More with Tarek Mousa

Tarek Mousa has been so kind as to share with us an insider's look at Israel and Jordan. Here he shares some of the top sights to see!

Sights Not to be Missed

"In both countries you will find great natural beauty and numerous sights of historic significance. The top places I recommend you include in your itinerary are:

• In Israel: Jerusalem Old City, Massada, Dead Sea, Caesarea, Tiberias, Golan Heights.
• In Jordan: Petra, Jerash, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Kerak and the Baptism Site of Bethany Beyond the Jordan (the site of John the Baptist's settlement where Jesus was baptized.)"

"These are some of my personal favourites:

• Favourite sites in Israel:
  The Church of the Holy Sepulcher - By far the most important place for Christians and the location of the tomb of Jesus.
  Western Wall and the Temple Mount in Jerusalem - The most sacred place for Jewish people.
  Masada - A fascinating piece of Jewish history is connected to this attraction on top of the mountain. It is also a great archeological site.
• Favourite sites in Jordan:
  Petra - The way this site is carved into the mountain and the history behind it is just incredible. Petra was selected as one of the seven wonders of the world in 2007.
  Wadi Rum - This is where Lawerence of Arabia was filmed. One of the most magical experiences you can have is spending the night in a tent under the stars."

Keep your eyes out for a bit more on Jordan and Israel this week!

Canyonlands - Part 2

See Canyonlands - Part 1



As we continued following the winding Colorado River we made our way to Page, Utah and the stunning slots of Antelope Canyon. Another amazing natural wonder formed over time by flash floods from the plains below. A few hours north of Page we came across our first glimpse of the beautiful clay hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, also known as the ‘Valley of the Standing Man’. We enjoyed some spectacular hikes here, on the rim and down into the canyon, climbing through narrow gaps between these standing men. Once again the varying colours of these wind eroded land forms was a camera buffs dream!





Zion National Park, a few hours south of Bryce, was our last stop and also our lowest point so hardly any snow! Zion is quite a contrast to the other two parks as you are actually driving into the park through desert terrain and looking up 3000 feet at towering sandstone walls, monoliths and sculpted rock. Once again the most wonderful shades of red against the deep blue skies.



There are lots of hiking options of varying degrees and a few of us challenged ourselves to attempt Angels Landing - this is not for the faint of heart! This is one of the most thrilling hikes that takes you up the stunning switchbacks known as Walters Wiggles to a rock face with a narrow trail and chains to hang on to. Its best not attempted at the time of year we were there as ice and snow make the rock face very perilous. Needless to say after going a few hundred feet along the face we decided Angels Landing was just not worth the risk. Instead we sat at Scouts Landing, still enjoying a magnificent view, as our heart rates slowly returned to normal!





And then it was back to the glitz and glam known as Las Vegas all too soon.



This was a fast paced trip with an awesome exposure to the Canyonlands of Utah and Arizona. It really left you wanting to explore more. Hotels and lodges were all moderate with a great degree of comfort and all just outside park entrances, so very convenient. Although hiking was all optional this trip is really geared towards hiking but the hikes are at your own pace and level so ideally suited for anyone who enjoys walking.



This adventure for me can be summed up in miles and miles of 'oohs and aahs'.

Insider's View With Tarek Mousa in Tel Aviv

Visiting exotic locations like Israel and Jordan can be a challenge to plan. Our On Location partners are here to help. They are local specialists who can customize arrangements to suit your needs making your vacation a seamless and enriching experience. Tarek Mousa and his team specialize in custom tours of Israel, Jordan and other countries in the region. Contact us so we can work with Tarek to arrange the ground side of your journey in Israel and Jordan, including hotels, sightseeing itineraries and transportation.

Visiting Israel and Jordan

"Israel and Jordan offer a wonderful inspirational travel experience."

"The best time to visit is the spring and fall, when the weather will be most comfortable - March through June and September through November. For the lowest hotel rates, visit in the late fall and winter months - the beginning of December and the months of January and February. It is best to avoid religious holidays as many of the sights you will want to visit will be very crowded."

"English is widely spoken which is a big help to our North American visitors. For Israel you will get a free visa on arrival. Currently Jordan charges US$30 for a visa when you arrive at the airport however this is subject to change."

" The most direct flights from North America are offered by the following carriers:

• Flights to Israel:
  From USA: Delta, Continental, US airways and El Al
  From Canada: Air Canada
• Flights to Jordan:
  From USA:Royal Jordanian, US airways and American Airlines.
  From Canada: Royal Jordanian"

"It is easy to visit Jordan on an excursion from Israel. Clients have many options to take an excursion to/from Jordan crossing via land borders or taking flights. However, unless you only want to see historic Petra in Jordan, it is best if clients fly into Aqaba, Jordan and out of Tel Aviv, Israel, or vice versa, as this reduces backtracking."

For more insider's information on Jordan and Israel, come back later this week!

Canyonlands - Part 1

A few years ago I had the opportunity to explore the amazing Canyonlands in Utah and Arizona. What could be easier than a 2.5 hour flight to Las Vegas, the jumping off point for the trip? I traveled with Explore Worldwide, one of the many small group adventure companies we work with.





