Vacations | Weekends

Natural and Man-made Wonders of the Isthmus of Panama - Feb. 16-24, 2012

2012-02-01T00:18:00.000-05:00

On this nine day adventure we will investigate one of the largest and most difficult engineering projects ever undertaken. We will visit the world-famous Panama Canal and tour the Miraflores Locks. Our guide will give us canal information in between canal broadcasted information.

We will take a minibus to the Chagres National Park and then take a dugout motorist canoe to an Emberá indigenous village. We will be greeted with music from the villagers. Our overnight stay will give us the opportunity to experience Emberá traditions, culture, dances and religion while we explore a variety of rainforest habitats, looking for wild life including monkeys, colorful birds, and two species of sloth.

For two days, we play Robinson Crusoe and stay on a San Blas Island, Isla Kuanidup, a tiny island in the Caribbean Sea. Swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear water, viewing bird life, walking in the tropical jungles and visiting the Kuna Indians are an option.

We will experience the best of Panama’s bio diversity by hiking in a cloud forest, stopping at the best biological reserve in the world managed by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute on Barro Colorado Island. Barro Colorado Island alone is home to 115 mammal species, including 72 species of bats, 5 species of monkeys, agoutis, tapirs, coatimundis, sloths and peccaries. Its botanical wealth is similarly impressive: more than 1,200 plant species can be found on the Island.

Best of all, we will be there for Panama's Carnival which runs from February 18-22, 2012!! Four days preceding Ash Wednesday.

This adventure will introduce you to amazing wonders that are the Isthmus of Panama!

Trip cost is $2475 includes airfare. If you register after 1/1/2012, the trip cost is $2675.

Included in Cost of Trip

• Round-trip airfare from home to Panama City

• English/Spanish speaking multi-lingual guide

• 8 nights Accommodations and all meals

• Land transport as on itinerary

• All activity fees and guides

• All airport transfers in Panama
• Snorkeling on San Blas Islands

• Expedition boat tour to search for wildlife
• Round-trip airfare from Panama City to Playón Chico

Not Included in Cost of Trip
• Travel insurance (recommend to have your own travel insurance)
• Personal expenses (telephone, laundry, alcoholic drinks)
• Passport with room for at least 3 mos validity remaining
• Panama exit tax of $20
• Anything else not mentioned on itinerary
• Gratuities for Panamanian guides, (~$30)

Application
Itinerary/Prospectus

RECOMMENDED READING

A Visit to Barro Colorado

The Path Between the Seas: The Creation of the Panama Canal, 1870-1914

Lonely Planet Panama (Country Guide)

The Birds of Panama: A Field Guide (Zona Tropical Publication)

Barro Colorado Island: A behind the scenes look at the science and scientists of the island

Tropical Forest Ecology: A View from Barro Colorado Island

Hike/Explore Berber Villages of Morocco - April 27-May 8, 2012

2012-02-01T00:17:00.000-05:00

Our 12 day journey will start in Marrakech, where we will begin with a guided visit of the medina. Matt Butler from Adventurebug will guide this entire journey. After the introduction of medina, we will have time to wander on our own. After Marrakech, we will venture to smaller Berber villages.

Our 3-day trek, subset of the whole journey, in the High Atlas Mountains will include villages like Imlil and other Berber villages situated within the range containing Mt. Toubkal. We will be following the old shepherd trails that are generations old. Hiking in the Atlas will be on moderate terrain about 5 hours/day on foot. This will not be strenuous or climbing any peaks. The temperature in the Atlas will be 60-70 degrees F max and will cool down in the evening to 50 degrees F.

We then start the desert half of the trip. This is far more relaxed with site seeing and light walking around easy terrain. At this time of the year, the desert is still cool around 70-80 degrees F and we avoid mid-day sun whenever possible. We will stop famous village of Ait Benhaddou before we stop at Quarzazate. We will also visit the spectacular Todra Gorge and pass Tazzarine and K'nob before heading back to Marrakech. From there, we will fly home.

Please register early because plane tickets can be expensive.

You do not need a Visa for Morocco if your stay is less than 90 days and your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.

Cost of trip is $1895 excluding airfare. After February 17, 2012 the cost of the trip is $2095.

Included in Cost of Trip
•    11 nights accommodation (Riads, Hotels, Tent night (optional) and Gite homes)
•    Meals provided as indicated in itinerary
•    Transport = via private mini bus with driver(s) – maximum 2 for this holiday
•    Return ‘group’ airport transfers Marrakech (individual transfers at separate cost)
•    All guiding, travel & activities led by Adventurebug and local Moroccan counterparts
•    All equipment, including sleeping bags and any camping / eating materials
•    Entrance fees during Marrakech tour (Mosque visit) and Ait Benhaddou historic site
•    Guided Medina Tour of Marrakech with local guide
•    All taxes and service fees

Not Included in Cost of Trip
•    Roundtrip airfare from U.S. to Marrakech and back home
•    Your personal transportation to your U.S. departure airport
•    Private Taxi Transfer (Marrakech Airport to Hotel / 3 per taxi) = approximately $3-5 USD/person

•    Optional Camel hire, approximately $30 USD
•    Optional Berber HAMMAM bath house, approximately $5 USD

•    Personal expenses (telephone and laundry)
•    Insurance – health and travel / cancellation / loss of baggage
•    Some optional fees such as: Hammam bath houses; local museums and mosques on journey; Berber ‘fantasias shows’; and ‘other’ Kasbah homes in the desert that are open for viewing (normally about 1 dollar / person).
•    Coffee, drinks and snacks at rest stops/cafes during driving portions of the journey
•    Drinks (wine, soft drinks, bottled water, etc.), at meals
•    Passport with room entry/exit stamps (at lease 3 pages) and at least 3 months validity remaining

* Please note, it is custom to tip the Moroccan guides and any Moroccan services that you have been satisfied with. These tips are not included in the holiday price. This includes local guides, drivers, camel’teers’, mule’teers’, team cook, etc.

