing trains in Canada, and a contender for the best in the world. Beyond the service and style offered by the Rocky Mountaineer trains, it’s the sightseeing that can’t be beat.

Travelers who prefer the journey to be as much an experience as the destination will surely love a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer, but beyond the general descriptions of mountain and forest – what can travelers expect to see along the way?

Rocky Mountaineer runs two trains (the Rocky Mountaineer and the Whistler Mountaineer) and four routes linking the Coastal city of Vancouver to Calgary and Jasper in the Rockies. All the routes are beautiful, but a particular favourite is the Yellowhead Route which travels from Vancouver to Jasper. Make the most of your journey with this detailed sightseeing guide to highlights along the way.

From Vancouver to Calgary on Rocky Mountaineer’s Yellowhead Route

When traveling east to Calgary, the coastal city of Vancouver is your starting point. Nestled between the Coast Mountains (home to Whistler resort) and the big blue Pacific, Vancouver is a cosmopolitan city that maintains strong ties to the outdoors. On clear days locals head outside to run the Sea Wall, hike Grouse Mountain, or browse the boutiques, cafes, and patios lining Robson Street, South Granville, and west 4th avenue.

Make the most of your time in Vancouver by enjoying the city’s restaurants, shops and galleries as well as adventures outside – such as strolling Stanley Park, checking out the architecture in Gastown, or traveling outside the city to explore the nearby mountains.

Boarding the Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll quickly leave behind Vancouver’s cityscapes for the lush green Fraser Valley. The Fraser Valley boasts plenty of fertile farlmand due to its proximity to the Fraser River.

The Fraser River is the longest in BC and the 5th longest in Canada. As you travel alongside it, you’ll notice its waters changing from a muddy brown to a milky green. This is due to the high levels of sediment in the water as well as plenty of rapids. The Fraser River’s turbulence belies a thriving ecosystem, producing more salmon than any other river system in the world!

The excitement of the Fraser culminates at Hell’s Gate, an attraction located at the narrowest point in the Fraser River. The sight and sound of the thundering waters only hint at the magnitude of this pass, where as much as 909,218,000 litres (200 million) gallons of water surge through the 33.53 metre (110 foot) gorge each minute.

As you exit the Coast Mountains, you’ll emerge into the beautiful Fraser Canyon, a natural canyon with sides of up to 600 metres (1980) feet. This canyon extends all the way to Hope.

From the town of Hope to that of Kamloops, your journey will see you through a landscape of mountains, countryside and lakes. You will travel through Monck and Lac Le Jeune Provincial Parks, climb through the Great Bear Snow Shed, crest the summit of the Coquihalla Pass and cross the top of Thompson Plateau.

You will stop for the night in Kamloops, a charming town in the Okanogan Valley. The weather is warm and sunny in spring and summer, and winter snow in nearby Sun Peaks beckons to skiiers. Kamloops also plays host to Rocky Mountaineer’s dinner theatre performances, the Two River Junction Musical Revue® and the Great Canadian Lumberjack Show.

Back on the train after your night in Kamloops, you’ll quickly discover the sightseeing potential of the mountain scenery of the Canadian Rockies.

An early highlight will be views of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies. At a height of 3,956.5 metres (12,972 feet) and dropping into Berg Lake in the North and Kinney Lake in the South, this heavily glaciated mountain towers over the peaks that surround it.

As you continue traveling through the Rockies, you will pass the spectacular Pyramid Falls. This waterfall cascades 91.5 metres (300 feet) beside the train tracks, and to maximize your sightseeing the train will slow to allow for an up-close view.

A different but equally impressive vision is the Albreda Glacier. Albreda, like other glaciers in the Rockies, is a permanent snowfield (the amount of snowfall exceeds snowmelt each year). The weight of accumulated snow compresses layers beneath it into ice, which then melts, pushing the newly formed glacier downhill. This movement grinds the rocks beneath it into a fine powder, which, when deposited into the lakes and rivers surrounding the glacier, turns the water into a beautiful shade of turquoise blue.