After meeting my fellow hikers we hit the road, crossed Hoover Dam and drove a stretch of the famed Route 66 - very kitschy. We came upon the Grand Canyon at the south rim just in time for a spectacular sunset! It just opened up in front of us and although I knew what to expect I was still awestruck by the size of the expanse.







We spent the next couple of days doing various hikes at our own pace along the rim or down into the Canyon, on the Bright Angel Trail. This was a bit tricky as it was still early for hiking and the trails were snowy and icy. But you could rent or buy crampons for your boots and so managed fairly well. We eventually had to leave this amazing place and as we drove out the East Gate we managed to time the sunrise just right for more jaw dropping views.







From Grand Canyon we met the ‘wild west’ as we made our way through Navajo land to the classic site of Monument Valley. As we crested a small hill, there it was, right in front of us, the scene from every Western movie I had ever seen. Mesas and buttes in various shades of red, eroded over time, silhouetted against the blue, blue skies. We enjoyed a fantastic jeep tour led by our Navajo guide who shared Navajo folklore and drummed us into a trancelike state in a beautiful natural rock amphitheatre as the sun slowly set.



I seemed to be in a constant state of exclamation during the trip as it was an endless collection of unbelievable sunrises, sunsets, vistas, colours and rock formations!

Highlights of Scandinavia and the Baltics

My family’s last trip together was quite an adventure. With nine of us altogether, including my two grand kids, it was quite hectic at times. I even ended up forgetting my bag at the airport one day! Despite the chaos, the trip was great overall. Here are some of the highlights in pictures.

Square in Riga, Latvia. On one of our days in Riga, we were walking through the city and came across this square. The pianist was absolutely amazing! We were all very impressed.


Island Fortress, Trakai, Lithuania. This is the Island Castle in Trakai. The entire fortress was a ruin until 1962, when it was rebuilt.


Stockholm, Sweden. People watching is one of my favourite things to do in any city. This square in Stockholm was just perfect for this. I grabbed a coffee, sat down on a bench and just watched people come and go.


Vasa Museum, Stockholm. This is a picture of Vasa, which sank in 1628 and was finally lifted in 1961 after 333 years. In the museum we discovered how Vasa was built, what life was like onboard a ship and how Vasa sank.


Water Closet, Talinn, Estonia. This water closet is made of black marble. Apparently it is the most expensive public toilet ever built in Estonia and was heavily criticized by citizens.


Vigelsparken Sculpture Park, Oslo, Norway. This is Bruce and I in front of the bronze fountain in the Oslo Sculpture Park.

A World of Cultural Experiences

Want to really get to know the places you visit? Immerse yourself in the culture of your destination. By appreciating the art, architecture, music, dance, customs and gastronomy you'll feel closer to your temporary home.There are a variety of cultural experiences around the world. Check out these tempting options.

Israel

• Lifestyle: Stay at a Kibbutz to gain an understanding of these Israeli communities.
• Religion: Visit the many sights of the spiritual centre of Jerusalem.

South Africa

• Lifestyle: Travel with a professional ranger on a morning wildlife drive through the Kruger National Park.
• Food & Wine: Enjoy a gourmet meal in a private home.

Vietnam

• Gastronomy: Check out the Hanoi street food scene with the chairman of the Hanoi Gastronomy Club.
• Religion: Experience a traditional Buddhist prayer ceremony at a temple in Hue.

Jordan

• Lifestyle: Spend the night under the stars in the desert at a Bedouin camp.
• Lifestyle: Have tea with a Bedouin family.

Thailand

• Art: Spend time with Realist artist Chiang Rai.
• Lifestyle: Visit the hill tribes of the northern Golden Triangle.

Brazil

• Gastronomy: Visit a fun churrascaria for a feast of barbecued meats cooked in true Brazilian style followed by the extravaganza of a Samba show.
• Lifestyle: In the Amazon rainforest, learn the medical secrets of the indigenous tribes and drink water from trees; just two of the many local experiences you can enjoy.

Germany

• Architecture: 17th Century Castle to the Bauhaus, Germany's a great place to explore architecture. Go behind the facades to places the general public doesn't normally see.
• Gastronomy: Discuss the evening's meal with a star chef while you sip champagne; discover the famous German Rieslings at a private wine tasting or learn the secrets of a celebrated chocolatier.

Cruising Jordan & Israel

Imagine experiencing the wondrous sights of Israel and Jordan while living aboard a cruise ship. This is possible on Eastern Mediterranean and Suez Canal/Red Sea sailings.

An excursion to a Kibbutz is often arranged by cruise lines when in Israel, giving you a unique cultural experience.

• Visit Israel on Eastern Mediterranean and Suez Canal cruises which call at the ports of Haifa and Ashdod on the Mediterranean and occasionally, Eilat on the Red Sea.
  • Visits to Jerusalem can be made from both Haifa and Ashdod, with Ashdod the closest port.
  • From Haifa, visit Jerusalem, Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights.
  • From Ashdod visit Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Masada, Dead Sea and the sparkling city and beaches of Tel Aviv.
  • From Eilat visit Masada, Dead Sea and Sodom.
• Visit Jordan on cruises to the Suez Canal and Red Sea.
• From Aqaba, Jordan's only seaport, you have the opportunity to visit ancient Petra, stunning Wadi Rum, a Bedouin camp as well as the highlights of Aqaba.