Application
Prospectus/Itinerary

Hike Canadian Rockies; Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper -Jun 16 - 24, 2012

2012-02-01T00:16:00.000-05:00

Mountain lakes will be thawed and we will enjoy the brilliant turquoise color of their water. Tourism will not have peaked yet!

We will enjoy all the comforts of home in the town of Banff and the village of Lake Louise, but we also will step out into the wilderness and the home of some of North America's wildest creatures, including Big Horn Sheep, Deer, Elk, Caribou, Grizzly bears, Caribou, Coyotes, Wolves and Mountain Lions.

Hikes will include and introduction hike to Tunnel Mountain Path which has phenomenal vistas, Big Beehive to see Lake Louise, and Cirque Lake, which is hidden a short distance from the Icefields Parkway, the worlds most stunning roadway.

There are a total of eight lodging nights at hotels. We will be staying nights 1 and 2 in Banff, nights 3, 4, and 5 in the Lake Louise area, nights 6 and 7 in the Athabasca area heading back to Banff for night 8.

Yes, a passport is required!

COST $1,685 excluding airfare if you sign up before April 16, two months before the trip. If
you sign up after April 16, 2012; the cost of the trip is $1,885.

Included in Cost of Trip
•    All ground transportation starting at Calgary airport and ending at Calgary airport
•    Eight breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners as on itinerary
•    Accommodations for eight nights at Banff, Lake Louise and Athabasca hotels

Not Included in Cost of Trip
•    Round-trip plane ticket from home to Calgary and back
•    Transportation from home to airport
•    Travel insurance (recommend to have your own travel insurance)
•    Personal expenses (telephone, laundry, alcoholic drinks)

•    Anything else not mentioned on itinerary

Application

Prospectus/Itinerary

RECOMMENDED READING

Moon Canadian Rockies: Including Banff & Jasper National Parks (Moon Handbooks)

Destination Canadian Rockies

Serenity Moments: Canadian Rocky Mountains Relaxation [BLU-RAY Disc]

Camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes - Aug. 19-24, 2012

2012-02-01T00:14:00.003-05:00

Here we go with a 5-day tent camping
trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. What a great place to spend nearly a week at. One of the most beautiful places on earth. All kinds of things we can do! Kayaking, tubing, bicycling, hiking, beaching, swimming and loads of fun!

$105 covers 5 nights camping, 5 breakfasts including cowboy coffee, and 5 dinners, s'mores and many hours of laughing by the campfire. Please bring some firewood!

Bring your own tent, sleeping bag and mattress and what ever you need for comfort for a few nights, along with recreation materials such as bikes, kayaks and jokes! You'll need to bring your own lunches with your own cooler for lunch stuff. We're in a group campsite, so there's room for 25 of the most fun people.

RECOMMENDED READING AND ARTWORK

The Legend of Sleeping Bear

Soaring and Gliding: The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Area

Views from the Sleeping Bear: Photographs of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Canvas Print / Canvas Art

Hiking in Big Bend National Park - A Texas Gem - Oct. 27 - Nov. 3, 2012

2012-02-01T00:13:00.000-05:00

This fabulous trip will be 8 days/7 nights. We will be hiking on this 800,000-acre national park in Texas that contains three basic surroundings: desert, river and mountains!

This will allow us to take in the park’s huge diversity and visit three ecosystems from mountain peaks to desert springs and river trails, dividing the desert trekking and mountain hiking by floating the Rio Grande River.

Big Bend National Park encompasses the largest protected area of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States. This national park is located in southwestern Texas on the Mexican border. The Rio Grande River forms its southern boundary, and it's the only park in the United States that contains a complete mountain range - the Chisos Mountain.

We will meet at El Paso International airport in Texas and drive to Van Horn for our first night. Then awake the next morning to hike in Van Horn before our drive to Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park encompasses the largest protected area of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States. This national park is located in southwestern Texas on the Mexican border. The Rio Grande River forms its southern boundary, and it's the only park in the United States that contains a complete mountain range - the Chisos Mountain.

One of the major appeals of Big Bend National Park is one of the United States’ biggest outdoor parks, but relative to its size it has a small annual visitation. It offers great solitude and peace and quiet in a natural surrounding. Elevations range from 1,800 feet at the eastern end of Boquillas Canyon to 7,825 feet atop Emory Peak in the Chisos Mountains. These elevation changes produce an exceptional variety of plants, animals, and scenic vistas.

Total cost: $1150 doesn't include airfare. Estimated airfare $500-$700.

After 8/6/2012 the cost is $1350.