Your arrival in Jasper National Park marks the end of your journey by rail, but also the beginning of the sightseeing opportunities in the Canadian Rockies. Jasper National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1907, and remains one of the largest protected areas in the world. This is accessible Canadian wilderness at its best, and the town of Jasper makes a convenient base to explore the hiking trails, lakes and wildlife of the surrounding area.

Although your journey by the Rocky Mountaineer Yellowhead Route may be over in Jasper, your sightseeing experience is anything but. Consider traveling from Jasper to Banff along the Icefields Parkway, the most beautiful drive in the country, before exploring the beautiful sights of Banff and Lake Louise.

Travel With Kids in Ireland

Because of its sprawling farmlands and plethora of ruins, Ireland's beauty inspires the imagination of young people and parents alike. Adults will not be lost for child-friendly activities within the bustling cities, either. With dozens of options, families can find a great place to stay in Ireland that will cater to children's and parent's needs.

Pick your regions. A trip to Ireland without a visit to both the big city of Dublin as well as the emerald countryside would be incomplete. "Frommer's Ireland 2008" suggests Cork and Kerry counties on the southern end of Ireland as the most family-fun-packed rural areas.

Choose places to sleep. In Dublin, the five-star Conrad Dublin Hotel includes a babysitting service. For a more DIY experience, or if staying longer, travelers can rent an apartment with a kitchen starting at 100 euros per night. A luxurious option in Cork is The Hayfield Manor Hotel, which serves cookies and milk to children before bed. In Killarney, The Rathmore House is a nice mid-range, family-run bed and breakfast. Always call ahead or email to reserve rooms for your family.

Brainstorm activities. While in Dublin, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around Merrion Square Park, then catch a show at the 300-seat Lambert Puppet Theater. Near Cork, visit the Fota Island Wildlife Park and Arboretum, a modern zoo without traditional fencing adjacent to an arboretum planted in the 1820s. Visit Dursey Island for its wooden cable car ride, then visit Drombeg Stone Circle for a glimpse into ancient religions captivating for adults and their kids.

Eat your fill. With plenty of ancient ruins set among the natural beauty of Ireland, picnics are an inexpensive way to enjoy your surroundings and keep the kids free from restrictive restaurant walls. For a low-budget lunch in an Irish pub, visit Village in Dublin. "Lonely Planet: Ireland" calls Jacques Restaurant in Cork, "the freshest Cork food cooked simply," and in the Kerry area, try Dev's 'N The Square for hearty Irish meals.

Nepal Adventure Travel

Nepal is a small country in neighboring to India. It is a very popular and much loved destination for adventure enthusiasts & trekkers with its majestic Himalayan mountain peaks and fascinating local traditions. Every year thousands of visitors flock to Nepal to discover this wonderful destination and to embark on Nepal trekking tours.

Adventure enthusiasts will marvel at spectacular vistas from high mountain peaks in the mighty Himalayas. Eight of the of the fourteen highest mountain peaks above 8000 meters are located in Nepal and Nepal is home to over 1300 peaks above 6000 meters. For this reason, Nepal is a trekker’s paradise. Trekking in this country gives travelers a wonderful opportunity to explore its untamed natural beauty and discover its unique cultural traditions.

Trekking tours in the Himalayas of Nepal also provides travelers the perfect setting to try out some other adventure and sport activities like mountain climbing, mountain biking, rock climbing, peak climbing, hiking, and more. Nepal has been a preferred destination of mountain climbers and rock climbers for a number of years. There are well over 100 mountain peaks open to mountain and rock climbers in Nepal including Mount Everest – the highest mountain peak in the world. The numerous challenging mountains have drawn climbers from all over the world.

Some other popular adventure activities in Nepal also include white water rafting and kayaking. Travelers can view Nepal’s majestic mountains from another perspective and enjoy the countries natural setting far from the overrun, well-traveled paths. Many adventure enthusiasts also enjoy jungle safaris, riding through the jungle on a jeep or an elephant. For wildlife enthusiasts, wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Nepal are home to a variety of rare animals including royal bengal tigers, one-horned rhinos, musk deer, wild yak, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear and wild elephants.

