Lloyds Travel & Cruises - Travel Blog

Theatre Tour Review

2011-12-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

One of our clients, Allen, is currently on our 35th Annual London Theatre Tour. This is what he had to say about the tour thus far:

We are Thursday morning here in London, and the tour is going wonderfully. Our first show was at the Old Vic. We saw Playboy of the Western World and it was great. A very traditional interpretation of the script and a lovely production.

On Monday night we saw Comedy of Errors at the National Theatre. This was truly fantastic. They did a modern interpretation of the script and I think it really helped to bring the story alive. Shakespeare's texts are timeless and seeing this story set in a contemporary London setting really underlined that. Personally, this has been my favorite so far.

On Tuesday we saw a matinee performance of the horror ghost story, The Woman in Black. Another excellent production. Very suspenseful and, at times, terrifying. What made this really exciting for me, though, was that there was also a field trip of about seventy high school students in the audience who were very vocal about screaming in terror at all the right moments. We were basically watching a horror film with a bunch of kids and it made it even better because they were so into it.

Tuesday evening we saw Reasons to be Pretty out at the Almeida. A very gritty and brilliantly acted American play. This one incited the liveliest post-show discussion so far as the play really questions modern relationships and marriage as well as the obsession with beauty. The tube ride back home was a barrage of differing opinions and points of view on the topics that the play raised. Theatre is supposed to provoke discussion and this production certainly did just that.

The improv show was on Wednesday night. I performed with an all-Canadian team against two local London teams. Needless to say, we won in a landslide.

Tonight we're off to see Jerusalem. All the talk in London right now is about how brilliant this show is. It's the hottest ticket in town. Can't wait!

Prickly Pineapple Daiquiri Recipe

2011-11-22T15:14:00.000-08:00

from A Taste of Elegance, Rudi Sodamin)

Feeling the cold this winter? Well if you can't get away to the tropics, bring a little piece of the tropics to you. This drink is a lovely treat - not to sweet, not too sour.

Yield: 1 Serving

INGREDIENTS

• 2 wedges lime
• 1½ ounces spiced rum
• 2 ounces homemade sour mix (4 cups sugar, 1 quart water, 1 cup fresh lime or lemon juice)
• 1 ounce pineapple juice
• 1 ounce soda water
• Prickly pear puree, for drizzling

DIRECTIONS

In a pint glass, hand-press lime wedges with a muddler. Fill glass with ice. Add rum, sour mix, pineapple juice, and soda water. Cap with shaker can and shake vigorously. Pour into a pint glass and drizzle with some prickly pear puree. Serve with a straw.

What's one of your favourite summer drinks?

Touring Canada and New England

2011-11-14T20:26:00.000-08:00

Our clients recently returned from a cruise tour of Canada and New England with a stay in New York and shared the highs and lows of their experience. The trip started with a seven-day coach tour that took them from Washington through Williamsburg, historic Gettysburg and onto New York. The couple had this to say about the coach portion of their tour:

“The bus tour was terrific - we thought it would be a bit of a drag, but we both enjoyed it! Washington is very interesting, Williamsburg is fascinating and Gettysburg was the highlight. We had limited expectations for the bus part but it was a VERY pleasant surprise. Most enjoyable.” They also commented that the tour guide was “very good - knowledgeable and helpful.”

After the bus tour, they embarked on a seven day Canada and New England cruise with Princess, visiting Halifax, Nova Scotia; St John, New Brunswick; Boston, MA and more. Unfortunately the weather was iffy and a few of the port cities were cold and wet, which dampened their experience. “Boston could have been great but it rained the whole day,” they shared. In addition, they didn’t enjoy the large ship experience, saying “I think we should stay with Crystal or Oceania or something around 1,000 passengers.”
 

The cruise disembarked in New York where they stayed at the Westin for a few nights, which was a real treat for the couple. “New York was fantastic - even though we arrived the day of the BIG storm,” they shared. “The hotel was well located and very good in providing service.” While they were in the Big Apple they caught two Broadway shows - Wicked and Memphis - which they both really enjoyed. “The theatre scene in NY is something special. There are nearly 30 shows on Broadway right now!!!”

Have you ever visited Canada and New England? Share the highlights of your experience below!

Berlin's East Side Gallery

2011-11-06T09:36:00.000-08:00

The Berlin Wall's East Side Gallery is a 1.3 km long section of the wall and a memorial for freedom. The gallery has over 100 paintings by artists from all over the world making it the largest open-air gallery in the world. The artwork is moving, inspiring and powerful.

Here are some photos of the remarkable gallery.

Paris in November

2011-10-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

Although it is much more traditional to visit Paris in spring, there are a lot of advantages to visiting in November instead. Paris in November is quiet, peaceful and reflective. As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, the number of tourists drastically decreases. There aren’t as many crowds to fight and you have many of Paris’ treasures to yourself. In addition, November is not high season in Paris which means that flights and hotel rooms are much more reasonably priced.

November is a great time of year for visiting Paris’ many indoor attractions. The famed Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, Musée Rodin and Musée National du Moyen Age are all wonderful for art lovers and history buffs. Paris is also home to a number of wonderful theatres, churches and cathedrals. Notre Dame is the most famous and most popular cathedral, but no visit to Paris is complete without a trip to Sacre Coeur as well.

Shopping is another reason to visit Paris in November. Sales on fall items begin in early November and you can usually find amazing deals on shoes and boots. Later in the month, Christmas markets start cropping up all over the city. Market vendors offer all sorts of goods, such as jewelry, scarves, various crafts, leather goods, delicious treats and much more. Don’t miss the wonderful Christmas displays in the windows of Galérie la Fayette and Printemps (two of Paris’ department stores).

November is also a time of year when Paris has a lot of cultural events. Here are a few favourites:

Vin Chaud:

While this isn’t an event, we had to include it. Vin chaud is mulled wine served warm. Cafes and portable carts all over the city typically start serving this drink in November.

Beaujolais Nouveau Festival:

This festival begins at the strike of midnight on the third Thursday of every November. The festival celebrates Beaujolais Nouveau, a light, fruity wine that comes from a region south of Burgundy.

Festival d’Automne:

The autumn festival, which begins in November, is a festival of the arts. Throughout the month of November, as part of the festival, there is a number of film, music, theatrical and ballet performances.

Paris Photo Exhibition:

This year the Paris’ annual photography fair will be held from November 10-13 at the Grand Palais. For information on the exhibition, visit www.parisphoto.fr

Did we miss anything? What are your favourite November activities in Paris?

Spotlight on the Caribbean

2011-10-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

Ah, the Caribbean - fun in the sun on beautiful beaches; palm trees swaying as you dine outside on warm, tropical evenings. What a great place to get away from it all and you'll find plenty to keep you interested and inspired on these intriguing islands.

Whether you're staying at a boutique hotel, an all inclusive resort or cruising, there are some wonderful places to discover during your Caribbean vacation. Everyone from history buffs to nature enthusiasts, beach combers to deep sea divers will be well entertained in the islands.

Few destinations match the Caribbean as the perfect spot for a multigenerational getaway with something for every member of the family to enjoy. All inclusive resorts are an excellent, affordable choice as they have a variety of activities, entertainment and restaurants catering to the entire family.

Intriguing Islands

Take a look at these fascinating islands and the special things they offer to enhance your vacation experience:

Barbados - Beautiful Barbados has long been a popular winter vacation spot with its endless beaches, natural beauty, many attractions and fine dining. Exploring Harrison's Cave, 4x4 island safaris and snorkelling are some of the highlights. Enjoy an English Afternoon Tea at a sugar plantation and learn about the island's British colonial heritage. Barbados is also recognized for its world class golf courses.
Bonaire - Tiny Bonaire sits just off the coast of Venezuela. Noted for its excellent diving and sailing opportunities, it is a charming island, part of the Dutch Caribbean. The pink flamingos which flock around the salt flats are just one bird species to be seen in this island famous for its nature conservation efforts. The town of Kralendijk is the place for a fascinating historical walk.
Dominica - Unspoiled Dominica is a must for eco and adventure travellers; excellent for families wanting to enjoy nature and some outdoor adventure on their Caribbean vacation. On this mountainous island you can hike through the lush rainforest, see exotic wildlife, enjoy spectacular ocean views, swim and relax at a secluded cove. Dominica makes an excellent port of call on your cruise or plan to stay longer on a land vacation at one of the tranquil boutique hotels or ecolodges.
Dominican Republic - The sunny Dominican Republic has perfected the all inclusive resort concept for budget travellers; an oasis where you can be as busy or as lazy as you like with all the activities and fun your family could want. There are many to choose from especially in the postcard perfect Punta Cana area. It's well worth a visit to the capital city of Santo Domingo, to explore the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the Americas. The Samana Peninsula in the north is an excellent area for adventure and water sports, activities in the mountains and rainforest.
Grand Cayman - Flat, sandy Grand Cayman has several attractions to keep you busy: Relax on Seven Mile Beach, swim with the rays at Stingray city, learn about sea turtles at the Cayman turtle farm and visit the town of Hell with its jagged rock formation. It's an excellent island for diving thanks to its unique geology. Enjoy duty free shopping in George Town.

Puerto Rico - San Juan is the Caribbean's biggest city and cultural centre. Here you'll find great nightlife and the world's largest rum distillery. Strolling the cobbled streets of Old San Juan and El Morro fortress is a fascinating experience as you step back into Spanish Colonial times. Around the island, visit the bioluminescent bays lit up by marine plankton, hike the El Yunque rainforest, bike the dry Guanica forest and visit Mona island, the Galapagos of Puerto Rico.
St. John, US Virgin Islands - Here you'll find panoramic views, hiking trails, fabulous beaches, and a wide range of water activities making it the perfect spot for active travellers. Two thirds of the island is a National Park! St. John is also a treat for history buffs who will enjoy visiting the archaeological digs, seeing Pre-Columbian petroglyphs and the ruins of sugar plantations from a bygone era.
St. Lucia - The towering Piton Peaks make St. Lucia one of the most dramatically beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Enjoy rainforest ziplining, swimming in waterfalls, turtle viewing and a range of land and water sports. The island has an excellent selection of resorts to choose from, many geared to families.
St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands - There is a lot to do on this island, known as the shopping capital of the Caribbean. It's a duty free shopping centre with a long history as a trading port. You'll find great deals on everything from fine jewellery to electronics to Caribbean rum at the excellent selection of shops.

Of course these are just some of the Caribbean islands which are ready to welcome you. They certainly offer a great mix of things to do all year round for a refreshing family getaway.

Ever been to the Caribbean? Share your experience below!

A quick trip through Peru!

2011-10-25T12:29:00.001-07:00

Lynn recently came back from a just over two-week trip through Peru from the end of September to early October. Clinging to the Andes, between the parched coastal desert and the lush expanse of the Amazon rainforest, Peru offers such a wide range of experiences that it can be difficult to choose between them. Lynn agreed, even the hotels had different experiences. "We stayed at a variety of hotels, they all had a little something different to offer," shared Lynn, "everything about the accommodations were varied and excellent."

Lynn and the group of about sixteen flew into Lima, and the Explore group provided nice busses. "We also used the train," shared Lynn. "We went on boat and train trips as well as part of our excursions, and also did some hiking and white water rafting."

"My favorite thing about the trip was the variety provided," shared Lynn, "not only in accommodations but activities as well. Also, smaller groups (our was sixteen) are much more comfortable. Having a good guide helps to make for a memorable trip."

Anything else you'd like to share with our readers? "Other than suffering a little from the altitude in Cusco things went very well!" said Lynn.

We'd like to thank Lynn for sharing her experience with us. Have you been to Peru? Add your thoughts below.

Multi-Generational Cruising in the Caribbean

2011-10-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

Looking for a hassle free vacation the entire family can enjoy? Consider a Caribbean cruise! Aboard today's cruise ships there's a range of activities for every generation and a superb collection of dining options. Cruising makes a great vacation for the young and the young at heart - and there's no better place for it than the islands of the Caribbean!

Family Reunions at Sea

Multi-generational travel continues to rise in popularity with more and more families choosing to have their reunions away from home. Cruise lines have responded by increasing the many family-friendly options available aboard their ships.

Families can relax and be pampered during a Caribbean cruise. Sailing peacefully from port to port, away from traffic and city noise, you'll enjoy a stress-free environment where every member of the family can relax and have a great time.

Be pampered by superb service in your stateroom and the dining rooms. Every detail is taken care of leaving you and your family free to spend time together doing whatever you enjoy most.

Check out these shipboard options which are good reasons for taking the kids and grandparents along on a Caribbean cruise:

Staterooms and Suites for Families

Aboard the latest cruise ships, there's a wide range of accommodation including spacious staterooms for four; more connecting staterooms and suites sleeping up to 16 people with reduced fares for more than two in a stateroom.

Kids and Teens Programs

Junior cruisers are well taken care of with a range of facilities and activities just for them. They play with other children in their age group, supervised by qualified counsellors in well-equipped play rooms. Teens love the club atmosphere of the well appointed teen lounges.

There's educational programming too, like Princess Cruises' California Science Center at Sea and the Junior Ranger program in Alaska. Aboard the sailing ships of Star Clippers, kids learn about tall ships by climbing the mast or visiting with the captain on the Bridge.

Multi-Generational Entertainment

There's no shortage of things to do for the whole family, when you're not on deck with you're feet up, relaxing with a view of the sea! Apart from swimming pools and deck games you can find ice shows, water parks, bowling alleys, golf simulators, croquet, mini golf, basketball, tennis courts and even a planetarium on various cruise ships.

Spa and fitness facilities are outstanding. While the kids are at their supervised program, parents and grandparents can work out, join in yoga, pilates and aerobics classes or enjoy a superb range of treatments in the world-class spa.

There's a range of classes and destination lectures to attend as well for those wanting something more educational and informative.

During the evening, family members can meet up for a movie on deck under the stars or attend a concert or production show together.

Family-Friendly Dining

There's a range of dining options on board from casual buffets to specialty restaurants. You'll be amazed at the selection of items on your room service menu usually available 24 hours. Flexible dining times in the main dining rooms are a plus for active families.

Those on a special diet are also well cared for. Dietary concerns are easily addressed by the chefs on board by notifying the cruise line ahead of time of your requirements.

Dining options for kids and teens include special menus and supervised dinners and pizza parties where they dine as a group with their new friends from the activities program.

With programs like Royal Caribbean's "My Family Time Dining™", kids can also enjoy an expedited dinner with family before being escorted to their evening activities. This gives parents and grandparents a chance to enjoy their dinner at a leisurely pace.

Private Islands

Cruise lines have created some of the most magical beach locales in the Caribbean at their private islands. Here you can enjoy a private beach day, just for you and your ship mates, with all the relaxation, activities, food and fun your family could want. No wonder cruise line private islands and beaches are rated as the favourite port of call by many guests.

Exploring Ashore

Study your ports of call ahead of time so you know what you and your family want to see and do while visiting the magical islands of the Caribbean. Many family-friendly shore excursions with transportation round-trip from the pier are available with lower prices offered for kids.

Family Portraits

Don't miss out on the opportunity to have a professional family portrait taken at a more affordable price than ashore. Many ships have photographers on board to capture special moments during the cruise. They'll take modern and traditional style portraits on several evenings during the cruise, or book a private seating if you have a special place or time in mind. It's a lasting reminder of the wonderful time you spent together.

Easy Access and Medical Services

There's no problem bringing along family members who are in a wheel chair or have medical concerns. Modern cruise ships are designed with easy access to dining, lounges and show rooms. Wheel chair accessible staterooms have extra space and specially designed bathrooms. A well equipped medical centre, doctor and staff are on hand so you'll be well taken care of in case of an emergency.

There are so many good reasons for a cruise vacation. Why not make your next family reunion extra special by celebrating together on a Caribbean Cruise?

France with Khem

2011-10-21T13:58:00.000-07:00

Khem was just in France for a whole month. He spent five days in Paris, then rented a car and did Normandy, the Loire valley, Burgundy, Nice and the South of France, Chamonix and back to Paris for another four days. I got a chance to catch up with him and ask about his trip.

"Normany was wild. All the World War Two beaches," shared Khem, "you could see all the bunkers, and you could see how the Germans were fortified in there. Everything is so old there, buildings that took hundreds of years to build. You could feel the history, we don't have anything like that in Canada."

"My favourite places were Normandy and the French Riviera. We stayed in Nice and jotted out to the surrounding cities for half a day each. Nice is right in the middle," shared Khem. "I also went up Mont Blanc, the highest point I've ever been up. It's about 14,000 feet. It took three gondolas to get up there and it was very cool. You can tell in the winter time that the runs are spectacular, it was just a glacier while I was there."

Khem also said that there are runs marked for the three countries that Mont Blanc sits on, and you can cross over them whenever. "There's a run for Italy, France and Switzerland," said Khem, "it was pretty cool." Looks like a bucket list trip to me!

"All of France was great, especially some of the architecture," shared Khem, "The Palace of Versailles was wonderful, as was the Notre Dam Cathedral."

"Something I noticed was how nice the French people are," noted Khem, "I was surprised because of the preceeding reputation, but I was proved wrong. Everyone was nice, in all parts of the country. They gave advice, accurate information, and were very helpful."

Another surprising thing was the road tolls for Khem! "No one told me about the tolls," laughed Khem, "You could have gotten around the toll roads using different routes but it would have taken much longer. Going around the whole country, you can imagine it adds up. the tolling process didn't have much rhyme or reason to it, and cost us around 500 EU."

"The food - it was incredible," shared Khem, "and the wine. Plus the entertainment scene in Paris was unreal. We went out during a jazz night, and there was this incredible band - like nothing we have here - and it was free."

Any other tips for our readers?

"When we first checked in to the Westin, I was tipping north american standard. I left 15/20% everywhere," shared Khem, "they were treating me like royalty. Turns out, while they like tips, but they don't rely on tips like a lot of our servers do. I found the standard was 5% max for tipping. I definitely felt like royalty for the first week and then I was clued in."

We'd like to thank Khem for sharing his experience with us!

Sandals with Brad

2011-10-19T11:58:00.000-07:00

Brad was recently at the Sandals resorts in Jamaica. While he visited every resort, he stayed in four: Sandals Negril, Sandals Whitehouse, Sandals Montego Bay and in Ocho Rios, Sandals Grande Riviera. Brad shared a bit about his trip and about becoming a Sandals specialist. Read below for more!

Brad flew West Jet on a red eye through Toronto. "We spent some time at the Toronto Lounge," said Brad, "if you fly with West Jet, you get a discount. It's approximately $26 and it comes with breakfast, a place to wash up, and a nice quiet atmosphere." After the lounge, they took off on a 10AM flight to Montego Bay.

After arriving in Montego Bay, Brad noted that the resort was as close to the airport as can be. "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. I felt like I could check in from the runway," laughed Brad, "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 days."

"The resorts themselves are complicated," said Brad, "they're doing a lot of work, really gutting and refurbishing their rooms - this isn't just a paint job. But almost all the resorts are old enough that they're right on the beach. Newer resorts have to be built further back, but these ones are right on the beach and it's really spectacular."

But there's a price to pay for that kind of closeness to the waterfront. "Sandals Negril doesn't have an elevator, for instance," shared Brad, "but it's literally right on the beach, so it's worth it."

"Most of the activities we did while in Jamaica revolved around visiting the different Sandals resorts, and becoming a Sandals Certified Specialist, but we also got 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," shared Brad, "we also did a Catamaran cruise and some snorkelling."

"We got to check out Margaritaville, and do some local shopping. I found that the alcohol is the same price if not more expensive outside the airport as inside though," admitted Brad, "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."

There are always pros and cons, and Brad shared both. "The Sandals Grande Riviera resort had so many areas, food options, places to go and see, over 90 pools and 20 hot tubs - granted some are with the private villas - firepits for couples to sit around, it just had a great atmosphere," shared Brad. And then the food! "Food highlights were having authentic jerk chicken, and then at Sandals Whitehouse, they had a place called Cafe des Paris where they served made in house pastries and crepes, icecream, banana splits, and other desserts," shared Brad, "it was delicious."

"Another special moment for us was getting to see the Sandals Foundation School, play soccer with the kids, see the classes and read to them," shared Brad, "Sandals is family owned and operated and it's authentically Caribbean - they really give back to the community."

"I also found Sandals is really pushing to be green," noted Brad, "They never cut down anything living, and the trees that die, they turn into unique carvings. It helps maintain the integrity of the soil and gives the place a really interesting environment."

Anything else? "I don't recommend night swimming," laughed Brad, "I got stung by something when I went for an evening dip, and while I don't know what it was, it was similar markings to a jellyfish according to the nurse. They neutralized it and I was good to go. There wasn't anything during the day and I didn't see any jellyfish when I was snorkelling so who knows what it was."

"The weather called for rain while we were there," shared Brad, "but don't be discouraged if it does for your trip. It was sunny every day til about 3, then it would rain from 3 to 6, and it would be nice again in the evening. It was very predictable weather."

Anything you'd like to share with our readers? "Sandals pushes more quality inclusions than any other resorts on the planet. Tt's not just a choice of red or white wine, it's different CHOICES of red and white," shared Brad "You always have choices, and you should ask for those choices. Also, the food is truly 24 hours - there is always someone there that will make you fresh food."

We'd like to thank Brad for sharing his experience with us!

More about the U.S. Virgin Islands!

2011-10-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

Excited to learn more about the U.S. Virgin Islands? You know where to stay, now about about what to do and where to eat? Read below for more.

What to See and Do

"There are fabulous beaches on all the islands the best being Magens Bay on St. Thomas, Trunk Bay (underwater snorkel trail) on St. John and Sandy Point, Jack's Bay & Isaac's Bay beaches, the beach at Carambola and Shoys Beach on St. Croix."

"Water sports are great on all the islands: Sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and swimming. Stand up paddle boarding is expanding rapidly in the islands."

"Top attractions are:

St. Thomas - Fort Christian, the historic town of Charlotte Amalie, Drakes Seat where Sir Francis Drake watched ships entering the channels, Magens Bay with its beautiful, long beach, duty free shopping, hiking, golf, Coral World Ocean Park with an undersea observatory and sealife encounters, visit the Western hemisphere's second-oldest synagogue.
St. John - Trunk Bay - breathtaking beach and underwater snorkel trail. Virgin Islands National Park - hiking trails and Plantation Era Sugar Mill Ruins. You can kayak and hike the entire perimeter of the Park.
St. Croix - Ft. Christiansvaern, Horseback Riding, Point Udall, eastern most point under the US Flag. Whim Plantation Museum, Cruzan Rum Distillery."