Included in the price:
• Texas ground transportation
• Park admissions
• Emergency evacuation insurance
• All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
• Hotel/Motel accommodations (double occupancy, private bath)

Not included in price:
• Transportation from home to and from El Paso Airport
• Alcoholic beverages
• Optional Tours
• Transportation other than with the group

RECOMMENDED READING

Hiking Big Bend National Park, 2nd (Regional Hiking Series)

Texas Big Bend: A Photographic Adventure from the Pecos to the Rio Grande

Big Bend National Park, TX - Trails Illustrated Map

RECOMMENDED APPAREL

Kwik Tek Dry Pak Multi-Purpose Case (Clear, 6-Inch x 9-Inch)

Harbinger Adventure Series KCR Short Finger Kayak, Canoe, and Raft Glove (Large, Black)

Swiss Gear Adjustable Telescoping Hiking Pole (Red)

Stylish Internal Frame Backpack Camping Hiking Gear Red

Swiss Gear Oasis Technical 2-Liter Hydration Pack (Grey/Black/Red/White)

Hike Through Mystifying Sedona I - Oct 29-Nov 5, 2011

2011-10-01T00:18:00.000-04:00

Soak in the vortex powers as we hike for six days among the Red Rocks of Sedona! We will all meet in Phoenix and drive in our vans to Sedona, where the spectacular scenery and dramatic red rock formations and cliffs will offer an amazing experience. Walk among the ruins of Palatki or possibly the ruins of Walnut Canyon and Wupatki, both a slightly different experience. We won't want to miss Montezuma's Well, a very special and

relaxing place to soak our tired feet in the warm mineral water stream that comes from the well and then an easy hike down.

We will visit Coconino National Forest and Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness to hike paths that meander lazily between canyon walls. Hiking a wide valley surrounded on three sides by high red cliffs is a way to describe Secret Canyon. It is split by many deep, hidden canyons, usually with a maintained footpath at least part of the way upstream. Some other canyons for us to see are Long Canyon and Secret Mountain. Average elevation gains from 0-1000 feet with treks of 5-6 hours a day. Amongst our hikes, we will leave time for visiting the town before we head back to Phoenix to leave for home.

Total cost: $1890 includes airfare.

After 9/8 the cost is $2090 and late sign-ups may also have to pay more because of increased airfare.

Included in the price:
• Transportation to and from home airport to Phoenix, Arizona
• Arizona ground transportation
• Park admissions
• Emergency evacuation insurance
• All breakfasts, most lunches, and dinners
• Hotel/Motel accommodations (double occupancy, private bath, outdoor pool)

Not included in price:
• Airport fees for additional luggage
• Airport departure tax if any
• Alcoholic beverages
• Optional Tours
• Transportation other than with the group

Application
Prospectus/Itinerary

RECOMMENDED READING

Sedona's Top 10 Hikes
Great Sedona Hikes: The 50 Greatest Hikes in Sedona, Arizona
Sedona Trails Map

RECOMMENDED APPAREL

Vasque Men's Clarion GTX Hiking Boot,Brown/Green,10 M US
Patagonia Midweight Hiking Crew Sock Fraternal Stripe: Natural, XL
Wigwam Men's Merino Wool Comfort Hiker Crew Length Sock, Charcoal, LG
Bobster Road Hog II Prescription Ready Sunglasses,BRH2001-Black

Grand Haven Beach and Pot-luck - September 10, 2011

2011-09-01T09:46:00.000-04:00

Come join us for one more beach day before the cool weather!

Maybe one of the last great beach events of the season and September can be a beautiful month to hang out. Join us for a pot-luck, walk the 2 1/2 mile boardwalk at Grand Haven and then head over to the Musical Fountain Show at 9 pm.

Bring a passing dish, drinks and lawn chair. I'll supply paper plates, cups, napkins and plastic wear. Party starts at the Grand Haven State Park in Grand Haven, MI at 3:30.

Volleyball net and croquet set provided so come jump into the fun!

RECOMMENDED READING

Maritime Grand Haven:: Coast Guard City USA (Images of America)

The Grand Haven Area: 1860-1960 (MI) (Images of America)

Uncle Tom's Cabin (Classic Collection (Grand Haven, Mich.).)

Cycle Loire Valley of France - Aug 27 - Sep 5, 2011

2011-08-01T00:22:00.001-04:00

This 10-day trip to France will take us on a five day bike tour to the Best-of-The-Best of the Loire Valley! We'll bike by glamorous orchards, mesmerizing châteaux, several historic towns and best of all, we'll bike through numerous vineyards. Before the bike tour, we will start the trip with two fabulous days in Paris, giving us time to enjoy the sights such as the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame Cathedral. We won't forget The Louvre to see some of the world’s largest and most diverse collection of sculptures and paintings, such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Then we start our bike tour, from the town of Tours, after a short train ride from Paris. From there, we will bike to the town of Amboise, the burial-place of Leonardo da Vinci and the mansion where he spend the last years of his life close to the castle. We will tour the Château d'Amboise in a town of the same name. Then we are off to the towns of Villandry, Chinon, and Azay-le-Rideau. We will leave time to visit the famous and absolutely gorgeous Château de Chenonceau, which is built on the river Cher. After riding past Châteaux de Chinon and Azay-le-Rideau, we will head back to in Tours, where we return our bikes and stay overnight before catching our train ride back to Paris.

This is light biking of 25-42 miles per day on flat terrain, which give us time to take pictures, mozy around and enjoy the fruits of the land.... wine!

Walk Paris in One Day

RECOMMENDED READING

Castles of the Loire: Places and History (Places and History Series)

The Wine and Food Guide to the Loire, France's Royal River: Veuve Clicquot-Wine Book of the Year

Chateaux of the Loire Valley

Chateaux of the Loire

Please register early because plane tickets can be expensive.

COST of Trip is $2970. If you sign up after April 28 2011, the cost of the trip is $3270 increasing the initial deposit to $1150 and the remaining payments stay the same.