Our Beautiful Capital: Victoria

Victoria is the capital of the Canadian province of British Columbia and is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. This city has one of the most pleasant climates in Canada, and tourists enjoy the scenic outdoors in the Victoria area throughout the year. Victoria has many historical and cultural attractions to complement its natural scenery.

Neighborhoods

The city of Victoria has several walkable neighborhoods with historic residences and lush gardens. Victoria's Chinatown is the second oldest Chinatown in North America and includes the Gate of Harmonious Interest, a colorful entrance to the neighborhood. The Fairfield neighborhood has monuments to local citizens, scenic mountain and ocean views, and the Government House with its public gardens. Tourists may see the historic homes of the city's founders in the James Bay neighborhood and explore the Fairmont Empress Hotel on the Inner Harbor.

Natural Scenery

Tourists enjoy scenic views of oceans, mountains and unspoiled nature in Victoria. The city is home to several gardens, including the Butchart Gardens, a Canadian National Historic Site with rare and colorful floral displays. Visitors walk the Galloping Goose Trail along an old railroad line that passes a hidden lake, forests and other natural areas. Whale watching boat tours depart from the Victoria area and catch views of orcas in the Pacific Ocean and its inlets near the city.

History

Visitors learn about the history of Victoria at museums and historic sites around the city. The Royal BC Museum is the city's largest museum and offers galleries that depict the aboriginal culture, life in historic Chinatown and a replica of an early explorer's ship. Historic house museums such as the Craigdarroch Castle offer tourists a glimpse into life in 19th century Victoria. Visitors learn about Victoria's maritime history at Fisgard Lighthouse and Fort Rodd Hill.

Arts


Victoria tourists can view works of art in museums and galleries, and witness a variety of performing arts. The Royal BC Museum and several area art galleries display aboriginal, Canadian and international works of art. The Victoria Symphony performs classical, pops and other music at the Royal Theatre. Live theater productions, dance performances and comedy shows take place at several locations in Victoria including the 772-seat McPherson Playhouse and the Belfry Theatre.

Considerations

Canada has two official languages, English and French, but English is the only language spoken in most of Victoria. Summer and early fall days are usually warm in Victoria, but tourists should bring a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings. Winters rarely bring snow, but visitors should be prepared for rainy weather. Victoria is a very walkable city with many attractions located close to each other. Victoria does not allow smoking in public buildings.

Fourth Guest Travels Free with Rocky Mountaineer

To celebrate its 20th Anniversary, Rocky Mountaineer is pleased to release two limited time offers for its newest luxury package. Book three people for a GoldLeaf Themed Golf or Winery Tour Experience and bring a fourth guest for free or receive free airfare from select cities across Canada. These exclusive offers enable guests to enjoy an eight day premium vacation experience that combines Rocky Mountaineer’s award-winning GoldLeaf Service with visits to some of BC’s award-winning wineries or legendary golf courses throughout the Okanagan region and the Canadian Rockies.

“Rocky Mountaineer is committed to providing the most unforgettable travel experiences in the world,” says Hubert Wat, Vice President, Marketing of Rocky Mountaineer. “We are excited to offer our guests an opportunity to take advantage of a first-class experience that highlights some of the most beautiful and recognized areas of Canada, known for their superb wineries and golf courses.”

The GoldLeaf Themed Golf and Winery Tour Experiences are two unique packages that allow guests to split up their two-day rail journey between Vancouver, BC and Banff, Alberta. Each package includes expertly prepared wine-paired meals and a two-day rail journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer’s exclusive GoldLeaf Themed Experience Themed Dome as well as guided tours of the Okanagan Region. With two great options, guests of the Golf Tour Experience will enjoy the links at Predator Ridge Golf Resort, Harvest Golf Club and the Fairmont Springs Golf Club, while Winery Tours guests will tempt their palates at wineries such as Gray Monk Estate Winery, Sumac Ridge Estate Winery and Nk’Mip Winery.