"My personal favourite places "off the beaten track" are Hull Bay on the north shore of St. Thomas; a couple of great eateries on St. John - Woody's Seafood Saloon and Skinny Legs Bar & Grill; Point Udall, the eastern most point under the US Flag and the Annaly Tide Pools on St. Croix."

Dining Out

"There are many options for casual to fine dining. I recommend these restaurants which are my favourites:

St. Thomas
- Grand Cru at Yacht Haven Grande. Mediterranean.
- Mim's Seaside Bistro at Watergate Villas. Seafood.
- Old Stone Farmhouse, Mahogany Run. Steak and Seafood House.
- Oceana, on the water in Frenchtown. Innovative global cuisine with seafood emphasis.
- Mojo's, Havensight. Rum & Surf Shack. Wings and dogs.
- Duffy's Love Shack, Red Hook. Bar/restaurant in parking lot. Local hangout. Cash only. Fun.

St. John
- Zozo's, Gallows Point. Italian.
- Waterfront Bistro, Cruz bay. French cuisine with Caribbean Flare.
- Skinny Legs, Coral Bay. Best burgers on the island!
- La Tapa, Cruz Bay. Spanish cuisine, Tapas, Mediterranean.

St. Croix
- "Galangal", Christiansted. Southeast Asian cuisine, focusing on Thai.
- Bacchus, Christiansted. Fine dining. Steak & Seafood.
- The Pickled Greek, Christiansted. Greek.
- Eat at Cane Bay. Cane Bay. American."

The U.S. Virgin Islands are an ideal spot for a fabulous vacation. Thanks to Thomas for providing this practical and helpful information to get you started on your vacation planning. Got your own tips? Leave them below.

Insider's View In St. Thomas with Tom Hoffman

2011-10-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

The Caribbean has a wealth of superb vacation locations with the U.S. Virgin Islands leading the way in visitor numbers. Our On Location partner, Thomas Hoffman, is on hand with some great information on the islands. Be sure to get in touch with us so we can work with Thomas and his team to create your perfect getaway. Thomas also specializes in arranging for groups so why not bring your extended family along for a reunion in these glorious islands where there's so much to enjoy.

Visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands

"Beautiful beaches, warm weather and crystal-clear waters along with a culturally diverse and vibrant society make the U.S. Virgin Islands the Caribbean's most popular tourist destination. Here you'll find everything you could want for a wonderful island getaway from secluded beaches to duty free shopping; kayaking and hiking to island art and fine dining."

"Each island has its own personality and flavour. All have great water, beaches and stunning views. Here's a description of each in a nutshell:

St. Thomas - Faster paced, duty free shopping, more tourism related activities, major cruise ship port.
St. Croix - Slower pace, more historical sites, some cruise ships visit.
St. John - Most laid back, two thirds National Park."

"This is a year-round tropical destination where the weather is always beautiful. August and September do have more rain and humidity than other months. Trade winds help to keep the rest of the year very comfortable."

"These airlines fly into the U.S. Virgin Islands, some seasonally: American Airlines, Delta, Continental, United, Spirit, US Air, Jet Blue, Air Canada and Cape Air. At the airport, pick up a shared taxi, car rental or pre-arranged service (car, limo, sedan, van) where you'll be met by your driver and escorted to your hotel."

Where to Stay

"There are many excellent resorts on St. Thomas including Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort which is just completing a $48 million dollar refurbishing. It has a fabulous location at the entrance to the harbour. Other outstanding hotels on St. Thomas are the Sugar Bay, Ritz-Carlton, Best Western Emerald Beach, Windward Passage (formerly the Holiday Inn) and the casual beach resort of Bolongo Bay."

"There is a limited number of Bed & Breakfasts and Guest Houses and we have a camp ground on St. John. For longer stays and a different type of vacation from staying at a resort, the tiny residential island of Water Island has vacation homes, apartments and a campground with eco-cabins."

"It is easy to stay on St. Thomas and have day trips to the other islands."

Keep your eyes peeled for more tips this weekend! Have you been to the Virgin Islands? Add your own tips below!

Prague and Amsterdam River Cruise

2011-10-10T16:39:00.001-07:00

Margaret and Bob just got back from a Uniworld river cruise mainly touring Prague and Amsterdam. Margaret shared some of her likes and dislikes about the cruise. Here they are:

"We had a great time on our Uniworld river cruise," shared Margaret. Her and her husband enjoyed all of the shore excursions which were included in the river cruise, visiting a different port everyday. "It's an excellent way to see small places that would take you a long time to get to by car," she shared.

"We really enjoyed Prague, and the hotel Hastal Prague was situated perfectly," Margaret shared. "In Budapest, the Hotel Sofitel is right on the river, very near the docked ships, and was also very convenient. Our hotel in Amsterdam, the Avenue Hotel, was very good too, right close to central station."

Margaret really enjoyed exploring those two cities as well. "Thank you for recommending and booking all of these hotels for us," said Margaret, "We're thinking of all the places we'd like to go in the future, like India!"

"The only thing that Bob & I weren't too keen on was the big focus on dinner each evening on the ship," Margaret explained. "It was a two hour affair, ordering off the menus, and everything. Of course, the food was fabulous, and we ate everything put before us, but it was a little much."

We'd like to thank you, Margaret, for sharing your experience with us!

Deborah's experience in China!

2011-10-06T18:25:00.000-07:00

Our very own cruise specialist headed to China recently and shared her experience with us.

"We had a wonderful time in China and Hong Kong," shared Deborah.

"For Beijing, Xian, Guilin, and Shanghai we were picked up and escorted by our own personal guides. It was just the 5 of us with our own personal guide and driver," said Deborah. She noted that they were also very good taking care of the group by picking us up, taking us to the hotel, showing us around, and checking in at the airports for them.

"The highlight in Beijing was the Great Wall. Other highlights included the Terracotta Warriors, Guilin scenery, and Shanghai skyline," shared Deborah, "We were also lucky with the weather as we had sunny days everywhere we went. It only rained one evening during dinner in Xian but it stopped after our dinner."

Deborah shared that the hotels were very comfortable and first class. "We got very spoiled with the breakfast every morning," she noted, "but English was still a bit of a challenge and not everyone understands and speaks English. But we felt safe when we ventured out for a walk after dinner." Deborah did some department shopping in Shanghai and met some very nice tour guides in each of the cities they visited.

"I felt more comfortable in Hong Kong as I could understand Cantonese and they spoke more English. But it was very hot and humid, 38 degrees but felt like 45 due to the humidity," remembered Deborah, "We managed to get around using the MTR and actually spent half a day at Hong Kong Disney. The location of our hotel was fabulous. Just off the promenade and close to Star Ferry and Ocean Centre shopping."

Anything to share with the readers? "I would definitely recommend Go-Way to organize the China trip to anyone else," shared Deborah, "Thank you for your recommendation and we had a wonderful time. We too would love to go back to England and Paris at some point."

We would like to thank Deborah for sharing her experience with us!

A walking tour of Croatia!

2011-10-03T11:40:00.000-07:00

Sydney just got back from her walking tour of Croatia and agreed to share her experience with us! I asked Sydney about her trip, and here's what she had to say.

The walking tour itself was three weeks. "I flew to Split through Paris, and spent four days there on my own before the group tour, and to get over the jet lag although three weeks would have been enough." Sydney flew from Vancouver to Paris, spending four days in Paris, and then took the Croatian Airline direct to split. "It was a good airline," shared Sydney, "older planes but everything was on time."

The tour mostly comprised of city tours - walking about two to three hours in the a.m. and a similar amount of time in the p.m. "All of this was broken up well with periodic stops during the hikes, and water stops," said Sydney, "the average temperature each day was about 35 degrees."

"At around five, we were able to relax and then went out for dinner at around 7:30 or 8 each night," said Sydney, "The pace was good, varied, and our Croatian guide from Brac was excellent. She reviewed the map for each day, and gave information on flora and fauna stops along the way. I had no idea Croatia was so rich in agriculture - olives, figs, herbs and more."

Of course, on any trip there are some highlights that stick out in your mind, and favourite places. For Sydney, it was Trogir. "The architecture was amazing - more impressive, detailed and beautiful than any in Venice," shared Sydney, "and I've been to Venice twenty-seven times over the past 50 years!"

"My other favourite thing were the local lunches we had," said Sydney, "One was at a friend's home in the hills on Brac, and another at a restaurant on Korchula." Sydney shared that the men were the chefs, and they proudly cooked simple but pure foods - tomatoes, home cured hams, olives, cheese from Pag, and homemade pasta.

Sydney expressed that her previous impression of the Croatian people was wrong. After getting to know the country and the people she said, "they are honest, warm, very welcoming, are knowledgeable about the world in general, nothing is a problem for them, they are on time and very welcoming on a personal level."

I asked Sydney to share some of the pros and cons. She's shared a lot of pros about the area, but a couple downsides were eating far too late in the day. "Some nights we ate so late, and after 10 p.m. and you're not hungry - it seemed very wasteful," said Sydney, "Also, I spent the last four days alone in Dubrovnik, and that's far too many days there - two is enough to do it all!"

Any recommendations for people looking to do a similar tour? "Just do it!" says Sydney, "and soon!"

We'd like to thank Sydney for her time and for sharing her experience with us. Happy travels!

Hot Spots in South Africa!

2011-09-29T17:58:00.000-07:00

Top Sights

"Every region of South Africa offers unique experiences. Some of the top sites to visit are:

Kruger Park (Mpumalanga/Limpopo)
Table Mountain (Cape Town)
Robben Island (Cape Town)
Constitution Hill (Johannesburg)
Apartheid Museum (Johannesburg)
Nelson Mandela Square (Johannesburg)
Victoria's Embankment (Durban)
Soweto (Johannesburg)
Cape Winelands (Paarl & Stellenbosch)
The Big Hole (Kimberley)"

Favourite Place Off the Beaten Track

"One of my favourite places is the Shakaland Zulu Cultural Village situated within the Entembeni Hills. After fun-filled days of wildlife viewing, shark cage diving, and other thrilling adventures available only in South Africa, this lower-profile village offers one of the most unique experiences in South African culture and history."

"Visitors are immersed into the Zulu culture, as they are given the opportunity to participate in many Zulu traditions - beer brewing, spear making, hut building, pottery and weaving. Traditional song and dance are performed by Zulu natives, who also act as the village's tour guides."

On Safari

"The reserves that I recommend for a top notch safari experience are the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and the Kgalagardi Transfrontier. Both safaris offer some of the most outstanding locations for spotting the Big 5 as well as other exotic animals."

"In regards to accommodations, the Sabi Sand provides more of a luxurious lodge selection, while the Kgalagardi Transfrontier offers everything from high-end lodging alternatives to more affordable options."

"The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers one of the simplest, yet riveting safari experiences in all of Africa. One of the best self-drive safari locations in the country, Kruger National Park provides an exhilarating tour catered to every visitor."

Not to Be Missed

Potjie Pot - "South African cuisine is known for its rich stews and flavorful braai, which is always cooked in a potjie pot (a round, three-legged cast-iron cauldron) - a must-have when visiting South Africa."
Hand-Crafted Beaded Jewellery - "South African jewellery offers some of the greatest examples of meticulous craftsmanship, detailed beading, and stunning designs."

Our thanks to Virginia for providing this valuable, up-to-date information; very helpful in the planning of your exciting vacation/safari in South Africa.

Insider's Look at South Africa!

2011-09-28T14:53:00.000-07:00

South Africa is a country of many contrasts with so much to see and do, you'll need to plan carefully. Virginia Dionisio is here to help. Working with her team across South Africa, Virginia can help us coordinate your best possible vacation experience. Get in touch and we'll work with Virginia to make your dream South African vacation become a reality.

Getting There - When and How

"South Africa is a year round destination where you can pursue just about any special interest! Everything from bird-watching to surfing, wine tasting to hiking, shark-cage diving to game watching, all of which are available year-round throughout the entire country."

"The prime safari areas in South Africa around Kruger National Park are best visited from June through September when the weather is cooler and dry. However, South Africa's wildlife parks have better infrastructure than most parks in Africa, so rains don't necessarily mean the roads will be washed out. There are also many excellent game parks in South Africa's Eastern Cape region which experiences less rain during the winter months than in the north of the country."

"Airlines that service directly to South Africa from North America include South African Airways and Delta airlines which take 15 hours. Other airlines and routes include Emirates via Dubai, Virgin Atlantic via the UK, KLM via Amsterdam and Air France via Paris."

"From Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport, there are several shuttle services available into town, as well as the Gautrain, Johannesburg's high-speed train service created in 2009. While there aren't any mass transit trains directly routed to Cape Town, there are a variety of reliable shuttles and buses accessible from Cape Town International Airport. Taxis are also readily available at both airports."

"American and Canadian citizens do not require a visa and may stay in South Africa up to 90 days."

Come back tomorrow for more hot tips on travelling to South Africa!

Luxury Travel in South Africa

2011-09-22T21:56:00.001-07:00

High End Shopping

It's no surprise that this leading producer of gold and diamonds is a country where shopping is a must. You'll find exquisite jewellery crafted in gold incorporating local gems. It is even possible to select a loose diamond then have it cut and set to the design you want.

Ostriches are farmed in South Africa. High end ostrich leather products make a lovely gift or souvenir. Other exotic leathers are also readily available.

Fine wine and brandy are an excellent buy of course. Visiting the Cape winelands makes a great day out. Visit legendary Constantia, Paarl and Stellehbosch to discover the oldest wine regions outside of Europe, dating back to the mid 17th century.

There are well stocked malls in every city. Markets and road side stalls are good places to buy local arts and crafts including fine beadwork, wood carvings and paintings from rising artists.

Deluxe Hotels and Lodges

From luxury safari lodges at private game reserves and five star hotels in the cities to boutique hotels in the wine region, South Africa has a very inviting range of deluxe accommodation for the discerning traveller. Check out these examples:

Lion Sands Private Game Reserve
Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Nelspruit

Bordering the Kruger National Park and sitting by the Sabi River, there are wonderful game viewing opportunities at Lion Sands. Prices include open vehicle game viewing drives. There's a tree house where you can spend the night under the African stars and three lodges, all close to the river. Comfort and relaxation are paramount. You'll enjoy the same amenities you'd expect in a hotel; bathrobes, internet access, in-room tea and coffee, gourmet dining, outdoor pool, fitness centre and spa.
African Pride, Melrose Arch Hotel
Melrose Square, Johannesburg

Situated in the up-scale Melrose Arch district of Johannesburg, known for its great shopping and close proximity to many Jo'burg attractions. This hotel features world-class dining in the March Restaurant, an outdoor pool with a 60-seat Pool Bar and unique audio-visual entertainment in the plush Sound Room.

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Cape Town

Nestled on the slopes of the Twelve Apostles mountains, on the edge of the South Atlantic Ocean and just outside Cape Town, this five-star boutique hotel offers the experience of a lifetime. Table Mountain National Park's wilderness trails and the city of Cape Town are on your door step. There's a complimentary shuttle to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, just 15 minutes away, or get there faster by helicopter. Fine dining, excellent service and a superior spa are hallmarks of this historic hotel which offers some of the world's finest mountain and ocean views.

Top Restaurants

South African cuisine has evolved over the years to include local game as part of the menu. There are local specialties to try like Zulu, Xhosa and Cape Malay cuisine. Enjoy some unique dishes as you dine out at fine restaurants around the country.

Hemingways Restaurant and Wine Cellar
Leriba Lodge, Centurion, between Pretoria and Johannesburg

Named best overall restaurant and Best Fine Dining restaurant in South Africa by SA Tourism in 2011, at Hemingways you are in for a treat. Dine outside on the patio beside the lush gardens, by a cozy fireplace, in a private room or even join the Chef in the kitchen. Noted for its wine and food pairings, the menu changes each season. Here you are guaranteed a superior food and wine experience. This winter's menu includes a very special lamb shank with traditional vegetables and mint jus. After dinner, relax in the cognac and cigar lounge

Blues Restaurant
The Promenade, Camps Bay, near Cape Town

During its 24 years of operation, Blues has seen Camps Bay develop into an international destination. Enjoy lunch or dinner by the sea with excellent views of Camps Bay. Dine in stunning, modern surroundings indoors or on the patio. Start with carpaccio of ostrich then enjoy the Chef's favourite dish, Grilled Springbok Loin accompanied by selections from the outstanding wine list.

Bosman's Restaurant
Grande Roche Hotel, Paarl, Western Cape

In the heart of South Africa's wine region, you'll find the award winning Bosman's Restaurant at the Grand Roche Hotel. The restaurant is situated in the restored Cape Dutch manor house dating back to 1707. Silver service is the order of the day at Bosman's where you can choose from an award winning tasting menu or a la carte menu for dinner. The well stocked cellars include rare wines and vintage champagnes. To top off the experience, there's a sweeping view across the valley from the hotel and delightful gardens, pool and patio for relaxation.

Fine experiences at reasonable prices; a luxury experience in exciting South Africa is one you're sure to enjoy.

Food, Wine and more in Chile

2011-09-20T10:07:00.000-07:00

Luz has been sharing wonderful information with us about Chile. For the last segment, he shares some special things to do while in Chile, plus top picks for hotels - and not to mention food and wine vacations!

Food and Wine Vacations

"In our geographically long country you can find different food and cooking styles varying from aboriginal to classic, including the cultural influences that came with the colonization of our nation. Our weather allows a great variety of fruits and vegetables to grow and the cold waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a wide variety of sea food of great quality."

"14 wine regions offer an extensive list of more than 100 different wineries, but not all of them offer accommodation. One great option is to stay at one winery and plan a route to visit others. This way you can experience a variety of perfect food and wine pairings."

Special Interests

"These are some of the spots to keep in mind for special interest vacations:

Beaches - Our extensive coastline allows us to offer a wide variety of beaches and surf spots. Every year, Arica and Pichilemu organize international and national surf competitions. Waves up to 10 meters can be found on normal days.
Philanthropic Journeys - We do offer activities to help the community, children and older people and we can arrange educational programs.
Shopping - A great variety of wines are available at very good prices, we recommend Carmenere wine, which is an excellent option for being a unique grape grown in Chile. In our country you can buy a semiprecious stone called Lapiz Lazuli that can only be found in Chile and Afghanistan and arts and crafts made from horsehair, tinted and braided into beautiful designs.
Culture - In Santiago you can find plenty of cultural activities, for example The Teatro Municipal de Santiago well known for its opera, ballet and classical concerts and The Teatro Municipal de Las Condes for its variety of spectacles. Puerto Varas which yearly hosts an important music festival recently opened its own beautiful theatre known as "Teatro del Lago". Museums and local towns dedicated to artisan craftmanship are another option to visit."
Adventure - In Patagonia you can go whale watching, observe penguins and easily spot a great variety of birds and animals. Seals and sea lions have their own private islands. Adventure is everywhere from canopy (zip line) to kayaking, river rafting, heli-skiing, snowboarding, bungee jumping, sky diving, hiking, paragliding and much more."

Hotel Recommendations

Boutique hotels - We have a great variety of boutique hotels awarded for their luxury design, style and service by international experts.
Northern Chile - Awasi, Alto Atacama and Explora in San Pedro are a new experience in Hotel service.
The greater Santiago area - 5 star hotel properties such as the Ritz Carlton and the Grand Hyatt.
The wine valleys - Casa Lapostolle
Lake region - We recommend a stay at Cumbres Patagonicas, Casa Molino and the Cliffs Preserve. These are just some of the great options.
Patagonia region - The outstanding Explora hotel and Lakutaia in Tierra del Fuego.
Easter Island - Explora Hotel and Hotel Altiplanico are very good options on Easter Island.

Chile certainly has much to offer visitors. Thanks to Luz for providing this valuable information to assist in planning your fabulous vacation in this country with so many fascinating regions.

Exploring Chile!

2011-09-17T18:28:00.000-07:00

Our adventure through Chile continues with Luz Nilo!

Chile from North to South

In the north, we have the Atacama Desert which is the second driest desert in the world. It is known for its spectacular views, multicolored hills containing a variety of minerals and for having the clearest skies in the world, perfect for astronomical observation.

"In the central area, Santiago, our nation's capital, offers many museums, art galleries, classic neighborhoods, plenty of history and tasty restaurants to enjoy the local and international gastronomy."

"In the surrounding areas close to Santiago you can find a wide variety of wine valleys specializing in different grapes."

"Further south you'll find the beautiful lake district with its charming towns and Osorno Volcano, then the fjords and channels of our Inside Passage. There are glaciers to visit too, similar to Alaska yet very different as well."

"In the far south lies Patagonia. Here nature is amazing and beautiful with mountains, lakes, channels, rivers, icefields and glaciers."

Check back on Monday for more information about Chile!

Insider's View In Chile with Luz Nilo

2011-09-14T16:01:00.000-07:00

Chile is one of the most fascinating destinations in South America. The many geographic areas provide a wealth of vacation options to choose from. This is where our On Location partners are helpful. They are local specialists; insiders who can help us customize arrangements just for you. Luz Nilo and his team are our On Location partners on the ground in Chile. In this article, Luz provides some helpful insight into visiting Chile.

Getting Started

"Chile's geographical situation allows us to offer activities all year long and for all ages. Whether you are heading for the north of Chile with its dry deserts and amazing landscapes, the mountains of Patagonia or the Polynesian territory of Easter Island, you can visit year-round."

"International flights arrive in the capital city of Santiago which has developed a lot over the last 10 years. There are new activities inside the city turning very classic areas into attractive spots during night and day."

"Stay at least two nights to get the feel of the capital. In the downtown city visit the classical neighborhood, and within the metropolitan areas visit the wineries. These are just some of the must see locations in town. The close port cities of Valparaiso (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Vina del Mar are great options, just two hours drive away."

Look out for more information on Chile later this week!

Off-Season in Whistler

2011-09-12T14:48:00.000-07:00

There's just as much to do in the off-season on Whistler and Blackcomb as there is to do during the ski and snowboard season! Whether you're going up with friends, on a romantic getaway or with the family, there's something to do for you.

