AirGuide Destination News

Plenty of cool ski resorts and travel bargains

2009-11-13T12:56:00.000-05:00

Reports of new hotels, upgraded day lodges and other improvements continue to emerge from ski resorts in Colorado, Idaho and British Columbia.
For example, new places to stay in Telluride's 9,500-foot elevation Mountain Village are the ski-in, ski-out upscale Capella and Lumière hotels.
Capella is a secluded luxury property with 100 hotel guest rooms and 60 fully owned condominium suites. Among its amenities are multiple restaurants, a spa, indoor pool, fitness center, Kids Club, 5,000 square feet of event space and an outdoor ice skating rink. A Nordic Lounge offers valet service and equipment storage. Contact: 1-877-247-6688; www.capellahotels.com.

Lumière is a 30-guest-room boutique hotel. It offers free breakfast plus spa services, fitness center, business services, gas fireplaces, bar, ski valet, equipment storage and airport pickup. Contact: 1-866-530-9466; www.lumieretelluride.com.
Another Telluride option is booking a lodging-and-ski package for $95 through the visitor bureau's central reservations. Ask about the American Airlines Kids Fly Free promotion. Contact: 1-888- 605-2578; www.visittelluride.com/ places-to-stay/packages.

Opening Nov. 26 in the heart of Whistler Village is the 190-room, four-story Aava Whistler Hotel with 24-hour concierge service, restaurant, fitness center, sauna, meeting space, ski equipment storage, soaker tubs and outdoor pool. Aava's opening rate Nov. 26-Dec. 24 is $92 per night for a queen deluxe room. Contact: 1-800-663-5644; www.aavawhistlerhotel.com.

Short swings

In Idaho, Brundage Mountain Resort has remodeled its base lodge, Lookout Pass added a new ski-patrol and first-aid lodge, and Schweitzer and Pomerelle expanded their snowmaking. Also the SkiIdaho.us Web site has been upgraded.
Colorado's Wolf Creek is celebrating its 70th birthday. In recognition, the resort will offer discounted lift tickets during special events throughout the season. Contact: 970-264-5639; www.wolfcreekski.com.
Elsewhere, early-season snow has enabled these Canadian ski areas to open: Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, Nakiska, Marmot Basin and Mt. Norquay (weekends only) in Alberta and Sun Peaks in British Columbia.

Ski travel bargains

Families flying American Airlines Dec. 1-17 into Colorado's Eagle/Vail Airport can receive one free child's ticket for every adult fare purchased. Contact: 1-866-668-8245; www.FlyVail.com. ... Then there's the Family Fly Free package aboard American, Delta or United airlines to Gunnison-Crested Butte Airport. Buy two airline tickets between Dec. 17 and April 4 and get a free third ticket when staying in Crested Butte Mountain Resort's lodging properties at least four nights. Contact: 1-800-544-8448; www.skicb.com.
Park City's The Canyons Resort is extending its employee rate Nov. 23-29 to all guests at its four lodges. Rooms are available from $49.50 per night, double occupancy. Guests staying three nights receive two free lift tickets. Contact: 1-888-226-9667; www.thecanyons.com. ... Also in Park City, save 25 percent off lodging and lift tickets Dec. 5-25 at Deer Valley. Each paying adult receives one night of free lodging and one day of free skiing. A minimum four-day stay is required. Contact: 435-649-1000; www.deervalley.com.

Book a Steamboat vacation by Nov. 25 and save up to 25 percent on lodging and lifts. Contact: 1-877-309-2628; www.steamboat.com. ... Nov. 12-Dec. 18 at Breckenridge, book three nights of lodging and three days of adult lift tickets and receive an added free night of lodging and free ski day. Prices start at $91 per person, per night. Contact: 1-877-593-5260; www.gobreck.com.

Yellowstone National Park's winter season begins with the opening of Old Faithful Snow Lodge (Dec. 18) and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel (Dec. 21). Winter Getaways are available Jan. 3-March 6 at Mammoth Hot Springs and through March 5 at Snow Lodge. Contact: 1-866-439-7375; www.travelyellowstone.com.

Season pass update

Crested Butte has lifted the purchase deadline for its Gold Season Pass. The ticket costs $1,274 and has no blackout dates. Added bonuses are 15 percent off lodging at Crested Butte and half-price skiing at Durango, Powderhorn and Taos. A child's season pass (ages 7-12) is $285; young adult (13-17), $455. (Youth prices quoted Nov. 8 in Travel were correct for sales at ski shows.) Contact: 970-349-2261 or www.skicb.com
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Icelandair Announces 'Once in a Lifetime' Northern Lights Tour in Iceland