A unique opportunity is offered by Azamara Club Cruises on November 5, 2012 when Azamara Journey sails for 10 nights, round trip from Suez, Egypt calling at Aqaba, Jordan, Eilat, Israel plus Safaga and Sharm-el -Sheikh, Egypt, with two days in each port of call.

However you choose to visit Israel and Jordan, you are in for a unique travel experience.

Spotlight on Israel and Jordan

The ancient sights of the Holy Land draw visitors from around the world with 3.5 million tourists visiting in 2010. The wondrous religious sights are not the only attraction however. Fabulous beaches, renowned cultural events, excellent food and wine plus outstanding wellness, spa and eco vacations make the region inviting for all types of visitors. Israel and Jordan are certainly alluring lands with much to offer today's traveller.

The beautiful land and seascapes of Israel and Jordan are steeped in ancient history and spiritual heritage. It can be an overwhelming experience for visitors to take in sights and places of such great historic and religious significance in places like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea, Masada, the Baptism Site of Bethany Beyond the Jordan and ancient Petra, carved out of the mountain side, dating back as far as 7,000 BC.

These modern countries offer many other destinations, well known for recent historic events and natural beauty, as well as some outstanding activities not to be missed:

• See some of the most striking desert scenery in the world at Wadi Rum near Aqaba, Jordan. This is where T.E. Lawrence began his revolt against the Turks in 1917 and the area was used in the filming of the movie, Lawrence of Arabia.
• The city of Tel Aviv is well known as a cultural and entertainment centre, home to some stunning Bauhaus architecture as well as great beaches. It's one of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites found in Israel.
• Active adventures abound with some unique opportunities. A rare mix of desert cliffs, alpine meadows, rivers and forested ridges offer year round activities with excellent rappelling, skiing, hiking, river rafting and kayaking. Divers can enjoy an underwater tour of Roman antiquities at Caesarea while beach and water sport vacations are popular at the many excellent Mediterranean and Red Sea resorts.
• Enjoy a variety of music festivals in the region like the Jacob's Ladder Folk Festival, Red Sea Jazz Festival, the annual Jerusalem Woodstock Revival and the Al Balad alternative music festival. The most breathtaking concert location is at the fortress of Masada in the Judean Desert which overlooks the Dead Sea. This venue is renowned for its world class operatic productions in this dramatic setting.
• You might be surprised at the excellent quality of food and wine you'll enjoy during your stay. Jordan offers a wide range of delicious Arabic food and wine. Drinking strong Arabic coffee is a customary tradition. Israel is a noted destination for food aficionados due its great cultural diversity which is reflected in the food scene around the country. The new haute Middle Eastern cuisine is served at fine restaurants in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Try the local wine with your meals as Israel's wine industry is thriving.

There'll be more on the fascinating and alluring worlds of Jordan and Israel later this week!

Vancouver Island Spotlight

From the air, Vancouver Island appears like a giant bird in full flight. It seems to hover over the ocean, approaching the mainland but stopping short. The island is rugged, rich and lush, and its cuisine is inspired by the wild foods of the First Nations inhabitants.

Pacific waters provide most of the island's dominant fare, namely wild salmon, halibut, oysters, spot shrimp, mussels, clams, crayfish and Dungeness crab. Inland, Cowichan Valley is the island's fertile heart. Farmers, vintners and culinary artisans ten the raw ingredients that serve a growing eco-gastronomy scene with an international reputation. In the forests, professional foragers and woodland enthusiasts collect chantrelles, morels, shiitake and lobster mushrooms.

If you're interested in experiencing the culture and beauty that is Vancouver Island, you have many options for places to stay. From short-term vacation rentals on Vancouver Island to countless B&Bs and hotels, there's definitely a place for you to stay! Talk to an experienced travel specialist today and they'll help you plan your perfect trip!

Sculptures in Scandinavia

This past July, my family and I embarked on a trip to Scandinavia and the Baltics. Throughout our time in Scandinavia we came across a number of breathtaking sculptures. Copenhagen in Denmark is, of course, home to the famous ‘Little Mermaid’ sculpture. However, I found several other sculptures much more powerful than the Little Mermaid.

My absolute favourite was the Gefjon Fountain sculpture in Copenhagen. Gefjon is a Norse goddess associated with plowing, agriculture and fertility. The fountain was inspired by the ancient legend about the creation of Zealand. In the legend, Gefjon is told that whatever land she plows in 24 hours will be hers to keep. Gefjon turns her four sons into bulls and works them brutally through the night. It is said that she plowed away Lake Mälaren, Sweden, creating the island of Zealand, Denmark. I found this sculpture profoundly moving and would recommend it to anyone travelling to Copenhagen.

In Oslo we visited the famous Vigelandsparken in Frogner Park. The park, envisioned by the sculptor Gustav Vigeland, is one of the most outstanding attractions in Norway. One our favourite sculptures in the park was the Monolith which is completely covered in naked human figures.