Elaine, who owns a Breakaway property up at Whistler says that her favourite things to do in the off-season are to explore the area through hiking and biking, shopping and eating at their favourite restaurants. "We love Sushi Village, the Tandoori Grill and the Spaghetti Factory," shared Elaine, "And not as much for the food, but for the patio, we adore Citta's (pronounced 'Cheetas')." During the summer, the kids would bike to one of the lakes and go swimming, where you can also picnic or have a barbecue!

On top of that, there's always hiking, festivals, concerts, special events and horseback riding, all which can be fun for the whole family! Don't forget about taking the gondola up Blackcomb for some hiking, and the Peak-to-Peak over to Whistler for even more.

If you're interested in something a little different, Wendy and Bruce Fougner, owners of Breakaway, recently did the RBC GranFondo to Whistler. After biking from downtown Vancouver up to Whistler, there was a band playing, a great beer gardens and medals that they handed out to everyone.

There's also a farmer's market every Sunday throughout the summer, which has a whole mixture of artisans doing everything from specialty treats to jewelry and art pieces. There are also activities available for young kids, like bumper cars, a bouncy castle and rope climbing. What are you waiting for? Head up the mountain all year round for something fun to do!

Adventure Hot Spots in South America

2011-09-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

From dazzling Angel Falls in Venezuela to the tip of legendary Cape Horn, South America has a superb collection of natural wonders, ideal locations for adventure. Add some fun to your South American vacation with these exhilarating options.

Hang gliding from Corcovado - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
World renowned for its natural beauty, Rio is the perfect place for scenic hang gliding. The Pedra Bonita take off ramp is situated at an altitude of 520 meters in the Tijuca National Park on Corcovado. This mountain is also home to the statue of Christ which overlooks the city. You'll have a briefing before leaping into the blue sky with your pilot. The adventure will be recorded by a wing tip camera so you'll have a great memento of the event. The views of the mountains, city and coastline are breathtaking, as is the landing on Pepino Beach.
Helicopter flight - Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil
Get a fabulous view of the top attraction in South America by taking a helicopter flight over the region. You'll be captivated by this amazing natural sight as you hover above the National Park, rainforest, river and falls. Watch for a rainbow as the sun reflects off the tumbling waters.
Horseback riding - Buenos Aires, Argentina
Be in touch with nature as your ride through Parque Provincial Pereyra Iraola, just 30 minutes outside of Buenos Aires. Expert riders who know the terrain will guide you through this natural forest and biosphere reserve. No horseback riding experience is necessary.

Surfing - Brazil and Chile
The waves are just right for an exciting surfing vacation in South America. Florianopolis, Brazil and Pichilemu, Chile are the leading destinations offering some spectacular, scenic locations for this sport. Serious surfers can learn and improve their skills at surf camps and schools while the rest of us can enjoy a day at the beach to watch the world-class surfing action.
Trekking the Inca Trail - Machu Picchu, Peru
Hike the trail the Inca's used to reach Machu Picchu, high in the Peruvian Andes. Now this incredible trail has become so popular, there is a permit process in place to prevent crowding. (The climb is restricted to only 400 people per day.) Organized treks take you on the four-day adventure arranging porters, meals and tented accommodation. Everything runs like clockwork so you are free to thoroughly enjoy the experience. This is the most thrilling way to reach the spectacular ruins of Machu Picchu.
Backpacking - Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile
This is an epic journey as you backpack through stunning valleys, kayak crystal waters and walk on ice fields while surrounded by inspiring scenery. Torres del Paine is a leading hiking destination at the tip of South America. Remote and untouched, a multi-day trek here is an adventure of a lifetime.
Mountain biking - Death Road, La Paz, Bolivia
Ride from the high Andes near La Paz to Coroico on this 61 km road part of which is cut from the side of the mountain. No wonder it has gained a worldwide reputation for its spectacular but dangerous route. Recommended for experienced mountain bikers only and certainly not for the faint of heart.
River rafting, hiking and more - Ecuador
There's rafting for all levels in Ecuador where the rivers feature exciting rapids, calm pools, and amazing jungle scenery. Hiking the high Andes is another adventure not to be missed in this remarkable country. Combine these experiences with a Jungle Adventure by travelling on to explore the upper Amazon basin on foot, horseback, raft and motor canoe.
Diving and snorkeling - the Galapagos Islands
One of the greatest adventures you can have anywhere is diving and snorkeling in the Galapagos Marine Reserve. This is one of the world's top underwater environments where you'll see penguins, iguanas, four-eyed fish and many other unique sights. The Galapagos Islands are ideal for many other adventure activities, like sailing, birding, kayaking, surfing and hiking.
Wildlife Viewing - the Amazon, Brazil, Ecuador and Peru
Whether you stay at a jungle lodge or take river cruise, you're sure to see some amazing animals and marine life in Amazonia. Monkeys, sloths, parrots, river turtles, caiman crocodiles and the unique pink river dolphins are just some of the thousands of exotic species you'll encounter on wildlife viewing excursions.

Accomodations and more in Jordan & Israel!

2011-09-02T16:27:00.000-07:00

Ready to go but don't know where to stay or what else to do? Our insider Tarek gives you an idea of the best accommodations, shopping and special interest areas of the alluring lands of Israel and Jordan.

Accommodation

"There is a wide selection of accommodation to choose from."

"An interesting experience is staying at a Kibbutz in Israel. These are collective agricultural communities, where you will gain a good understanding of this unique way of living."

"These are hotels I would recommend:

Israel:
Jerusalem: King David, American Colony, Mamilla, David Citadel, Dan Boutique
Tiberias: Scots Inn
Haifa: Dan Carmel
Tel Aviv: David Intercontinental, Dan Tel Aviv
Jordan:
Amman: Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, Sheraton, Kempinski
Dead Sea: Kempinski, Movenpick, Marriott
Petra: Movenpick, Marriott, Crowne Plaza, Beit Zaman
Aqaba: Intercontinental, Movenpick, Kempinski"

Special Interests, Shopping and Beaches

"In both countries it is possible to arrange Archeological Tours; Pilgrimages and Christian Heritage Tours. These are very popular and give a focus to your visit which can be helpful in narrowing down what you want to see."

"Shopping for traditional items is always interesting in the markets and shops. In Jordan be sure to buy some local handicrafts like hand-woven rugs and cushions, pottery, marquetry work, embroidered items and gold and silver work. While in Israel you'll enjoy shopping for olive wood products, icons and antiques."

"Both countries have excellent beaches. The best in Jordan are at Aqaba and the Dead Sea with some fine resorts in both places. In Israel, the best beaches with good beach resorts are found at Eilat, the Dead Sea, Tel Aviv and Herzlia."

Thanks to Tarek for sending such practical and up to date information on these inspiring countries. This is certainly helpful when starting to plan your unforgettable trip to Israel and Jordan.

More with Tarek Mousa

2011-08-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

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!

Insider's View With Tarek Mousa in Tel Aviv

2011-08-29T13:24:00.000-07:00

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!

Highlights of Scandinavia and the Baltics

2011-08-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-26T01:11:00.000-07:00

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.

Sculptures in Scandinavia

2011-08-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-15T15:03:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-14T11:48:00.000-07:00

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).

What are you paying for?

2011-08-12T11:57:00.000-07:00

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: Portland

2011-08-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

"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

2011-08-03T09:21:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

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!

Wild and Wonderful Mongolia

2011-06-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

Offering a mix of culture, history and adventure, Mongolia is a really special destination for travellers. People come from all over the world to ride ponies over the vast plains, camp with nomad families, visit Buddhist temples and unravel the history of Genghis Khan.

Mongolia Ponies, Photo: Michael Foley Photography on Flickr

Ulan Bator
Ulan Bator, the coldest capital city in the world, is Mongolia’s economic hub. A chaotic city characterized by concrete and commerce, Ulan Bator contrasts with the rest of Mongolia. Many are quite surprised and put off by the city, but there are many marvelous sites to be seen, such as monasteries and museums.

One of the most notable monasteries in Mongolia is Ulan Bator's Buddhist Choijin Lama Monastery. The site is immensely popular due to its beautiful architecture, fascinating history and extensive collection of sculptures and works of Buddhist art. Just as outstanding is the Winter Palace of the Bogd Khan. This Palace is currently a museum of the last surviving monarch, containing six temples and possessions of the great Bogd Khan and his wife. Sukhbaatar Square is another popular attraction. The square is the site where the 'hero of the revolution', Damdin Sukhbaatar, declared Mongolia's final independence from the Chinese. In the square is a statue of the hero straddling his horse.

Adventure Landscapes
From the Gobi desert in the south to the icy mountain ranges in the north and west to the vast Steppes, Mongolia offers an array of contrasting landscapes. These landscapes provide an enormous range of activities for every type of traveller. Here are some of the favourites:

•One can canoe, kayak, or white water raft the Kherlen River in the east.
•Mongolia’s many rivers and lakes are perfect for fishing.
•The diverse Mongolian landscapes serve as a mountain biker’s paradise.
•Camping in yurts along the Steppes is a particular favourite.
•One can hop on a horse and ride along the grassy plains. Horseback riding has been and remains to be a way of life for Mongolians. It is said that many Mongolian children learn to ride horse back even before they learn to walk!

If you’re a little less active, but still want to appreciate the outdoors, then spend some time wildlife and bird watching. Some of Mongolia’s mammals include the endangered Gobi bear, elusive snow leopard, and the ibex. White-naped cranes, raptors, and the world's largest grouse are just a small selection of birds that soar through Mongolia's skies.

"Stage Struck" in London

2011-06-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

"Stage Struck", the annual London Theatre Tour, is truly an unforgettable experience. The tour welcomes both seasoned theatre-goers and those wanting to dip their toes into the world of dramatic arts. This year's tour starts on November 24th and goes to December 4th, 2011. Not only will you experience the finest theatre in the world, but the streets of London will be completely decked out in holiday décor. Performances will be a combination of British musicals and plays in both tragedies and comedies.

The tour's long-time escort, John Parker, has retired and handed the reins over to another theatre enthusiast, Paul Arcand. A former drama and English instructor, Paul’s major passion is theatre and he regularly attends productions in Vancouver. Paul went on multiple theatre tours with John Parker and is delighted to have the opportunity to lead his own group of theatre lovers.

At $2475 CAD/person for double occupancy or $2975 CAD/person for single occupancy, this tour includes return transfers from the airport to the hotel (if one is flying in/out of London Heathrow), nine nights at the President Hotel with private facilities and breakfast, taxes, seven theatre tickets for the best available seats, and four pre-tour seminars with Paul (dates to be decided), this tour is a steal!

For anyone wishing to discover the fascinating city of London and immerse themselves in the world of British theatre, the Lloyd's Theatre Tour is an absolute must.

Alaska's Breathtaking Nature

2010-12-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

The incredible vastness of Alaska with its seemingly endless mountain ranges is nothing short of breathtaking. The well organized park system across the state protects this spectacular wilderness with state and national parks, preserves and trails where visitors can enjoy the outdoors and watch for animals and sea life. The most famous park is Denali.
Denali National Park and Preserve is the largest protected ecosystem in the world, covering nearly 2.5 million hectares. Around 400,000 people visit the park each year. Take a bicycle tour, a park bus or guided walk. Popular summer activities are hiking, camping, rafting, backcountry travel, fishing, wildlife viewing and flightseeing.

The abundant wildlife includes grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, Dall sheep and moose. Mt. McKinley, or Denali, North America's highest peak at 6.194 meters is situated within the park. A spectacular sight on clear days it can be seen as far as 113 km away. Most pre/post cruise tours feature Denali with overnight stays at wilderness lodges. Denali is accessible between Anchorage and Fairbanks via Alaska rail or by car from the George Parks Highway.

The ice age is still active in Alaska. There are an estimated 100,000 glaciers in the state and observing them is certainly a highlight of any visit. From the deck of a cruise ship, watch and listen as tide water glaciers creak and calve with huge chunks crashing into the sea. Look for Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm, Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord on your cruise itinerary for a glacier experience.

These rivers of ice which flow from ice packs high in the mountains are magnificent when viewed closely from a helicopter. Some flightseeing tours land on the ice so you can hike or ride a dog sled. Mendenhall Glacier at Juneau is big, beautiful and one of the most accessible glaciers. Take a shuttle bus from the pier to stop by the visitors centre and enjoy the many hiking trails.

Must See and Do in Portugal

2010-12-28T14:46:00.000-08:00

>St. George's Castle, Lisbon, is an imposing citadel captured from the Moors in 114. From the defensive walls visitors have a magnificent view of the city and the Tagus River flowing to the Atlantic Ocean. Not to be missed!

>Sintra is about a one-hour drive from Lisbon. (Train service is available from downtown Lisbon.) This historic city with its luxurious, green mountain is the former residence of kings and nobility. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site it is a must see for its palaces and historical residences, especially the Palace of Pena.

>Évora is the finest example of a city of the golden age of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. About a two and a half hour drive south of Lisbon, here you'll find The City Museum, The Temple of Diana (built by the Romans), The Capela dos Ossos (Bones Chapel) and the Cathedral. Sit outside in one of the many cafés at the Geraldo Square, sipping a glass of the local wine while watching the city go by.

>Óbidos which can be traced to 308 BC by the Celtics, is today a well preserved walled town with small houses painted in immaculate white, blue lapis and gold, the royal colors of the past. The local Pousada (historical inn) is an excellent choice for a delightful meal.

>Serra do Gerês in Northern Portugal is one of the best preserved mountains of Europe with spectacular scenery, fresh pure air, streams of pure water, and rare flora amongst the rich greenery.

Must See's in Spain

2010-12-21T14:39:00.000-08:00

Destination360 Barcelona

Some of Spain's top attractions include:

o The Alhambra Palace, Grenada
o The architecture of Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona
o The Prado Museum, Madrid
o Seville's ancient Cathedral, the largest in Spain
o The white villages of Andalucia

Stroll the lively Ramblas, Barcelona's main thoroughfare, from the Columbus monument at the harbour to Plaça de Catalunya, the city centre. You'll come across artists, musicians and entertainers along the way as well as historic buildings, some great coffee shops, restaurants and trendy shops.

Take in a dramatic Flamenco show with lunch or dinner. Combining singers, dancers, guitarists and colourful costumes, the art of Flamenco is the soul of Spain and is found today in various styles throughout the country.

Immerse yourself in the culture by taking a language class, a Flamenco dance or guitar lesson or a winery tour and tasting. Perhaps attend a bull fight, still an important part of life in Spain where matadors are regarded by many as heroes. It's worth paying extra for a seat in the shade and taking a cushion as the seats are hard. While bullrings are found throughout the country, the anti bullfighting campaign has gathered momentum in recent years. Barcelona declared itself an anti bullfighting city in 2004.

Spotlight on the South Pacific

2010-12-17T14:47:00.000-08:00

As the dark, cold days of winter approach, wouldn't you rather be lazing on a South Pacific island, relaxing in an overwater bungalow, or taking a dip in a tranquil, azure lagoon?

Numerous island chains are dotted across the vast expanse of the South Pacific, easily accessible by those wanting a peaceful retreat for their vacation. There's plenty of adventure as well from off road jeep excursions to hiking, snorkelling in the lagoons, scuba diving, sailing and water sports.

The rich cultural heritage of Polynesia and Micronesia add to the vacation experience. History buffs will find there's much to learn as they explore the region including the migration of the early Polynesians; the expeditions of Captain James Cook; the Bounty mutiny and the exploits of Robert Louis Stevenson and Paul Gauguin, two of the many writers and artists who called the region home. Discover the Cook Islands, Fiji Islands and Tahiti Islands.

The Cook Islands

2010-12-17T14:44:00.000-08:00

Rarotonga is the central island, where cruise ships call and visitors arrive by plane. It has all one expects of the South Pacific - high mountain peaks, lush rain forests, clear turquoise lagoons and white sand beaches.

Aitutaki is the most visited outer island. Its turquoise lagoon is massive at approximately 11 km wide by 16 km long. It's perfect for snorkelling with many coral heads to explore. Captain Bligh and his ship the HMS Bounty landed here in 1798 prior to the infamous mutiny.

Fiji Islands

2010-12-17T14:42:00.000-08:00

This archipelago of over 330 islands is a nature lover's delight as Fiji is an unspoiled environment. Having avoided industrialization, and with its lack of dangerous animals and insects, it is a key area for Eco-tourism and outdoor adventure. The islands provide a tranquil escape at the many outstanding resorts. You'll feel very welcome here as the people are friendly and happy to have you visit.

You won't want to miss a Kava Ceremony when visiting a Fijian village. This common social custom involves sharing the herbal drink derived from the root of the Kava plant. It is said to have been the favourite beverage of the South Pacific's royal families and has medicinal as well as psychoactive properties.

Tahiti and Her Islands

2010-12-17T14:38:00.000-08:00

The Society Islands are the best known of the French islands in the South Pacific. Comprised of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha'a they have long been admired as the most magical and captivating in the region with many visitors considering them the most exquisite islands in the world. Their jagged mountain peaks, pristine coral reefs, white sand beaches and clear lagoons teeming with colourful fish make them a true paradise. Writer James Mitchener named Bora Bora as his favourite.

Tahiti and her islands are a major cruising centre with sailings to the Society Islands available year-round. There's a wealth of luxury resorts on the islands with inviting overwater bungalows, the most exotic way to experience these romantic islands.

Why You Should Visit Spain and Portugal

2010-11-30T16:26:00.000-08:00

With sparkling beaches, dramatic landscapes, friendly people and history dating back 20,000 years, Spain and Portugal create a very rich experience for your vacation. They also offer great value with accommodation, meals and wine amongst the most reasonable in Europe. Read on for a selection of experiences not to be missed in the countries of Iberia.

Fabulous Beaches

• Sun and sand attract visitors to the coasts of Spain and Portugal for fly and flop vacations. You'll find great value at hotels and resorts and some wonderful local cuisine to enjoy. There's also lots of cultural and historical interest for exploring on more active days.
• Whether you want a long stretch of sand or an intimate cove beach, you can find it here. Excellent beaches are found along Portugal's Algarve coast and the Mediterranean beaches of Spain's Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and Costa Brava.

Golf

• This is golfing heaven! The combination of a sunny climate, blue skies and outstanding facilities combine to make Spain and Portugal an ideal golf destination for your winter vacation. You'll find high class golf courses designed by well known architects, many with exceptional seaside locations. Check out the Costa Azul near Lisbon, the sunny Algarve region of Portugal and the Costa del Sol in Spain for the best greens.

Food & Wine

• There's much to enjoy in Iberia when it comes to food and wine. Food is Mediterranean style with wide use of olive oil and fresh ingredients. A variety of delicious dishes catch visitors attention, like Pescaito (small fried fish), the traditional rice and seafood Paella, Andalucian gazpacho and in Portugal, roast suckling pig, stuffed squid Lisbon-style and cod casserole.
• There are more than a dozen wine regions to discover! The variety of vintages includes sparkling Cava wines near Barcelona, Jerez Sherry in southern Spain and, of course, Port wine in the Portugal's Douro region.

Best reasons to visit

• Value - The cost of living between Spain and Portugal is still considered one of the best buys for North Americans with prices on average about 10 to 15% less. This is very much visible in the cost of accommodation from Deluxe to Tourist, especially in the small towns.
• People - The Portuguese people are seen by many visitors as the most friendly and welcoming in Europe.
• Geography - Portugal features enchanting and contrasting landscapes within a short distance. You can easily travel from the mountains, to the beaches, cities and flat lands in a couple of hours, making Portugal an ideal place for a unique and memorable vacation.

Discover South America

2010-11-29T16:23:00.000-08:00

From the breathtaking views of Rio to the unique nature of the Galapagos Islands the many contrasting elements of South America create a memorable and exhilarating vacation experience. See modern cities and ancient ruins; the majestic Andes and the plains of the Pampas; Amazon rainforests and Patagonia's ice fields; all a part of South America's amazing diversity.

So many unique places are found in South America, no wonder it's a favourite with all types of travellers. Here you'll find some of the most intriguing and amazing sights in the world. From Caracas to Cape Horn, imagine being at these remarkable places:

Angel Falls, in Canaima National Park, Venezuela - The world's tallest uninterrupted water fall at 979m (3,230 ft), the view from the air is unforgettable.

Cartagena, Colombia - The colonial walled city and fortress are a UNESCO World Heritage site well worth wandering for the history and striking architecture.

The Amazon River - The longest river and largest river basin in the world, the Amazon runs 6,400 km (4,000 miles) through seven countries; Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil. With a diverse eco system and many unique species, it is a major destination for adventure and eco-travellers.

Ecuador & the Galapagos Archipelago - The smallest country in the Andes has much to offer visitors. The colonial centre of Quito, Pacific beaches, volcanoes both active and extinct, white water rafting, mountain cabins and Amazonia jungle lodges. The Galapagos Archipelago with its unique habitat and marine reserve is a province of Ecuador situated 970 km (600 miles) west of the mainland.

Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Peru - This area is the centre of Incan civilization where ruins are still being discovered and visitors marvel at stories of ancient life. Machu Picchu, the ruined city high in the mountains is nothing short of breathtaking and the most visited site in Peru. Museums in Cusco and Lima bring Incan history, art and culture to life. Active travellers will want to take the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a four-day hike ranked one of the best in the world.

Lake Titicaca, Peru and Bolivia - At 3,812m (12,500 ft) in the Andes, this is the highest commercially navigable lake in the world. The vistas of coastline and mountains are beautiful and there are some unusual islands to explore- like the Uros floating reed islands, some of which welcome visitors.

Patagonia, Chile and Argentina - This expansive and remote region of ice fields, fjords, glaciers and mountains contains such romantic places as the Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas, Cape Horn, the Beagle Channel, Torres del Paines National Park. Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia; the world's southernmost city. Visit Magellanic Penguin colonies and enjoy the rugged outdoors in one of the most beautiful areas on the continent.