2009-11-13T12:55:00.000-05:00

Icelandair, Iceland's flagship air company, has recently announced a Northern Lights package deal flying to and from North America this winter. Iceland's perfect location within the Arctic Circle provides the ideal destination to view the Northern Lights; otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis.
The 'Aurora Adventure' is a six-day excursion split between Iceland's capital city, Reykjavik, and the town of Hofn in the south-eastern part of the country to seek the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights are without a doubt one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles in the world. The natural light displays occur most frequently in the Polar Regions, centered within a 2500 km radius of the geomagnetic pole.
Sunspots on the Sun's surface are the predominant cause for the appearance of the Northern Lights. The strength of the Aurora is relevant to the amount of occurring sunspots as well as clear visibility; these sunspots follow an 11-year cycle that is set to peak between 2011 and 2012. Scientists agree that the conditions for viewing the Northern Lights in 2010 are particularly superb -- making this winter the ultimate time to visit Iceland.
Further information on the Auora Adventure package (http://www.icelandair.us/offers-and-bookings/book-packages/package/item279957/Aurora_Adventure/) deal as well as flight availability can be found on the Icelandair www.icelandair.us.
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Brendan Weekly Hot Deals Include Fiji, South America

2009-11-11T11:54:00.000-05:00

Brendan Vacations' Hot Deals of the week feature Spectacular Fiji Specials and Great South America Escorted Vacations. The offers include: Independent Vacations: Nativi Resort, Fiji -- six days/five nights from $1,289 per person land and air, including roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles to Nadi on Air Pacific, five nights at the Nativi Resort, run of house room, daily breakfast, roundtrip airport transfers, all hotel taxes, mention promo code BVFNR. First Landing Resort, Fiji -- six days/five nights from $1,199 per person land and air, including roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles to Nadi on Air Pacific; five nights at the First Landing Resort, Garden Bure room; daily breakfast; roundtrip airport transfers, all hotel taxes, mention promo code BVFFL; Sheraton Fiji Resort, Fiji -- six days/five nights from $1,199 per person land and air, including roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles to Nadi on Air Pacific; five nights at the Sheraton Resort, Ocean Breeze room; daily breakfast; roundtrip airport transfers; all hotel taxes, mention promo code BVSFR; Hideaway Resort, Fiji -- six days/five nights from $1,159 per person land and air, including roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles to Nadi on Air Pacific; five nights at the Rydges Hideaway Resort, Frangipani Bure room; daily breakfast; roundtrip airport transfers; all hotel taxes, mention promo code BVFHR; and Castaway Island Resort, Fiji -- eight days/seven nights from $2,149 per person land and air, including roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles to Nadi on Air Pacific; seven nights at the Castaway Island Resort, Island Bure; roundtrip airport transfers; roundtrip island transfers; all hotel taxes, mention promo code BVFCI.
On Escorted Vacations, save up to $200 per couple when you book land and air on these selected January and February departures, or save up to $100 per couple when you book land only on these selected January and February departures: Land of the Inca -- 12 days, Jan. 21 and Feb. 11, from $3,210 to $3,110; Cultures and Contrasts -- 17 days, Jan. 23 and Feb. 6 and 27, from $3,578 to $3,478; South America Revealed -- 16 days, Jan. 21 and Feb. 11, from $3,941 to $3,841; Highlights of Peru -- eight days, Jan. 21 and Feb. 11, from $1,522 to $1,422; and Glimpse of South America -- 11 days, Jan. 21 and Feb. 11, from $1,875 to $1,775. Mention promo codes when booking for discounts. For land and air bookings, ask for promo code BVSA100. For land-only bookings, ask for promo code BVSA050. Brendan has been introducing travelers to the world since 1969. With more than 800 packages in over 60 countries, Brendan offers one of the widest selections of both independent and escorted vacations. Brendan brochures feature Europe, Ireland and Britain, Egypt, U.S. and Canada, South and Central America, Tahiti, Fiji, Australia and New Zealand and Asia. For more information call 800-421-8446 or visit www.brendanvacations.com.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Lonely Planet presents top picks in 'Best of Travel 2010'

2009-11-03T10:43:00.001-05:00

November 3 is the European release date for Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2010, the publisher's fifth annual collection of the world's best journeys, destinations, and experiences for the coming year. Best in Travel 2010 is being released the week of November 2 in the US and Europe, with additional worldwide publication dates to follow throughout the month.
The guidebook presents the top ten countries, regions, and cities to visit in 2010, chosen by Lonely Planet's global team. Also included are a 2010 travel planner and 17 travel lists, including "2010's Best-Value Destinations" and "Top Ten Airports."
Lonely Planet's 2010 top travel picks include:
2010's Best-value destinations
Iceland
Thailand
London
South Africa
Malaysia
Mexico
India
Bulgaria
Kenya
Las Vegas
(destinations not ranked)
Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2010 is now available in the US and Europe for a list price of €13.50. To inquire about additional release dates, visit the Lonely Planet website.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com
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New Beijing Expressway Opens Hiking to the Great Wall