Included in Cost of Trip
•    Lodging and all meals as on itinerary
•    Land transport as on itinerary (taxi service to transfer luggage)
•    Round-trip Train ticket from Paris to Tours
•    Hybrid bike, pump, repair kit, lock, rear rack, water bottle cage and helmet to use for tour
•    Entrance Fees to two châteaux (Ambois and Chenonceau)

Not Included in Cost of Trip
•    Round-trip plane ticket from home to Paris
•    Transportation from France airport to hotel and back to France airport
•    Travel insurance (recommend to have your own travel insurance)
•    Personal expenses (telephone, laundry, alcoholic drinks)
•    Passport with room entry/exit stamps (at least 3 pages) and at least 6 months validity remaining
•    Anything else not mentioned on itinerary

Application
Prospectus/Itinerary

RECOMMENDED READING

Cycling the Loire Valley

Rick Steves- Snapshot Loire Valley

Loire Valley (Eyewitness Travel Guides)

Camp Mohawk State Park - Aug 5 - 7, 2011

2011-08-01T00:22:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year, ready for another camping trip,this time it's in Western Massachusetts, where we can bike the moderately hilly area, hike Mount Greylock, tubing the Deerfield River, watch the extreme kayakers or hang out at the campfire, which is indeed a sport!

I am not sure how many of us will be this crazy to kayak after they let the dam out, but if any of us do, we will be sure to watch you! We may even water tube with the rest of the people out there, but we will definitely hike Mount Greylock and enjoy the fun at the campfire. $45 includes 2 nights camping, 2 campfire breakfasts and 2 campfire dinners.

Hike, Pot-luck, and Hike Picnic - Jun 11, 2011

2011-06-01T00:23:00.000-04:00

I think a nice summer idea would be to have a pot-luck at the beach. There are nice trails and a nice beach at North Beach Park in Spring Lake at North Ottawa Dunes. Please bring a passing dish, maybe in a cooler. It doesn't really matter what people bring, because I have found that it always works out. :)

We'll meet at 10:00 and hike around for a couple of hours an then back for lunch. Of course people can show up at any time. Bring a lawn chair too for hanging out at the beach. The south section of the pavillion is available first-come, first-serve, so hopefully we will get it.

Directions
North Ottawa Dunes is located in Spring Lake Township and the City of Ferrysburg. From US 31, take the Ferrysburg exit and go west on 3rd Street to North Shore Drive. Turn west on North Shore Drive and travel about 1 mile to the City of Ferrysburg’s Coast Guard Park. Enter Coast Guard Park and look for the North Ottawa Dunes trail head.

RECOMMENDED READING

The Complete Guide to Michigan Sand Dunes

Fifty Hikes in Lower Michigan: The Best Walks, Hikes and Backpacks from Sleeping Bear Dunes

Geologic Sketch of Michigan Sand Dunes : Geological Survey Pamphlet 5

North Ottawa Dunes Trail Map

Cycle Saigon to Hanoi - Apr 16 - May 1, 2011

2011-04-01T00:24:00.001-04:00

Join us as we bike from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to
Hanoi from fertile, green paddy fields of the Mekong
Delta in the south, to long stretches of sandy beaches along the coastal area, with highlands and mountains in the north. Warm and friendly people will welcome us as we explore quiet villages and bustling cities and experience a unique blend of rich heritage and modern tourist facilities. We will have a local Vietnamese guides, who call themselves adventure managers. They speak English and Vietnamese, so we don't have to worry about the language barrier.

We will start the bike tour in Saigon and travel to Da Lat, Nha Trang, Tuy Hoa, Quang Ngai, Hoi An, Hue, ending the trip in Hanoi. We will bike most of the trip with the longest day being 63 miles and the shortest day being 16 miles, which is in Hanoi, and 26 miles in Saigon. Those are the only days where we are in very big cities, at the beginning and end of the trip. The hilliest part of the trip goes from Da Lat to Nha Trang, from Nha Trang to Tuy Hoa and from Hoi An to Hue. The longest climb goes from Hoi An to Hue and is called Hai Van Pass. Hai Van Pass is a 1,640 foot climb over 6.2 miles. This bike tour will go deep into rural areas where a classic trip can't be reached. Some villages have never see foreigners before, so the bike adventure is really adventurous. A hybrid bike, helmet, gel seat-cover slip and a single water-bottle cage is provided, in Ho Chi Minh City, for the trip. Of course, you can bring anything you want to make your ride more comfortable.

Yes, you do need a passport and a visa. The visa application is provided with the trip application. The second step to getting the Vietnam visa is taking the acceptance letter to the airport with a passport photo and $25. I will provide you with the acceptance letter.

RECOMMENDED READING

Vietnam: A History
Vietnam: An Illustrated History (Illustrated Histories)
Vietnam: Past and Present, Fourth Edition
Understanding Vietnam
The Birth of Vietnam

$2150 excluding airfare to Vietnam. Cost is $2350 if registered after December 14, 2010.

