Monday, April 28, 2014

Did you Know?: Travel News

by Barbara Broadbent

Air Canada Rouge now flies non-stop between Montreal and Orlando, twice daily. They also will offer additional non-stop flights from Toronto and Montreal to Athens and Rome. 


These will be on their Boeing 767-300ER aircraft and offer 3 customer comfort options… rouge (equivalent of Economy); rouge Plus (equivalent of Premium Economy, with preferred seating and additional legroom) and Premium rouge (equivalent of Business Class, with additional space and enhanced service). The in-flight entertainment system will be removed and replaced with a streaming wireless system for laptops and smartphones. Ipads will be available for rent onboard. Their future plans are to offer service routes from Calgary and Vancouver, with Airbus 319’s (142 pax) and 767-300’s (282 pax).

United Airlines will be offering non-stop service between Los Angeles and Melbourne effective Oct 26, 2014 (subject to government approval). The route will be offered 6 times weekly with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Flight time will be approximately 15 hrs 45 min westbound, and 14 hrs, 35 min eastbound.

CROISIERES AML is a family-owned company established in Quebec since 1972. It has 18 boats operating in 8 Quebec ports. 


Admire the beauty of the landscape and discover the picturesque regions along the St Lawrence River. Take part in the different activities aboard the boat to learn more about this fascinating marine world, its flora and fauna. Offered mid-June through to September, the 1-week cruise perfectly combines enchanting scenery with warm interactions with the people you’ll meet.

Friday, April 25, 2014

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda

by Wendy Fougner

For years I have wanted to travel to Africa and witness mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This past December on a trip through Southern Africa, Bruce and I embarked on two gorilla trekking tours, one in Uganda, the other in Rwanda. Being just inches away from mountain gorillas was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.


Gorillas are found in the Virunga Mountain Range bordering the Congo, Rwanda and Uganda. Following advice from Lesli in our office, we decided to see the gorillas twice, once in both Uganda and Rwanda. There are some differences in how each country handles gorilla trekking. Both countries require you to obtain a permit for your gorilla trek; in Uganda the cost of the permit is $500 USD, in Rwanda the cost is $750 USD. The permit covers a one-day trek including an hour spent with the gorillas. In Uganda there are multiple starting points from which to start your trek, while in Rwanda there is a single starting point. In both countries you can hire a porter to assist you during the trek; in Uganda porter service is $15, in Rwanda the cost is $10. I would recommend hiring a porter as they help carry your bags and it is also a good way to support the local economy.

Our first gorilla trek was in Uganda. We woke early in the morning and were driven to the starting point of our trek. Before setting off into the jungle, we were given a presentation on proper behavior when viewing the gorillas, and then we were divided into small groups. Each group was assigned two guides—one who would stand at the front of the group, one at the back—plus another person with a rifle for protection. We set off on our trek through the jungle, starting on a nice, man-made path. Meanwhile, trackers were already deep in the thick of the jungle, searching for the current location of gorillas. As we ventured closer to the gorillas, the nice path led to a small trail in the brush which eventually disappeared, leaving us in the lush, dense jungle. Our guides cut through thick leaves and hanging branches as we continued further, until all of a sudden on my left I saw them, a family of mountain gorillas, on the side of a bank.

There was a lot of activity on the bank as the gorillas interacted with one another. The little ones were playing, rolling around over each other, climbing up trees and shaking the plants. When we arrived, the Silverback was laying on the bank acting “asleep,” and then slowly sat up and allowed the group to take pictures. It seemed as though the gorillas were engaging us in a performance, were acting for us. That is not to say that they are trained or coerced in any way, or that what they are doing is fake—in fact it is very real. Rather, the gorillas are perceptive animals that have learned what we find amusing and they enjoy performing.

During the first gorilla trek, the experience was so unique and I was so mesmerized by the gorillas, that I spent most of the time trying to capture everything on film, rather than simply watching and taking in the experience. It was still an incredible day, but I was grateful to have another chance to see the mountain gorillas once again. Our second gorilla trek was in Rwanda, and the experience here was more professional than in Uganda. All of the gorilla treks leave from a central point where there is an information centre with real bathrooms and information boards providing pictures and descriptions of the area. The guides were also much more personable than in Uganda, so I could see why the trek cost more.