2009-10-30T13:47:00.002-04:00

Beijing's new JingCheng Expressway has now been completed, making hiking trips to the Great Wall more convenient for travelers. The new motorway stretches south from Beijing to Chengdu and passes the base of the Jinshanling Great Wall, where the most famous hike begins from there to the Simatai Great Wall. The China Guide, (www.TheChinaGuide.com), an American owned and operated tour agency, will now use the new JingCheng Expressway to get visitors to the famous hiking destination in a safer and timelier fashion. Before completion of the JingCheng Expressway, the drive to Jinshanling for hiking was slow and unpredictable with traffic. Judy Huang, The China Guide's travel manager, said, "It was a common problem to be slowed down by heavy traffic and large trucks using the narrow road. Now, we can plan more efficient schedules and travelers have more time for hiking and sightseeing."
The hike from Jinshanling to Simatai Great Wall is famous for its picturesque mountain scenery, renowned to photographers. This Great Wall section stretches along the mountain tops and hikers pass through more than 30 watch towers along the way. The China Guide describes the hike as moderately difficult in some places but achievable and fun for all travelers aged eight and older. "Hiking from Jinshanling to Simatai is the best and most beautiful option and just two hours out of Beijing,” Huang said. “Hikers get an authentic experience and aren't surrounded by other tourists as the destination is more remote. On most days, hikers will only see a handful of photographers capturing the famous scenery."
Hikers can enjoy the local village atmosphere at the base of the Wall before heading up the mountain. The hiking time from Jinshanling to Simatai is from three to five hours, depending on the pace. The hike can be done at a relaxing speed with many stops along the way for the endless photo opportunities. Sunrise and sunset are the ideal times for photographers and hikers are eager to catch this portion of the day.
The China Guide offers hiking day trips from Jinshanling to Simatai that include transportation using the new expressway, private guide and driver, tickets and a good local lunch at the Simatai Wall when finished. Overnight trips are also available during the warmer months, March to October. Travelers have the option to stay overnight in a Jinshanling courtyard hotel or camp out on the wall under the stars, making it ideal to catch the morning sunrise. For more information, visit www.TheChinaGuide.com.
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Colorado Ski Season Starts with Late October Snowstorm

2009-10-30T13:47:00.001-04:00

A winter snow storm has hit Colorado, dumping several feet of fresh powder on the Rockies and skiers and boarders couldn't be more excited. In addition to being the world's premier ski/snowboard destination with 26 unique ski areas and resorts offering more than 2,000 trails and 40,000 acres of mountain terrain, Colorado also provides visitors with a variety of off-the-slopes winter activities including dog sledding, snow-shoeing and ice climbing. It’s also offering a multitude of specials. Families flying into Eagle Airport (EGE) between Dec. 1 and 17, 2009, on American, will receive one free child ticket available for every adult fare purchased, with no black-out dates. For more information, visit www.FlyVail.com.
This winter season, when traveling to the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) on United, Delta and American, take advantage of the Friends and Family Fly Free program. Between Dec. 17, 2009, and April 4, 2010, buy two airline tickets and get the third free when staying in Crested Butte Mountain Resort's lodging properties for at least four nights. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.skicb.com. At Copper Mountain, stay for at least two nights and the third night is free. This deal includes the Beeline Advantage Lift Ticket offering guests their own dedicated lift line, in addition to kids under 12 skiing/riding free with the purchase of every adult ticket. Book this package by Oct. 31, 2009, and get up to $25 per reservation ($100 maximum) to spend at Copper. For more information, visit www.coppercolorado.com. Book now at Aspen’s Hotel Jerome, A RockResort, for this upcoming winter season and receive your fourth night free. The offer is available Nov. 26, 2009, through April 4, 2010, and must be booked by Nov. 25, 2009. For more information, visit www.rockresorts.com or call 877-412-ROCK (7625). For more information on other specials, visit www.colorado.com.
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SAA Vacations Offers Reduced Winter Package

2009-10-29T10:04:00.001-04:00

South African Airways Vacations is offering a new package, Winter in Style, that includes a Cape Town visit and a safari during the holiday season. The package price starts at $2,399, a savings of $700 per person off regular rates and is valid for travel Dec. 1 to 15. The package includes international and domestic African flights on South African Airways; four nights at one of two world-famous five-star resorts in or near Cape Town, The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa or The Table Bay Hotel; and two nights on safari at the Lion Sands River Lodge in the Lion Sands Private Game Reserve in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Additional packages, such as “SA on Sale” and “Safari Royale,” are also available for travel now through Dec. 15 at rates starting at $1,899 per person.
The Winter in Style package includes roundtrip international Economy Class airfare from New York Kennedy or Washington, D.C. (Dulles) to Johannesburg, South Africa, on South African Airways. Add-on rates are available from 26 other cities in the U.S. Game drives and activities are included, as well as six breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners and meet and greet by South African Airways Vacations representatives upon arrival in South Africa, as well as transfers For more vacation packages to Southern Africa, call 888-722-4872 or visit www.flysaavacations.com.
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Brazil Operators Offer Fall/Winter Deals from $369