In this picture the kids are all standing in front of Vigeland’s bronze fountain. Around the fountain are sculptures of children and skeletons entwined and growing out of trees. These sculptures signify that from death comes life anew.

-Wendy Fougner

City Snap Guide: Key West

Key West, America's southernmost city, is quirky, fun and eminently gay-friendly. Once you arrive, you'll feel removed from the rest of the Sunshine State in this paradise of particular charm. Stroll palm-lined streets to discover gingerbread mansions, tin-roofed conch houses, open-air bars and sidewalk cafés. Walk in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway, Harry Truman and Tennessee Williams. Visit the renovated Historic District, known locally as the Key West Bight, and arrange a day on the water to fish, snorkel or scuba dive.

Hemingway's Glory Days
On July 21, coinciding with Ernest Hemingway's birthday, you'll see Hemingway doubles everywhere. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author left an enduring legacy in the city, commemorated during the annual six-day Hemingway Days celebration. Catch a reading during the festival and get a book signed by an acclaimed author, or watch stocky white-bearded men vie to win the look-alike contest. Year round, you can visit the Whitehead Street house, built in 1851, where Hemingway lived in the '30s. Above the pool house is a separate writing studio where the novelist penned To Have and Have Not and polished the initial draft of A Farewell to Arms.

Key Lime Pie and Cool Cocktails
Pop into Sloppy Joe's, a beloved drinking spot since 1937 that pours a steady stream of cocktails from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m., located at the corner of Greene and Duval streets. Visit Better Than Sex and try it's Kinky Key Lime pie, a fluffy lime chiffon creation with macadamia nuts. This romantic dessert spot dips its wine glasses in chocolate to better match the decadent warm brownies, peanut butter pies and 'Sugar Daddy Cheesecakes.' Be sure to have a nosh at B.O.'s Fish Wagon. It started out as a catering truck, serving what many locals believe to be the world's best fish sandwich, but the burgeoning ranks of fans prompted the purveyor to build a restaurant - modelled after the original truck. Just step up to the counter and order.

Sunset Celebration
Head to Mallory Square just before sunset to witness the famous celebration of the setting sun. About two hours before the sun dips below the Gulf of Mexico, masses of locals and tourists flock to the water's edge to catch the nightly arts festival. Join in and watch jugglers, magicians, escape artists and other streeet performers, get your fortune told by psychics or buy everything from jewellery to sculptures, paintings and objects d'art from local artists.

Driving in Norway

This past July I had the pleasure of visiting Norway on a family trip through Scandinavia and the Baltics. On the trip I found that one of the best ways to experience Norway at your own pace is by renting a car and driving. There are a number of beautiful scenic drives in Norway and taking a car means that you can stop where you want, when you want. These photos are from our drive from Lillehammer (host of the 1994 Winter Olympics) to the lovely town of Lom.

When you’re driving through Norway’s countryside, time stands still. The country is characterized by lush valleys, rugged peaks and peaceful lakes and streams. Overall, Norway is absolutely stunning.

In order to rent a car in Norway you must have a full, valid driver’s license and be over 19 (or 25 depending on the rental company). The speed limit on highways is around 80 km/h. Be careful when you’re driving, and watch out for deer and sheep!

-Wendy Fougner

City Snap Guide: Montréal

Montréal has so many incredible things to do all year round, although you can't beat late spring to early fall for the best time to go there. It can get fairly hot in the summer, but just as cold in the winter - so pick the kind of season you like the most. With all the festivals in the summer, it's hard to keep up but amazing nonetheless. Winter would be beautiful around Christmastime, and who can resist maple sugar stands in February?



Festivals, Festivals, and more Festivals

Montréal is home to some of the greatest festivals in Canada. It is truly a city of festivals - although the season peaks in mid summer, it's a tradition that continues all year round. There's a festival for each and every month in Montréal. Here's a taste of what you might hit when you arrive in Montréal.

In January, the major winter festival in Montréal, La fête des Neiges, takes place for three consecutive weekends in the magical setting of Parc Jean-Drapeau. In February, you can discover the Montréal High Lights Festival - technically three festivals in one. The summer months are packed with music festivals, such as Osheaga and the International Jazz Festival. There's also Juste Pour Rire (also known as Just For Laughs) during the summer. The streets are abuzz with characters and fun things to do. Just leave your hotel! Before you know it, the festival season starts all over again.

Who can say no to poutine? And other food, of course.

The amount of food available in Montréal is unbelievable. There are of course, some things you must try. First, the famous Québécois dish, poutine. This combination of cheese curds, gravy and fries is prevalent all over Montréal. The best known place for poutine is La Banquise - which is conveniently open 24 hours.

Once you've experienced poutine, your next stop should be one of the many crêpe places around town. There are tons of places and lots of variety - some places let you choose buckwheat flour instead. One of the best places to have a crêpe and some incredible chocolate, is Juliette et Chocolat. There are two locations in Montréal you can go to. Don't forget to try the chocolate fondue - it's to die for!

Montréal is also famous for it's smoked meat sandwiches, and there's no other place to hit but Schwartz. Grab a sandwich and a pickle to go - it's packed inside and it's nicer to eat it in the park. Last but definitely not least, get one of their famous bagels at the Fairmount Bagel Bakery. They're hard to resist!