These exclusive packages are only available for limited departure dates. The GoldLeaf Themed Winery Tour departs on June 17 and September 9, 2010 while the GoldLeaf Themed Golf Tour departs on June 24, 2010. Rates start at $7499 CDN per person, based on double occupancy. The free air fare offer includes a flight on Air Canada and is only valid between select cities including Halifax, Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Regina, and Edmonton. Further restrictions may apply.

For more information or to request a brochure, give us a call at 1-800-800-7252 or email us at info@lloydstravel.com.

Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage

With remote ports accessible only by sea or air, Alaska makes an excellent cruising destination. The pristine beauty of the 49th state has been attracting an increasing number of cruise passengers. Nearly 60 percent of visitors to Alaska arrive by cruise ship with the season running from May through September.

Historically, the allure of Alaska has attracted travellers since the mid 1800's. After the United States purchased Alaska from Russia in 1868 for $7.2million - that's less than 2 cents an acre - travelers would sail north to discover the remote region known for its vast glaciers. Naturalist, John Muir arrived in 1879 and made many more visits to explore and record his findings. Paddlewheelers were a common sight on the west coast by the turn of the century. Steamships from The Alaska Steamship Co., Canadian Pacific and other lines were the forerunners of today's ferry boats and cruise ships.

Inside Passage

The Inside Passage of Washington, British Columbia and Alaska provides one of the world's most scenic cruising regions. This 1,000-mile maze of peaceful channels, bays, fjords and islands extends from Puget Sound and Seattle to Skagway. This region was formed by the retreat of glaciers during the last Ice Age. Alaska's many glaciers, still active today, give us a glimpse of ice in action as parts of this great state remain "under construction."

These cruises are round-trip sailings for seven nights from Vancouver and Seattle or longer sailings from San Francisco. Each year, several ships re-position between these West Coast ports and include calls at Inside Passage ports along the way.

Today's big ships spend a good portion of their time in the Inside Passage, however, part of the voyage is spent in Queen Charlotte Sound, Hecate Strait . Ships sailing from Seattle and San Francisco spend even less time in the Inside Passage as they will likely sail off the west coast of Vancouver Island instead of in the beautiful Inside Passage of British Columbia. It is easier to make good time by sailing "outside" - a major consideration when you need to complete the voyage in seven nights. Sailing round-trip from Vancouver assures time in the Inside Passage of British Columbia.

Ports of call along the Inside Passage are the state capital of Juneau, Ketchikan , Wrangell, Sitka, Skagway, Haines, Icy Strait Point and Prince Rupert. The lovely capital of British Columbia, Victoria, is a port-of-call on some itineraries from Seattle and San Francisco but this is sometimes just a short call to refuel. Check your itinerary for times in port if you want a longer stay in Victoria.

Biking Holidays in Whistler

Situated about 120 km north of Vancouver on the Highway 99 is Whistler, acknowledged as the ‘Natural Year-Round Playground.’ With its soothing mountain air, pristine clear lakes, and luxuriant emerald forests, Whistler is a mecca for a host of recreational activities during both winter and summer.

During the winter, Whistler becomes a sought after destination for enjoying skiing and other activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sleigh riding. When comes to summer activities, the activities that can be enjoyed here are endless from golf, tennis, and staking to boating, fishing, and canoeing. Aside these activities, Whistler renders world class facilities for mountain biking.

As per the level and expertise of bikers, different types of mountain biking trails are available in Whistler, such as, downhill tracks, technical single track, cross country, paved valley track, and wide single track. For novice, one of the best trails to start with would be the 35 km long Valley Trail. This trail serves as a commuter trail, and a bike riding through it leads to some of the picturesque lakes, parks, and neighborhood destinations.

Another popular biking trail in Whistler is Lost Lake Park, which is surrounded by pristine alpine lake. Located within easy reach of almost all facilities in Whistler and Blackcomb, Lost Lake Park consists of a series of mountain trails, each of them rendering single as well as wide single track with plush nettle. This trail is most suitable for beginners who want to take mountain biking lessons quite easy. However, the trails found in the park are not only for beginners but also for advanced riders. For riders seeking adventure and fun, the park offers trails such as the Frank Zappa single-track.