Buenos Aires, Argentina - The favourite city of many world travellers is known for its magnificent architecture (including the home of the President, the famous Pink Palace), wide avenues, street side cafes, manicured parks and colourful barrios or neighbourhoods. Seeing Tango dancers perform spontaneously in the street at historic La Boca gets you in the mood of this exciting city.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil - Spanning the border of Argentina and Brazil is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world and the top attraction in South America. Walkways allow for good viewing of the 275 falls which stretch along a 2.7 km (1.67-mile) stretch of the Iguazu River. Entry is through the Visitors Centre where you buy tickets to the Iguazu Falls National Park. Tour on your own or hire a bilingual guide. Nearly 2 million people visit the falls each year.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - With magnificent beaches and mountains right in town, this is one of the world's most spectacular cities. Enjoy the long, sandy- and legendary- Ipanema, Copacabana and Leblon beaches while the famous statue of Christ watches over you from atop Corcovado Mountain. Take a cog railway ride to the top to see this amazing statue and panoramic views of the city and coastline. Rio's annual Carnival is the most lavish in the world and the most colourful time to visit.

Spotlight on the Grand Canyon

2010-10-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

While the Grand Canyon National Park isn't a city, it's definitely worth a spotlight. It's one of those places that Wendy, owner of Lloyds Travel, visited lately that she says is a must do before you die. However, before you start packing your suitcase, if you want to stay in the park (worth every penny!) you need to book well in advance. Staying on one of the lodges or cabins around the rim is the best experience the canyon could offer. To really see the way the skies light changes colour is only a possibility if you're going to be there all day and night! Staying in the park itself is affordable too, with the higher end places falling in about $200 a night, versus the small cabins close to $90 a night. Wendy assures you it's worth it to stay in the park!

The idea of the lodges and cabins are to retain the natural setting of the park while allowing visitors a personal experience with the Grand Canyon and the surrounding nature at the same time. The lodges are not at all glamorous but very distinctive - and not to mention well priced! So what is it about the Grand Canyon that makes it a "do before you die" or a bucket list entry? Wendy said the experience was phenomenal and she's extremely glad she had the opportunity to experience it. Here's what makes the Grand Canyon special...

Nearly five million people see the 1 mile deep (1.6 km) Grand Canyon each year. Most of them see it from their car at overlooks along the South Rim (this includes Grand Canyon Village, Hermits Rest, and Desert View). The South Rim is the most accessible part of the park and is open all year. Other people access the canyon from the North Rim, but it's far less accessible and closes during the winter months.

Something special about staying in the park is having more time to access the Inner Canyon. The Inner Canyon includes everything below the rim and is seen mainly by hikers, mule riders, or river runners. There are many opportunities here for more adventurous travelers who want to backpack, ride a mule to Phantom Ranch, or take a river trip through the Canyon on the Colorado River (which can take anywhere from a few days to three weeks. There are no one-day river trips through Grand Canyon).

Wendy said there were tons of hiking trails, great view points and phenomenal lighting effects. If you want to visit the park, call Wendy today at 1.800.800.7252 and book your trip now! Have you ever been to the Grand Canyon? Leave your experience below!

Spotlight On: the Caribbean

2010-09-12T10:15:00.000-07:00

Did you know one of the worst volcanic eruptions in history took place on Martinique? Or that Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic is the oldest permanent European city in the Western Hemisphere?

For those who want more than a beach vacation, there’s plenty to pique your interest and satisfy your curiosity in the beautiful islands of the Caribbean. Many resorts offer tours to interesting places so why not take some time to learn about your destination from local guides? You can also venture around on your own whether you are in town for a day off a ship or staying on a longer vacation.

Here’s a summary of some of the most interesting places to visit.

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
~ Oldest city in the Americas (1498) - Visit the colonial sector of the city and you’ll be amazed at the cobblestone streets and well preserved buildings from yesteryear. The first cathedral, fortress, hospital, monastery, university, palace and street in the Americas are found here.

Cuba offers many unique experiences
~From the Tropicana Nightclub to the sites of Old Havana (1519), Cuba is rich in intriguing and historical places. Attend Spanish classes, watch the experts roll cigars or take up Cuban music and dance. Cuba is also a leading bird watching centre, a good reason to take a guided hike.

Forts, homes and plantations
~ Restored plantation homes on Jamaica, Barbados and St. Croix are over 200 years old. Guided tours provide a glimpse into life on a sugar plantation.
~ El Morro (1539) in Old San Juan is Puerto Rico's best known fortress and one of the best preserved in the Caribbean. It was declared a World Heritage site by the United Nations in 1983.
~ Old San Juan (1519) is home to many other historic sites including Spanish cellist Pablo Casal’s home, now a museum.
~ La Vigía was the residence of American writer, Ernest Hemingway for more than 20 years. It is situated in the town San Francisco de Paula, outside Havana, Cuba.

Museums
~ The Volcanological Museum on Martinique explains the history and geology behind the eruption of Mt. Pelé which destroyed the town of Saint-Pierre in 1902, one of the worst volcanic eruptions in history.
~ The Dockyard Museum on Antigua is a naval history museum which tells the story of famous English Harbour, first used as hurricane shelter in 1671.
~ The Sugar Museum in Barbados explains the history of sugar cultivation and production, so vital to the island’s economy.
~ The Virgin Islands Museum houses period furnishings, artworks and exhibits. Situated in historic Fort Christian (1672) on St. Thomas.

Architecture
~ Dominica, Grenada and St. Lucia for fine examples of Creole Architecture
~ Old San Juan, Santo Domingo and Havana for colonial Spanish
~ Willemstad, Curacao for authentic Caribbean Dutch
~ Barbados for Jacobean and Georgian buildings built with coral and ships ballast.

Aquariums and marine parks
~ Interact with sea life at these world class venues:
~ Stingray City and Cayman Islands Turtle Farm, Grand Cayman
~ Coral World Ocean Park, St. Thomas.
~ Seaquarium, Curacao
~ Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios Jamaica

Distillery & Factory Tours
~ Cigar companies in Cuba including Partagas, makers of the premium brands Churchill and Lusitanias.
~ Rum factory tours are available on many islands with the Bacardi Rum factory in San Juan the largest producer in the world.
~ Curacao liqueur at Chobolobo in Willemstad, Curacao.
~ Working coffee plantations in Jamaica’s famous Blue Mountains also open their doors to visitors.

Cruising Mexico

2010-09-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

Culturally rich Mexico offers you a variety of exhilarating experiences in three cruising regions: the Mayan Riviera, Mexican (Pacific) Riviera and Sea of Cortez. Whether your vacation is for fiesta, siesta, adventure or exploration, you’ll find what you’re looking for on a cruise to this charming country.

Mexico's Cruising Regions

The Mexican Riviera

The Pacific coast of Mexico, known as the Mexican Riviera, stretches from the port of Ensenada near the California border to Huatulco, south of Acapulco. This was the destination of the popular television series “The Love Boat” which introduced millions to cruising in the 1970's.

Ports of Call

Cabo San Lucas – at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, this once sleepy fishing village has developed into a leading resort, complete with super yachts and homes of the rich and famous. Los Arcos is a unique rock formation where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. Golf with sea views and participate in water sports and deep sea fishing and horseback riding.

Puerto Vallarta – the popular resort spot originally made famous in the 1960's when Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton purchased a home there while filming “Night of the Iguana”. Leading spot for deep sea fishing, water sports and whale watching.

Mazatlan - sail into this important port city past Creston's peak, with the world's second tallest light house (only the Rock of Gibraltar is taller). Be sure to visit the historic old town.

Ixtapa/ Zihuatanejo - Ixtapa is just 5 minutes drive from the fishing village of Zihuatanejo. The beaches of Troncones and wildlife preserve at Barra de Potosi are highlights.

Manzanillo – the setting for the movie “10” with Bo Derek, it is the gateway for the tiered pyramids of La Campana, dating from the first century.

Acapulco – the original Mexican resort city, Acapulco has a beautiful, semi-circular harbour. See the cliff divers perform at La Quebrada, the top attraction.

Huatulco – recently developed specifically as a tourist resort, this scenic town is a port of call on some Panama Canal itineraries.

The Sea of Cortez

Situated between Baja and mainland Mexico, the tranquil Sea of Cortez has long been a favourite of small ship eco-adventure cruising. Now some of the big ships call in the area, notably Holland America Line on 10-day sailings from San Diego that combine the Mexican Riviera and Sea of Cortez. Highlights are the wealth of sea lions, dolphins, whales and birds, scenic cruising of the Sierra de la Giganta and the Copper Canyon.

Ports of Call

Loreto – Home to The Mission Nuestro Senora de Loreto Concha, the first Spanish mission in the Californias (1697). Coming ashore at the peaceful marina the setting is reminiscent of Cabo San Lucas 20 years ago. Enjoy exploring this quiet and fascinating town.

Topolobampo – beautiful seaport, gateway to the Copper Canyon, four times larger than the Grand Canyon and almost 300 feet deeper.

La Paz ( port of Pichilinque ) – Capital of the Baja California Sur, this city has an impressive waterfront walkway, protected beaches, an historic mission (1720) and an excellent museum.

The Yucatan Peninsula & Mayan Riviera

Bordered by both the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico, the southern coast is known as the Mayan Riviera. Cruise ports serve as spring boards for exploring the ancient Mayan ruins and experiencing the many eco and water sport opportunities.

Ports of Call

Cozumel – Mexico's busiest cruise port is famous as a diving and snorkelling island, thanks to its remarkable coral reefs – the Great Mayan Reef is the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. The town of San Miguel has grown as a shopping centre for cruise passengers while the island's centre is mostly natural, home to the Chankanaab National Park and the Punta Sur Ecological Reserve. There are lots of good spots to swim, horseback ride or relax with a drink by the sea on the circle island drive.

Calica – this is not a destination in itself but a drop off point for those wanting to explore the region.

Progreso - on the peninsula's northwest coast, close to the city of Merida and the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, Uxmal, X'cambo and Dzibilchltun.

Mexico is a year-round destination but you'll have the best selection of ships and itineraries between October and May. Interested in a Mexico cruise? Meet our Cruise Specialist Deborah.

Things to do with Kids in Barcelona

2010-09-08T15:40:00.000-07:00

Family vacations are always fun, but children get bored easily. If you are planning a trip to Barcelona with the entire family, do not worry about kids’ attractions. The Spanish city has many places where your children will discover entertaining activities and will have a chance to explore new games.

Barcelona’s Zoo Garden

Grownups and children are welcomed in Barcelona’s Zoo to discover over 2000 animals from all around the world: from exotic species to farm animals, from marine species to jungle monkeys. Barcelona Zoo was opened in 1892 in the Citadel Park (Parc de la Ciutadella). Children will find out more about the animals they love and take a close look at them. Spend a day at the zoo and your kids will learn how to prepare food for animals, where the animals sleep and how to take care of them. They can visit the farm, see dolphin shows or ride ponies. Once you get tired walking, rent a mini electric car to continue driving your way to a full visit of the zoo.

Tips on Visiting Barcelona's Zoo:

• Don’t miss the gorillas’ corner. These giant apes captivate the attention of all visitors. Moreover, Barcelona’s Zoo was the home of Snow Flake, the only known albino gorilla so far, according to Wikipedia. He was the star of the Zoo for almost 4 decades and now he has a special expositional area dedicated to his life.
• To reach the Zoo, take the subway the red line (L1) and get off either at Arc de Triomf or at Marina station. You can also take the yellow line (L4), and get off at Jaume I or at Ciutadella station.
• In the summer, Zoo Garden opens its gates at 10 am and closes them at 8 pm. During winter, the closing time is however 5.30 pm.

The Aquarium of Barcelona

Children will definitely love the fascinating world of the oceans and the seas. In L’Aquarium de Barcelona visitors can see almost 450 different species of fish and marine animals. See the Mediterranean tanks to discover the sea horses, explore the tropical seas to see the piranha, visit Planet Aqua tanks to see how penguins adapted in the frozen seas of the Arctic Ocean.

The main attraction of L’Aquarium is the Oceanarium, a huge tank with a diameter of 36 meters. A walk through an 80-meters-long transparent tunnel, under this tank, is an experience your family must not miss. It’s like walking on the sea bed, while sharks and other fishes surround you.

Tips:

• If you want to have a unique experience make a booking for a one-night sleep with the sharks. Bring your pyjamas and stay up all night long. Your child will love playing games and learning interesting things about sharks.
• To reach L’Aquarium take the subway green line (L3) and get off at Drassanes station or take the yellow line (L4) and get off at Barcelonetta station.
• L’Aquarium de Barcelona is open every day of the year, from 9.30 am.

Tibidabo Amusement Park

Try to rediscover childhood in this magic place. Tibidabo Amusement Park is more than a century old and nowadays still keeps some of its old attractions. The Hall of Mirrors and the puppets, held in the Automatons Museum, have been long time objectives for tourists. Over 30 attractions for the whole family are ready for the visitors. Young or old, everybody will have something to enjoy. Try the big panoramic wheel, the traditional carousel or the exciting roller coaster.

Tibidabo Amusement Park is situated at over 500 meters high, on Collserola Mountain. You can get from here the best views of Barcelona. If your family is tired of all the fun in the park, find the picnic area and have a quick lunch.

Tips:
• For a real fantastic view over the city get out of the amusement park and go to the Temple of Atonement of the Sacred Heart, also known as the Temple of Tibidabo. The top of the temple is situated at 575 m above sea level and it can be reached by lift.
• Tibidabo Park usually opens its gates around 12 am. In summer time, it closes around 10 pm. Check out Tibidabo official site to see the opening hours for every season and listed prices.
• To reach Tibidabo Amusement Park take the FGC underground train line (L7) and get off at Av.Tibidabo station. Take the Blue Tram from there and then the funicular.

The Maritime Museum

Spend an afternoon in this special place. Every visitor is charmed by the vast collection of ships and boats exhibited in The Maritime Museum. It hosts one of the most important collections of maritime ships from the Mediterranean Sea and reproductions of boats from different periods of history.

You will discover the life of pirates or the way people on sea shores used to live and work. You will have the chance to learn more about navigation and trade in the Mediterranean Sea. You will see how a fisherman boat looks like.

Tips:

• Don’t miss the impressive full-sized reproduction of the slave galley. It is not hard to imagine how slaves set there and rowed this huge ship.
• To reach the Maritime Museum, take the subway green line (L3) and get off at Drassanes station.
• The Maritime Museum is open every day from 10 am to 8 pm, except the 1st and the 6th of January, the 25th an the 26th of December.

Travel with the Family Without Sacrificing the Romance

2010-09-08T15:31:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time (in the days before family vacations), a weekend getaway or weeklong vacation together meant romantic dinners by candlelight, sunset strolls along the beach, a quiet exhibition in a famed museum of art. Then the kids came along and meals grew cold as you tended to their needs, getting kicked under the table while attempting to hold a conversation above the din of the very family-friendly restaurant.

Sunset strolls still occurred, but with buckets to hold the seashell treasures the kids found. Visits to museums became harried and to child-focused exhibits ("Yuck, mom, do we have to look at paintings all day?") But romance isn't impossible while traveling with children. If you're looking to spice up your next trip with the kids, here are some tips to help you have the best of both worlds.

Many destination resorts, such as Club Med, feature kids clubs where children of various ages can spend mornings or afternoons in camp-like settings, making crafts, taking adventure walks, learning to swim, and playing games with other children their age. But while kids are enrolled in the club for a day or even a week, couples can sneak off to enjoy a spa treatment, hit the links or take that quiet sunset walk along the beach. Some hotels and resorts such asThe Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney's Beach Club Resort, Disney's Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney's Polynesian Resort offer special Kids' Night Out evening programs that may last two to four hours. Kids get dinner (typically pizza-party style), movies, campfire fun, games ... and it gives mom and dad some time to have a quiet dinner alone.

For hotels without special programs to keep the kids occupied, some keep a list of trusted babysitters who will come to your hotel room and watch the children so their parents can get a little alone time. Even if not advertised, contact the concierge to find out if they can refer you to local sitters.

Get Cultural

Perhaps the little ones aren't so interested in the "boring" art museums, but selecting a destination filled with both romance and history can help you stroll hand-in-hand with doe-eyed pleasure while the kids get an up-close-and-personal peek into their history books. Love will not be lost in the city of romance, and while you and your partner devour chocolates and walk along the Seine in Paris, the kids will happily tag along and marvel over the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Take a trip to Buenos Aires and let the kids giggle while everyone learns the art of the tango. Book an over water bungalow in Tahiti and let the kids stare through the glass-bottom floor window at the natural and highly colorful fish swimming inches away, as you remain secluded in the island's paradise, eating passion fruit.

During winter months, even if you're sick of shoveling out of the snow and are desperate for a warm-weather getaway, traveling to a cold-weather destination like Montreal, Snowmass or Steamboat Springs will help you avoid the hordes of families heading to the beaches. Bundle up and take the kids skiing, ice skating or dog sledding during the day, and after they crash into bed each night, open a bottle of wine and snuggle up before your in-room fireplace. Many ski lodges and rentals offer suites with private Jacuzzis beneath a blanket of stars and the absolute quiet of the surrounding snow-covered mountains. What could be more romantic?

City Snap Guide: Cape Town

2010-09-03T14:38:00.000-07:00

Cape Town is not just for backpackers (although you can do that too). A city with such a diverse range of attractions, from lavish and luxurious to travelling on a tight budget, Cape Town has a little something for everyone. We even arranged a faith-based tour this year for fundraising that visited Cape Town. As you know, Cape Town hosted this year's FIFA World Cup - arguably the most spectacular location for the sport. What you saw on television is nothing, Cape town has much more to offer.

There is so much to see and do in Cape Town, a week long visit minimum would be ideal, although you could get away with a 3-day or 5-day visit if you had a tight itinerary. When I'm going somewhere I haven't been before, I like at least ten days myself, because it gives you time to really soak in the culture surrounding you and your activities don't feel rushed. There are a ton of organized day tours available in Cape Town including wine route tours and guided walks. It's easy enough to fly into the Cape Town airport, and it's advisable to rent a car as many areas aren't easily accessible by foot.

The Great Outdoors

When many people think of Cape Town, they think of safaris and exploring. While that's not all Cape Town has to offer, you can certainly enjoy the great outdoors via safari or many other ways! The Kruger National Park is one of many game parks in Africa, but it's arguably the most spectacular with its diverse wildlife. The Kruger National Park should be on everybody's bucket list according to South Africa Tourism. With an all-year sunny climate, the park offers all kinds of activities, such as guided game drives and bush walks with an armed ranger, to three-night walking tours into deep wilderness areas. There's also the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park where you could catch a glimpse of a black maned lion. Lesli, our adventure travel specialist, is definitely the person to talk to about the safari possibilities in South Africa.

Culturally Rich

Cape Town may be struggling with it's history, but the modern city is certainly a wonder to visit and extraordinarily rewarding. There are so many unique cultures in Cape Town and South Africa, it's been called the Rainbow Nation. There are eleven official languages in South Africa, including sign language. The vibrant urban culture shows just how diverse Cape Town and South Africa truly are. There are also a ton of museums and galleries in the area, such as the South African Museum which explores the history and culture of South Africa. In the Castle of Good Hope, you will find cultural and military history - it's also the oldest building in South Africa.

Fresh & Fabulous Food & Wine

Cape Town is known for it's restaurants that serve delicious fresh seafood and fabulous award-winning wines, and it's own signature and distinctive Malay-inspired cuisine. Just outside the city, you'll find the winelands, one of the most picturesque areas of the Western Cape. There are three major wine routes where you can experience the culture of quaint, historical towns while being surrounded by vineyards hugging the hills and valleys, yet still being close to the buzz of the city. Explore by car and stop at your heart's desire, for wine tasting or to purchase from the estates.

With so many diverse cultures, you can imagine how incredible the food is - it's an exquisite epicurean experience. For dining and entertainment, try the V&A Waterfront, a still working harbour. There are many waterside pubs and restaurants for all tastes. There's also a ton of shopping along the waterfront, offering over 250 shops.

Odds & Ends

You may have discovered the great outdoors in parks and safaris, but don't forget about the absolutely fabulous beaches. With white sand and sparkling blue water, you'll find typical beach activities such as sailing, fishing, whale watching, wind surfing and kite-boarding and more. Don't forget to visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens - an area of 528 hectares (36 of which are cultivated garden). The garden showcase only plants that are indigenous to South Africa. Whether you're going for a leisurely stroll or a lazy picnic, the gardens are a must see when visiting Cape town.

Is Cape Town on your bucket list? Call your favourite Lloyds agent today at 1.800.800.7252 and let the Lloyds Travel experience take you there!

World Guide to Kite Surfing

2010-09-01T16:21:00.000-07:00

Kite surfing is an extreme sport that has been getting a lot of emphasis in the last few decades. With the number of people taking up the sport of kite surfing as a hobby, there is also a rush all over the world to find out the best destinations for it. The five places listed below are some of the best for kite surfers, whether they are experts, intermediates, or just plain rookies. Not only are these places some of the best on the planet to practice your kite surfing, they are also amongst the most apt places to try out those new moves that you have wanted to try out for so long. These places are also amongst some of the best destinations as beaches, and are seen as great locations to have a fun day.

1.Tenerife:

located quite in close proximity to the coast line of Spain, Tenerife is an island of immense beauty, with beautiful sun, surf and sand. Tenerife is considered a haven for those who wish to make the most of the pleasant conditions for their adventure sport activities. The island’s coast is known for its huge waves and hefty winds that make adventure sports an absolute must do. The island is known to have a good number of extreme sports events, with competitors coming in from the world over. The place becomes extremely crowded during such events, with a large number of competitions and spectators coming in.

2. Cabarete:

One of the most important places from the point of view of adventure sports in the Dominican Republic is the land of Cabarete. Cabarete is extremely famous for its natural brilliance, making the perfect harmony of strong breeze and wind with just the right kind of waves that would facilitate the best opportunities to kite surf and also undertake other types of crazy sports. The place, being famous as it is, is also good in terms of accommodations for guests who come to this destination.

3. Cumbuco:

situated in the Brazilian state of Ceara, one of the most popular and most interesting adventure sports destinations, especially for the sport of kite surfing is Combuco. This location is of prime interest to people interested in kite surfing as the place is home to many hundreds of kilometers of virgin beaches. For atleast half the year, this place seems blessed with the best winds on the planet. The place also has great accommodation options, which makes living here quite cheap. A great place for any adventure sport related to the water.

4. Tarifa:

Tarifa is situated on the southernmost tip of Spain and has become so famous and popular as a kite surfing option that every summer over here is so overcrowded with people that it is difficult to look at the blue sky, as the entire sky is filled with kites of various sizes and a wide range of colors. However, do not be put off by the number of people at this location, as there is always place for some more people. There are a great number of places on this beach to learn how to kite surf with atleast a fifteen kite surfing schools.