2009-10-28T10:37:00.001-04:00

Still celebrating winning the Olympic bid for 2016, the members of the Brazil Tour Operators Association are offering special deals for fall and winter to Rio de Janeiro starting as low as $369. Until Dec. 15, Tourlite International is running a special six-day, five-night package to Rio de Janeiro starting at only $369 per person double occupancy. The “Rio Special” package includes five nights accommodation at the Copa Sul Hotel, or a similar three-star hotel on Copacabana Beach; full Brazilian breakfast daily; a city tour; services of Tourlite’s local English-speaking representatives; roundtrip airport transfers; and all hotel taxes and service charges. For more information, call 800-272-7600 or visit www.tourlite.com. Through Dec. 10, Fredson Travel has a six-day, five night Rio de Janeiro package starting at $549 per person double occupancy, that includes accommodations at the three-star Hotel Astoria Copacabana including daily breakfast and taxes, a full-day tour visiting Sugar Loaf and Corcovado with lunch and roundtrip airport transfers. For more information, call 800-626-8422 or visit www.fredson.com.
Just Brazil Vacations by Hotur has a six-day, five-night Rio de Janeiro program starting from $859 per person double occupancy that includes roundtrip airfare from Miami; five nights accommodation with private bath at the four-star Porto Bay Rio International; daily Brazilian breakfast of fresh fruit, juices, cold meats and tea and coffee; a half-day tour of Sugar Loaf Mountain; a full-day tropical island cruise with lunch; a half-day visit to Corcovado; an evening Samba show with dinner; a visit to H. Stern to see its fabulous gems and jewelry collection; the services of local guides; and all hotel service charges and taxes. Agents can book the package from now through Dec. 9 and from Jan. 14 to June 26, 2010. For more information, call 877-468-8707 or visit www.justbrazil.com.
Brazil Nuts is offering a four-night package at a tropical hideaway for $780 per person double occupancy. Set in the mountains overlooking Guanabara Bay, the Hotel Santa Teresa is a lovely restored colonial mansion with 44 suites. Guests can be pampered in the Natura Spa, swim in the pool, stroll through the acre of gardens and dine on fusion cuisine at Térèze. Good through Dec. 10, the package includes four nights accommodation with daily breakfast; a half day of spa treatments; a guided walk through the rain forest to a spectacular waterfall; a beach adventure to Grumari, Prainha and Guaratiba Beaches; roundtrip airport transfers; and all hotel taxes. For more information, call 239-593-0266 or go to www.brazilnuts.com.
The aim of the Brazil Tour Operators Association is to raise awareness of its active member as Brazil travel experts and heighten visibility among North American travelers for all the destinations in Brazil. BTOA’s active members are AAT American Adventure Tours; Abreu; Air Projects; American Express Vacations; Avanti Destinations; Borello Travel and Tours; Brazil Nuts Tours; Brazilian Vacation Center; BROL/Brazil Online Travel; Chanteclair; Cox & Kings USA; Discover Brazil Tours; Dumonde Travel, Four Star South America Tours & Travel; Fredson Travel; Globus; HOTUR - Just Brazil Vacations; Marnella Tours; Pan American Travel Services; SITA World Tours; Skyline Travel Specialists; Tourlite International, VIP Tour Group, and Visit Brazil Tours. Americans traveling to Brazil need visas. To more about the Brazil Tour Operators Association, email admin@braziltouroperators.org or visit www.braziltouroperators.org.
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Greaves Tours Offers New Itinerary to Ladakh, India

2009-10-27T10:16:00.003-04:00

Greaves Tours launched a new itinerary called “Ladakh: Land of the Mountain Passes” for travelers seeking to discover the charm of a remote oasis in India, reconnect with nature, and reawaken their spiritual sense. Known as “Little Tibet,” Ladakh is a good suggestion for those who’ve experienced India’s traditionally popular sites and cities, and are now returning to explore a sparsely populated, unexploited and picturesque part of the country. Through the itinerary -- personally created by the Cambata family, who own Greaves -- travelers will meet local residents, encounter indigenous wildlife and flora and fauna, take walks through the hills, have time for quiet contemplation and venture through diverse landscapes. The program encompasses the lifestyles and local lore of Leh, capital of the ancient Buddhist kingdom, and Nubra Valley, situated along the ancient caravan route of Central Asia.
Priced from $1,939 per person, based on two, four or six people traveling together (two per room), the 10-day journey is valid during India’s summertime June 1 to Sept. 30, 2010. India domestic airfare in economy class costs an additional $394 per person. Prices exclude Indian visa fee; meals except where noted on the itinerary; and personal items such as telephone, laundry, gratuities, travel insurance, and any other changes travelers may choose to make during the trip. The 10-day Ladakh: Land of the Mountain Passes program is a suggested itinerary that can be customized to a traveler’s individual needs combining other regions and travel experiences in India and the subcontinent. For 30 years, family-owned and operated Greaves has specialized in customized luxury itineraries and bespoke tours to India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and the Indian Ocean islands. For more information, e-mail sales@greavesindia.com, call 800-318-7801 or visit www.greavesindia.com.
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Brendan Debuts Asia-Pacific Offerings

