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Last Minute Kumuka Special - The Orient Express!

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:06:17 PDT

Oriental Express - AST20

Duration: 16 Days
Start/Finish: Chiang Mai to Singapore
Countries Visited: Thailand - Malaysia - Singapore

*LAST MINUTE DEAL: The following departure is currently 20% OFF
10 Sep 2011

Introduction
Join us as we travel from Chiang Mai to Singapore, on a tour that includes seven memorable train journeys through Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, as well as idyllic islands and vibrant cities. We discover the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, and historic Kanchanaburi. We stay at a floating raft lodge with the opportunity to go bamboo rafting, take an elephant ride or explore a Mon minority village. In complete contrast, we spend time in the bustling city of Bangkok and visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. We relax on Koh Hai Island with its mountains, forests and beautiful sandy beaches, and take a boat trip to Emerald Cave. Next stop Penang, with its Malay, Chinese and Indian influences, and then Kuala Lumpur with its colonial buildings interspersed with modern skyscrapers. In Malacca we see the imprints of the British, Dutch and Portuguese, before our journey finally ends in Singapore at the southern end of the Malay Peninsular.

Itinerary
Day 1 Join Chiang Mai Day 2 Chiang Mai – Doi Suthep Temple, Old City Wall Day 3 Train to Uttaradith. Transfer to Sukhothai UNESCO Site – Historical Park, Wat Sri Chum Day 4 Drive Phitsanulok, Train Ayutthaya. UNESCO Site - AyutthayaDay 5 Drive Kanchanaburi – Train across the Bridge over River Kwai to Hell Fire Pass, Long-tail Boat to Floating Raft Lodge Day 6 Floating Raft – Mon Minority Village. Optional Elephant Ride, Bamboo Rafting Day 7 Transfer to Bangkok Day 8Bangkok – Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chao Phraya River Boat Trip. Overnight Train to Trang Day 9 Ferry to Hai Island – Boat Trip to Emerald Cave, Snorkeling Day 10 Hai Island – Free Day. Optional Visit Rok Islands Day 11 Ferry to Pakmeng, Drive into Malaysia to Penang Day 12 Penang – Snake Temple, Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas Temple, Teluk Bahang, Penang Hill. Overnight Train to Kuala Lumpur Day 13 Kuala Lumpur – Chinatown, Merdeka Square, Masjid Jamek Mosque, Central Market, Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple Day 14 Train to Tampin, Transfer to Malacca – Guided Tour including Fort Day 15 Train to Singapore Day 16 Singapore – Tour Ends After Breakfast

Top 5 Highlights
There are many amazing places that you will visit on your Oriental Express tour. Here’s what we feel are the Top 5 places guaranteed to blow you away!

1. Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep: Chiang Mai is the capital of Northern Thailand. In recent years Chiang Mai has grown, although with a population of 200,000 it is still a comfortable size and you will find that people here are relaxed and easy going. We take a road trip up the mountains to the Doi Suthep temple, a pilgrimage sight in Northern Thailand. From here you will see spectacular views down the mountain to Chiang Mai.

2. Ayutthaya: Capital of Siam until the 18th Century, Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning complex of palaces, shrines, stupas and monasteries. We will spend the afternoon visiting the main sights including Wat Chaiwatanaram, Si Sanaphet and Mongkol Bophit.

3. Bangkok City Tour: A city tour includes a visit to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and a boat trip. The Chao Phraya river, has been the lifeline of Thailand’s ancient kingdoms and agricultural sustainability. There are traditional houses still perched at the edge of the river and its canals. We visit one of Thailand’s greatest visual wonders, the Wat Phra Kaeo, or the Grand Palace.

4. Hai Island: We board a ferry to Hai Island and take a boat excursion to visit Emerald Cave. By swimming through the tunnel (80 metres) to the other end, it opens onto a beach surrounded by high cliffs. The boat trip also includes snorkeling at Chuak Island or Maa Island.

5. Penang: In Penang morning we take an excursion which includes the Snake Temple, Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas Temple, Teluk Bahang and to the top of Penang Hill by funicular. There is free time to explore the city’s contrasts – visit the Jami Masjid Mosque or the Hindu Temple, shop in Chinatown with its apothecaries, jewellers, snake charmers and fortune tellers, or perhaps see a game of cricket on the Padang – a very British scene with a sublime backdrop of Moorish styled buildings!