5. Boracay:

Boracay is called one of the most beautiful beach destinations on the planet. There is a great variance in this number of beautiful scenes that one can come across here. This lovely destination is situated in Philippines. It is a great place to learn how to kite surf. The winds at this place are just the right amount to support those who are just at the beginning of learning how to kite surf.

Look and Learn in Seattle

2010-08-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

The Seattle Art Museum is one of the most accommodating art museums that also displays some of the greatest names in art. They allow you to photograph throughout the majority of the museum with the exception of some of the temporary exhibits. To find out what the latest exhibits are, visit the S.A.M. website - the Picasso exhibit opens up on October 8th, 2010.

The Pacific Science Center has fun for people of all ages, with exhibits you can interact with and truly enjoy. The Harry Potter exhibit opens up October 23rd, and will be fun for the whole family - or those who are simply young at heart. Currently, the Pacific Science Center is featuring an exhibition on circuses, for more information visit their website.

Finally, who can resist the Experience Music Project | Science Fiction Museum? Currently featuring an exhibit on Jimi Hendrix, the EMPSFM lets you explore some of the greatest pieces of the human - and non human - world. If the Seattle music scene is your thing, the Hard Rock Cafe downtown has an incredible Kurt Cobain & Nirvana memorabilia section. Don't forget about the Space Needle if you want some truly incredible views of the city - but because of the unpredictable weather, just make sure you pick a day to go on the spur of the moment while its clear outside.

Great Coffee, Great Food, & More Coffee...

2010-08-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

The Pike Place Market is world famous - if you haven't heard about the fish being tossed around and the buzz of the most lively employees on this side of the continent, you've been missing out. It's nearly impossible to be down when you're around such a lively place. The food is incredible, and the fresh produce is to die for.

In and around where Pike St and First Avenue intersect, you'll find an array of shops and cafes that you can't find anywhere else. Beecher's Handmade Cheese is on the corner, and you can't resist the smell of freshly made cheese. Their flagship cheese is melt-in-your-mouth good and comes in regular or smoked. Other irresistible cheeses are Marco Polo, with Madagascar peppercorns, No Woman, with Jamaican jerk spices, or there's always their very fresh cheese curds!

You can't miss Le Panier either - with the aromas of buttery croissants and pastries wafting out of their doorway. Try one of the framboise croissants - a croissant filled with raspberry jam, and still warm.

And finally, if you're down at Pike Place, you can't miss the Original Starbucks. Guaranteed that the line will be out the door, but it's definitely worth it to get inside. Don't pull any of the specialty items off the shelf - they have them behind the counter ready to go. These items include at home and travelling mugs with the original Starbucks logo, as well as the Special Reserve Pike Place blend of coffee - a must if you're a coffee fanatic.

Eats and Treats

As if there wasn't enough food at Pike Place Market, Seattle offers some of the most incredible restaurants and experiences. Lola is a quaint little restaurant about a five minute walk from Pike Place on 4th Avenue. With a reputation for having some of the most incredible breakfast in the city, it's no surprise that you should make a reservation. The made-to-order donuts arrive at your table fresh with vanilla mascarpone and marmalade. Eat them before your meal - not because they're filling, but because it's best to do with a clean palate. They're to die for. If you want higher-class dining, the revolving restaurant at the Space Needle gives you great food at a high elevation. They enforce a dress code, so leave the tank tops and muscle tees at home.

City Snap Guide: Seattle

2010-08-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

If you love coffee but can't afford to go to Italy, why not take a jaunt into Washington state and visit Seattle!

What makes Seattle so special? The world famous Pike Place market, the first ever Starbucks, the underground city? With a buzzing art world, a lively waterfront and unique cultural experiences, Seattle should definitely be on your bucket list. Friendly people, a great downtown and killer shopping make this city one you'll want to visit over and over. Seattle has something for everyone, never failing to disappoint. One tip to remember? Bring your umbrella! Northern west coast weather is a little more than unpredictable. A bonus? The buses downtown are free for large portions of the day making the city very tourist-friendly.

A City Underground

Seattle is unique in it's construction. The city was settled in 1851, making it quite modern in recent history. However, the roads were at sea level, and the city would frequently flood. In 1889, sixty-four blocks of the business district of Seattle burnt to the ground.

When it came time to rebuild, the city decided to raise the street level to prevent further flooding. In order to do this, they built retaining walls around the streets, filling them with rubble from the fire. However, the building entrances and sidewalks still remained below the walls - which sometimes were as high as the building's second level! As you can imagine, this made getting from one side of the street to the other extremely difficult.

Eventually the sidewalks were leveled with the streets, and the bottom levels of the buildings became forgotten. In the 1960s, Bill Speidel petitioned to save the buildings from being torn down and began the underground tours - which he turned into a full time business! The Underground Tour is an incredible way to learn history, the tour guides truly enjoy their jobs! For those interested in a little bit more adult fun, the Underworld Tour looks at the red light district, and tales full of opium, sex and debauchery. The one major rule for the tours? No high heels allowed! The terrain is rugged and includes six flights of stairs.

For more on Seattle, check out Great Coffee, Great Food and More Coffee... or Look and Learn: Things to See in Seattle.

City Snap Guide: San Antonio

2010-08-25T10:14:00.000-07:00

San Antonio possesses a unique charm. With a huge cultural heritage that represents its dynamic history, this is a city of contrasts: one of the largest cities in the U.S that still boasts the relaxed friendliness of a small town. From down-home hospitality and cooking to high-brow dining, extensive art collections and excellent golf courses, San Antonio serves up an all-star winner. Why not get away from it all in southern Texas?

Haunted Houses

The battle at the famous Alamo took hundreds of lives, following repeated attacks by Mexican general Santa Anna's army in 1836. Their ghosts have wandered the site ever since; to this day staff and tourists claim to hear screams and witness grotesque apparitions. Brave a visit to the Chapel and the Long Barracks Museum and Library. Explore more of the paranormal with Alamo City Ghost Tours. Guides lead you through graveyards, battlefields, old hotels and more. Tours feature ghost hunting equipment and stories about why San Antonio is known as one of the most haunted cities in the U.S. Why not add "surviving a real haunted city" onto your bucket list, and then have the ability to cross it off?

Parks and Recreation

Take a swim in a lake shaded by cypress trees at San Pedro Park, the second-oldest park in the U.S. Check out the San Antonio Zoo, ranked one of the best in the nation with more than 3,500 animals representing 600 species. Walk along the San Antonio River in a beautiful park-like setting that winds its way through the city. Downtown, the river is lined with bustling restaurants, galleries, shops and attractions like the Aztec Theater, the only surviving exotic-themed movie palace in Texas. Events include arts and crafts shows, music celebrations, and a host of festivals. Perfect for those wanting to broaden their knowledge of the arts and of history!

Look and Learn

For spectacular views of Alamo City, ride up the 750-foot Tower of the Americas and enjoy fine dining at the new Chart House Restaurant as well as breathtaking scenery from the revolving observation deck. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the Witte Museum, San Antonio's premier museum of South Texas history, culture and natural science. Located on the banks of the San Antonio River, the Witte offers permanent and travelling exhibits as well as a super-fun H-E-B Science Treehouse with four levels of hands-on displays. Who doesn't like to touch things in museums?

Eats and Treats

Get to know the heart of the city through San Antonio Foodie Tours, an outfit that offers a variety of cultural and culinary experiences from restaurant tasting tours to ranch and rodeo visits! Sample such local delicacies as fish tacos, prickly pear margaritas and smoked brisket smothered in 'secret recipe' Texas BBQ sauce. Each tasting tour is different so you can go on more than one. This is perfect for those epicurean travelers who like a taste of adventure - both for the taste buds and for the soul. Get off the ol' dusty trail and step back in time for a brew at the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum, offering both history and classic Texan Fare. Don't forget to check out our article on beer while travelling, and remember to ask what's on tap!

Grover Beach Destination Guide

2010-08-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

Why Grover Beach? Located along the seaside in the state of California, Grover Beach is a city in the San Luis Obispo county. The distance the city retains from the two major metropolitan areas of California - San Francisco and Los Angeles - allows it to keep a rural character and stay nature-lover friendly. If you fly into one of those major airports, renting a car would be in your best interest. You could also book a connecting flight to either SBP or PRB airports - ask your travel agent for more details. Some of the beauty of Grover Beach is it's proximity to the other communities such as Pismo Beach, Los Osos and San Simeon. The area attracts tourists based on it's moderate coastal climate, drive-on beach and diverse activities.

Nature Delights

When you're in the SLO County, or staying in Grover Beach - what can you do? A place designed for nature lovers, I hope you like exploring! Head over to Bishop Peak for some of the best views around. Bishop Peak is the tallest of the "Nine Sisters", a chain of peaks running to Morro Bay. Looking like a bishop's miter, locals of the area call it Bishop's Peak. The peak is just over 1,500 feet.

Interested in something different? Try the Oceano Dunes - a 5.5 mile beach open for vehicle use, and 1,500 acres of sand dunes for off-road recreation that attracts people from all over North America. The Oceano Dunes are the only park in California where vehicle use is permitted, meaning that passenger cars can easily be driven on the Northern area of the beach. Surfing, swimming, surf fishing, horseback riding and bird watching are also available. For more information on the Oceano Dunes, click here.

Los Osos's Montaña De Oro features over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, streams, canyons and hills, and includes the over 1,300 foot Valencia Peak. A nature lover's dream found in one amazing place!

It's Not Just Nature

For those who want something off the beach and mountains, try Hearst Castle in San Simeon. A National Historic Landmark mansion, Hearst Castle was originally designed for William Randolph Hearst, the newspaper magnate. It is currently maintained as a state historic park and boasts a large collection of art and antiques. It's open for tours, and attracts approximately one million visitors per year. With art, restoration projects, antiques, history - not forgetting to mention it's beautiful gardens - Hearst Castle has something for everyone. For more information on tours and what Hearst Castle can offer you, click here.

Wine & Cheese

SLO County also offers several wineries for wine tasting - all you epicurean enthusiasts will get amazing views as you sip a choice red or white. For a complete list of wineries in the San Luis Obispo area, visit their feature wineries page on the Wine Country website. After all, California is famous for it! For food, the area offers a taste of everything! A wide variety of cuisines can be found in Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, San Simeon and more. French, Italian, Mexican - you name it, it's there - your best bet is to find local favourites, or restaurants that use local ingredients to really get a taste of California. Try using Yelp to find local restaurants in the city you're in at the time. Pismo Beach is home to several small cafes and restaurants that are locally owned, such as Mon Ami and the Honeymoon Cafe.

Cruising China

2010-08-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

China is one of the most fascinating destinations on earth. When you visit China you will marvel at its geographic diversity and the mighty Yangtze River. See the contrast between ancient Chinese culture and its more recent entrepreneurial spirit. Be inspired by majestic landscapes and impressive historical sites. And when you cruise China, all the while you’ll enjoy the comfort of your luxurious hotel on the sea!

China cruises take you to the highlights of China. Depending on the holiday you may visit:

Beijing – China’s former imperial capital whose rich history dates back more than 3,000 years. The Forbidden City is characterized by grand palaces and courtyards. Visit the famed Tiananmen Square, the Imperial Summer Palace and its stunning lakeside Chinese gardens. Take an excursion to the Great Wall of China a 4,000-mile-long series of sandstone and earthwork fortifications built and maintained between the 5th century B.C. and the 16th century A.D.

Xi’an - From 618 to 907 A.D., this dynasty presided over one of China’s most glorious cultural periods spreading its influence throughout Asia into Europe and Africa. Xi’an is home of the Terracotta Warriors, 8000 life-sized terracotta infantrymen still guarding the tomb of the first Quin Emperor.

Guilin - one of China’s most scenic areas. Pass spectacular limestone peaks on a trip down the Li River.

Shanghai - China’s largest city and one of the world’s most important ports. See the modern metropolis of the financial district juxtaposed with the older sections of the city. Head to the Shanghai Museum and see its ancient ceramics, bronzes, calligraphy and other artifacts.

Lhasa (Tibet) - the economic, spiritual and cultural centre of Tibet. Highlights include the 1,300-year-old Jokhang Temple, one of Tibet’s most sacred sites; the Tibetan Museum; Potala Palace, winter home of the Dalai Lama since the 7th century; and Sera Monastery, an active Buddhist temple.

Family Travel Tips

2010-08-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

Children’s initial excitement over family vacations can quickly turn to restlessness once the car ride begins. Careful packing and creative planning can make traveling more fun and less stressful for both you and your kids.

Try these fifteen helpful hints from the revised and updated edition of “Practical Parenting Tips” by Vicky Lansky to keep kids entertained and well behaved on the road.

Restlessness

• Change seating arrangements occasionally. One adult in the back seat for all of half of a trip usually makes for a pleasant journey.
• Stop periodically to run and play with your kids. The break will be good for everybody. Pack a bottle of bubbles or a package of balloons in the glove compartment. Stash a Frisbee, ball, or jump rope under a seat.
• Announce a treat for the end of the day so everybody will have something to look forward to (a swim in the pool, dinner at a favorite restaurant, and so on).

Back Seat Bickering

• Stop the car and pull over when fighting begins and don’t go again until it ends. Get out of the car, if necessary, until your kids have quieted down.
• Let kids know that fighting endangers everyone in the car. Consider deducting something from their allowance or withholding privileges.

Food

• Carry a supply of small paper plates or coffee filters with little slits in the center. Put the sticks of Popsicles or ice cream bars through the slits, and there will be less mess on car seats and fingers.
• Cut sandwiches in different shapes for easy identification: triangles for those with mustard, rectangles for those with mayonnaise, and so on.
• Avoid taking very salty foods in the car; they inspire lots of drinking-and lots of rest stops.

Beverages

• Put liquids in well-washed plastic lemon or lime juice dispensers. (Remove the inserts with a sharp pointed object, replace after filling, and screw the caps back on.) If you freeze them before you leave, the drinks will stay cool as they melt.
• Satisfy both hunger and thirst with grapes. Older kids may prefer frozen grapes. (Always cut them in half for toddlers.) Oranges serve the same purpose, but they’re messier.
• Keep flexible straws in your purse. They make it easier for children to drink from cups in a restaurant or car seat.

Activities

• Draw faces on your child’s fingers or hands (or your own) with washable markers. Enjoy puppet “conversations” or stories!
• Store colored pencils, markers and coloring books in a metal cake pan with a sliding cover. (Crayons melt in the summer heat.) The closed top provides a work surface.
• Buy postcards at your favorite places while traveling. Write down the day’s activities on the back of the cards. Put them in a scrapbook you’ve brought along, or mail them to your home address.

Germany's Romantic Road

2010-08-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

Have you traveled the Romantic Road in Germany? Checkered with sunflowers, castles, vineyards and multi-colored autumn trees, the "Romantische Strasse" is "one of the most scenically beautiful" according to Frommers.

A trade route during the middle ages, Germany's Romantic Road still retains much of its medieval character. The road often winds through forgotten sections of countryside, connecting walled towns and picturesque villages. Travelers may enter a town through an arched gateway complete with guard towers. Inside, you will find gothic cathedrals, half-timbered fachwerk houses, beautiful historic hotels and often a medieval festival. Fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein and the Alps complete the charm.

Stay at least one or more nights in a historic hotel in Rothenburg o.d.T. -- the best preserved medieval town in Germany. The sparsely populated Rothenburg - Weikersheim region has an abundance of historic sights including a palace with the best Baroque Garden in Germany. Farther south at the foot of the Alps, you will find Ludwig II's fairytale Castle Neuschwanstein and the popular Peforming Arts Center Neuschwanstein. In addition to numerous castles, the Füssen - Reutte region offers spectacular mountain views and a host of outdoor activities like skiing, hiking and sailing as well as fine vacation hotels. Many hotels offer rooms with a view in addition to health, fitness and wellness programs. Don't hesitate to take a walk outside a village into the surrounding farm fields, forests, and mountains. It is easy to find a pleasant spot, where you hear nothing but the birds and the wind.

Adventure in Aruba

2010-08-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

One of most beautiful islands on the Caribbean, Aruba is tiny by comparison to neighboring islands but a giant in adventure. Like many of the surrounding islands, Aruba has turquoise waters and white sand beaches that invite visitors to take a step away from the many other modern attractions.

But if you are looking for an adventure, the comparison stops right there. Aruba has forty-two different dive sites that make the island a diver’s haven. If you want to discover the secret treasures of Aruba’s underwater world that are hidden from the landlubber, scuba-diving is a must. Exotic coral reefs, teeming with marine life, a variety of tropical fish parading in vibrant colors, manta rays, barracudas and other sea creatures, are seen at close range for a spectacular show under the sea. The opportunity to explore sunken ship wrecks of World War II vintage only serves to make the experience more unforgettable.

Aruba, with its trade winds, is also perfect for sailing and windsurfing. Those who like staying close to shore can enjoy snorkeling which affords a magnificent view of the coral formations and marine life. Kayaking along the coast provides a breathtaking sight of mangrove forests and secret caves.

Fishing charters in Aruba offer an exciting adventure visiting the marine life and witnessing one of the most valued adventures in the island. Whatever fishing charter you choose, you will surely enjoy the adventure knowing that the Aruba waters give you the opportunity to catch trophy fish. At the same time you will be fishing with some of the best crews that you may ever encounter. Arranging passage on one of Aruba fishing charters can lead to a day of sun, fun and excitement when you reel in a mahi mahi.

What if you like land? Well, there is plenty of adventure for you to enjoy. Horseback riding through the diverse landscapes, from the sand dunes to the desert-like plains allows you to discover the untamed beauty of Aruba’s wildlife.

If you’re a fan of those SUV commercials that show a vehicle ascending a peak overlooking the ocean, then rent a four-wheel drive for an island tour along the North coast with its rugged terrain, giant cacti and the popular divi-divi trees. A top tourist attraction is the Natural Bridge, the Caribbean’s highest and most impressive coral structure that stands twenty-five feet above sea level.

Want to go underground? Exploring Aruba’s subterranean caves shows a different landscape from those famous white beaches. Spelunking offers another view of Aruba’s exciting and mysterious side. Secret caves sprinkled throughout the shoreline make for fascinating exploration. Legend has it that these caves were made by the pirates of the Caribbean as their hideouts, a story which adds a touch of romance and adventure when visiting the caves.

An adventure vacation in Aruba can give your Caribbean vacation an extra-special memory. Exploring and discovering the exciting side of Aruba may be what your lifestyle needs. Remember to bring a camera and take pictures to create your own travel log that you can share of your exciting Aruba adventure.

What’s a bucket list?

2010-08-09T16:03:00.000-07:00

A bucket list is a list of things you want to do before you die. For some people, it’s the crazy, wild and exotic. For others, it could be learning how to dance, draw, or cook. Why not combine your bucket list with travelling? Learn how to cook on an epicurean cruise, and see a country you’ve always dreamed of visiting at the same time! Sky dive in western Europe, learn to draw in the Mediterranean next to the beautiful ancient architecture, or find your dancing feet in Spain! Unsure of where to start? Think of some places you’ve been wanting to visit, and things you’ve been wanting to try, and us at Lloyds can help you plan the perfect holiday that knocks two points off your bucket list in one go!

Still stuck? Check out our adventure specialist, Lesli’s, top places to go before you die:

Torun, Poland - the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, this medieval city dates back to 1100BC and was home to the Teutonic Knights, Franciscan monks and Dominicans.

Bagan, Myanmar – this ancient capital of Mandalay although not designated as a World Heritage Site, should be.

Ajanta Caves, India - these rock cut cave monuments contain paintings and sculptures considered to be masterpieces of both Buddhist and universal pictorial art. These caves were hidden amongst jungle growth until they were discovered in 1819.

Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines - these 2000 year old rice terraces are commonly referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World by the locals.

Meteora, Greece – these ‘suspended rocks’ are one of the most important complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece.

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka - Sigiriya, Lion’s Rock is an ancient fortress and palace and once a monastery. It is one of the seven World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka.

Valley of Flowers, India – this beautiful high-altitude Himalayan valley is splashed with colour of hundreds of different flowers. The valley was declared a national park in 1982 is now a World Heritage Site.

Tower of Hercules, Spain - this ancient Roman lighthouse sits on a peninsula in north-western Spain and is still used as a lighthouse!

So what’s on YOUR bucket list? Let the Lloyds Travel experience take you there.

Planning for Family Travel

2010-08-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

When preparing to travel with a family, there can be a multitude of different things to sort out – from tickets to taxis to the airport, as well as packing clothes, equipment and toys in between.

In amongst all the hassle of packing, arranging and ensuring your young ones will have enough to keep them occupied until you get to the hotel or resort at your destination, the thought of arranging insurance for your holiday might slip to the back of your mind. Checking that you have adequate travel insurance before your trip is essential in order to ensure that you and your group are covered in the event of accidents and theft during your holiday.

Annual travel insurance policies can be purchased for longer periods of time, should you be making multiple trips during a short period of time. Such deals can often work out cheaper than single-trip travel insurance and can help cover all members of your group during your holiday your family from a range of factors.

When searching for coverage it is important to research different policies and the type of coverage that they offer and, most importantly, to read the small print to check for any snags which could affect any claims.

Factors will depend on location and any planned activities during the holiday. Activity holidays can be fun for all, but it is important to make sure you’re covered for sports such as jet-skiing and other activities that have an increased risk of injury.

It is also essential to ensure that your possessions are covered for the duration of your trip in order to protect against any financial loss as a result of theft, luggage and passport loss, travel delays and any other legal expenses.

For more information about insurance policies, call us at 1.800.800.7252.

Destination Dubrovnik

2010-07-09T15:50:00.000-07:00

Dubrovnik is a city reborn. It was cut off from the world and subjected to sustained attack during the Yugoslav wars of the early 1990s. Many buildings in the Old Town were damaged (though those thick walls stood firm), the infrastructure of the city as a whole was the destroyed, and the beautiful Dalmatian coastline disappeared from the tourist map. Now, every inch of the walled city has been restored, and Dubrovnik is once again a chic destination and a celebrity magnet.

TRY SOME CROATIAN WINE

It deserves to be better known. Among the best of the Dalmatian reds is Dingač, which comes in several varieties; if you prefer white look for a label that says Pošip.