2009-10-27T10:16:00.001-04:00

Bangkok On a Budget is a six-day/five-night package from $249 per person land only. As the capital city of Thailand, Bangkok has changed into a modern and sophisticated city. It not only offers the cosmopolitan amenities you would expect from big cities, but also the treasures of cultural attractions. The city is dotted with 400 glittering Buddhist temples, palaces, classical dance extravaganzas, and numerous shopping centers. Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience a fascinating glimpse of Thailand's gentle culture amidst the bustle of a dynamic metropolis. The package includes five nights accommodation at the Radisson Hotel Bangkok, Superior Category; roundtrip airport transfers; half city and temples tour and all taxes. The above rate is per person double occupancy and is based on stays from Jan. 15 to 20, 2010, at the Radisson Bangkok Hotel in a Superior Room. The package is valid for travel from Dec. 1, March 31, 2010. Seasonal and weekend surcharges may apply. Offer valid on new bookings only. Rates are based on availability and subject to black-out dates and changes. Other restrictions may apply. For more information, call 800-421-8446 or visit www.brendanvacations.com.
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Intrepid Adds Peru Agent Training and Trip

2009-10-26T10:17:00.001-04:00

Adventure travel specialist Intrepid Travel is offering evening seminars for West Coast agents designed to promote Peru and Intrepid’s selection of touring options there, as well as a contest in which an Intrepid trip for two to Peru is being given away. The seminars, complete with drinks and appetizers, will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, and on Thursday, Nov. 19, at the Renaissance Hotel Seattle in Seattle. Additionally, all those attending the seminars will be eligible to win a trip for two on Intrepid’s Andes and the Amazon itinerary -- a 12-day trip from the heights of Peru to the Amazon lowlands (airfare and local payment not included). This prize has a value of approximately $4,000. One of Intrepid’s most popular destinations, Peru is featured on an impressive 48 itineraries, lasting from 4 to 113 days and ranging from Basix (“backpacking with a guide”) to Comfort (“adventure travel with a soft landing at night”). Clients have the choice of itineraries dedicated to Peru or those which incorporate Peru with one or many other South American countries. To RSVP for the seminars, e-mail Kate Rosen, Intrepid’s business development manager for Western USA, at krosen@intrepidtravel.com . For more information, visit www.intrepidtravel.com.
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Icelandair Offers Iceland Package from $489

2009-10-26T10:17:00.000-04:00

Icelandair is offering its Golden Circle Getaway package, including airfare, hotel and tour in Iceland from $489. From Boston and New York, the package is priced at $489 per person double occupancy. From Seattle, it's priced at $499. Extra nights for doubles are $45, for singles are $69. To qualify, packages must be booked by Oct. 22 for travel Nov. 5 to Dec. 15. Prices may be higher on certain departure dates. Best dates for travel, based on two nights, as of Oct 22 (subject to change), from Seattle, Nov. 10 to Dec 8; and from Boston, Nov. 11 to Dec. 10. New York departures are available at higher rates. Prices may be higher during Thanksgiving week.
The itinerary is as follows. Day 1 -- Afternoon departure from Boston, New York, or Seattle on Icelandair, with complimentary soft drinks and in-seat entertainment. Meals and head sets are available for purchase, or bring your own. Day 2 -- Morning arrival in Iceland. On your own, transfer to Icelandair Hotel Loftleidir, the only hotel in Iceland that guarantees check in for North American arrivals (starting around 9 a.m.). Enjoy a Scandinavian breakfast buffet, a great way to greet the morning in Iceland. The rest of the day is open for your own activities. Day 3 -- Breakfast at hotel. Be in the hotel lobby at 8 a.m. for departure on the Golden Circle Classic tour. Start by visiting Nesjavellir, a powerful geothermal area in the scenic landscape of Lake Þingvallavatn. Here is where the city of Reykjavik gets much of its unique geothermal energy for heat, hot water and power. Next, visit Thingvellir National Park, where the Icelandic parliament was founded in the year 930 A.D. Continue to the beautiful Gullfoss, considered by some to be the loveliest waterfall in Iceland. The journey continues to the spouting hot springs of Geysir and Strokkur. Return to Reykjavik around 5 p.m. Day 4 -- Breakfast at hotel. The morning open for your own activities, then transfer to Keflavik airport for flight back to North America.
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Goway Offers Couples Retreat Getaways to Tahiti