What’s Included
• 13 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners • All Activities and Entrance Fees as per Itinerary • Escorted Tour - English Speaking Local Tour Leader and/or Local Guides • UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Sukhothai, Ayutthaya • River Kwai & the Death Railway • Idyllic Islands of Ko Hai & Penang • 7 Train Journeys through Thailand, Malaysia & Singapore

Accommodation & Transport
• Hotel (11 Nights), Sleeper Train (2 Nights), Floating Raft Lodge (2 Nights)
• Private Vehicle, Train, Ferry, Long-tail Boat, Bicycle, Funicular and on foot

Call the office to reserve your spot on this tour now!

Princess Bans Smoking in Staterooms

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 06:49:34 PDT

Princess Cruises has announced that smoking will no longer be allowed in passenger staterooms or on balconies, effective on all sailings departing after Jan. 15, 2012.

The new policy reflects changing customer preferences and the move around the globe – from North America to Europe – to further restrict areas where smoking is allowed, according to the line. “Our consumer studies now show that smokers are a small minority of our passengers, and that the large majority of passengers value having their primary living space onboard smoke-free,” said Jan Swartz, Princess executive vice-president.

Swartz added that balconies are included in the new policy because they are a hallmark feature of Princess ships and the line believes it’s important to keep that peaceful space clear of smoke. She added that Princess still welcomes passengers who smoke, and will continue to provide special venues around the ship to accommodate them.

Smoking will continue to be allowed in the Churchill’s cigar lounge, a section of the disco and casino, and a portion of the open decks. Booked passengers are being notified of the new policy, which is also being communicated widely throughout the line’s informational materials.

Air Canada Update

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 04:55:09 PDT

This just in from the folks at Air Canada:

AT AIR CANADA, WE ARE FULLY COMMITTED TO TAKING CARE OF OUR CUSTOMERS.

Dear customer,

We are very disappointed that an agreement with the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) leadership has not been reached, leading call centre and airport customer service agents in Canada to take strike action.

How will this affect your travel plans?

Rest assured that we will continue to operate our regular schedule, and have implemented a contingency service plan to minimize impact to our customers. Existing bookings will be honoured and future bookings welcomed.

Use our self-service tools

To manage or book your flights visit aircanada.com or contact your travel agent.
Our customers are requested to check-in within 24 hours of flight departure, online at aircanada.com or on a mobile device at mobile.aircanada.com. Check-in prior to going to the airport, to avoid expected long line-ups at our self-service check-in kiosks.
Get flight updates at aircanada.com

We apologize for the inconvenience. We look forward to welcoming you on board while we work things out on the ground.

For up-to-date information visit aircanada.com.

Air Canada

New Airport Security System Could Take Five Seconds!

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 06:28:03 PDT

If you have been to the airport in the last ten years you know what I’m talking about when I say that going through security is a tedious exercise. On top of which, most experts say is ineffectual at best. There has to be a better system!

I just found this article from the blog “Travel Industry News” which outlines a new security system that could scan a passenger in as little as five seconds.

“A new airport screening “tunnel” could see passengers clearing security in as little as five seconds. It would mean no undressing, no shoes off, no unpacking computers, no guilt at finding that errant coin in your pocket. Just walk on by.

The 21 feet long smart tunnel combines all existing and imminent security technology in one place and would slash the time passengers wait at airports. Travellers simply walk the length of the tunnel while they are scanned.

The downside - while a version is expected to be on trial within 18 months, it could five years before it is rolled out for general use at major airports.

IATA unveiled a prototype of the new technology in Singapore yesterday.

It features screening methods which are either already in place at airports – such as body scanners – and those which are expected to be introduced soon, including liquid detectors.

The IATA system would divide passengers into three categories, who would initially be identified by an iris-recognition system before entering the arches.

So-called “known travellers” who have been pre-screened would only face an x-ray, metal and liquid detector.

“Normal travellers” would also have their shoes scanned automatically and pass through an explosive trace detector.

Anyone whose behaviour raised concern – such as a passenger buying a one way ticket in cash – would go through a different channel which would also feature a full body scanner.”
I don’t know about you, but this technology could not come sooner.

Paris is one of my favourite cities in the world and this is a...

Tue, 31 May 2011 06:34:01 PDT

Paris is one of my favourite cities in the world and this is a great special for first time visitors to this amazing place! Call the office to book today!