GO TO LOKRUM

The island is a 10-minute ferry ride away. Richard the Lionheart is said to have been shipwrecked here on his way back from the Crusades. There are worse places to wash up: it is quiet and peaceful, overrun by peacocks, and at one end of the island is a pretty saltwater pool known as Mrtvo More, the Dead Sea.

LIE ON A BEACH

Miramare Bay has a secluded shingle beach reached via the very swish Hotel Bellevue (see Where to Stay). Watch the fearless boys leaping from the cliff, then have a bite to eat in the hotel's restaurant. Lapad beach, on the far side of town, is more local and authentic - all pebbles and cheap eats, like a Balkan slice of Brighton.

Madiera and Porto Santo

2010-07-09T15:38:00.000-07:00

MADIERA

With its moderate climate, the Portuguese island of Madeira, off the coast of North-West Africa, has been a popular winter destination since the mid-19th century. A long list of celebrity guests, including Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin and Gregory Peck, have escaped to the famous Reid's Palace, a bastion of old-world charm, elegant sophistication and afternoon tea on the terrace. Today the island is also home to designer retreat Choupana Hills where hip execs go to de-stress in the spa. In the capital Funchal, there are colonial restaurants, gardens, a market and a 16th-century cathedral to discover, while further afield the island boasts beautiful lush scenery, hilltop villages and canal-side walks.

PORTO SANTO

Porto Santo, Madeira's neighbour in the Atlantic, is in effect Europe's only desert island. Four hours from London and only 12km by 7km wide, this outpost of Portugal is, however, far more African than European. It has a volcanic moonscape with no vegetation apart from palm trees and vineyards, few buildings and a long golden beach lapped by a turquoise sea. It is one of the least-developed beach resorts in Europe with only 19 taxis and one main tourist attraction. But it does offer a handful of charming hotels, a good selection of restaurants and a mild climate.

What to See in Prague

2010-07-09T15:31:00.000-07:00

The bohemian city of Prague, with its skyline of gothic spires and narrow cobbled streets, is perfect for a romantic city break. It also offers many cultural hotspots, including Kafka's house and the Mozart Museum.

ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK
Old Town Square, Prague. The Old Town Hall's Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, has been parading its medieval saint statuettes from 8am to 8pm almost non-stop since 1490, and it never fails to wow the crowds. The saints march by, visible through a window that opens on the hour above the clock face, itself an arcane work of old science, with Zodiac phases and sunrise and sunset times marked off in gold-bordered segments. While the saints do their stuff, four other statuettes surrounding the clock face, Greed, Vanity, Death and the Turk, wag their heads in moral instruction. If you're early, look at the scenes of Bohemian life painted by the great Czech artist Josef Mánes on the calendar dial below the clock face.

CHARLES BRIDGE
Prague's most familiar monument, the 13th-century home to kitsch souvenir sellers, connects the Old Town with the Mala Strana at the foot of the castle.

LOBKOWICZ PALACE
Jirska 3, Prague Palace (00 420 223 312 925;www.lobkowiczevents.cz)A wonderfully varied collection of treasures, including Bruegel's Haymaking, a Velázquez, two Canalettos depicting panoramic views of London, a priceless collection of weaponry and Beethoven's own performance score of the Third Symphony, annotated with the composer's own comments.

OLD TOWN HALL
Staromestske Namestí 3, Prague(00 420 724 508 584). Built in 1338, this is the only building in Prague to suffer Nazi gunfire, now superbly restored.

OLD TOWN SQUARE
The Old Town Square (Staromestske Namesti) is the site of the church of Our Lady before Tyn, the Jan Hus memorial - a symbol of dissidence against oppression - and the Astronomical Clock (see above).

PRAGUE CASTLE
Hradcany, Prague(00 420 224 37 3368,www.hrad.cz) One of the most popular sites in the city, the buildings enclosed by the castle walls include a palace, an art gallery, three churches, Kafka's house and a monastery.

ST VITUS CATHEDRAL
Prague Castle, Hradcany, Prague (00 420 2 2437 3368). Once a 10th-century chapel where farmers offered up sacrifices to the fertility god Svantovít, St Vitus's Cathedral in Prague Castle remained more or less permanently under construction right up until the 1920s. Its original medieval stonework, visible in the apse and transepts, is oddly fronted by Art Nouveau stained-glass windows in the nave. The crypt is well worth a look, housing the tomb of Charles IV, father of Bohemia's brief Golden Age. Even without a ticket for the crypt and tower, though, you can take in the enormous baroque, silver submarine-like coffin of St John of Nepomuk, one of the great Hapsburg propaganda tools for converting the Protestant masses.

WALLENSTEIN PALACE AND GARDEN
Valdstejinske Namesti 3, Prague (00 420 2 5732 0057). Baroque masterpiece built by the great Hapsburg general between 1624 and 1630. This was one of the first buildings of this architectural era in Prague. There is an exquisitely manicured garden in period style, open only during the summer months.

MUSEUMS

BERTRAMKA MOZART MUSEUM
Mozartova 169, Prague (www.bertramka.com). Overlooked in guidebooks, but well worth a visit. From April to September Bertramka also presents a programme of classical concerts, some with a "living history" element attached, where performers play out the days of the 18th century. Open April to Oct daily, from 9am to 6pm; and November to March daily, from 9:30am to 4pm.

JEWISH MUSEUM
U Staré skoly 1, Prague (00 420 221 711 511; www.jewishmuseum.cz). One ticket covers all six components of the Jewish Museum, in the former Prague ghetto, Josefov: the Klausen, Maisel, Pinkas and Spanish synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Ceremonial Hall. The recently restored walls of the Pinkas synagogue list the names and home towns of 77,297 Jews killed in the Holocaust. The museum was established in 1906 to preserve the remains of this massive clearance project. Closed Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

NARODNI GALERIE: ST AGNES'S CONVENT
U milosrdných 17, Prague (00 420 224 810 628; www.ngprague.cz). The National Gallery's fabulous medieval and Gothic art collection could not have been given a more appropriate new home than St Agnes's Convent. The oldest surviving Gothic structure in the city, its blackened stone walls emanate mystery and gloom. A highlight of the art collection is the work of Master Theodoric, who painted hundreds of small, moon-faced portraits of saints for Charles IV's summer palace at Karlstejn. Closed Mondays.

NARODNI GALERIE: STERNBERG PALACE
Hradcanské námestí 15, Prague (www.ngprague.cz). The European art collection displayed here is outstanding, with emphasis on the 14th-18th centuries. The ground floor houses the exhibition of German and Austrian art of the 16th to 18th century. The second floor hosts an exhibition of the works of Italian, Spanish, French and Netherlands masters from the 16th to the 18th century, including Tintoretto, Ribera, Tiepolo, El Greco, Goya, Rubens and van Dyck.

NARODNI GALERIE: ST GEORGE'S CONVENT
Jirske Namesti 33, Prague (00 420 257 531 644; www.ngprague.cz). Bohemia's first convent is now a Renaissance and Baroque art gallery.

NATIONAL MUSEUM
Václavské námestí 68, Prague (00 420 224 497 111; www.nm.cz). Apart from the extraordinary display of animal skeletons, the balcony to the museum has a very commanding view of Wenceslas Square.

SMETANA MUSEUM
Novotneho lavka 1, Prague (www.nm.cz). The life and work of the great Czech composer is remembered here beside the river that inspired Ma Vlast.

THE OLD JEWISH CEMETERY
U Staré skoly 1, Prague (www.jewishmuseum.cz). The Old Jewish Cemetery was established in the first half of the 15th century. Today it contains some 12,000 tombstones.

VIEWS OF THE CITY

KLEMENTINUM
Entrance 1: Krizovnicka 190 (00 042 222 220 879,www.klementinum.com) This silent complex of 17th and 18th century buildings lies just north of bustling Karlvoa Street. Climb the astronomical tower for a great city view.

PETRIN
Above Ujezd Street: Malá Strana area. Even the most inspiring vista of Prague would seem incomplete without the spires of Prague Castle shooting up from the skyline. For that reason, the view from the castle itself has to take a backseat to that from the hill just upstream of it, known as Petpín. It's a safe place, conducive to contemplation, and necklaced with cherry and pear orchards that were once the property of the king. The night view is even more appealing. A few park benches and a hillside pub are handily placed.

ZIZKOV TV TOWER
Mahlerovy sady 1 (00 420 242 418 778; www.tower.cz). The phallic Zizkov TV Tower, thrown up by the Communists just before the Velvet Revolution of 1989 to block Western broadcasts, now beams ER reruns to every Czech household. A threadbare, once futuristic café hangs in the sky midway up the tower, from which you can get a great view of the largest equine statue in Europe: it depicts the one-eyed Bohemian general Jan Zizka charging the fearful Hapsburg armies in the 15th century. Open 10am to 11.30pm.

Seven Ideal Family Attractions in Sydney

2010-07-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

The capital of New South Wales is a perfect family destination, with scores of toddler-to-teen-friendly attractions well within easy distance of each other. Check out some notable points of interest in Sydney that go above and beyond the call of duty to lure mum, dad and kids alike.

1. Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is not only one of the best attractions in Sydney, but one of the best zoos in the world. The facility’s explicit emphasis on conservation and education makes it a great bet for little ones. Exotic animals help a huge deal of course and Taronga has them in spades, from sun bears to giant marine toads, binturongs to pygmy hippopotami.

2. Sydney Aquarium

A harbour city with a world class zoo should have a world class aquarium as well. Thankfully, Sydney Aquarium in Darling Harbour is that and much more. The most popular tourist attraction in Sydney is a magnet for schoolchildren and no wonder: the magnificent and colossal aquatic facility contains more exotic marine life than any other aquarium on the planet, bar none.

3. Sydney Wildlife World

Short on time and money to schlep the entire family across Australia to discover all the exquisite biodiversity the country has to offer? No problem. Sydney Wildlife World provides a remarkable shortcut, with no less than ten extraordinary zones that cover the wondrous kaleidoscope that is Down Under. Adjacent to Sydney Aquarium, this wildlife park is truly a nonpareil experience.

4. Chinese Garden of Friendship

A lush, serene oasis that spans Darling Harbour and Chinatown, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll and picnic. Replete with a Teahouse and traditional Chinese landscape architecture, the garden is a distinctive point of interest in Sydney and a good place for parents and kids to relax and recharge.

5. Powerhouse Museum

One of the premier science and design museums in the world, the Powerhouse Museum is a wondrous place to wow children of all ages. The Sydney landmark is perfect for kids but clearly fascinates adults as well; especially with a collection of objects that runs in excess of 400,000. With over 20,000 m2 of space, exhibits cover myriad topics like transportation, space, nuclear energy, decorative arts and musical instruments.

6. Sydney Fish Market

The second-biggest fish market in the world is a haven of family fun. Not only is Sydney Fish Market the ideal place to dine al fresco and shop for a cornucopia of delicious and exotic products, the port and wholesale market also provides unbelievable tours. Want to give your kids a practical, hands-on lesson about sustainable fish and seafood and witness a Dutch auction in person? Wake up super early, head to the fish market for breakfast and take the “Behind the Scenes Tour”. Your kids will love it.

7. Sydney Opera House

Another furtive tour children love takes place at the UNESCO World Heritage Sydney Opera House. While exclusive and somewhat expensive, the “Backstage Tour” provides the most intimate access possible to the Sydney icon. The 120 minute tour includes breakfast and allows a select number of visitors (8 per tour) to mingle in the orchestra pit, private backstage rooms and everywhere else behind the curtain. The “Essential Tour” is a more affordable alternative for those who just want to experience the grand interior of the Sydney Opera House.

Radiance of the Seas

2010-07-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

Radiance of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s newest ship. This beautiful and luxurious ocean liner offers the latest in amenities, comfort and luxury. You will marvel at its panoramic views and vistas as they are larger than other cruise ship’s, and you will be enthralled with the beauty of the ship’s ten story atrium that features a glass elevator which faces the ocean.

If you enjoy jogging and if you exercise regularly, you can continue to do so at the Radiance of the Seas’ fitness clubs, and use their weight machines, treadmills and much more. Then relax in a sauna and whirlpool.

If you like to eat you will be able to dine out throughout your entire voyage. You will have a choice from romantic dinners, to fine dinning to casual dinning, to midnight snacks. You will dine, dance and be entertained.

The Radiance of the Seas has many ports of call and all you have to do is decide on the one you want to spend your holiday at. You may enjoy a twelve day cruise to the South Pacific, which departs from Sydney and takes you to Noumea, New Caledonia; Ouvea (Wadrilla), Loyalty Island; Vila, Vanuatu; Champagne Bay, Vanuatu; Loganville, Vanuatu; Mystery Island, Vanuatu; Isle of Pines, New Caledonia, and back to Sydney, Australia.

Perhaps you would prefer to take the fourteen night New Zealand cruise which will depart from Sydney, Australia and take you to Milford Sound, New Zealand, Doubtful Sound, New Zealand, Dunedin, New Zealand Dusky Sound, New Zealand, Christ Church, New Zealand, Wellington, New Zealand, Napier, New Zealand, Tauranga, New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand, Bay of Islands, New Zealand, and back to Sydney, Australia.

These are only two of the fabulous cruises you can choose from. You can also cruise to Tahiti and Hawaii, or Tasmania. Did you know you can take a two night weekend cruise on the Radiance of the Seas? The weekend cruise departs from Sydney, Australia and you will cruise on the open waters and return to Sydney.

A cruise with your family, a friend or solo is a great way to relieve the stress of daily life and a wonderful way to spend quality time with your partner and your children. Call Lloyds Travel to plan your escape, and leave all the work to us. Our Cruise Specialist, Deborah can help you find the itinerary that works for you. Reach us at 1.800.800.7252.

10 Must Haves on an Alaska Cruise

2010-07-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

Alaska cruises certainly aren't anything like a day at the beach. So when it comes to packing, what ends up in your luggage won't likely resemble the bikinis and Hawaiian shirts you'd choose for a tropical getaway. We've compiled a list of the top 10 things you can't leave home without. For anyone planning a journey to the 49th state, be sure to heed this valuable packing advice.

1. Hiking Boots: You'll need a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes to tread upon Alaska's mountainous terrain. We recommend "a pair of waterproof hiking shoes (they look like tennis shoes but the Gore-Tex makes them absolutely waterproof).

2. Alarm Clock: You wouldn't want to miss wildlife sightings or be the last off the ship in port, so it's important to rise and shine early on port days. If you don't like wake-up calls, take an alarm clock with you (most cabins don't include one) -- after all it's the early bird that gets the worm!

3. Collapsible Backpack (Gym Sack): Many of our members suggested taking a backpack that folds up and can be stored in your pocket until you need to use it (to store extra clothing layers that are peeled off or souvenirs bought in port). The sacks are very lightweight and have a drawstring to keep your belongings safely tucked away.

4. Motion Sickness Medicine: The waters along the Pacific Coast and in Alaska can be particularly choppy, so if you get seasick, be prepared with a remedy like gravol.

5. Sunscreen: Don't let the chilly temperatures fool you -- the sun's UV rays are strong in Alaska. Definitely don't forget the sunscreen if you are going on a tour to one of the glaciers. The sun off of the ice can be very intense.

6. Extra Memory Cards for the Camera: Make sure to bring plenty of memory for all of the beautiful scenery you'll encounter in Alaska. Not only should you have back up memory cards, but you should also have a good zoom lens or high-pixel camera so you can crop and enlarge pictures - especially for great wildlife shots.

7. Insect Repellent: You must remember to bring insect repellent in the pump bottle as airlines will confiscate the spray bottle. The mosquitoes are huge, so bring the repellent and make sure it's the pump.

8. Rain Gear: Things like umbrellas, ponchos, raincoats with hoods, and extra socks are advisable in case you get caught in a downpour. Wait to buy these in Ketchikan. They have excellent quality jackets for much less than you pay at home, and they have nice, simple Alaska logos on them. There are tons of stores right off the dock.

9. Binoculars: While many members suggest taking binoculars with you on your Alaska cruise, the quality of them is the key. Take the strongest binoculars that you have. You will see so much more of the wildlife that is farther away.

10. Layers: Take light jackets, fleece clothing, a warm hat, and gloves for layering in unpredictable weather. Since weather varies even if you get the best, bring all possible options from short sleeves and shorts to long sleeves and rain gear on your cruise. Don't buy fleece and windbreakers before you go. All of the ports sell jackets and fleece very inexpensively. They are nice souvenirs, but remember to leave room when you are packing to bring them home.

Oh Canada!

2010-06-30T14:55:00.000-07:00

With more than two million lakes, 202, 080 km of coastline and a population density of 3.3 inhabitants per square kilometer; Canada is one big country. The world’s second largest country after Russia, Canada is divided into ten provinces and three territories. The majority of the population reside within 160 kilometers of the US border, which has meant that the majority of Canada’s wilderness has remained unspoiled.

Canada’s unspoiled, natural beauty draws visitors from all over the world every year. From snow-capped mountains and rugged glaciers, to lush forests and sandy beaches; Canada is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s gazing at the Northern Lights from a sled pulled by Huskies, seeing the breathtaking Niagra Falls or hiking in the majestic Canadian Rockies – visitors are continually blown away.

Canada is a wonderful destination for outdoor adventure year round. In the winter, hit the ski slopes in Banff, Jasper or Whistler. Take advantage of the ice melts in spring and go white water rafting on the Ottawa River. Try your hand at surfing or boogie boarding in Tofino in the summer. When fall rolls around, go hiking and view wildlife in Algonquin Provincial Park. These are just a sampling of the possibilities…

Canada’s natural setting is absolutely amazing, and so are the animals that inhabit it. Humpback whales and dolphins, black bears and grizzlies, deer and moose. There are a number of wildlife tours throughout Canada that will take you through the forest or out to sea to view all sorts of wildlife.

One of the best reasons to visit Canada is to discover one of its many cultivated cities.

Toronto is the largest city in Canada and the countries commercial hub. Shop till’ you drop on Yonge Street, catch a big ticket show at the theatre or an indie concert at one of Toronto’s bars.

Ottawa is the capital of Canada. Visit Rideau Canal – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore museums and discover Canada’s fascinating history.

Montreal is the cultural capital of Canada. Check out the annual Jazz Festival in June/July, enjoy contemporary dance performances at Agora de la Danse. Walk through Vieux Montreal (Old Montreal) and view public art, visit museums, City Hall and more.

Vancouver – the City of Glass – is blessed with a stunning natural setting. It is one of the only places in the world where you can go skiing in the morning and sailing in the afternoon. Enjoy amazing international cuisine, view the works of Emily Carr at the art gallery, check out Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden and much more!

Whether you’re an outdoor adventure enthusiast, a beach bum, a foodie or a lover of cultures, Canada has something to offer you.

Life On Board a European River Cruise

2010-06-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

Floating along the rivers of Europe gives you a superb view of the passing countryside as you unwind aboard a modern, well equipped river boat. One thing all river boats have in common – you just have to unpack once then enjoy every day of your European vacation.

Life On Board

Today's river boats offer levels of luxury rivalling that of cruise ships. Think of these smaller vessels as floating boutique hotels. The interiors have grace and style while the food and service is outstanding. You'll be pampered as you sail serenely through Central Europe seeing all the highlights along the way.

Here are some important features of these beautiful vessels:

•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 on some, a whirlpool, fitness centre, spa and swimming pool.

•Staterooms are well appointed and designed for your comfort. They are usually outside with a picture window. Many of the new boats feature cabins with French doors and balcony for an even better view. Hotel beds with high quality linens and flat screen TVs are becoming the norm.

•Meals are open seating and the food is a highlight of the cruise. In Europe, breakfast and lunch tends 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 offered with dinner on most lines.

•Onboard port talks focus on your ports of call.

•Evening entertainment consists of a piano bar, or small ensemble in the lounge. Local entertainers may be brought on board to display the regional music and dance.

•Service on board has a reputation of being prompt, attentive and friendly.

•The overall cruise experience is well organized by the cruise/tour director.

•Additional amenities like Internet service, laundry facilities and an elevator will vary from ship to ship.

Interested in cruising? Talk to Deborah, our Cruise Specialist, today at 1.800.800.7252.

Brilliant, Beautiful Lisbon

2010-06-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

Situated on the banks of the Rio Tejo, Portugal's capital city offers a number of museums and galleries, an unpretentious atmosphere and a pleasant blend of architectural styles, making it a favourite with many visitors. It has somehow ended up much further down on the "to go" list as British travellers have started to associate Portugal with beach holidays along the Algarve rather than cultural city breaks, but Lisbon has beautiful architecture, brilliant museums and a good, friendly vibe.

WHEN TO GO

Go in late summer, when Lisbon is sultry, sexy and quiet, or in late spring for warm days, cool nights and mild manners all around.

WHAT TO SEE

ALFAMA
Visit the Alfama district by tram. Jump on the Number 28, an ancient vehicle, wood-panelled on the inside, that grinds up the precipitous sloping streets, at its stop in Rua da Conceiçutildeo. It will take you up into the heights, past the Cathedral and the church of Sao Antònio (Saint Antony being Lisbon's most prayed-to saint, since he was born on the site of this church and baptised in the cathedral). At the foot of the Alfama, a brand-new museum and performance space, the Casa do Fado e da Guitarra Portuguesa, has opened in a pink-painted former pumping station, and dozens of fado-themed of bars and restaurants (fado is Portugal's very own urban folk music and Lisbon's answer to the blues) have sprung up all over the bairro.

BAIRRO ALTO
The Bairro Alto is a sleepy residential neighbourhood by day, low-key and discreet. By night, it transforms itself into an ebullient party zone where, on a weekend, it seems that the entire city has pitched up to drink, eat and dance until the early hours.

BAIXA
The Baixa is the busy commercial district laid out in a grid behind the Praça de Comèrcio.

BOAT TRIPS
Take a boat trip from the Praça, and you will pass the Alfama, a harmonious jumble of yellow, pink and blue-tiled walls and terracotta roofs crowned with the Castle of São Jorge. Up on the left, on a hill of its own, is the Bairro Alto, the Alfama's rival in civilised decrepitude. Pass under the great Ponte 25 de Abril, which spans the river in a graceful scarlet arabesques and three of Lisbon's finest sights come into view: the ice-cream turrets of the Jèronimos monastery, built to celebrate Vasco da Gama's discovery of the sea route to India; the Torre de Belèm, a defensive tower with Moorish spires and curlicues; and the impressive modern monolith known as the Padrao dos Descobrimentos, which depicts the great 15th-century explorer Prince Henry the Navigator standing on the prow of a ship, gazing out solemnly towards the open sea and the unknown lands beyond it.