We drove from the information centre to the starting point of our trek and set off into the jungle, just as we had in Uganda the day before. Again, the guides bushwhacked through the thick of the jungle until we finally reached the family of mountain gorillas. There was a lot more activity amongst these gorillas and I felt more of a connection to the family. There were 13 in the family and I remember the guides describing them as “lucky 13.” The young ones were rolling around, playing in the bush and trying to get our attention. One actually came up to us, played with my shoelaces and grabbed Bruce’s leg trying to get him to play! The guides, who know how to speak gorilla, told the little one “no” and he backed off. The Silverback, again, was asleep when we arrived and then proceeded to sit up and let us take his picture. One mother was posing in different positions, once again performing for the audience. Spending more time just watching the gorillas on the second day, I was able to appreciate how intelligent and intuitive these animals really are.

Reflecting on my encounter with the mountain gorillas, I still feel a sense of awe at their playfulness and intelligence. Mountain gorilla trekking was truly an amazing and once-in-a-lifetime experience, and if it isn’t already on your bucket list, it should be!

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Top Romantic Places for 2014

by Barbara Broadbent

San Francisco: the steeped streets, vintage trollies, eerie romance of Alcatraz and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge are all part of this unique and alluring city. Head north to the Napa Valley; pick up your bike to discover wine country, fabulous hotels and dreamy cycling routes.

Dalmatian Coast: Croatia is basking in the glory that is its own archipelago, the Dalmatian Coast. Experience life in a turquoise watery edge, island- hopping and lounging on golden beaches. Dubrovnik Extension offered.


Prague: This city comes into its own at night. The warm orange glow illuminates the city’s impressive buildings and narrow cobbled streets. In addition to the cycling trip from Prague to Vienna, there are also several new Czech walking trips.

Florence: The jewel of Renaissance Italy … a city for lovers of art and music. The city is filled with flowery green spaces, benches and quiet piazzas. It is also the gateway to one of the country’s most romantic regions, Tuscany


Cinque Terre: These colourful, fairytale villages perched on the side of a rugged cliff have a natural unhurried, calm and pure character. This is fueled by the modest luxury of boats and footpaths as the only points of access.


Cote D’Azur: The French Riviera hardly needs any help in getting people attracted to its glistening shores. This coast is one of the most revered in the world. Close by are lovely small hilltop towns and attractions...overlooking the glistening blue water.

Rome: The Eternal City’s ornate allure offers a part dream, part reality experience. The most impressive structures from the ancient world loom over lunching Romans canoodling over a shared prosciutto Panini. From Rome, Puglia is an easy train ride away.

Barcelona: Painters, poets, writers and sculpturers have graced the Ramblas of this fine city to capture its allure, its enchantment, its romantic heart. When a city becomes an artist’s muse, you know it’s something special.


Vaison La Romaine: It has one of the oldest markets in France, superb restaurants and wonderful hotels. You can cycle (or hike) to Seguret, Gigondas and the Luberon if you wish. Have a dinner in a lovely countryside restaurant not even mentioned in guidebooks!

Vienna: This magical city attracts travelers by its genius musical heritage, architectural magnificence and impossibly cozy coffee house culture. Arriving in Vienna after the Prague to Vienna cycling trip is worthy of a celebration.

Monday, April 21, 2014

Did you Know?: April Travel News

by Barbara Broadbent

KLM has introduced its new World Business Class. The new cabin interiors and seats of their Boeing 747 fleet were first introduced to Toronto last fall. They expect the complete conversion to be complete by this summer.


The Boeing 777-200’s will be the next fleet tofeature this new class. To include the important element of sustainability and environment, the new design features carpets made in part from the fibers of former KLM stewardess uniforms!!

Vancouver’s Visitor Centre at 200 Burrard Street, opposite the Canada Place Cruiseship Terminal, reopened late last summer after acomplete redesign and renovation. 


The 2000 sq ft open-plan office features a “living wall” of 600 plants, a Hesquaiht totem pole carved by renowned artist Tim Paul, and giant digital walls showcasing videos and images of inspiring tourism experiences.

New designer outlet at YVR airport is expected to open in the spring of 2015. Construction is underway on a 30–acre site at the eastern end of the airport grounds. 


It has been designed as an open-air village with 2 luxury piazzas, pedestrian-friendly walkways and tree-lined streets… and offer retail space as well as restaurants and cafes.

Portland Rose Festival, operating for over a century, presents its signature event … the Spectacular Grand Floral Parade, on Saturday, June 07. 


Every all-floral float, floral-decked equestrian unit and melodious marching band starts its journey by passing through the Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum before hitting the streets for the rest of the 4.2 mile parade route. Weekend events include 2 musicals presented by the Portland Center Stage and the Annual Spring Rose Show.

Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Top Tips for Photographing Wildlife

by Lesli Heron


  1. Be on guard: always be prepared you never know when you will come across an antelope leaping out of the brush with a lion hot on its heels. Have your camera switched on and ready.
  2. Getting technical: a telephoto lens will get you that amazing close up – get the lens in advance and practice using it. Don’t forget with a telephoto engine vibration can cause camera shake. If you are using a compact camera instead compose your shot with the animal off center. Move your camera an inch or so in one direction or the other to get rid of what you don’t really need.
  3. Make your own luck: practice and hone your photographic skills - experiment with moving your camera to blur the background for an effective shot. Try to create pictures combining animals, vehicles, environment etc. Shoot early in the morning or late afternoon light. Fortunately you are usually on safari then.
  4. Do try this at home: spend a little time snapping your local wildlife, getting to know their habits. This will improve your shots when you are on the road.
  5. Get low down. Some say you are not taking a great picture unless you are lying down! But don’t try this on the African savannah! If you can get down to eye level you become part of your environment instead of an outside observer.
  6. Wait for the moment: capture that decisive moment by being patient and ready.
  7. Shoot wide or tight: sometimes a very small subject in the frame is very effective.

Friday, April 11, 2014

10 things to pack on safari you may not have thought of!

by Lesli Heron
  1. Bandana: to keep dust out of mouth/nose/eyes, a wet one keeps the head cool.
  2. Sun Hat with a Chin Strap: so it doesn't fly away.
  3. Extra Toothbrush: in case you rinse with tap water.
  4. Safari journal/animal spotting guide.
  5. Ziploc bags: they’re good for everything!
  6. Shower cap to keep camera dust-free.
  7. Verbena wet wipes: keeps mossies away and keeps you smelling fresh.
  8. Headlamp.
  9. Sense of adventure.
  10. Someone special to share the experience with!


5 Things not to Pack for a Safari:
  1. Jeans
  2. Jewellery
  3. Clothing that is white, blue, animal printed and camouflauge
  4. Sweets/candies
  5. Expectations

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Visa News for Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda

By Lesli Heron


Tourists visiting Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda will no longer have to pay for separate visas for all three countries, as the East African single tourist visa came into effect on January 1, 2014. The East African single tourist visa will allow a tourist to enter any of the three countries that issued the visa and move freely within the other two.

The multiple-entry visa, which will be valid for 90 days, will cost $100. Tourists can apply at any diplomatic office of Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, at immigration offices of the respective countries or online.

Friday, April 4, 2014

Sandals Jamaica Resort

by Brad Hama

Once the temperatures around town begin to drop and it feels like there’s more cloud than sunshine, people’s thoughts tend to wander to warmer climes. For North Americans, typical locations tend to be Mexico, Hawaii or the Caribbean. In my quest to become a Certified Sandals Specialist, I had the opportunity to experience the Sandals resorts in Jamaica. While the group visited every resort, we stayed in four: Sandals Negril, Sandals Whitehouse, Sandals Montego Bay and in Ocho Rios, Sandals Grande Riviera. All were wonderful and each had its own highlights and I certainly had my favourites. Although, I don’t think you could go wrong with choosing any of them.


From Vancouver, the best way to get down to Jamaica was through Toronto. We took the red-eye flight and made sure to take advantage of the Maple Leaf Lounge at the Toronto airport. If you fly with West Jet, you can ask for a lounge coupon and get a discount. It’s approximately $26 with the discount and it comes with breakfast, a place to wash up, and a nice quiet atmosphere – a nice refreshing break before jetting off to Montego Bay.

After arriving in Montego Bay, we spent a few minutes in the Sandals Lounge. The lounge is part of the Sandals experience with a Butler and drinks on tap; the vacation starts here. Sandals includes airport transportation, and the wait in the lounge is usually minimal. In fact, I felt that I wanted to stay longer, but the air conditioned shuttles were there in a hurry.

The local Sandals resort was extremely close to the airport. If you’re not prepared, it’s a bit of a shock. When planes take off, they look like they’re coming out of the resort, and I felt like I could check in from the runway. However, with typical Jamaican style, they spun it in a way that makes it fun – whenever you see a plane take off , you wave and kiss the person next to you; and honestly, you don’t even notice the planes after being there a couple of days.


The resorts themselves have many room categories and can seem a bit complicated. Sandals is doing a ton of renovations at the moment and with the resorts so popular it’s very difficult to shut down the whole resort. They manage to work on certain sections one by one and avoid disturbing guests with construction noise. The good news for Sandals guests is that they are really gutting and refurbishing their rooms – this isn’t just a paint job. The renovations really bring Sandals to a new level of luxury. Why renovate when you can rebuild? Newly built resorts must be built away from the water, but by renovating the existing units Sandals resorts maintain their location right on the beach.