Included in Cost of Trip
• English/Vietnamese speaking multilingual biking guide
• Visa application and fee (info. supplied to Vietnamese Embassy by leader)
• All Accommodations and almost all meals as stated on itinerary
• Picnic lunches
• Land transport as itinerary (one bus/van to carry bikes & bikers)
• One-way plane ticket from Hanoi to Hồ Chí Minh City (Saigon)
• Train ticket from Hué to Hanoi
• Hybrid bike and bike helmet to use for tour
• Water, snacks, fresh fruits, cool towel for cycling days
• All entrance fees and boat trip along Perfume River in Hué
• First aids care and bike mechanic
• All airport transfers in Vietnam

Not Included in Cost of Trip• Round-trip plane ticket from home to Hồ Chí Minh City (Saigon)
• Travel insurance (recommend to have your own travel insurance)
• Personal expenses (telephone, laundry, alcoholic drinks)
• Passport with room for visa exit/entry stamps, and at least 6 mos validity remaining
• Visa fee of $25 paid at airport along with passport photo
• Anything else not mentioned on itinerary• Gratuities for Vietnamese bike guides, (~$30)

Application
Itinerary/Prospectus

RECOMMENDED APPAREL

M-Wave Bicycle Saddle Bag (Small)
Bell PRO-GEL Cycling Gloves, L/XL
X-Socks Men's Biking Ultralight Sock,White/Black,Large
CEP Women's Compression Allsport Sleeve Socks (Black, 12.5 - 15- Inch)
SockGuy Women's 2in Colorado Flower Cycling/Running Socks (S/M)

X-Country Ski - Pigeon Creek - February 26, 2011

2011-02-01T00:25:00.002-05:00

Come join us for a day of x-country skiing at Pigeon Creek! Snow should

be great and we'll have a fun time. No charge for parking or skiing, if you have your own skis. If you don't have skis, no problem, you can rent them for only $8 for two hours of use.

The NY Times is getting people psyched for the Olympics. Here's a blurb about x-country skiing.

We will meet at the entrance on Stanton Street, between 120th and 128th Street at 10:30 am on Saturday.

BOOKS TO READ

Fundamentals of Cross Country Skiing Technique

The Complete Guide to Cross-Country Ski Preparation

RECOMMENDED TAPES

Nordic Vision Cross-Country Ski Exercise Machine Workout

RECOMMENDED CLOTHING

Smartwool Women's Skiing Light Socks 26672
JiMarti TR35 Sunglasses Vented Lens Unbreakable TR90
Duofold Women's Dri-release Wool Mid-weight Single Layer Thermal Ankle Length Pants #391B
Duofold Men's Mid Weight Single-Layer Thermal Tagless Bottom
Lorpen Unisex Tri-Layer Superlight Ski Overcalf Sock

Mapquest:
Pigeon Creek Park
12601 Stanton Street
West Olive, Michigan

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Belize: Ruins, Caves, Jungle Trails - Jan 15 - 24, 2011

2011-01-01T00:24:00.003-05:00

The journey takes us to San Ignacio, the center of the Cayo District, where we will stay in a lovely small hillside resort that has been carefully selected for its high standards and cleanliness. The resort overlooks the town with a distant vista of the Maya Mountain Range. Here, we will explore Mayan ruins and fantastic caves, one time via a canoe and one time hiking. A half-day canoeing down the Macal River will give us a chance to see huge iguanas and many species of birds. It will allow us the true Belize experience and personal attention as we become acquainted with the gracious local people and their culture.

All of our activities will be conducted in small groups with licensed local guides to provide the maximum educational content and safety. One of the highlights of our week will be a day trip to Guatemala to visit the world famous ruins at Tikal, part of the Guatemala National Park. There we will have the added benefit of a Guatemalan guide to steer us through the jungle trails surrounding these vast ruins, perhaps pointing out the occasional howler monkey, as well as, educating us in Mayan history culture and symbolism. Our last three nights will be spent at a resort on the beach of the Caribbean Sea. Snorkeling, biking, kayaking, canoeing and afternoon tea are all provided at no extra cost. Free time can be spent with a good book in a shady hammock, enjoying the infinity pool overlooking the Maya Mountains or joining the leader to explore Hopkins by a short bike ride or San Ignacio, a short walk away. Perhaps, we'll visit an Amish farmers market.

RECOMMENDED BOOKS TO READ

Belize: Reefs, Rain Forests, and Mayan Ruins
A Forest of Kings: The Untold Story of the Ancient Maya
Maya Atlas: The Struggle to Preserve Maya Land in Southern Belize

RECOMMENDED WEB INFORMATION

General Information on Belize

Yes, you do need a passport, you do not need a Visa.

Deposit and Payment
The application and a down payment of $850 is due to reserve your spot. The balance of $2,345 per person is due September 14th, 2010 (four months before the start of the trip).

The cost for the trip is $3,195, (if paid by September 14th. If after September 14th, the cost of the trip is $3,395. This will cover the following items:
• Roundtrip airfare from the U.S. east coast to Belize City, Belize (estimated at $800 but subject to change due to airport of choice or extreme price fluctuations)
• One-way airfare from Dangriga Airport to Belize City on the last day (estimated at $75, but subject to change due to price fluctuations)
• ALL hotel accommodations, taxes and tips
• All meals beginning with dinner on arrival day to breakfast on last day
• All local transportation
• All activity fees and guides
• Emergency evacuation insurance

NOT included in trip price:
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Your personal transportation to your US departure airport
• Alcoholic beverages
• Belize Departure tax (estimated at US$30)
• Border fees going to Guatemala (estimated at US$20)
• Appreciation tips to guides or staff for “extra” services, approximately $30

Application
Prospectus/Itinerary

Highlights of Southern Utah - Sept 24 - Oct 4, 2010

2010-09-01T00:25:00.007-04:00

Join us as we hike the National Parks in southern Utah. We will start off by arriving in Las Vegas. With a mini-van, we will all drive to Zion for a few days. Then, we are off to Bryce, then Capitol Reef National Park, Arches National Park and then our last stop will be Canyonlands National Park. On our way back to Vegas, we will probably hike the incredible slot canyons; Spooky and Peek-a-boo, at the Escalante National Monument. What a great trip, to see Utah, especially if you have never seen the beauty or never hiked there before!