In Whistler, beginners can also take advantage of the Whistler Interpretive Forest’s network of trails that are exclusively designed for novices, such as Highline, Far Side Trail, Riverside Trail, and Ridge Trail. Some excellent trails are available around Cheakamus Lake, which in turn is a part of the spectacular Garibaldi Provincial Park. However, the trail is packed with hikers during the summer season.

For intermediates, Whistler has some excellent options for mountain biking in the form of Trash in Function Junction, Big Timber trail in Kadenwood, and Green Lake Loop that runs across the eastern side of the Green Lake, from Lost Lake Park to Wedgemount. There are also a couple of trails, especially for intermediates, outside the boundaries of Whistler like Brandywine Falls cross country trail that runs through the Whistler Interpretive Forest, which in turn consists of a blend of double and single tracks.

Whistler is also home to a continuum of expert trails including Industrial Disease. Also, Whistler boasts of a good number of epic trails such as the 42 km long the Flank Trail and the Rainbow Trail.

Apart from these, Whistler has to its credit some excellent parks that are exclusively designed for mountain biking. Of which, one of the most popular is the Whistler Bike Park, whose highlights, among many others, are over 200 km of lift serviced trails as well as mountainous pathways, jump park areas, access lifts including Whistler Gondola and Garbanzo Chairs, and dirt trails via canopied forests. Dirt Jump Park, within the Rebagliati Park, is also a great facility in Whistler for mountain biking. Above all, an association operates here exclusively for the development and maintenance of trails in Whistler, namely, Whistler off Road Cycling Association (WORCA.)

Despite anything, your mountain biking holidays in Whistler is not complete without taking a mountain bike riding through Comfortably Numb, which is the longest as well as most challenging single track trail in Whistler. However, a ride through this trail is recommended for technically advanced and experienced bikers. Among the highlights of the trail are long climbs, challenging rock faces, elevated bridges, and picturesque views.

There are certain prerequisites in order to make your Whistler Mountain biking holidays perfect and enjoyable. First of all, a clear plan must be devised for enjoying mountain biking in Whistler. Determination of your budget for your mountain biking holidays is another thing to take into consider for a perfect mountain biking holiday in Whistler.

Equally important for mountain biking holiday is packing, ie, you should bring all necessary equipments such as bike, helmet, knee and shoulder pads, and apparels that go with the climatic conditions of the regions. A lot number of rental shops are in the vicinity to supply necessary equipments for an enjoyable mountain biking.

A plethora of mountain bike friendly hotels and resorts can be found across Whistler and Blackcomb regions. There are also some resorts and hotels, providing excellent packages for a perfect mountain biking vacation. Packages are mostly inclusive of assistance of expert staff, guided camps, and private lessons.

Alaska Adventure Travel

Alaska adventure travel is becoming more and more popular every year. People love that they get the chance to explore Alaska’s immense wilderness various wildlife and at the same time are able to take part in some of the most exciting extreme and not so extreme sports on earth.

Some popular activities in Alaska are sea kayaking, whale watching and wildlife tours, camping, hiking, and especially white water rafting. Alaska is characterized by snow peaked mountain tops, majestic glaciers, rivers teeming with salmon, and overall, untamed, unparalleled natural beauty. Denali National Park is a must see for nature lovers. Booking a tour is often recommended as they can offer you the opportunity to get involved in a variety of guided hikes, gold panning, fishing, and more. Mount McKinley National Park is situated within Denali and the tours here offer incredible views of this amazing, glacier covered mountain. The mountain is also the highest peak in the whole of North America at an incredible 20,320 feet.

Kenai National Wildlife sanctuary is another wonderful area to explore during your Alaska vacation. The Kenai Mountains border this phenomenal refuge, with hundreds of glacier fed lakes, and a great diversity of wildlife species. Some wildlife species include brown bears, black bears, caribou, various species of birds, many different whales, seals and much more.