2009-10-22T09:04:00.003-04:00

IslandsEscapes by Goway released new sale prices on island getaways to Tahiti. On the island of Moorea, choose from two resorts to spend four nights, priced from $1,149. Included in this escape is international airfare from Los Angeles with Air Tahiti Nui, roundtrip airfare from Papeete to Moorea, roundtrip airport-resort transfers and four nights accommodation. Travelers can choose either the Moorea Pearl Beach Resort staying in a Garden Room and also includes daily American breakfast, or the Lanai room at the Intercontinental Moorea Resort and Spa.
The Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa is a traditional Polynesian-style hotel offering 95 rooms and bungalows and situated on seven and a half acres of white sand beachfront. It is a short drive from arrival points on the island, and two miles from magnificent Cooks Bay. The Intercontinental Moorea Resort and Spa is located on the northwestern side of the island, on 11 hectares of tropical gardens and islets. Nestled between the mountains and the blue lagoon, one of the main attractions of the hotel is its dolphin lagoon where these friendly mammals play and swim along with the guests offering them a unique experience. For a copy of the IslandsEscapes World’s Most Idyllic Islands brochure, call 800-667-6601, or visit www.islandsescapes.com. Since 1970, Goway has been providing travel experiences to Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand and island destinations. For more information, call 800-387-8850 or visit www.goway.com.
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Pure Michigan Facebook Page Draws 20,000 Fans

2009-10-22T09:04:00.001-04:00

The Pure Michigan Facebook page has drawn more than 20,000 fans. “We are delighted with the number of people who want to be involved with Pure Michigan on Facebook,” said George Zimmermann, vice president of Travel Michigan, a business unit of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. “However, it’s not just the volume of fans but the level of fan participation. Our posts serve as conversation starters about things to do and places to see in Michigan.” In addition, Travel Michigan has retained the top ranking amongst the 50 official U.S. tourism office websites in the use of social media.
In a recent study, “How Social is Your State DMO,” conducted by Gammet Interactive, Michigan stays in the top spot for the use of popular social media outlets including Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube and others. The Pure Michigan social media program is executed in partnership with Fluency Media Group. Ann Arbor, Mich.-based Fluency develops integrated marketing solutions which include search engine optimization, pay-per-click advertising, website sales flow optimization, online publishing and social media strategy, and email marketing programs. Fans of Michigan can join the Pure Michigan Fan Page on Facebook or follow @PureMichigan on Twitter.
In addition, visitors can see photos from the Pure Michigan Photo Contest on Flickr, or watch the Pure Michigan commercials on YouTube or www.michigan.org. The official state travel and tourism website, www.michigan.org, features more than 12,000 attractions, events, hotels, resorts, restaurants and other tourism-related businesses. For more information, visit www.michigan.org.
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Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel Extends Meetings Incentive

2009-10-22T09:03:00.000-04:00

The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel is extending its destination meetings incentive first introduced in 2008 to offer significantly reduced costs for meeting planners and to provide them with one more reason to bring their meeting to the southwest Florida destination. The Islands Incentive gives meeting planners the opportunity to receive a 5 percent credit -- up to a maximum of $5,000 -- of the total actualized room revenue to be used toward any meeting or conference taking place in the Fort Myers/Sanibel area between May 1, 2010, and Dec. 15, 2010. In addition, meetings booked in 2009 or 2010 that occur between May 1, 2011, and Dec. 12, 2012, excluding February through April, will receive a 2.5 percent credit. To qualify, planners must book a minimum of 25 rooms per night for three or more consecutive nights at a destination property. The offer applies to new bookings and meetings that have not already been contracted and does not apply to weddings or social groups. Destination properties must have at least 2,500 square feet of meeting facilities, and actualized room revenue will be calculated based on group pick-up at the conclusion of the meeting or conference. The offer is subject to availability, and reimbursement will be issued by the VCB at the conclusion of the meeting.
In addition to its Islands Incentive, the destination is helping to address habitat loss and climate change by continuing to make donations to The Conservation Fund’s Go Zero program to offset the carbon footprint of meetings in the destination. Specifically, the VCB is donating 100 percent of the cost of offsetting the CO2 emissions that result from any event within the destination, including attendee travel, facility energy use and off-site functions to The Conservation Fund. The VCB already offsets its own events with the Fund and is encouraging meeting properties and meeting planners to do the same. Details of both offers are available at www.FortMyersSanibelMeetings.com
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Travel Deals: Another Excuse to Take a Cruise

2009-10-15T18:10:00.000-04:00

Who knew? October is National Cruise Vacation month. It’s a publicity stunt the cruise industry uses each year to drum up business, with cruise bargains.

Through Oct. 20, Norwegian is offering more than 50 percent off cruise deposits and up to $250 in credit on more than 300 cruises, for example. The credit can be used to buy shore excursions, spa treatments or gifts in the duty-free shop. The cruise line is also offering a Deals of the Decade sale through Nov. 1 on certain cruises through April 30 with rates from $159 a person for a four-night cruise to the Bahamas.
For more savings from other cruise lines go to Cruisecritic.com/bargains.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Virgin Islands for 25 Cents