Our hikes will be 5-10 miles and elevation will be less than 2000'. Length depends on time factor and taking the best of what's available - for instance, some days we may do two short hikes. On travel days, we do plan to fit in a hike of some duration, but it may not be a long one. Geography constraints force us to spend driving from park to park, but we fully
intend to make efficient use of our time so we can see and do as much as possible. The end of our trip involves driving back to Las Vegas. If you haven't been to the parks in Utah, you will love this trip, because you will get a snapshot of the entire area!

Books to Read

Utah's Grand Circle Road & Recreation Map: National Parks of Southern Utah & Northern Arizona
A History of Southern Utah and Its National Parks
Nature Parks CANYONLANDS PARK Utah

Arches National Park

Slideshow of Trip 2010 by Ron Janowitz

Total cost: $2200

Included in the price:
• Transportation by rental vans
• Park admissions
• Emergency evacuation insurance
• All breakfasts, most lunches, and dinners
• Hotel/Motel accommodations (double occupancy)
• Round trip airfare from East Coast to Las Vegas (other departures may be arranged)

Not included in price
• Transportation to and from home airport
• Airport departure tax if any
• Alcoholic beverages
• Optional Tours
• Transportation other than with the group

Application
Prospectus/Itinerary

RECOMMENDED READING

Utah's National Parks: Hiking Camping and Vacationing in Utahs Canyon Country
50 Best Short Hikes in Utah's National Parks

Fodor's Utah, 4th Edition: With Zion, Bryce, Arches, Capitol Reef & Canyonlands National Parks (Fodor's Gold Guides)
Frommer's Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks (Park Guides)

Coast Guard Beach Weekend - Aug 6 - 8, 2010

2010-08-01T00:26:00.010-04:00

Another great weekend at a former U.S. Coast Guard station in Eastham, right on the Outer Beach. Adirondack Chairs line the porch.

Participate in environmental program after biking and beaching. 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners. We bring bikes, walking shoes and swim suits for this trip.

Camp Acadia National Park Maine - Aug 12-17, 2010

2010-08-01T00:26:00.008-04:00

What a place to have the best camping experience! Five nights camping in Acadia National Park. During this busy season, we will stay on the quieter side of the island at Seawall Campground. Grass area to put your tent and a short walk to the ocean, where the sun first rises in the United States. The coastline is rocky with a gentle slope to the ocean's edge, a perfect place for your morning coffee at Cobble Beach. We can hike the nearby Valley Peak Trail or whitewater paddle on Union River.

We can bike the island, hike the area, enjoy a lazy day at Echo Lake Beach or take the hourly town bus to the busy part of the island. The trip is a moderate skill level, so you should be able to bike 30 miles or hike for 4 or 5 hours on moderately hilly terrain.

Description of Hikes at Acadia
Trails at Acadia National Park

Books and Maps of Acadia National Park

Hiking Acadia National Park (Regional Hiking Series)
Discover Acadia National Park, 3rd: AMC's Guide to the Best Hiking, Biking, and Paddling
A Pocket Guide to Carriage Roads of Acadia National Park
Friends of Aca dia Journal
Acadia National Park Discovery Map Acadia, The Complete Guide: Mount Desert Island & Acadia National Park (Acadia: The Complete Guide)

5 nights of camping, 5 breakfasts, 4 dinners. You will need to purchase a seven-day pass to get into Acadia National Park at the entrance for each vehicle.

Camp Porcupine Wilderness State Park, MI - Jul 28 - Aug 1

2010-07-01T00:28:00.018-04:00

Come explore the Porcupine Mountains with us as we camp for four nights in the Michigan U.P. and possibly meetup with some Yoopers!. We will hike to the famous Lake of the Clouds Overlook and enjoy the fabulous scenery as we look over the dramatic rocky ridge into the Big Carp River Valley. Maybe we will find time to view the unbelievable sunset over Lake Superior.

This is a camping trip, so you need to bring your own tent, warm sleeping bag, blow-up mattress/foam pad and water. There is no electricity or running water here, so we will need to boil our water and bring sterilization tablets. This is true wilderness camping, but never fear we have all the supplies to make wonderful campfire meals and authentic "cowboy coffee."

Porkies Hiking Trail Map

RECOMMENDED BOOKS AND MAPS

Porkies Mountain Biking Trail Map

Porcupine Mountains: Wilderness State Park, A Backcountry Guide for Hikers, Backpackers, Campers, and Winter Visitors

The Porcupine Wilderness Journals

Hike Glacier In Its Centennial Year - July 10-18

2010-07-01T00:28:00.016-04:00

Come hike Glacier National Park as we celebrate Glacier National Parks' 100 year anniversary! Glacier National Park was set aside as the 10th National Park on May 11th 1910. There will be local naturalists and Glacier National Park experts on each hike, so frequent stops for educational information sharing and talking are to be expected along the trail. Many people love the idea that this is not strictly a hiking trip, but a way to learn about the terrain and the wildlife! This trip is designed for moderate hikers who appreciate a moderate pace and an opportunity to learn about the area and natural history.

We won't miss Piegan Pass, which is 9 miles, 1670' elevation gain for a maximum elevation of 7,280 feet. This classic Glacier hike allows you to look into the beautiful Many Glacier area with a rare side view of Mount Gould and the Garden Wall. Another absolutely necessary hike we will do is to hike the Grinnell Glacier Trail, which is 7.8 miles and 1600' elevation gain. All of these gorgeous open views along with a naturalist will allow us to understand how climate change is affecting the park, realize the geology of the park, and discover the wildflowers of the park. We are lucky enough to be based right at the Field Camp cabins. They are rustic cabins, with no frills. They are not like camping, but they are also not like staying in a lodge.