If you plan on visiting northern Alaska and the Artic realm, the Artic National Wildlife sanctuary, is definitely worth a visit. This sanctuary is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Gwinch’in people and Inupiat people, who survive solely on the natural resources within the sanctuary and have maintained much of their traditional culture.

Alaska adventure travel is the perfect way to get closer to nature. On an Alaska adventure vacation you can experience one of the most divine ecosystems on the planet, discover a new and fascinating culture and try your hand at some exciting outdoor activities all in the same trip!

Rocky Mountaineer Celebrates It's 20th Anniversary

Rocky Mountaineer is pleased to announce its 20th Anniversary Offer that gives travellers a credit of up to $500 CDN per couple towards additional vacation experiences when booking a Rocky Mountaineer vacation rail tour of seven nights or more. Available from now until May 28, 2010, guests can add to their vacation with extra hotel nights, city tours, meals, airfare, car rentals and even a ride on the Rocky Mountaineer Whistler Sea to Sky Climb, between Vancouver and Whistler, BC.

“Our 20th Anniversary Offer is a great opportunity for travellers to make the most of their Rocky Mountaineer vacation,” says Hubert Wat, Vice President, Marketing of Rocky Mountaineer, “Now guests can stay longer and enjoy more experiences and excursions in Western Canada.”

Great vacation options include the Western Explorer, a seven-night/eight-day vacation which, includes an all daylight rail trip on the Journey through the Clouds route between Vancouver, BC and Jasper, Alberta. Guests will enjoy delicious gourmet cuisine and travel in comfort and style through the stunning scenery of British Columbia and into the beautiful Canadian Rocky Mountains as well as several days and sightseeing tours in the Rocky Mountain resort towns of Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff, Alberta.

The 20th Anniversary Offer is only valid on new 2010 bookings made on Rocky Mountaineer vacation package of seven nights, between now and May 28, 2010 and must be requested at the time of booking. Offers are based on availability and may be modified, withdrawn or travel dates may be substituted without prior notice. Further restrictions may apply.

For more information on the 20th Anniversary Offer or to receive a copy of the 2010 Rocky Mountaineer brochure, please contact us at 1-800-800-7252 or info@lloydstravel.com.

Biking in Vancouver

Cities vary in their level of accommodation for alternative transportation, but Vancouver, British Columbia, has invested heavily in bike infrastructure. Well marked and plentiful bike lanes make biking easy, especially for the city’s many people using an electric bike kit” to help them conquer Vancouver’s hills. These riders can be seen zipping around the city, quickly getting from point A to B and not worrying about the rain or traffic. The electric bike conversion kit combined with the city’s dedication to the cyclist makes it easy to get around Vancouver on a bike.

What Does Adventure Travel Mean to You?

What type of adventures appeal to you? The kind where you push your body or your mind? Adventure travel is not the same thing to everyone. While some people enjoy white water rafting and kayaking, others might prefer sky diving or hand gliding. This is why it is often recommended that you utilize the services of a travel agent so that they can tailor make your adventure experience to suit your wants and needs.

If you’re the kind of traveler that likes to step outside their comfort zone, there are a number of adventure trips that will do just that! Try bicycling along the Tour de France route or hiking fourteen miles in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains. How about zip lining at 30 miles per hour between two trees in the Costa Rican jungle, catching air on your snowboard in a Super pipe or white water rafting on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon? If you’re out for thrills, think carefully about the extent of adventure you’ll really enjoy.

If the above sounds a little too intense, here are some other possibilities. Float through the sky in a hot air balloon. Walk through Cambodia’s Angkor Thom, where temple ruins are smothered by giant trees. Explore trails in the Amazon jungle and gaze at parrots and other lovely creatures. An adventure travel specialist can help you find an adventure vacation that is at your comfort level. Adventure travel does not mean travel that puts your life at risk. While some travelers go for physical thrills, other travelers prefer cultural thrills or experiences with nature.