CHIADO
The Chiado neighbourhood is a delightful outpost of 19th-century elegance, now thoroughly restored since a disastrous fire swept through its streets in 1988. It is proud of its opera house, its smart cafes such as A Brasileira, on the Rua Garrett, and its posh shops.

HISTORIC PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Lisbon makes a speciality of its historic modes of public transport: the tram, the cable car and the elevadores (lifts) which crank you up mechanically from one part of the city to another. Opposite the Casa Chineza stands the Elevador Santa Justa, a grey-painted filigree structure with a Gothic look.

MARKETS
Feira da Ladra is Lisbon's most famous flea market, where piles of fascinating junk are laid out along the pavement

MUSEUMS
As a historic capital city, Lisbon has a long list of cultural and artistic sights, some of the high points being the Gulbenkian Foundation (www.gulbenkian.pt), the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (www.mnarteantiga-ipmuseus.pt) and the Centro Cultural de Belèm (www.ccb.pt), a temple of contemporary culture housed in a post-modern fortress by the river. (Take the little train from Cais do Sodrè station.) The Museu do Azulejos (tile museum) is a particular gem, and much more restful to the spirit than the kind of Important Art Museum in a foreign city that you enter with a heavy heart. But the best Lisbon sights of all are the streets and neighbourhoods, the cafès and bars and old-fashioned corner shops.

PRACA DE COMERCIO
There is no better architectural expression of the city's maritime character than the Praça de Comèrcio, the great civic square of which three sides are walls of arches and colonnades and mustard-yellow facades, while the fourth side is open to the river and the sea.

Discover the South Pacific

2010-06-21T15:33:00.000-07:00

The storied islands of the South Pacific are amongst the most romantic places on earth. Combining serene, azure lagoons with stunning mountain scenery and an agreeable, tropical climate, these isles are the perfect oasis for a romantic retreat. In our recent poll, readers chose an overwater bungalow as their number one choice for the most romantic place to spend a South Pacific vacation. A classic South Pacific hideaway came in second with South Pacific cruising in third place. Plan a romantic retreat and you’ll arrive home refreshed from the islands of the South Pacific.

Paradise Found!

Tranquil and contenting, the alluring islands of the South Pacific have seduced artists, writers and travellers for centuries. Why not let these magical isles be that special spot for your next romantic getaway?

Whether you are planning a wedding, honeymoon, renewal of vows, or just a simple getaway, the islands of the South Pacific are certainly hard to beat as a romantic destination.

Numerous island chains are dotted across the vast expanse of the South Pacific. These are the most popular and easily accessible:

French Polynesia – the Society Islands - Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha'a

Tahiti and her islands have been long admired as the most magical and captivating in the South Pacific. Watch colourful, tropical fish swim by as you stroll along the white sand beaches or snorkel in the azure lagoons. These peaceful islands with dramatic mountain and ocean views offer an idyllic spot to unwind. Writer James Mitchener named Bora Bora as his favourite island in the world and many travellers agree. Papeete on Tahiti is the capital and home port for cruising the region.

Fiji Islands

This archipelago of over 330 islands is a nature lover's delight as Fiji is an unspoiled environment. With its lack of dangerous animals and insects, it is a key area for Eco-tourism and outdoor adventure. The Northern Islands have many secluded and untouched sites and are known for their unhurried pace. The Ysawas have the best turquoise lagoons and coral reefs teeming with sea life. The principal island of Viti Levu has many resorts and lots of cultural interest. This is where the capital city of Suva is situated and the airport town of Nadi.

The Cook Islands

Consisting of 15 islands, the most popular are Rarotonga, and the more remote, Aitutaki with its seven mile wide lagoon. Rarotonga is the central island, where cruise ships call and visitors arrive by plane. It is all one expects of the South Pacific - high mountain peaks, lush rain forests, clear turquoise lagoons and white sand beaches. Like so many islands in the region, there are only two main roads on Rarotonga – the circle island route or the older inland road, which takes you through fields of taro, pawpaw, bananas and local farmlands. The diving is exceptional here too with the outer islands providing rare and untouched locations to explore.

Cruising Northern Europe

2010-06-21T15:17:00.000-07:00

Cruising Northern Europe is a very rich experience. See breathtaking scenery; visit 1,000 year old cities; discover Viking history and Hanseatic ports; marvel at some of the world's finest art and design as well as magnificent architecture. There are lots of active options too like hiking, kayaking and Nordic fitness walking, available on excursions from your ship. All this and more await you on your cruise to the fascinating ports of the Baltic and Norway.

Visitors to the Baltic States and Norway find the region easy to explore. English is widely spoken, cities are well organized and clean and it is a relatively safe area for setting out on your own.

There are some great finds for shoppers too. Baltic amber, Norwegian pewter and knitwear, Estonian linens, Russian crafts and Danish design stores will keep you busy. The local markets are always a good bet for bargains but watch out for replica amber. The best place to buy the real thing is at jewellers' shops in Poland, the largest producer of amber in the world.

Regional Highlights:

The Norwegian Fjords – Often voted the most beautiful cruising area in the world, Norway's fjords are breathtaking. Geiranger Fjord is the most spectacular as you sail by steep mountainsides with magnificent waterfalls plunging to the sea. Ships call at the town of Geiranger at the head of the fjord. Go ashore for a variety of excursions including kayaking and mountain drives. Walk to the lookout for the perfect photo of your ship in the fjord which has become the most famous of Norwegian travel shots.

North Cape – Across the Arctic Circle, at the top of Norway sits North Cape, the most northerly point of land in Europe. A Mecca for adventure travellers, it is the ideal spot to observe the Midnight Sun in June/July when Norway's Arctic has continual daylight. The visitors centre sits atop the 307 meter high cliff and contains a number of interesting displays about the region's history and geography. Toast your adventure at the lounge cut into the cliff face which offers a commanding view across the Barents Sea. The port of call is Honningsvag from where you take a 45minute drive across the beautiful Arctic tundra to North Cape.

St. Petersburg – This city is the jewel in the crown of the Baltic Sea ports. Specially planned by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703, the result is an architectural masterpiece with magnificent palaces, theatres, churches and government buildings at every turn.

The list of "must see" places is lengthy so the more days your ship stays here the better. Many ships call for two or three days and offer a wide range of full and half day excursions so you can see the main sights including the world famous Hermitage Museum, take in the art and architecture, attend the ballet or a concert and learn about the city's tumultuous history.

You don't need to worry about getting a visa if you are taking an organized tour from your ship or through a Russian tour company. However, if you want to go ashore alone, you will need to apply for a Russian visa which involves a lot of paperwork, takes time and is quite costly.

The Must See Sights in Venice

2010-06-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

There is no other place in the world like Venice. The city is a labyrinth of canals, elaborate bridges, cobblestone streets and lively squares. Explore the unique sites of this great city on foot or by vaporetto, a network of boats which is the main mode of transportation in the city.

When in Venice, the must see sights are:

Doge’s Palace - Venice’s most famous building was home to its ruling family for centuries, and also served as both court and prison. Its unique Venetian gothic architecture features beautiful medieval sculptures, columns and arcades. Look for the red marble arch, once reserved for the Doge to announce death sentences and oversee public executions in the square below.

St. Mark’s Basilica is the best example of Byzantine architecture in the world. Filled with incredible artworks, the church has over 40,000 gold mosaics covering the walls and ceilings. Just outside is:

St. Mark’s Square, or Piazzetta, the gathering place where you can people-watch while sitting at one of the sidewalk cafés. Take a short elevator ride up the bell tower and find:

St. Mark’s Campanile, for amazing views of thePiazza and Basilica.

Grand Canal is the main water-traffi c thoroughfare full of gondoliers serenading tourists and locals moving swiftly on vaporettos. Lined with more than 170 historical palazzos, the Grand Canal offers a view into the everyday life of this bustling city.

Rialto Market - Wander around and fi nd sought-after local specialties sold by area farmers and fi sherman, or enjoy a drink at one of the winebars.

Island of Murano - Venice’s glass-making industry was moved to this small Venetian island in 1291 when people believed it was a major fi re hazard to the city. Get to it by vaporetto, water-bus or private water taxi. Visit the Museo Vetraio, the glass museum or see a glass blowing demonstration.

How to Choose a Cruise

2010-06-17T15:59:00.001-07:00

So many ships, so many destinations, so many special offers: Deciding on the best cruise for your next vacation can seem overwhelming. With the right decision comes a wonderful experience combining exciting ports of call, the serenity of being at sea, fine dining, a variety of entertainment and recreational activities and outstanding service – all with unpacking just once. Here's a brief guide to sorting out the details that will assist you and your agent in finding the right cruise.

It's All Included

From budget to ultra deluxe, every cruise includes stateroom accommodation, meals, entertainment and travel to exciting ports of call with quality and levels of luxury rising along with the price.

Good news — cruise lines have a variety of excellent offers this year to help make your dream cruise even more affordable.

However, no two cruise holidays are the same and there is a lot of choice out there. To get the most out of your cruise, you need to know what you are looking for in order to find the one that will suit you the best.

In order for your agent to narrow down the possibilities, know the answers to these ten basic questions.

• Where are you thinking of cruising?
• When do you want to go and how much time do you have?
• Are you travelling solo, with your partner or family?
• For families, how old are the kids and do you need babysitting?
• Do you want to relax while on board or is it more important to have a wide range of activities or a good enrichment program?
• Do you want a port-intensive cruise to discover the region, or one with more sea days to enjoy the ship?
• Do you have any health issues that need to be taken into consideration or are you looking for particular spa or health treatments while on board?
• Would you like to dine early or late or do you need to be flexible about dinner time?
• Will you be celebrating a special occasion?
• What is your price range for this vacation?

Deciding what's most important for your vacation then balancing all the factors is key to finding the right cruise. It can take a lot of careful research and help from your agent to come up with the best solution. The quest is definitely worthwhile as the right cruise can be the best vacation you have ever had, taking you in pampered luxury to new and thrilling destinations.

Tips for Choosing Travel Insurance

2010-06-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

If you're going on holiday with your family, then you'll want to know that your family travel insurance actually does cover you.

Here's how to get the best family travel insurance.

1. You'll need to know what you want it for. Will you just opt for health insurance? Do you just want to insure your luggage and personal possessions? You won't want to think that you're covered on your household policy only to discover you aren't.

2. Different types of holiday require different levels of travel insurance. You're much less likely to break a limb whilst sitting on a beach for a fortnight, compared to snowboarding, or skiing. You're probably more likely to lose your camera on a city break. You'll need to ensure that you've got the right level of cover.

3. Once you think you've found the right policy, you'll need to find out what it actually covers, and whether it's relevant to you. Even if you're only going on holiday for a short while, you still don't want to take a chance with your family's health.

4. It's a good idea to find out what the insurance policy states regarding the replacement of lost or broken items. Is there a like for like policy? Do you only get what the old item is currently worth?

5. If you go on holiday several times a year, then it might be better to get an annual policy, rather than a policy for each trip. Perhaps your policy will cover you while you’re traveling on business as well.

6. Many foreign countries don't have free healthcare, unlike the Canada so you'll need to be aware that medical treatment is likely to be quite costly. Having adequate travel insurance that covers health, injuries and illnesses are totally worth it. If one of your family members becomes ill or gets injured, you don't want to be faced with a massive bill for hospital treatment.

7. There are so many different options that choosing travel insurance can sometimes be overwhelming. This is why it is a good idea to book your travel insurance through your travel agent. A travel agent can help you find the travel insurance coverage that is right for you.

8. It is essential that you don't pick a cheap family travel insurance policy simply because it costs less. Do not base the decision on cost; base it on what the plan covers. You don't want to discover that your policy isn't what you thought it was when you try and claim.

The Magical Mediterranean

2010-06-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

From Barcelona to Istanbul, tales of Mediterranean history capture our imagination while idyllic, sun drenched islands, dramatic coastlines and picturesque scenes make this one of the world’s most romantic destinations. In a recent Ensemble poll, the top three romantic spots chosen were the Greek Islands, French Riviera and Venice. Next came the island of Mallorca followed by a tie between Italy’s Amalfi Coast and Spain’s Costa Del Sol. All are romantic places where you can escape to la dolce vita – the sweet life. Be captivated by the romance of the Mediterranean on a vacation like no other.

There is something magical about the Mediterranean and its lifestyle. The sense that this is a very special place is confirmed by the long and legendary history. The birthplace of Western Civilization impresses both the tourist and history aficionado alike with its wealth of historic sights, art and architecture. The weight of history can be overwhelming at times but there's always a delightful spot where you can stop and reflect while enjoying a local specialty.

This combination of a rich history and cultural life, stunning scenery and a leisurely paced lifestyle makes the Mediterranean a captivating vacation destination. Many people return year after year not only because there is so much to see but because they enjoy the Mediterranean way of life which respects values often lost in today's world - the importance of siesta or napping, daily socializing and the worry-free attitude of taking things as they come. Escape is the essence of romance and the Mediterranean region offers an idyllic escape.

Tips for Travelling with Pets

2010-06-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

When asked for tips for traveling with pets, Kimpton Hotel pet ambassadors had these recommendations:

1. Always have fresh water on hand. We pets don’t mind drinking right out of the bottle.

2. Have pet tags. Make sure pet identification tagsinclude our final destination information and, forinternational trips, bring official proof of rabies vaccination to avoid any problems at the airport.

3. There’s no place like home. Bring us pets some items from home so we are familiar with the scent. This cuts down on anxiety when traveling.

4. Bring a leash. While I may be allowed to roam in the hotel lobby during wine hour, my human is always careful to obey the leash laws wherever we travel.

5. Pre-trip preparation. Prior to the big trip, be sure to give us pets a bath and trim our nails. We wouldn’t want to rip the upholstery in the new car or at a pet-friendly hotel.

6. Give pets a test drive. Some furry friends may not like the car, so drive around for a quick trip prior to taking a long road trip.

7. Enjoy! Do some research prior to the trip to ensure your hotel is pet-friendly (like ours) and that there are plenty of places to walk and exercise us — it’s your pet’s vacation, too!

Spotlight on Hawaii

2010-06-14T14:03:00.000-07:00

Of the 137 islands in the Hawaiian chain, six welcome visitors with a warmth and charm known as the 'Spirit of Aloha'. It's easy to slip into the laid back Polynesian way of life. The scented tropical air, agreeable climate and warm waters add to the ease and enjoyment of your stay. The hardest part will be choosing what to do each day, Hawaii offers visitors so much.

Maui - "The Valley Isle"

• Maui is noted for Haleakala National Park, 'Iao Valley and Wailua lookout, excellent beaches including famous Ka'anapali and Napili Bay and many outstanding golf courses.
• The town of Lahaina is on the National Registry of Historic Places. It was a missionary and plantation centre and a whalers' stop in the mid-1800s.
• Cycle down Haleakala, a 10,023-ft. dormant volcano.
• Take a whale watching boat to see the thousands of humpback whales that winter here.
• Visit offshore Molokini, a State Marine Life and Bird Conservation District ideal for snorkelling.

Oahu - "The Gathering Place" is the busiest island

• Home of the state capital and largest city, Honolulu.
• Famous landmarks include Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay and the scenic Nu'uanu Pali Pass.
• Duke Kahanamoku, the "Father of Modern Surfing," grew up in Waikiki. Visit Duke's Waikiki restaurant, on the site of the original Outrigger Canoe Club.
• Try the waves yourself! It's a thrilling experience being carried in on the waves in an Outrigger canoe or take a surfing lesson.
• Pay your respects at the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. The Battleship Missouri, U.S.S. Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park and Pacific Aviation Museum are also found at Pearl harbour.

Kauai - "The Garden Isle” and “ Island of Discovery ”

• Kauai is the home of many natural wonders – waterfalls, blow holes, cliffs, caves, the Fern Grotto and colourful Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
• Lumaha'I Beach was the setting for nurses' beach in the movie 'South Pacific'; the wedding scene in Elvis Presley's 'Blue Hawaii' was filmed at the coconut grove.
• Kayak down the Wailua River - Kauai has the only navigable rivers in Hawaii.
• Tee off at one of nine scenic and challenging golf courses.

Hawaii - The "Big Island" and "The Orchid Isle"

• Larger than the other main islands put together, Hawaii is famous for its volcanoes and gardens.
• From Hilo, visit Akatsuka Orchid Garden, Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of the top visitor attractions in the state.
• Mt. Kilauea is the world's most active volcano, continuously erupting since 1983 and Mona Loa is the largest volcano in the world (13,680 ft.)
• On the Kona coast, accessible from Kailua, you'll find the Kona coffee plantations, the historically significant Puuhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge) built in the 12th century, the painted church, and Hulihe'e Palace, summer home of Hawaiian royalty.
• Kealakekua Bay Marine Sanctuary is another ideal spot for snorkelling. On shore stands a monument to Captain James Cook, the first British explorer to visit the islands, who was killed here.

Molokai – “The Friendly Isle” is the most Hawaiian

• Molokai is true to its Hawaiian traditions - this is the real Hawaii with no bustling cities.
• Nature, tranquility, history and culture are the attractions.
• Hiking and mule rides are popular ways to see the island.
• Hike in Halawa Valley, visit Kalaupapa National Historical Park where Father Damien ministered, or take a boat to see the world's tallest sea cliffs (3600 feet) along the North Shore.

Lanai – “The Most Enticing Isle” formerly “The Pineapple Island”

• Get away from it all on Lanai - most roads are unpaved, there are just two luxury resorts and two championship golf-courses.
• See the lunar landscapes of Keahiakawelo and the lava rock tide pools and spinner dolphins of Hulopoe Bay.
• Hike the Munro Trail for views of neighboring islands Maui, Molokai, K ahoolawe, Oahu, and the Big Island.

The Ten Best Family Wildlife Adventures

2010-06-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

Leaping lemurs, Madagascar

Who needs Paramount Pictures when Madagascar's inhabitants have seemingly escaped a cartoon for real? Weird, wonderful lemurs - singing ones, mini ones, even ones sashaying like tipsy ballerinas - iridescent frogs, technicoloured chameleons, and laid-back boas trump anything a cartoonist could pen. This private family tour takes in the nature reserves of Berenty, Vakona and Andasibe-Mantadia national park, so you'll hopefully see all the above and more before the credits roll on glorious Sainte Marie Island. Go during the summer holidays when humpbacks will be on vacation, too.

Elephant safari, Nepal

A two-day elephant-back safari in the Chitwan national park, keeping an eye out for monkeys, exotic birds and, if you're lucky, tigers and rhinos, is the highlight of this escorted group trip. But there's plenty more to keep children wide-eyed and bushy-tailed, from a night camping under the stars to bike rides through the mountains, and from making friends with locals in the village Bandipur to flying a kite in the Himalayan breeze.

Gorilla watching, Uganda

Uganda is home to roughly half the world's 700 or so mountain gorillas, and this new group tour for older families should see you locking eyes with at least one. You'll spend time in Queen Elizabeth national park - where you'll search for leopard and elephant, track chimps in the Chambura Gorge and dodge hippo on a river cruise - and by Lake Victoria. But the USP has to be three nights' camping in the gorillas' backyard - the aptly named Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. While sightings of the endangered giants can't be guaranteed, a 90% success rate means this could well be the only time you'll see your teenagers lost for words.

Bats and badgers, Yorkshire

Deep within Cropton Forest in the North York Moors national park, cabins make a superb base for mini-Chris Packhams in the making. Forest ranger Russ runs regular, fun and informative expeditions in search of bats - you get your own ultrasonic detector - red and roe deer, and Cropton's more anti-social inhabitants, badgers. After dark you'll be taken to a hut overlooking the family hide - keep quiet and you'll be able to watch the cubs playing while mum and dad forage for supper. With luck you'll also spot foxes, rabbits and pine marten.

Tag leopards, South Africa

What nature-loving kid wouldn't fancy tracking leopards, setting camera traps - even helping to fit collars? Add world-renowned zoologist Gerrie Camacho - founder of the Ingwe Leopard Project - to the mix, and you'll never get them home again. Your private family tour starts off at Paperbark Bush Retreat - a great, safe area for kids to acclimatise - then you're off on a four-day bush adventure, with Gerrie as your personal guide. You'll spend a night in Kruger and two at the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, overlooking a river bed where lion, elephant, rhino and co often chill. Then it's back to Paperbark to see just how photogenic those cats really are.

Wildlife sanctuary, Borneo

Watch a turtle nesting, explore the world's oldest rainforests, bathe in mud volcanoes ... this new family group tour combines wildlife, culture, education and adventure. You'll visit the world's largest orang-utan sanctuary, investigate where bird's nest soup comes from and where thousands of bats live, snorkel on Tiga Island and, best of all, take jungle walks and river cruises through the Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary - an area crammed with unusual creatures, including Asian pygmy elephants, sun bears, proboscis monkeys and the sublimely serene orang-utans.

Tiger tour, India

On this group trip you'll spend three nights in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve with fingers crossed, but even if the world's largest cat fails to show, the abundance of wildlife - from sloth bears to monitor lizards - is breathtaking. Next you'll visit Jaipur, and take an elephant ride to its Amber Fort before heading to Bharatpur, one of the world's finest bird sanctuaries. Finally, you'll visit the Taj Mahal and ruined city of Fatehpur Sikri, where monkeys now rule.

Brown bears and bloodsuckers, Romania

The Romanian Carpathian mountains are home to more than 40% of Europe's brown bears. Experienced guides will take you tracking bears and wolves in the Kingstone Mountain national park - but keep an eye out for lynx, chamoix and buzzards too. Leaving the mountains, you'll visit Bran Castle - home to the original Count Dracula - before moving on to the Danube Delta where you'll spend a day exploring this wildlife-filled watery maze.

Creature comforts, Costa Rica

Costa Rica's astonishing ecological diversity - roughly 5% of the world's species live here - and excellent, easily accessible national parks make it fab for families. Over nine days, you'll kayak through mangroves, camp in style at Corcovado with the sea at your feet and your head in the forest, white-water raft down the Reventazon river and hike through the magical Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Animal action - residents include monkeys, sloths, otters, iguanas, toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, caiman, armadillos ... we could go on - is near as damn it guaranteed.