RECOMMENDED WEB INFORMATION

Glacier National Park Map
National Park Service
Glacier Institute
Centennial Celebration
Visitor Guide

RECOMMENDED BOOKS

Glacier National Park, The First 100 Years
Glacier Park Magazine - 100 Days in Glacier National Park
Seasonal Disorder: Ranger Tales from Glacier National Park
The Photographer's Guide to Glacier National Park: Where to Find Perfect Shots and How to Take Them

Come join us for a delightful and picturesque vacation!

Don't worry about planning the specific details. The best trails, accommodations and meals are already planned for this spectacular summer vacation!

$ 1625 excluding airfare

Included in the price:
- Six days of educational hikes with the Glacier Field Institue
- All ground transportation by van starting from Kalispell airport
-All meals from dinner on first day to lunch on last day of the trip
-Accommodations for eight nights at Glacier Field Camp Cabin

Not included in price:
-Airfare: ranges $630 - $800
-Transportation to and from home airport
-Personal charges such as wine, liquor, laundry
-Any pre-trip costs or anything else not in the above list of
“Included in the Price”
-Tipping of any Guides

Photos by Eva Borsody

Application
Prospectus/Itinerary

Hike Saugatuck Beach and Potluck - June 19, 2010

2010-06-01T00:29:00.002-04:00

Meet at the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Museum in exotic Saugatuck Michigan. Walk up the 123 or is it 223 steps to the South Ridge Trail. I didn't count when I walked the steps. Then we'll walk the trail to West Shore Beach. We will have the evening on the beach to enjoy a bar-b-q and potluck dinner!

I'll bring the charcoal, plasticware and paper plates.

Let's meet at the Saugatuck-Douglas Museum - 735 Park Street, Saugatuck MI at 3:00. Walk around for an hour or so and relax at the beach. You might want to bring a headlamp or flashlight in case we have to walk back to our cars in the dark. Good walking shoes required.

RECOMMENDED READING ON SAUGATUCK

Raising the Roof: A History of the Buildings And Architecture in the Saugatuck And Douglas Area

Aerial Photography Map of Saugatuck, Michigan 2005 MI

Early memories of Saugatuck, Michigan, 1830-1930

Ann Arbor for Easter Brunch - April 4, 2010

2010-04-01T00:17:00.002-04:00

The best all you can eat, Easter Brunch and what a great town to have Easter in, Ann Arbor MI. We will start of by having brunch at 11:00 am and then head over to Birds Hill Nature area and Keubler Langford Park for an afternoon walk to walk off the brunch. $30 includes brunch, taxes and tip at a fabulous Gandy Dancer. It's a little pricey, but I hear it is the best brunch in the area and far worth the price.

All religions welcome!

Walking shoes with a hard sole will be needed, along with waterproof pants and jacket, hat and gloves or mittens just in case the weather is on the colder side for the walk.

I have made reservations for only 15 people, so I need a financial commitment by March 27th. Easter is early this year and that is about a week before Easter. On Monday of that week, I will email out detailed information about the day's activities. If you are coming from out of town, I will help you set up accommodations and give you detailed directions to the restaurant and to the walking areas. Hope you can join me!

RECOMMENDED READING

University of Michigan & Ann Arbor Streets (Professor Pathfinder's Campus Maps)

Why Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor in the 20th Century: A Photographic History (MI) (Images of America)

Walk Washington, DC in the Spring - April 10 - 15, 2010

2010-04-01T00:15:00.019-04:00

What a great time to visit Washington, DC! Come with us as we walk around DC and visit many of the "MUST SEES,"

National Zoo,

Lincoln Memo rial,

Smithsonian Museums,

United States Botanic Garden,

National Mall and Memorial Parks, and much, much more!

The trip will start Saturday night at a restaurant where the group will meet and we'll provide information about the 5 days of activities. Your 5-night stay will be in a hotel in the Heart of Washington, D.C., close to the capitol and the White House. Your hotel reservations will already be made and all you have to do is check in after 4:00 pm and meet us for dinner. We will be visiting numerous locations in the DC area, the biggest benefit is almost all of the locations we will be visiting will be free!

As simple as that! Dinner, Saturday night will be included in the cost, as well as, 3 other dinners. In total, the trip will include 5 breakfasts, 4 dinners and 5 nights in a double-occupancy room, with private bath.

What a fun thing to do right after the big crowds of the Cherry Blossom Festival are leaving. If we choose, we should still be able to see the Target Tidal Basin Stage - Cultural Performances, on Sunday, the last day of the festival. If you get to DC early enough on Saturday, you should be able to see the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, which starts at 10:00 am along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Streets.

This is such a great place to go at this time of the year!

Artwise Washington DC Museum Map - Laminated Museum Map of Washington, DC - Streetwise Maps

3D Puzzle the U.S. Capitol

Washington D.C. Museums: A Ross Guide : Museums, Historic Houses, Art Galleries, Libraries, and Other Special Places Open to the Public in the Washington Metropolitan Area (Washington, Dc Museums)

Very Washington DC: A Celebration of the History and Culture of America's Capital City

Washington, DC: An Inspiring Tour

Museums of Washington, DC: A Guide for Residents and Visitors

Walk Cannon Trail - Cannonsburg MI - April 25

2010-04-01T00:14:00.000-04:00

Come join us on a beautiful walk on Cannon Trail! We'll start walking at 10:30 and you can park at Warren Townsend County Park. We'll walk four miles to the Cannon Township Hall and back just in time for brunch at Bostwick Lake Inn. If you want to meet us at 1:30 for brunch and skip the enjoyable morning walk, that is fine too.