Sometimes there’s a price to pay for vicinity to the waterfront. Sandals Negril doesn’t have an elevator, for instance, but it’s literally right on the beach and with these low rise intimate resorts, I believe it’s worth it.

Most of the activities we did while in Jamaica revolved around seeing and experiencing the Sandals resorts, but we also had the opportunity to do an Island Routes tour – they’re slightly affiliated with Sandals, as it’s owned by one of the children of the Sandals CEO. We also did a Catamaran cruise and some snorkeling. The extra excursions were a lot of fun.


We also had the opportunity to check out Margaritaville, the legendary Rick’s Café, and do some local shopping. I found that the price of rum is the same price if not more expensive outside the airport as inside though. In fact, I bought some rum and it was $14 outside at the market, but $7 at the airport – and I had to lug it all around Jamaica. So you may wish to pick up those extras at the airport, or perhaps you are better at the bargaining game than I.

There are always pros and cons for any resort. The Sandals Grande Riviera resort had a great atmosphere with so many areas, food options, places to go and see, over 90 pools and 20 hot tubs (granted some are with the private villas), and firepits for couples to sit around. And then the food! Food highlights included having authentic jerk chicken, and then at Sandals Whitehouse, they had a place called Café des Paris where they served made in house pastries and crepes, ice cream, banana splits, and other desserts. Café des Paris was fabulous!

Another special moment for us was visiting a school built by the Sandals Foundation. I had a great time playing soccer with the kids, seeing the classes and reading to the children. Sandals is family owned and operated and it’s authentically Caribbean – they really give back to the community.

Part of giving back is taking care of the environment. I found Sandals is really working to be green. They never cut trees on the properties, and the trees that die, they turn into unique carvings. It helps maintain the integrity of the soil and helps add character to the resort.

The weather called for rain the whole time we were there, but don’t be discouraged if it does rain during your trip. It was sunny every day until about 3pm, then it would rain from 3 to 6pm, and it would be nice again in the evening. It was very predictable weather.

Sandals claims to have more quality inclusions than any other resorts on the planet. I found these differences in their included scuba program, their huge selection of restaurants, and in the simple details like having a choice of what type of red or white wine you would like. More inclusions should be about more choices. There are always plenty of options, so make sure you feel comfortable asking about which options are available to you. The food at Sandals is truly 24 hours – there is always someone there that will make you something fresh.

So with plenty to do and experience, the Sandals resorts in Jamaica are worth checking out for a luxurious vacation. Although Sandals tends to cater to couples more so than its sister resorts, Beaches, these resorts are for everyone.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Majestic Mountains, Untouched Wilderness and Exceptional Service with Rocky Mountaineer

Imagine yourself leisurely touring the most secluded and unspoiled regions of the Canadian Rockies from a luxurious railcar. Everywhere you look, you find untouched, pristine beauty.


In spring, train travel in Canada lets you glide within feet of glassy, sapphire-blue lakes that gently wrap the base of majestic mountains. Bursts of evergreen trees dot snow-capped mountain ranges in the fall. Summer brings scenes of rocky peaks cut by the constant rush of mighty rivers. You’ll awe at forests of green offset by stately gray mountainsides and azure-blue skies.

In Canada, practically every view is astounding. However, tourist attractions in and around the Canadian Rockies can often become overcrowded leaving you frustrated and tired. Train vacations onboard the Rocky Mountaineer offer a perfect balance of relaxation and activity, take you away from throngs of tourists and to secluded regions of the Rockies only accessible by train.

Rocky Mountaineer offers different levels of service: GoldLeaf, SilverLeaf and Red Leaf. The level of service chosen will shape how you experience the Canadian Rockies. In any class of service you will enjoy ample legroom and comfortable seating from which to view the Rockies’ incredible beauty. In GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf you will enjoy panoramic views through sky domes, while RedLeaf offers picturesque scenes through large picture windows. Outdoor vestibules provide an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs and take a deep breath of fresh, clean, Canadian Rockies air.

Insightful commentary about the scenery you view is provided throughout your daily journeys. In addition, you’ll be treated to scrumptious, gourmet meals and luscious snacks either in the spacious dining room or served at your seat, depending on your service option.

Rocky Mountaineer allows you to choose from tours of between 2 and 16 days. Each includes train travel in Canada, hotel accommodation, sightseeing tours, narrated motor coach transportation to and from the Rocky Mountaineer Stations, meals, snacks and nightly entertainment.