Sainte-Catherine Street & More

One of the best things about Montréal is the abundance of shopping - nearly anything you could desire! From vintage shops to high end boutiques, malls, and locally owned shops, Montréal has everything. Sainte-Catherine Street (or rue Saint-Catherine in French) is the mecca for shoppers. Almost anything you can imagine is on Sainte-Catherine's stree.

The métro station Peel or Guy-Concordia will let you off right there - parking is tough in that area, so you're better off to just grab a 3-day tourist pass at any métro station for all of your quick jaunts around town (it's only $14). There is also a series of underground malls connected to one another in that part of Montréal which can be accessed via the Peel station or the McGill station. If you do happen to have a car while in Montréal, head up to Laval (a suburb of Montréal) which is home to Le Carrefour Laval, the biggest shopping center in the eastern side of Canada. The best way to find the greatest shops in Montréal is to just start exploring the city.

Vieux-Montréal & Museums

For the tourist in you, head down to Vieux-Montréal. It's the oldest part of the city and chock full of all your touristy needs as well as a ton of restaurants for any type of cuisine you could imagine. If you drive down, make sure you park at the parkade next to the Montréal Science Center - it's right next to the action, and way easier than finding parking on those cobblestone streets. If you're taking the métro, get off at any of the three stops on the orange line that service the area: Square-Victoria, Place-d'Armes or Champ-de-Mars. There's tons to see and explore, but you'll be on foot - so bring comfortable shoes!

Montréal is also home to two incredible art galleries as well as a number of museums. The main attractions are Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (or Musée des beaux-arts in French) where the permanent collection is always free, the Contemporary Art Museum (or Musée d'art contemporain in French) and the Canadian Centre for Architecture (or Centre canadien de l'architecture in French). Bring your walking shoes - there's a lot to see in those museums!

Tons of Nightlife

Nightlife in Montréal is great. They have everything from clubs to bars to pubs to lounges. Anything to suit your taste. For some of the busiest places in town, hit up Crescent Street or the Gay Village. For a slightly different atmosphere, try La Distillerie - they serve their drinks in mason jars. It gets pretty busy, so get there early. For those looking for something a little classier, try the bars in Vieux-Montréal (or Old Montreal).

Gorilla Trekking Rwanda - Part 2

The night before my trek was hardly sleep filled as I lay there in anticipation of the day to come! We met at the park headquarters at about 6am and got divided into groups of no more than 8. There are approximately 7 different gorilla groups in the area. Our gorilla group was called 'Group 13', with approximately 15 gorillas in that group. My fellow trekkers were 2 other couples. Plus we had 2 guides and armed military escorts provided by the park.



Our trackers had already been up at the crack of dawn and were tracing the steps of our group from the previous day. We had a 30 minute drive from the park headquarters before we began our walk. We walked on marked trails through farm land, slowly gaining altitude before we reached the park border fence. We were at about 3000 metres, which did pose some altitude issues for me and a couple of the others, but we took it slow and just plodded along. Once we crossed into the park it was basically bushwacking, some scrambling on all fours and trying to stay away from the stinging nettle!



Our guides were in constant communication with the trackers via 2 way radio and when we heard they had come upon them and they were not far up ahead a hush fell over our group. When we came upon our trackers it was in a little clearing and there were some black furry balls dotted here and there.



As we approached, the gorillas looked at us but weren't the least bit bothered. We just sat or crouched and soaked it all up. The moms were nursing babies or just grooming, the teens were flying around above us in the bamboo doing Tarzan acrobatics. It was definitely playtime. We never knew when one was going to land right in front of us and we had to scurry out of the way so as not to be perceived as a threat. We walked a tiny bit further and discovered the silverback. Although you know they must be formidable, it isn't till you are a few feet away that you feel dwarfed by their presence. Once again he was not the least bit interested or bothered by us. The maximum time allowed each day with a group is one hour and that went all too quickly. I walked away trying to sum up what had just happened and realized I had been mesmerized, but that I also had just had one of the purest experiences ever.



The next day I did a trek to see the Golden Monkeys. This was also fabulous. An easier trek, wandering through farmers’ fields and low lying bamboo forest. We saw hundreds of these monkeys flying over our heads and swinging on bamboo. Unfortunately they just wouldn't stay still for photos! The bamboo forest we hiked through was stunningly gorgeous! One can also hike up to Diane Fossey's grave site or do another gorilla trek or just tour this very scenic area.



I thought seeing the gorillas once would be enough, but it isn't. They are magnificent creatures and I will be going back! Suffice it to say it was absolutely fabulous!

Gorilla Trekking Rwanda - Part 1

As my friends would attest, I have been going on about the Mountain Gorillas for years. Finally, in October 2006, I experienced the most amazing visit with them.



There are approximately 700 mountain gorillas in the Virunga Range of volcanic mountains bordering the Congo, Uganda and Rwanda. I chose Rwanda as my destination. I have been drawn to it over the years in part due to its unbelievably sad past but also its beauty which I had only seen in books. And it truly is a beautiful country.