Each person’s definition of adventure travel is unique. The question to ask is: what is yours? Don’t embark on an adventure full of activities that you wouldn’t consider trying, find what appeals to you personally. Travel journals, books and blogs are a great place to look for ideas. And once you have an idea, call your travel agent and find out what’s available!

C-Spa to be Introduced on BC Ferries

Starting in mid-May 2010, BC Ferries will be offering a lot more than just gorgeous scenery as guests travelling on the Spirit of British Columbia and the Spirit of Vancouver Island vessels will have the chance to experience heavenly pampering on the high seas.

BC Ferries has partnered with C Spa to offer visitors and weary business travelers alike manicures, pedicures and chair massages. Offered Thursday through Monday on the 7:00 am, 9:00 am, 11:00 am and 1:00 pm sailings from both Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay, the spa services will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Prices for the services are $30 CDN / $29 USD for a manicure, $40 CDN / $39 USD for a pedicure, $20 CDN / $19.50 USD for a 15-minute chair massage and $65 CDN / $63 USD for the C-Mani-Pedi.

The new C Spa will be on Deck 6 of the Spirit vessels in one of the staterooms found on board. To book an appointment for a C Spa service, representatives will be available at the tour operator’s desk on Deck 5 at the beginning of each sailing on which these services are available. BC Ferries celebrates their 50th anniversary in 2010. Since its inception in 1960, with two vessels and two terminals, the operation has grown into one of the largest, most sophisticated ferry transportation systems in the world. For more information visit www.bcferries.com or www.c-spa.ca.

New Safari Lodges

A safari, a sundowner – and wireless internet? Indeed. Today’s breed of safari lodges is focusing as much on the amenities as the adventure – think Thai massage rooms and high-tech touches like flat-screen TVs. In Africa alone, a slew of new properties have popped up, while others have unveiled sparkling renovations. Here’s a sampling of what’s on tap.

Nyungwe Forest Lodge, Rwanda

The first 5-star hotel in the area, this handsome, eco-friendly lodge adds modern touches (wireless internet and flat-screen TVs in every room) to the standard safari lodge offerings. Opened in March, the 24-suites and villas are located on a tea plantation near the largest remaining mountain rain forest in East Africa, where primates are the main draw (the 13 species include the chimpanzee, the acrobatic black and white colobus monkeys and the baboon-like mangabeys). The area, which predates the last Ice Age, is also great for exploring on foot. Guests can walk to the Kamicanovu swamp or hike along an extensive network of well-maintained trails, nestled among 200 different tree species and an array of eye-popping flowering plants.

Sanctuary Swala Camp, Tanzania

Following a $1.5 million rebuild, Sanctuary Swala Camp is ready to show off its shiny new facelift. The spruced-up property offers an authentic safari experience in the southwestern corner of Tanzania’s secluded Tarangire National Park, where some of the largest elephant herds in Africa gather. Each of the 12 canvas suites/tents feature a spacious floorplan, indoor/outdoor showers, a personal attendant, and private lounging decks that overlook the river basin, which regularly draws lions, leopards, and bull elephants. The camp is also gaining a reputation as a place to get up close to wild bat-eared foxes.

By day, hop onto a guided 4×4 for tracking tours (a walking tour is soon to be added to the itinerary), and take a plunge in the new infinity pool. By night, enjoy locally-inspired cuisine paired with African wines in the main dining area, which is built on stilts around an enormous ancient baobab tree.

Bilila Lodge Kempinski, Tanzania

Opened less than a year ago, this stunning, 74-room property in the Serengeti National Park raises the bar for luxury (Thai massage rooms and private sun decks) – without a whiff of pretention. If there were any new-property glitches here, they’re already taken care of: Guests raved about the lodge and its staff on several travel review sites. Overlooking the majestic Serengeti plans, the lodge is anchored by handsome stone architecture and a sprawling freshwater pool perfect for cooling off after a private game drive, bush walk or even a hot-air balloon ride, all of which can be arranged by the hotel. The well-appointed suites feature outdoor showers and private infinity pools, but every room has a stunning view of the plains beyond. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the elephants that come up to a nearby watering hole.