Whale of a time, Canada

A 10,000-mile migration is hungry work, so when Pacific grey whales hit Canada's Clayoquot Sound they're ready for one hell of a plankton feast. Join Earthwatch's family expedition next August and you'll help scientists search for whales, identify individuals and map their prey. Accommodation is a comfy hostel on Flores Island. You'll have time to explore this coastal temperate rainforest by foot and kayak - look out for black bears, wolves, otters, eagles and the indigenous First Nation culture.

Top Five Luxurious Family Getaways

2010-06-07T16:26:00.000-07:00

Family vacations are fun—there’s nothing better than planning a weekend out with your spouse and your offspring. However, especially if you have more than one child, things don’t always go as perfectly as you’ve planned. By day four (later if you’re lucky) your kids will probably be pulling each other’s hair, and you might be pulling your own hair out of frustration because you’ve gone way beyond the budget.

People think that all-inclusive packages are the answer for all of these problems. We’re a step ahead. Below are the most luxurious vacations that each member of your family (kids included) will enjoy.

Experiencing Paris without the compromise

Paris is one of the best places to visit if you’re traveling with your family, but it’s not exactly as romantic if you’re going there with kids. There are bound to be ice cream stops and trips to the amusement park which will make you lose out on an opportunity to hit the spa. On the other hand, kids will probably not enjoy a Paris dinner at one of the city’s swanky restaurants—especially if they’re not allowed to run loose.

The best way to enjoy the best of both worlds while you’re in Paris is to book a room at the Le Meurice’s in July. Why? Aside from the hotel’s world-famous views, a carnival also parks directly across the hotel. Seated on the edge of Tuileries, tots enjoy their view of Paris from the carousel. Resltess adolescents, on the other hand, can enjoy more daring rides like the Ejector Seat.

The hotel staff, which usually won’t allow kids to run around their lobby, conduct activities for kids like treasure hunts. While the kids are kept entertained by the staff for an hour, parents can enjoy the alone-time at the Le Meurice’s Caudalie spa.

In the room, you’ll also find toy boats, puzzles, robes, kiddie menus, and even a British cable channel designed for toddlers. The Family program for this hotel starts at $2000 a night.

Bearable Disney Vacation

What do you do when your kids ask you for a trip to Disneyland? Sure, you’re prepared to spend a good amount of money because you’ve been saving up for it for the whole week. But are you prepared to immerse yourself completely in the world of Mickey, Minnie, and the rest of the Disney characters?

You don’t really have to do that because if you stay at Grande Lakes, which is very near Disneyland, can satisfy not just the kids but you, too, once the park closes down for the night. The place has a lot of amenities to boast of, including pools, a golf course, a spa, and eleven restaurants including Starbucks.

The service is also very impressive, with the front desk arranging your Disney guide for only $125, your babysitter for the night, and providing door-to-door limo service. You can book two connecting rooms with the Grande Lakes for $360 a night.

Pulling an Effortless Vacation at a European Villa

While renting a European villa seems like a perfect all-adult vacation, you’d be surprised by what the hosts at Homes Away can do. Not only will they be able to dodge scam packages which offer Tuscan villas that don’t really exist, but they can also anticipate fun activities for the kids.

You can enjoy the perfectly mowed lawns, impressive pools, and pristine houses, and never worry that your kids will throw a tantrum because they’re bored. The activities for the kids here are definitely interesting, from pizza making classes to riding a hot-air balloon over the vineyards. With these spontaneous outings, you’ll be living like the locals, only with more flair.

The average cost of a three room villa for a week with Homes Away is $8000.

Swanky Caribbean Villa with the Kids

You might think that a weekend at the Caribbean is only for romantic partners or adults who are looking for a break away from work. Think again, because a Caribbean vacation can be pretty perfect for kids as well if you book at the Mystique. While the resort is also the favorite of Mick Jagger and Princess Margaret, it’s also a kiddie paradise in disguise.

Twenty villas can be rented by you and your family, and quite a number of them have amenities especially for children. For example, if you want snooker tables for your teens, you can rent the Frangipani. The Yemanja, on the other hand, has a newly constructed tennis court and separate bunk houses for the boys and the girls.

If you’re bringing a baby, though, then the Sea Star is a good pick. You don’t need to worry about the noise. The rooms in this villa are a good distance from the pool.

Cruising for General Patronage

Many cruises don’t even allow kids below 12 on board. The Crystal is different, because they have activities which are designed especially for your little tykes. Who says you need to give up the idea of going on a cruise until your kids turn 12? With the Crystal, you can enjoy the experience together.

While they don’t publicize this fact, Crystal is one of the best cruise ships you can sign up for when you need to travel with kids. Aside from the babysitting services and the allotted playrooms, directors for the Junior activities also have things piled up for kids three to seventeen years of age.

How do you get this sweet deal? All you have to do is book during the school vacation. The crew will break out the Play Doh, conduct “Crystal Idol” contests, arrange pajama and movie nights, and teach everyone how to make cookies in the ship’s gallery.

The greatest part of this cruise it your kids actually get to meet the captain on his bridge. No adult has been given this privilege since the 9/11 incident. The cruise lasts for seven days. The rate for this cruise starts at $3,145. It’s quite pricey, but it might actually be cheaper than a number of all-adult cruise tours.

Tips for Travel in Cyprus

2010-05-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

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.

Spotlight on River Cruising

2010-05-26T11:16:00.000-07:00

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.

Travel With Kids in Ireland

2010-05-19T10:32:00.000-07:00

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.

Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage

2010-05-12T14:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Health Insurance in Cuba

2010-04-30T16:14:00.000-07:00

The Government of Cuba has announced that travelers will have to present proof of health insurance in order to enter the country as of May 1, 2010. Upon arrival, travelers may be required to present an insurance policy, insurance certificate, or medical assistance card valid for the period of their stay in Cuba. Those who do not have proof of insurance coverage may be required to obtain health insurance from a Cuban insurance company when they arrive.

Temporary residents will also have to hold valid health insurance policies.

Although proof of Canadian provincial health insurance will be sufficient for visitors to enter Cuba, your provincial plan may cover only part of the costs and will not pay the bill up-front, as required. It is therefore recommended that travellers purchase supplemental health insurance. Note that some private insurers also require the traveller to pay costs up-front and be reimbursed later. Travellers should note that Cuban authorities will not allow anyone with outstanding medical bills to leave the country.

All health insurance policies will be recognized except those issued by U.S. insurance companies, as they cannot provide coverage in Cuba.

Discover Rocky Mountaineer

2010-04-30T16:12:00.000-07:00

Only have a few days to explore the most spectacular scenery in the world? Lloyds Travel offers short packages with Rocky Mountaineer that are perfect short retreats in the Canadian Rockies.

The Rockies are vast and expansive, spanning from the northern border of Canada into the United States. The rich, vast, unspoiled nature of the Canadian National Parks is treasured by all who know the beauty that lies within them. People travel from around the world to vacation and experience the rare and rugged Canadian Rockies region that has been preserved for more than a century.

The Rocky Mountaineer travels by rail through five of these protected areas: Mount Revelstoke National Park, Glacier National Park, Yoho National Park, and the oldest and the largest of the Rockies parks, Banff and Jasper. Three provincial parks combined with the four National Parks located in the Rockies, comprise the UNESCO Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site. This ranks as one of the largest protected areas on the planet. The rail routes you'll travel are unlike any other in the world.

Cruise News

2010-04-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

Royal Caribbean International recently announced the cruise line’s 2011-12 Southern Caribbean deployment and Mariner of the Seas’ South America circumnavigation cruises. Serenade of the Seas will sail its eighth consecutive season in the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, Puerto Rico, where Adventure of the Seas also will return for winter 2011-12. Vacationers also can choose from two sailings in January 2011 aboard Mariner of the Seas, which combined, circumnavigates the South American continent, or the Royal Caribbean Machu Picchu Adventure Cruisetour, which combines a sailing aboard Mariner of the Seas with a five-night escorted land tour itinerary. In total, the three ships will offer 73 sailings on 19 distinct itineraries that include 25 unique ports of call. Bookings for these 2011-12 sailings are open today.

Royal Caribbean’s Machu Picchu Adventure Cruisetour will offer guests a most memorable South America land and sea vacation. Adventurers can choose the January 16, 2010, sailing aboard Mariner of the Seas followed with the five-night land tour itinerary from Valparaiso, Chile, to cultural centers and major Incan archeological sites of Chile and Peru. The highlight of the land tour features a full day to explore Machu Picchu. Vacationers also can choose the pre-cruise land tour itinerary, followed by a grand South America odyssey to Brazil aboard Mariner of the Seas, sailing February 1. All Royal Caribbean cruisetours are escorted by a Tour Director who specializes in the region and includes guests’ transportation, hotel accommodations, certain activities and some meals for an exciting, stress-free vacation, where Royal Caribbean takes care of all the planning and reservations.

Mariner of the Seas’ guests also have a wide array of shore excursion options, at an additional charge, to take in the color and culture of South America’s most vibrant centers. In Peru, guests also can rediscover the mysterious Lost City of the Incas on “Cuzco & Machu Picchu Adventure.” In Ushuaia, Argentina, guests can cruise Lapataia Bay and the Beagle Channel in the Tierra del Fuego National Park by catamaran to view a colony of Magellanic penguins on “Penguin Rookery Navigation.” On one of the two days in Montevideo, Uruguay, guests can chose a visit to a Uruguayan gaucho ranch and enjoy a barbeque lunch on “Day at the Estancia.”

Guests have a variety of exciting Royal Caribbean shore excursion options to enhance their Southern Caribbean cruise, such as relaxing like a Rockefeller on the 150-acre, eco-friendly Carambola Resort at St. Croix on “Carambola Beach Break,” or enjoying Aruba’s countryside from a four-seat SUV as guests make their way to De Palm Island for lunch, swimming and snorkeling on “Jeep Off-Road Adventure.” To get the blood pumping, guests can take on “Antigua Canopy & Challenge,” a unique eco-tour with 21 unforgettable journey-elements through the island’s lush rainforest.

Serenade of the Seas will offer a third consecutive year of seven-night roundtrip cruises to the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, beginning in April 2011. Serenade of the Seas will depart weekly on Sundays in the summer 2011 season and on Saturdays during the winter season. The two alternating summer itineraries will offer guests no repeating ports when booking two consecutive sailings, whereas the two alternating winter itineraries have St. Kitts in common. Vacationers also have the choice of a one-time eight-night and a six-night itinerary that will sail on May 7 and November 13, 2011, respectively.

Adventure of the Seas will begin its winter 2011-12 season in November, alternating two distinct seven-night itineraries that also will offer guests, booked on two consecutive sailings, no repeat calls at any port for a more comprehensive Southern Caribbean adventure. Two special holiday itineraries, an eight-night and a seven-night cruise, departing on December 18 and December 26, 2011, respectively, will feature onboard holiday celebrations and a shipwide New Year’s countdown party. Vacationers also can choose a one-time, six-night Southern Caribbean itinerary, sailing on January 2, 2012.

For its part, Mariner of the Seas will depart Los Angeles on January 16, 2011, on a 16-night repositioning itinerary to Valparaiso, Chile, followed by a 14-night itinerary to Sao Paulo (Santos), Brazil, via Cape Horn and the southern tip of South America. The 14-night sailing features an overnight in the embarkation port of Valparaiso and then at Montevideo, Uruguay, before arriving in Santos, Brazil on February 15.

How to Pack a Bike for your Holiday

2010-04-29T16:16:00.000-07:00

Thinking of taking a bike on a plane for a cycling holiday? Worried about potential damage to the bicycle or how much it will cost to take all that extra weight on board?

This article shows how easy it is to pack a bike for either plane or sea travel and offers some useful tips on the best type of bike case together with advice on making sure potentially breakable bike components do not get damaged during the journey.

Best Bike Bags for Air Travel

Bike bags for air travel can be either soft or hard cases or even a cardboard box. Which to choose depends largely on budget and the cost of the actual bike as hard cases may be the best for protecting delicate bike components but cost 3 to 4 times more than a soft bike bag.

Whichever bike bag is used, the method for packing a bicycle is essentially the same as outlined below.

Pack a Bicycle for Air Travel

While some last minute travelers have been known to shrink-wrap their bikes in cling film on arrival at the airport, common sense demands that a bike is partially dismantled before shipping to protect key bike components. This may sound time consuming but only takes around half an hour once after the first few attempts. Just follow these guidelines:

• Remove the seat post, pedals and both wheels.
• Deflate tires as required by most airlines.
• Unscrew the stem and detach the handlebars, turning them sideways so that they can be placed flat in the bike case.
• Remove the rear derailleur – optional but recommended for soft bags or cardboard boxes.
• Place all loose components like pedals into a bag and tape to the frame so they do not get lost if the bike case opens in transit.
• Wrap insulation foam or thick newspaper around the frame for additional protection and secure with zip-ties. It’s also a good idea to bubble-wrap any discs (on bikes with disc brakes) as they are prone to bending in transit.
• Place the bike frame in the bike bag and check that all components are seated as flat as possible.
• Put the wheels on either side of the frame. Some bike bags come with separate wheel bags; if unavailable, wrap the wheels in bubble wrap or paper.
• Close the bike case and secure with strong tape.

Cost of Taking a Bike on a Plane

Most airlines make a charge for taking a bicycle on a plane. Costs vary between £30/$50 to £50/$80 per return journey but to get the lowest price it is essential to pre-book the bicycle as part of the baggage allowance.

Expect to pay a higher cost as a percentage of the air-fare for short haul budget airline flights, popular with UK based mountain bikers heading for the Alps. Long haul destinations like New Zealand are usually cheaper as baggage allowances are greater and bikes can often be taken on board for no additional charge.

Pack a Bike with Confidence

With a little practice, it is quick and easy to pack a bike for air travel whether using a cheap cardboard box or an expensive hard bike case. Take care to bubble wrap easy-to-bend bike components like brake discs and your trusty steed will arrive in perfect condition for that much needed cycling holiday.

Tips for Taking Your Bike on Vacation

2010-04-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

Planning on taking your bike on an adventure with you? Before you do, here are some tips for taking your bike on vacation:

Careful Set Up.

Whether you rent or take your own bike, make sure, your saddle height exactly matches what you ride at home. Take a tape measure. If you vary your saddle height by more than a few mms, you can cause injuries, especially on the knees. It is important to have other measurements the same or very similar – though saddle height is the most important.

Take Own Pedals and Shoes.

If you can’t take your own bike, at least take your own pedals and shoes, this helps maintain same cleat position.

Take Your Whole Saddle Bag.

Getting a puncture in a foreign country can be even more frustrating than in your own country. In a foreign country, you need to more self-sufficient should anything go wrong. If you take your whole saddle bag, you are less likely to forget anything like tyre leavers or chain tool.

Carrying Your Bike on A Plane.

For the best cycling experience, you really want to take your own bike. Taking a bike on plane is not as bad as it first appears. Just take care to pack and pad the bike really well. It may well be worth taking a training bike, rather than your top of the range bike. Because it may be more difficult to keep bike locked and there is always the possibility of something going wrong in transportation.

Full Suitcase.

The problem of cycling is the sheer volume of extra clothes you will need. Unless the weather is ultra predictable, you will need to plan for every weather condition, from overshoes to suncream. There is nothing worse than wandering through a Bulgarian shopping Mall hoping they will sell a size XL armwarmer.

Be Prepared for Distance.

If you plan a week long cycling holiday, there is nothing worse than killing yourself on the first day, so you spend the next three days limping around as your muscles recover. Be careful of getting carried away – especially if you are riding with much stronger cyclists. Don’t let your ego make you do too much.

Recovery Days.

If you have a long hard day, the best way to recover is still to go out the next day, even if for just half an hour or an hour to spin the legs.

Stretching on Plane.

If it is a long plane journey, be careful to remain well hydrated and take the opportunity to stretch. This is especially important if you have been training hard before travelling.

Bottled Water.

If you’re travelling anywhere where tap water is suspicious don’t risk getting a stomach upset. Drink bottled or filtered water, be careful also of salads washed in water. Locals may have developed immunity, but, you won’t have that immunity from our chlorinated variety.

A Rocky Mountaineer Experience

2010-04-28T15:01:00.000-07:00

In most travels, it's the destination, not the journey. Getting there is not half the fun. Sitting in a cramped seat for eight or more hours is a means to an end. Even if you have seen many of the world's great cities and wonders, the memories of the actual trips to those wonderful places often are bad ones — flight delays, cancellations.

Rocky Mountaineer is different. The Canadian train trip from Vancouver to Jasper is the attraction. Of course, the two-day ride wouldn't be the same without the Rocky Mountains, but the railroad experience is the reason for going to Canada.

Rocky Mountaineer Vacations railroad starts its 21st year this spring and offers a variety of daylight trips ranging from a three-hour ride from Vancouver to Whistler, in British Columbia, to a 16-day trip cross-country from Vancouver to Halifax, Nova Scotia. The five routes in between all feature the spectacular Rockies.

The dilemma is picking a route. How do you choose between Jasper and Banff? What about the side trip to Lake Louise and a helicopter view of the mountains? You also can end your trip in Calgary. There are no bad options.

Time dictated the Journey Through the Clouds, a two-day trip from Vancouver, a pretty good destination itself, to Jasper, with an overnight stop in Kamloops, British Columbia. It was is a perfect fit. Anything longer might have be too much, and anything shorter, too little.

A Travelers Experience of Rocky Mountaineer:

We arrived at the Mountaineer terminal, a rehabbed former Canadian National Railroad station, in the dark at 6:30 a.m. The terminal is airy with many large windows. My wife and I were filled with anticipation as we stood in line, waiting for our seat assignment.

We were given two seats in the middle of the last car on the 24-car train — always wanted to ride in a caboose. The seats were individual, adjustable and quite comfortable, though not plush. With 40 passengers, all adults, in the 66-capacity car, we had plenty of room.

The first day got off to a slow start. We pulled out of the station as Mountaineer employees waved goodbye, and the train crawled through Vancouver. Once we hit the open rails, we saw a variety of the British Columbia landscape ranging from Fraser Valley farmland to the Cascade Mountains. The route hugs the banks of the Fraser River, providing numerous photo opportunities, including Hell's Gate, where 200 million gallons of water rush through the narrowest part of the river each minute.

The ride was leisurely, less than 50 miles per hour at top speed and slowing for photo ops, such as the spectacular Pyramid Falls we crept past on the second day. This waterfall, actually two streams that flow together, can be seen only from the train. There is no road running past it and no hiking trail. The Rocky Mountaineer gives you a unique view of the Canadian countryside.

Providing commentary and excellent service in our car was Rocky Mountaineer attendant Cameron, who also served meals and snacks. Overall the food was good (ham sandwiches, salmon, fresh fruit, for example); one breakfast was just OK. The service couldn't have been better, with Cameron providing coffee, tea, juice and pop. As for the sights, there were few instances when a dome view was missed.

"With the great service we've had, I can't imagine what the Gold Leaf service is like," said a retired teacher from England.

Interestingly, the Rocky Mountaineer draws travelers from all over the world, not just North America. Most of the estimated 90,000 riders in 2009 weren't Americans. "We have an international clientele, as a rule," Cameron said. "We have passengers from the United States, England, Australia and Germany on this trip."

After eight hours in the train, we arrived at Kamloops, a city of 90,000 people. Its dry climate features mild winters and hot summers. As we pulled into the station, we were greeted by three members of the Kamloops Mounted Patrol on coal-black horses, waving us home. We spent the night in a small but clean motel, resting up for the big finish.

In the morning, half of our train broke off for Banff while we continued on to Jasper. There were no horsemen at the station when we boarded, but the next eight hours more than made up for it. We followed the clear, energetic Thompson River with mountains on both sides. It was the beginning of the climb to the sky.

The thrills were in ascending order, one jaw-dropping mountain after another in the afternoon. Three hours from Jasper we entered the Premier Range, named for Canada's prime ministers.

It is said to be the most impressive group of mountains in Canada. No argument here.

Mount Robson, the tallest at more than 12,000 feet with snow dotting the peak, is quite a sight. You can only imagine what it looks like in the Gold Leaf car.

Although Mount Robson was the visual highlight, the final two hours of the trip didn't lack for excitement. The very deep Moose Lake, an eerie green because of glacial particles; impressive Thunder Falls; Yellowhead Pass on the Continental Divide; and the two-toned Mount Fitzwilliam keep you from taking a nap before you step off the train at Jasper National Park.

And the ride was just as spectacular.

Tips For Taking Your Pet On Holiday

2010-04-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

Planning a family getaway is fun, but the mere thought of leaving behind our furry friends can be painful. Fortunately, pet-friendly lodging and restaurants are plentiful. You'll also find a slew of gear and other pet products making it easier than ever to take your cat or dog along. Here are tips:

Plan ahead. You may need to take a few extra steps to include your pets in the fun. Don't let that dissuade you from taking your pet. Let your children help make a list of the extra gear and supplies you will need as well as advance reservations you may require. Airlines can refuse your reservation if there are already too many pets scheduled for a flight, so let them know as soon as you decide to take a pet.

If you travel by car, pack your animal's food, litter, waste disposal bags, leashes, toys, beds, medications and pet carrier. To be on the safe side, include notes regarding your pet's medical history as well as your veterinarian's contact information.

Practice round. If your dog or cat isn't accustomed to car or plane travel, introduce him to the pet carrier well before your departure date. Toss a favorite toy or familiar object into the carrier and take a spin within familiar territory. Be sure the carrier is airline-compliant and sturdy enough to make the trip.

Keep moving. Just like humans, your pets need as much exercise away from home as they do in their own environment. On the road, make plenty of stops to allow every member of your family to stretch their legs and breathe fresh air. At your destination, include your pet in hikes, walks on pet-friendly beaches or visits to local parks.

Drink up. Make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water throughout your travels. Just like our body, a pet's consists of 80 percent water. Proper hydration is key to good health at home and on the road.
Have fun. Enjoy this extra-special time with your family and pet. Take photos and include your cat or dog in your vacation photo album. Visit a local dog park. It's likely that your pet will introduce you to new friends on the way.