Seeing the gorillas still only appeals to a small number of travelers and Rwanda does make people feel trepidatious; therefore small group touring is limited. I ended up organizing a private tour with a wonderful local company. I was met at Kigali airport by my lovely guide Gilbert. It is about a 3 hour drive to the Parc de Volcans, in the north east. What a beautiful drive.



The country is agriculturally based and most people sustain themselves with their little plots of extremely fertile soil. The country is considered the Land of a Thousand Hills, Mille Collines. As you drive along, the countryside is made up of undulating hills, with a patchwork of terraced farms. So picturesque! Mode of transport for most Rwandese is by foot or bicycle, so the roads are a sea of people hauling all sorts of things on their heads, backs and bikes.



The area surrounding the park has a small main town and a couple of hotels/guesthouses for tourists visiting the gorillas. The accommodation is basic but good and the food is varied and wonderful. I think I had the most delicious tomatoes and avocados I have ever had and certainly the largest avocados! There are quite a few different hikes to do in the area and some beautiful scenic drives. But most people are of course coming here to see the mountain gorillas.

What are you paying for?

Extra Travel Charges



Over the last while, airline charges have risen while the responsibility to the customer has grown alongside these charges. While this hardly seems fair, let's take a look at some of the changes to how we fly when it comes to costs and responsibilities.

The airlines and tour companies (cruises, safaris, and so on) have been offloading charges onto clients, and in some cases, travel agencies. When a client booked a cruise, for instance, they used to get a glossy package full of information about the ship, amenities and what to expect during the cruise - however, now the cruise companies will send an email to the agency, and it's up to the agency to present that material in an aesthetic way to the client. Alternatively, the client will get the email directly and be forced to print it off at home - or find a printer in which to do so if they need a hard copy of their itinerary. Regardless, they will be printing off their boarding pass.

This follows through to the airlines. You now print off your own boarding pass at home, which is several sheets of paper more than necessary. Upon your arrival at the airport you now go through a self-check in procedure, and your baggage tags print out. You're expected to tag your own baggage and offload it at the appropriate carousel. The idea of the self-sufficient passenger is more prevalent throughout Europe than it is in North America, at least for now.

With all the responsibility on the passenger, you'd think the charges would go down. However, there's fuel surcharges (a ton), checked baggage charges, extra government taxes (more in Canada than in the U.S.) and yet the flights are still packed! The extra baggage charges have resulted in a lot more people flying with carry-on luggage because they're not paying fees for each bag they want to check.

I always recommend finding something to eat before you get on the plane or grabbing something to take on the plane - plus water to stay hydrated. The food available on the planes isn't nourishing or healthy, and many airlines only take credit now - no cash. If you don't have a credit card, now you're out of luck when it comes to eating. Alternatively, I've been on several 4+ hour flights that don't even have food for purchase available as an option! That can be a nasty shock if you're unprepared.

Along this line of additional charges, I've also noticed that when you redeem Aeroplan points online, it's a lot cheaper to fly Lufthansa than it is Air Canada. When redeeming points for example, you pay 60,000 points for your flight and you pay the tax yourself. Air Canada attaches additional fuel surcharges and taxes which can cause the consumer to pay $500+ just in taxes for their flight. I feel as if this is double-dipping.

If you're prepared and aware, flying can be enjoyable, stress-free and even fun, but if you're hit with a surprise of extra charges and a lack of food on a long flight, flying quickly loses it's allure as a form of travel.

- Wendy Fougner

City Snap Guide: Victoria

When people think of the coast of British Columbia, they usually think of Vancouver when it comes to cities. Vancouver is fabulous, but the smaller city - and also the capital of the province - is located at the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Culturally rich, beautiful and enticing, Victoria is one of the most beautiful places in the world! It's easily accessible by a number of ways, including an international airport, ferries from both the lower mainland and Washington state, staying in Victoria allows you to explore Vancouver Island and soak in some of the island lifestyle. What are you waiting for? The city is extremely tourist accessible, there's even an iPhone app by Tourism Victoria that can be found at the Apple iTunes App Store.

Beautiful Scenery

It's hard to boil down all the great places to see in Victoria, but there are definitely a couple "must-sees" for a first timer. Beacon Hill park is known for it's beautiful gardens and many areas to stroll - there's ducks in the ponds, and a ton of places for picnics. The Buchart Gardens are world renowned for their beautifully designed gardens. For information on their tours and pricing, visit their website. You can't miss walking along the seawall either, and while you're there - take a peek at the Parliament buildings, they're absolutely gorgeous.

Cultural Discoveries

Victoria is home to the Royal British Columbia Museum, that has quite an incredible permanent collection, and the shows that go through there are absolutely phenomenal. The art collection is fabulous as well. There are also small art galleries around the city that showcase some of the great Canadian art there is available. The island is truly full of art and artists, so artisan products of all types are available in small boutiques downtown Victoria. The Royal BC Museum is also home to the IMAX theater which does incredible shows. Don't forget to also check out Craigdarroch Castle! Craigdarroch Castle historic house museum is a "must see" on your visit to Victoria, B. C. The wealthy Dunsmuir family saga and the mansion they built is a key piece of British Columbia's history. Designated as one of Canada's National Historic Sites, this Victorian Castle is a legendary tourist attraction.