2009-10-12T18:10:00.000-04:00

Secret HarbourCourtesy of Secret Harbour Beach Resort Secret Harbour Beach Resort is one of the hotels participating in a special package deal for hotels in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
To celebrate the new 25-cent coin dedicated to the U.S. Virgin Islands, the islands’ Department of Tourism is offering stays at 11 hotels on St. Thomas and St. Croix for a quarter a night.
Of course, there’s a bit of a catch.
The special hotel rate — offered in partnership with BookIt.com — is only available as part of three-night package that includes airfare from LaGuardia Airport. Also, fees and taxes are not included. So while the hotel might only cost 75 cents for three nights, the full package ends up starting at $479 — which is still a pretty good deal.
Participating resorts and hotels include the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort and the Bolongo Bay Beach Resort on St. Thomas, and Hotel Caravelle and The Palms at Pelican Cove on St. Croix. Also included in the package are $25 coupons, which can be put towards activities and dinner at the hotels.
The offer is available for travel through Dec. 15 and must be purchased by Nov. 2. The package can be booked at www.usvirginislands.bookit.com.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Tanzania Tourist Board Presents Journalism Award

2009-10-06T09:46:00.004-04:00

Ombeni Sefue, Tanzania's Ambassador to the United States, presented the 2009 Tanzania Tourist Board Print Media Award to journalist Eloise Parker at the African Travel Association’s (ATA) Fourth Annual Presidential Forum, held at the Kimmel Center of New York University on Friday, Sept. 25. Parker was honored for her first-hand account of summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro which appeared in the New York Daily News print and online edition. Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), Africa House of NYU and South African Airways co-sponsored the event.
Tanzania, the largest country in East Africa, is focused on wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism, with approximately 28 percent of the land protected by the government. It boasts 15 National Parks and 32 game reserves. It is the home of the tallest mountain in Africa, the legendary Mt. Kilimanjaro; The Serengeti, named in October 2006 as the New Seventh Wonder of the World by USA Today and Good “Morning America”; the world-acclaimed Ngorongoro Crater, often called the eighth wonder of the world; Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind; the Selous, the world’s largest game reserve; Ruaha, now the largest National Park in Africa; the spice islands of Zanzibar; and seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For more information, visit www.tanzaniatouristboard.com.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Mexico City Plans Tourism Fair of the Americas 2010

2009-10-06T09:46:00.003-04:00

The Government of Mexico City has announced the inaugural International Tourism Fair of the Americas (FITA) 2010. The event, which is expected to draw destinations and travel and tourism organizations from around the world, will take place in Mexico City from Sept. 23 to 26, 2010. FITA 2010 is expected to attract more than 200 national and international exhibitors from more than 70 countries. It will bring together major industry players such as wholesalers, tour operators, transportation companies, hotels, event promoters, official tourism organizations, travel agencies, conventions representatives, and the media.
"FITA 2010 will showcase the amazing destinations of the world in a cosmopolitan and culturally rich setting," said Alejandro Rojas, Tourism Secretary of Mexico City. "There is no better place to host a tourism event than Mexico City, with its extraordinary mosaic of lights, colors, tastes, smells, sensations and emotions. FITA 2010 will demonstrate that Mexico City is an ideal gathering place for a world-class tourism event next year and for years to come." FITA 2010 will coincide with the bicentennial celebration of Mexico's Independence and the centennial celebration of the Mexican Revolution. For more information on the Tourism Fair of the Americas 2010, visit http://fita2010.com.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Florida Keys to Welcome 250 Skydivers for Boogie Weekend

2009-10-06T09:46:00.001-04:00

The Florida Keys are preparing for 250 skydiving visitors who will be attending the Keys Boogie skydiving weekend at Marathon. Set for Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 5 to 8, the Keys Boogie brings jumpers from Florida and beyond to the Keys to America's only tropical island chain. The event is hosted by Skydive Sebastian, a recreational and educational skydiving center located in Sebastian, Fla. During the Keys Boogie, non-jumpers interested in the sport can mingle with instructors and experienced skydivers to learn about training and jumping. In addition, Skydive Sebastian is to offer a tandem skydive program where a newcomer to the sport is strapped to a professional jumpmaster who opens the canopy (parachute) and guides the jump. Skydive Sebastian will be bringing aircraft including two Super Twin Otters to the event.
Beginning at about 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, the Boogie Dinner and Party will be held at Coconut Cay Resort, mile marker 50.5 gulfside in Marathon. Porky's Barbecue of Marathon will feed the hungry jumpers. Registration for the event is $45 for skydivers and includes access to a jump ticket (but does not include the jump ticket itself), Keys Boogie T-shirt and dinner Saturday. Non-skydivers can join the dinner festivities and receive a "goody bag" for $35. Non-registered guests are welcome to watch the jumps from one of two drop zones, Sombrero Beach or Marathon Airport, and mingle with jumpers and instructors. Guests are welcome to attend the Keys Boogie Party, but dinner is not provided. A reduced registration fee of $20 is available to skydivers who can only jump on one of the event days. The reduced fee does not include the T-shirt and dinner. A USPA C or D license is required for jumping, except for tandem jumps. All skydivers are required to have flotation devices. The tandem jump costs $225 and can be booked online at www.skydiveseb.com/keys-tandem.htm or paid for at the event. A video of the entire jump can be purchased for an additional $95. For more information, call 800-399-JUMP (800-399-5867). For more information about the Keys Boogie, contact Amanda Owens at 772-388-5672 or visit Skydive Sebastian's website at www.skydiveseb.com. To find out about accommodations in the Marathon area, call the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce at 305-743-5417 or 800-262-7284, e-mail visitus@floridakeysmarathon.com or visit the Florida Keys & Key West at www.fla-keys.com.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