Call the office for more details on this awesome Boomerang Tours...

Mon, 30 May 2011 09:53:41 PDT

Call the office for more details on this awesome Boomerang Tours offer to Fiji

Holland America 3 Day Sale!

Tue, 24 May 2011 05:46:10 PDT

If you are a fan of cruising or Holland America - then get on your phone and call the office or better yet, stop by.

Alaska Cruises and Cruise Tours are 50% off select cruises

Caribbean Cruises are 50% off select cruises

European Cruises are 50% off select cruises

This sale only last 3 days - so don’t hesitate!

China has always been a nation of superlatives, and it just...

Wed, 04 May 2011 07:15:10 PDT

China has always been a nation of superlatives, and it just added another to the list: world’s largest museum. The National Museum of China in Beijing is the result of a decade-long, $380-million project that combined the Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution.

The more than 1 million artifacts in the museum’s collection provide an epic survey of Chinese history, from Yuanmou Man, who walked the land 1.7 million years ago, to current president Hu Jintao. With over 2 million square feet of galleries to cover - three times the size of the Louvre in Paris - better bring your walking shoes and plan ahead what you want to see!

Porter Airlines Offers More Choice For Ontario Travellers

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 06:19:29 PDT

The rain didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits as Porter Airlines inaugural flight to Windsor, Ontario, touched down yesterday morning, marking the airline’s 15th destination.

Porter offers up to three daily round trips between Windsor and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Connecting markets through Toronto include Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax, Thunder Bay, Quebec City, Boston, Chicago and New York.

If you haven’t tried Porter yet - then be prepared for something that other airlines seemingly have forgotten - SERVICE. Porter flights include complimentary in-flight wine and beer and extra legroom on their fleet of 70-seat Bombardier Q400 aircraft. Add to that complementary computers and wifi, free snacks and drinks and a nice modern setting at the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Almost makes you want to fly again.

Kumuka Sale Extended!

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 11:56:42 PDT

Due to popular demand - the Kumuka sale has been extended to Wednesday April 13, 2011

What does booking a guarantee cabin on a cruise really mean?

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 13:04:38 PDT

What does booking a guarantee cabin on a cruise really mean?:

A client asked this question in the office just the other day. I did some research and found this really informative article from Cruise Critic giving you all the pros and cons of booking guarantee cabins.

Kumuka Adventure Travel Sale 3 days only - Starts tomorrow 1000...

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:41:07 PDT

Kumuka Adventure Travel Sale

3 days only - Starts tomorrow

1000 seats at 35% off

Kumuka offers more than 600 tours and itineraries covering 83 countries spanning all 7 continents. Tours vary in style including Small Group Tours, Coach Tours, Overlanding Tours, Cruises and Active Trekking Tours. Call into the office for more details!!

Crystal Cruises go All Inclusive

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 06:51:20 PDT

Well it was just a matter of time when Crystal was going to have to get on the bandwagon and go all inclusive in order to compete with the other six star cruise lines in their category.

While Crystal is the only “big ship” experience at that price point, their direct competitors: Silversea, Regent and Seabourn have all been all inclusive for years now. Who knows in the end run if all inclusive actually costs more than just paying for what you use, but most people hate being charged constantly.

This does allow Crystal now to compete based on ship amenities alone. As a larger ship, they have more dining venues, bigger production shows and more options. That being said, a lot of six star cruisers prefer the advantages of smaller ports and the more collegial atmosphere of a smaller ship.

In the end, the consumer will decide but it is an interesting development in the cruising market no doubt!

Wanna check out the Royal Wedding? Or just hang out where the...

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:04:01 PDT

Wanna check out the Royal Wedding? Or just hang out where the royals do? Air Canada has some great packages to London. Interested? Give us a call at the office and we’ll put it together for you!

Fed's Advise Against Travelling to Japan

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 06:45:45 PDT

After Friday’s devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunamis, Foreign Affairs Canada is advising against non-essential travel to Japan, especially to the prefectures of Chiba, Miyagi, Ibaraki, Iwate, Fukushima and Aomori. Sendai City, Fukushima City and Aomori City have been hardest hit.

The earthquake caused extensive damage to infrastructure, disrupting power and telecommunications. Tokyo Electric Power has said it will ration electricity with rolling blackouts in parts of Tokyo and other Japanese cities. Transportation routes, emergency and medical care, as well as water and food supplies have also been affected.