Great Eats

Victoria offers many great restaurants but one of the most incredible things to do is have high tea at the Empress Hotel. Steeped in tradition, The Empress has been serving Victoria's grandest tradition of Afternoon Tea for over a century. The majestic lobby of this landmark hotel has played host to England's most beloved ritual - the taking of Afternoon Tea to famed celebrities, dignitaries and royalty alike. A bit pricey but an afternoon you won't soon forget. All throughout the downtown area, you'll find tons of quaint local restaurants as well as popular favourites from throughout North America.

Fantastic Shopping

Shopping in Victoria is fabulous! Whether you are just window shopping or on a major shopping spree, in Victoria you can browse quaint shops, local markets and major shopping malls to find your heart's desire. Victoria offers everything from antiques to the wares of local artisans and the designs of the hippest trendsetters. The city's layout encourages strolling and exploring the many side streets at an easy pace. From the Inner Harbour, wander up Government Street to find the perfect gift or souvenir. Four blocks along Government Street, turn right into Trounce Alley, one of Victoria's best-kept secrets. European fashions and gift shops await. Across the street from Trounce Alley, find Bastion Square; once the site of Victoria's Court House, Law Chambers, a brothel and several hangings, Bastion Square is now animated with shops and restaurants.

And so much more is available in Victoria. Depending on where you want to stay, a knowledgeable travel specialist can help you get to the island as well as find a perfect hotel for you, or there's also a wide variety of Victoria vacation rentals!

Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is the paradise of British Columbia. Situated approximately forty miles from the mainland, Vancouver Island stretches from it's furthest northern point 300 miles to it's southernmost tip and capital of British Columbia, the city of Victoria. Vancouver Island offers so much for visitors. The best way to explore the area is through a vacation rental on Vancouver Island, giving you time to explore everywhere from Victoria to Nanoose, and towards the west coast of the island in Tofino or Uclulet. There are many wonderful areas along the way!



Long Beach in Tofino is an experience like no other. West Coast beaches along Vancouver Island have a peaceful quality about them. Heading south, Cathedral Grove is located north of Parksville and Qualicum and is packed full of old growth forests and beautiful canopies. It's one of the most beautiful aspects of the island. Parkville vacation rentals as well as Nanoose vacation rentals are both fairly central on Vancouver Island and allow you to explore the surrounding area quite easily while still having a place close by to spend the night.



If you want to explore the capital of British Columbia, there are plenty of Victoria vacation rentals to choose from. Victoria is a year-round tourism destination that offers a friendly, safe haven for all visitors. With a clean environment and charming ambiance, it is no surprise that Victoria is one of the world's favourite destinations.



What are you waiting for? Planning a trip to Vancouver Island, BC awaits you!

City Snap Guide: Portland

"America's Greenest City" and one of the "World's Most Successful Cities" are just two of the titles Portland has graciously accepted over the years without making too much of a fuss. This northwestern Oregon metropolis, which sits near the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers, is an outdoor lover's paradise with a food and artisan craft distillery scene to complement well-exercised appetites. But it's the spate of cultural riches this city modestly houses that continues to delight the tourists who feed they've stumbled upon their own Portlandia (if you've watched the IFC series created by Saturday Night Live cast member Fred Armisen, you'll know what I mean).



Portland Potables
American-crafted eau de vies? You bet your fermented fruit! In 1985, Clear Creek Distillery's founder Steve McCarthy led the charge using his family's Hood River orchard's fruit to make a signature Portland eau de vie. More recently, eight new distilleries have opened around the city, helping spawn the Great American Distillers' Festival every October. More than 40 spirits are sampled, with a bartenders' competition and spirit appreciation seminars held for every thirsty traveller. Watch for the award-winning Bendistillery vodka and gin!

Free and Green!
The first Thursday of every month in Northwest Portland (Old Town and the Pearl District) offers up a cultural freebie that sees locals and visitors alike descend on shops that turn into artistic salons for the night, as well as bona fide galleries, for a jolt of art. Don't miss the PDX and Elizabeth Leach galleries or the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA) for cutting-edge mixed media, photography and sculpture. If you favour shopping over the aesthetic, head across the Willamette River to SuperVegan, the world's first vegan mall (SE Stark and 12th Ave.) where hip clothing, cookies, cakes and even body art all proudly boast vegan and green-friendly cred. This is definitely an 'only in Portland' experience.

Top of the Charts
This is a town that likes its music varied and indie, and it's where local gal Courtney Love (of Hole fame) met the late Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain. Today, The Dandy Warhols, Modest Mouse, Everclear and The Decemberists are some of the bands that make Portland home. And if you remember the late 50's/early 60's blockbuster Louie Louie, you'll be interested to know that the city's Paul Revere & the Raiders as well as The Kingsmen both covered the tune to frenzied fame. You might catch a big local act at the Crystal Ballroom, featuring its floating dance floor, at the Doug Fir Lounge or the intimate Mississippi Studios - your chance to say "I saw (insert name of band) first!"