New Orleans Celebrates Halloween With Events, Offers

2009-09-29T11:26:00.000-04:00

Hosting a number of Halloween festivals such as Krewe of Boo (Oct. 24), Boo at the Zoo (Oct. 23 to 25), the VooDoo Music Experience (Oct. 30 to Nov. 1), and Halloween New Orleans (Oct. 29 to Nov. 1), come celebrate down in Boo Orleans and partake in the fun. This year, the Krewe of Boo is celebrating its second annual parade produced by Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World, Lenny Kravitz has joined the impressive lineup at the VooDoo Music Experience, and Halloween New Orleans proceeds will go to Project Lazarus. Among the offers is the Halloween Murder Mystery Weekend at the Hotel Monteleone (www.hotelmonteleone.com) ; A Scary Good Deal at the Hampton Inn Downtown/French Quarter (www.hampton.com) ; We Love Bugs, available at Marriott Hotels (www.marriott.com) ; Halloween Romance at Le Pavillon Hotel (www.lepavillon.com) ; Blue Dog Experience, available at the Omni Royal Orleans (www.omnihotels.com) ; and Mommy Knows Best, available at 1870 Banana Courtyard French Quarter B & B (www.bananacourtyard.com) . Additional deals and promotions available during the month of October can be found at www.neworleanscvb.com.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Fall Foliage in New England

2009-09-23T14:11:00.003-04:00

Tomato growers may be unhappy, but the heavy rain that doused much of the Northeast in early summer is expected to create spectacular red, orange and gold foliage this fall.
That’s the hope, anyway, among New England tourism officials, who are trying to entice leaf peepers with deals that include everything from free golf to pints of maple syrup.
In Vermont, the state tourism board is offering Midweek Peek specials at about 60 resorts. The Sugar Lodge at Sugarbush, for example, is offering a third night for half price, with standard rooms starting at $79.
Similar deals are being offered in New Hampshire, Maine and New York. The New York State tourism site, www.iloveny.com, has fall deals at 200 hotels, country inns and B & Bs. The High Peaks Resort in Lake Placid, for example, is offering a three-night stay for $400.
To track the changing color, numerous foliage trackers have popped up on the Web. Among the most colorful are from the New Hampshire tourism board and Yankee Magazine.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Thailand Golf Kingdom

2009-09-23T14:11:00.001-04:00

Golf in a Kingdom: The Thai Golf Experience” has added three more properties to its stable of luxury accommodations -- Putahracsa Hua Hin, De Naga Chiang Mai and Palm Grove Resort in Pattaya. The hotels, which are all part of The Unique Collection of Hotels & Resorts, bring the total number of “Golf in a Kingdom” lodgings to nine while giving the golf travel resource its first in the northern town of Chiang Mai. “Our proximity to ‘Golf in a Kingdom’ member Chiang Mai Highlands (Golf & Spa Resort) makes us an ideal link here,” said Vannasont Limprasutr, hotel manager of De Naga Chiang Mai. “What’s more, the levels of luxury are commensurate, which means Kingdom-goers will feel no disconnect between the experience here and the experience at the golf club.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Key West

2009-09-22T17:26:00.001-04:00

American and international powerboat racing teams are to churn up the waters of Key West Harbor during the Key West World Championship slated for Nov. 8 to 15. Boats compete in 14 classes during the season-ending championship series, acclaimed as the Indianapolis 500 of the offshore powerboat racing circuit. Chief among them is the Superboat Unlimited class, drawing large and impressive contenders that can achieve speeds of more than 170 miles per hour. The Key West World Championship is to kick off with a parade of race boats down the island's legendary Duval Street beginning at 4 p.m. on Nov. 8. The action continues through the week with races Nov. 11, Nov. 13 and Nov. 15.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Nantucket

2009-09-22T17:25:00.000-04:00

The island of Nantucket, located 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, will host the 4th Annual Nantucket Fall Restaurant Week, Sept. 28 to Oct. 4, 2009. This festive week-long event offers special menus at nearly 30 of the island's exquisite culinary establishments with a three-course dinners offered from $25 to $45. Kicking off this exciting week is the fabulous Taste Nantucket! opening event on Sept. 27, 2009, from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Great Harbor Yacht Club, 96 Washington St. Taste outstanding cuisine from Nantucket's finest restaurants and food purveyors, sip champagne and wine, savor samples of oysters and caviar, and enjoy live music all in a beautiful harbor front setting. Tickets are $100 (call 508-228-1515 to reserve) with all proceeds benefiting the Nantucket Culinary Arts Foundation, which provides scholarships and educational opportunities to island students.
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ISSN 1544-3760 - Copyright © 2009 AirGuide / Pyramid Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.