Canadians travelling to affected areas should contact their airline or tour operator to determine whether the situation will disrupt travel arrangements. They should also exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

For more information - CLICK HERE

Photo

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 12:59:54 PST

NCL Improves Their Private Island

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:17:20 PST

Norwegian Cruise Line has completed the first phase of enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay, its 250-acre private island in the Bahamas. On Feb. 3, the company opened the new marina and dining facility on the island, representing a milestone in the more than $20 million enhancement project currently underway.

The marina basin has four docks for the island’s tenders. The new 8,500-square-foot dining facility has two bars and four picnic pavilions.

“Both the new marina and the dining facility greatly enhance the guest experience on Great Stirrup Cay which is our second busiest port of call this year,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL president and CEO. “By moving the tenders’ arrival to the marina and away from the beach, we have now opened up a great expanse of beachfront for our guests to enjoy and relax. We’ve also built a new large dining facility that is similar to the action station restaurants we have on board our Freestyle Cruising ships.”

The marina is approximately 12 feet deep at low water and is home to the island’s four tenders. It took more than eight months to excavate the basin and the entrance channel.

The dining facility includes a central pizza-making station, two grills, hot and cold food stations, as well as fresh fruits and breads. There are two full bars on either side of the facility. The four pavilions, each more than 1800 square feet, offer picnic tables with a total seating capacity for more than 500 guests.

Enhancements to Great Stirrup Cay have been underway since January 2010 and will continue through the end of this year. Several new island activities have been added since the project began including more than 16 WaveRunners, kayak rentals and an eco-adventure boat tour around the island. These are in addition to the existing snorkeling, floats, inflatable hippo slide and parasailing.

The second phase includes an arrival/departure pavilion, additional bar facilities, several comfort stations, a band stand, cruise program activity area, private beachfront cabanas, a kids play area, straw market and beach volleyball courts. The beachfront will continue to be expanded on the island’s west end.

NCL has owned the island since 1977 when it became the first cruise line to offer an uninhabited tropical island experience exclusively for its guests.

Nile Cruises continue to be Cancelled!

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 05:43:44 PST

Egypt Update:

Cruise lines continue to cancel ports of call in Egypt due to the political unrest and there seems to be little end in sight.. Itineraries are being altered to replace Egyptian sailings and most cruise companies are announcing that passengers can rebook on a new sailing or get a full refund. Those who take the cruises with an altered itinerary will not receive compensation as the situation is out of the control of the cruise line.

Uniworld, Abercrombie and Kent, Viking, Avalon and Cosmos Tourama cancelled cruises through February 28. Abercrombie and Kent and Uniworld extended suspensions of Nile river trips through March 31. Royal Caribbean and Azamara Club Cruises dropped their call to Egypt and Costa Cruises cancelled all calls in Egypt and Tunisia. Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC, Cunard and Grand Circle Cruises, altered or cancelled Egypt sailings for the season.

Please call the office for more information if you’re worried that your travel plans may be affected by the political unrest in Egypt. This is just another example of why it pays to use an agent to book your vacation. You have an advocate in your corner and someone who can find out information for you. Just saying…

Save $400 and receive a free pair of binoculars on this...

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 08:30:00 PST

Save $400 and receive a free pair of binoculars on this Newfoundland Tour!

Prices Slashed on Luxury Europe Cruises!

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 05:22:23 PST

One week only folks.

Starts February 7, 2011

Seabourn Cruises have deeply slashed their pricing on European cruises. Ask me why a six star cruise line - arguably the best cruise line in the business according to the top industry awards - would be lowering their prices? Its all economics.

Seabourn’s fleet used to be three very gracious and lovely “yachts” as they like to call them. Each ship held 225 passengers. That meant they only had to fill 675 passengers each departure.

In the past three years, Seabourn has built three new ships for their fleet. Doubling the number of ships and adding the demand to fill an extra 1300 passengers or so each departure. More availability means lower prices until they can build up the demand again for the product. Simple economics.

What does this mean for you? Try a European cruise, with gratuities, drinks and gourmet dining for just $2400! You heard me. How about cruising the Norwegian Fjords for only 3560? This cruise is over 60% off.

This deal is so good, I booked a cruise yesterday.

One week. Call the office and get in on it too!