Pop Culture
The Simpsons creator and Portland native Matt Groening literally drew upon his hometown and family to create Springfield and the cartoon's namesake animated family. Other creative types inspired by the city include filmmaker Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting) and cartoonist/illustrator Dan Steffan (Heavy Metal and other magazines). Maybe it's nearby Oaks Park, an old-school midway - one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the U.S. - that keeps locals young at heart. The park's Ferris wheel and charming roller rink are open year-round; happy skaters glide to the melodies of an old Wurlitzer pipe organ!

Get Away
A 30-minute drive from downtown Portland puts you in what some call 'the Burgundy of America,' aka the Willamette Valley wine country - one of the premier wine-producing areas in the world. The valley sits at the same latitude as France's Burgundy region and there are more than 200 wineries to choose from, many of them producing the state's signature Pinot Noir wines. While the film Sidesways extolled Pinot Noir's virtues, the state's Pinot Gris is quickly catching up in popularity. Head south from the city on the Pacific Highway and you'll find Rex Hill Vineyards in Newberg - the entrance to wine country. Sample both versions of Pinot as well as Chardonnay, Riesling and Merlot. Keep going to Dundee, where you'll find organic vineyard Sokol Blosser and Argyle Winery, which pours sparkling varieties in a historic tasting room. And you've just begun!

Happy travelling!

Ports of Call and Natural Wonders Down Under

Many of Australia and New Zealand's most interesting towns and cities are found along the coast so cruising is a convenient way to see them. The major cities of Auckland, Wellington, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth (port of Fremantle) are prominent on cruise itineraries. You'll find there are many other fascinating ports* of call to explore as well including these:

• Geelong, Australia - The second largest city in the state of Victoria, noted for its vibrant waterfront. It's the gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and Great Ocean Road.
• Hobart and Burnie, Tasmania - Discover the island state of Tasmania during calls at these ports. This beautiful island has many unusual attractions and a fascinating history. Highlights include scenic hiking, breathing the world's cleanest air and meeting some unique wildlife like the Tasmanian Devil.
• Dunedin, New Zealand - This charming university town with a strong Scottish background is found on most New Zealand cruises. The rugged Otago Peninsula is within the city boundaries giving you the chance for some excellent eco-adventures, wildlife and bird viewing.
• Picton, New Zealand - You're in the picturesque Marlborough region when you call at Picton. Tour the renowned Marlborough wineries, hike the Queen Charlotte track and visit historic Ship Cove.

Natural wonders abound down under and cruising lets you see these from a different perspective:

• Fjordland National Park, New Zealand - Spend a day cruising not only famous Milford Sound, but Dusky and Doubtful Sounds as well! It's some of the finest scenic cruising anywhere as you maneuver through these spectacular waterways. The on board naturalist and historian will keep you entertained and informed throughout the day.
• White Island Marine Volcano, New Zealand - See this active volcano in action as you sail close to the exposed crater. It's one of the most thrilling cruise experiences you'll ever have.
• Rotorua, New Zealand - The thermal capital of New Zealand is certainly a fascinating place to visit on day trips from Tauranga. Be enthralled by the active geysers, mud pools and hot springs and enjoy one of the best Maori cultural experiences in the country.
• The Great Barrier Reef, Australia - Cruising Queensland and the Coral Sea is another thrill. You'll see the reef at various points and have opportunities to discover its underwater world at floating platforms along the reef.
• Willis Island, Coral Islands Territory - The three staff members at the weather station are the only people who live on this island in Australia's Coral Sea Islands Territory. Watch them set off a weather balloon and hear their interesting chat with the Captain which is broadcast over the speakers on deck.
• The Kimberley Coast, Western Australia - This Outback region is considered by many to be the last great frontier of Australia. See it on "Top End" sailings between Sydney and Fremantle. Get a taste of the area during a call at Broome and scenic cruising of the rugged, red, Kimberley coast.

Cruising Down Under

Good news - there are now more options than ever when planning a cruise to Australia and New Zealand. This is the fastest growing cruise market in the world so the number of ships and itineraries is on the rise.

- The most popular itinerary is still between Auckland and Sydney calling at ports in New Zealand, Tasmania and Australia.
- Many other options are now available with more departures than ever before. How about New Zealand round-trip from Melbourne, Brisbane or Sydney; Queensland from Sydney; Western Australia from Fremantle; a full circumnavigation of Australia from Melbourne or a top end cruise from Fremantle to Sydney?
- Our preferred cruise lines calling at ports in Australia and New Zealand are Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Crystal, Silversea, Seabourn and Cunard, giving you a wide range of ships to choose from.
- While there are a few ships based in Australia, year-round, most visit during the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer arriving in November or December and staying till March or April. This means there are some great positioning cruise itineraries available as well. Sydney to Singapore and on to Europe as well as voyages to/from North America, via Asia or the Pacific islands, give you some amazing opportunities for long, exotic sailings.
- New partner, Orion Expedition Cruises, offers luxurious adventure sailings to remote areas. The company's 100-passenger ships, Orion and Orion II, sail to the Kimberley Coast, Tasmania, Queensland and many parts of New Zealand.

Look for more information on cruising down under on Wednesday!