Reservations have to be made for brunch!

Meet us a little before 10:30 because we want to leave promptly.

Nordic and Alpine Ski Stowe Vermont - Feb 5 - 7, 2010

2010-02-01T00:18:00.008-05:00

Join us whether you are a cross-country skier or a downhill skier, we would like you to join us. This is an annual Stowe Vermont Ski Trip! We are staying at the fabulous Honeywood Country Inn. 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, happy hour and Saturday night dinner. They also have a hot tub for us to use!

We can either ski at Stowe Mountain Resort for us alpine skiers or Trapp Family Lodge for us nordic skiers. There's always the possibility we'll go to another small touring center to get a bit of a change.

RECOMMENDED READING

STOWE, VERMONT Travel Guide to the Best Restaurants, Attractions and Lodgings in One of Americas 100 Great Towns

The Trapp Family -- Stowe, Vermont -- Autographed Copy -- Pictures of the Family Through the Years

USGS Topographic Quadrangle Map - Stowe, Vermont (Folded/Waterproof)

History of Stowe, Vermont: From 1763 to 1934

X-Country Ski - Pigeon Creek - Feb. 6, 2010

2010-02-01T00:18:00.006-05:00

Come join us for a day of x-country skiing at Pigeon Creek! Snow should be great and we'll have a fun time. No charge for parking or skiing, if you have your own skis. If you don't have skis, no problem, you can rent them for only $8 for two hours of use.

The NY Times is getting people psyched for the Olympics. Here's a blurb about x-country skiing.

We will meet at the entrance on Stanton Street, between 120th and 128th Street at 10:00 am on Saturday.

BOOKS TO READ

Cross-Country Skiing: Building Skills for Fun and Fitness (Mountaineers Outdoor Expert)
Nordic Skiing Technique

RECOMMENDED CLOTHING

Smartwool Women's Skiing Light Socks 26672
JiMarti TR35 Sunglasses Vented Lens Unbreakable TR90
Duofold Women's Dri-release Wool Mid-weight Single Layer Thermal Ankle Length Pants #391B
Duofold Men's Mid Weight Single-Layer Thermal Tagless Bottom
Lorpen Unisex Tri-Layer Superlight Ski Overcalf Sock

Mapquest:
Pigeon Creek Park
12601 Stanton Street
West Olive, Michigan

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Martin Luther King Ski Weekend - Jan 15 - 17, 2010

2010-01-01T00:20:00.003-05:00

Enjoy a weekend skiing in Jackson N.H. x-country/downhill. This gives us the opportunity to visit multiple ski locations!

Accommodations are double occupancy right in North Conway. We will be staying at the Colonial Motel. 2 nights, fabulous Saturday dinner, 2 complete breakfasts and one x-country ski ticket or comparable discount on downhill ticket.

Necessary outdoor gear to bring are skis, poles and ski boots. The necessary outdoor clothing to bring are hat, waterproof jacket and pants, non-wool socks and mittens or gloves.

Nordic Ski Places nearby

Bear Notch
King Pine Purity Spring Resort
Mount Washington Resort - Bretton Woods
Mount Washington Valley
Great Glen Trails
Jackson Ski Touring Center

Alpine Ski Resorts nearby

Attitash
Wildcat Mountain
Cranmore Mountain Resort

Vacations | Weekends

Natural and Man-made Wonders of the Isthmus of Panama - Feb. 16-24, 2012

Hike/Explore Berber Villages of Morocco - April 27-May 8, 2012

Hike Canadian Rockies; Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper -Jun 16 - 24, 2012

Camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes - Aug. 19-24, 2012

Hiking in Big Bend National Park - A Texas Gem - Oct. 27 - Nov. 3, 2012

Hike Through Mystifying Sedona I - Oct 29-Nov 5, 2011

Grand Haven Beach and Pot-luck - September 10, 2011

Cycle Loire Valley of France - Aug 27 - Sep 5, 2011

Camp Mohawk State Park - Aug 5 - 7, 2011

Hike, Pot-luck, and Hike Picnic - Jun 11, 2011

Cycle Saigon to Hanoi - Apr 16 - May 1, 2011

X-Country Ski - Pigeon Creek - February 26, 2011

Belize: Ruins, Caves, Jungle Trails - Jan 15 - 24, 2011

Highlights of Southern Utah - Sept 24 - Oct 4, 2010

Coast Guard Beach Weekend - Aug 6 - 8, 2010

Recommended Reading related to Cape Cod National Seashore

Beaches of Interest

Camp Acadia National Park Maine - Aug 12-17, 2010

Camp Porcupine Wilderness State Park, MI - Jul 28 - Aug 1

Hike Glacier In Its Centennial Year - July 10-18

Hike Saugatuck Beach and Potluck - June 19, 2010

Ann Arbor for Easter Brunch - April 4, 2010

Walk Washington, DC in the Spring - April 10 - 15, 2010

Walk Cannon Trail - Cannonsburg MI - April 25

Nordic and Alpine Ski Stowe Vermont - Feb 5 - 7, 2010

X-Country Ski - Pigeon Creek - Feb. 6, 2010

Martin Luther King Ski Weekend - Jan 15 - 17, 2010

Nordic Ski Places nearby

Alpine Ski Resorts nearby