OnTravel - Travel Information and Tips

Canadian Filmmaker Bea Broda Talks About The Beauty Of The Seychelles And Wales

Paul — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 19:45:50 +0000

Ah the interesting life of travel journalists and film makers. Hard to believe but Bea Broda joins Paul to talk about two very different destinations, several thousand miles apart — the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean and Wales in the UK. You might actually sense that there are some similarities but not in the weather. She attended Carnival in Mahe, in the Seychelles. In an effort to promote tourism Broda reports that the government has created a carnival with some of the best carnival acts from around the world. In Wales she found the same sense of adventure but a very different kind of beauty. Bea Broda has been a broadcast travel journalist since 1987, and was a daily TV Talk-Show Host and Weathercaster (on the Canadian TV affiliate of Global Television) for 5 years prior to that. She is the Producer of TV series such as Passport to Adventure and Timeless Places and numerous other video projects. Bea has developed a keen interest in associations she has become familiar with through her international research and filming projects. Organizations such as IIPT (The International Institute of Peace through Tourism) are dear to her heart, and Bea chooses to focus on the most positive aspects of the lifestyle, culture and traditions of the countries she travels to and films. Bea is also the Past President of SATW. (The Society of American Travel Writers.)

Czech Republic Offers Some Real Travel Experiences And Memories Beyond Prague

Paul — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:48:41 +0000

Vojtech Kacerovsky of the Czech Republic tourism office in Southern California sits down with Paul and Elizabeth to talk about travel in the Czech Republic beyond the well known destination of Prague. They talk about villages, great food, castles and castle hotels, more food, and Czech beer. The Czech Republic is a fascinating and affordable destination in Central Europe with some amazing attractions that make for great travel experiences and memories.

Canyon Ranch Offers A Luxury Spa Experience Along With A Perspective On Lifestyle

Paul — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 23:02:39 +0000

Experts always list Canyon Ranch among the world’s best spas and the reason Paul and Elizabeth found out is the quality of the program. They talk with Reggie Cooper the general manager of Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts. The original is in Tucson, Arizona but over the years they have opened branches including a spa program at sea on Cunard. Perhaps what they say on their website best expresses the concept. Canyon Ranch is more than a place – it’s a state of mind and a way of life. For more than 30 years, Canyon Ranch has been empowering people to live healthier, longer, more joyful lives through fitness, nutrition, stress management and integrative wellness. Trendy facials and treatments may come and go and there is plenty of pampering at Canyon Ranch with the latest and best but it’s the classes and lectures that set it apart.

Boingo’s Christian Gunning Provides Tips For WIFI And Travel

Paul — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 22:24:53 +0000

Back from the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Christian Gunning of Boingo shares the latest intel on wifi from the world largest mobile conference. He stresses the importance of making sure you know how much it will cost to roam for data with your cell provider. Make sure you know how to turn roaming off in your cell phone. He reports that there should be progress in the coming years with carriers recognizing the importance of wifi in modern smartphones. He offers tips to save money on accessing wifi when traveling in other countries.

Sandra Chipchase Talks About How Sydney Makes The Ideal Place To Begin A Vacation In Australia

Paul — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 20:20:14 +0000

Sandra Chipchase joins Paul and Elizabeth to discuss one of their favorite cities in the world, Sydney, Australia. Sandra talks about great things to do in the city and especially about big events coming up. Sudney has become one of the must see places in the world to go on New Years Eve but throughout the year there are festivals and special events that are worth building a vacation around.

VIVID SYDNEY, 10 MAY TO 12 JUNE 2013: The Southern Hemisphere’s biggest annual celebration of light, music and ideas; a mesmerising free public exhibition of outdoor lighting sculptures; a cutting-edge contemporary music program
and the spectacular illumination of the Sydney Opera House sails. One of the signature events in the NSW Events Calendar developed by Destination NSW, Vivid Sydney has become Sydney’s major winter festival.

CRAVE SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL, OCTOBER: Australia’s biggest food festival takes over
Sydney for the month of October. The event includes a World Chef showcase, once only dinners, demonstrations, chef talks and more.

INTERNATIONAL FLEET REVIEW, 3-11 OCTOBER : The centenary of the arrival of the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet in Sydney Harbour will be marked, with the International Fleet Review. Join in the celebrations as more than 40 warships from around the world arrive in Sydney Harbour. There will be a historic tall ships parade of more than 12 ships, open days, flypasts and aerial aerobatic displays.

NEW YEAR’S EVE, 31 DECEMBER 2013: Sydney welcomes in the New Year with its world-renowned harbour celebration, culminating in a spectacular midnight fireworks show that highlights the iconic Harbour Bridge.

AUSTRALIAN OPEN OF SURFING, FEBRUARY 2014: This nine-day festival at Manly Beach celebrates the best of Australian action sports, music, art and fashion, incorporating skateboarding and ASP-sanctioned Pro and Junior surfing tournaments. All free!

John Poimiroo On The Joys Of Rural Vacations and Farmstays

Paul — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:55:54 +0000

Farm Experience Correspondent John Poimiroo has discovered the ideal way to enjoy a rural vacation and help the kids understand where food comes from, a farmstay vacation. John shares his lifelong love of the country with Paul and Elizabeth as he shares his latest discovery FeatherDown Farmstays. This is a way to have an affordable family vacation and also give the kids a vacation to remember. John describes how this is a way to expereince as much or as little of the rural lifestyle. You only have to get up and milk the cows if you want. Otherwise breakfast will still be served.

Gary Arndt Talks Driving in Germany

Paul — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:37:36 +0000

Global Travel Correspondent for Traveling, Gary Arndt, brings us up to date on his driving trip through Germany where he mamaged to visit all the German Unesco World Heritage Sites. He talks about the city of Trier and several of the sites that have become favorites. He also tells us of his driving trip and experiences on the Autobahn where he was passed by a Mini.

And finally don’t miss Gary’s posting at Everything-Everywhere. It’s worthy of the best.

Anne Banas Talks Travel To Paris and Apartment Rentals

Paul — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 19:25:42 +0000

Anne Banas, executive editor of Smarter Travel, and regular correspondent here on Traveling chats with Paul and Elizabeth about apartment rentals in Paris and of course food, chocolate and pastries. She also discusses travel advice on Smarter Travel. Some current articles on the web include Things Never to do in a Hotel Room, Ways to de-junk your suitcase and a guide to Europe’s most affordable cities.

In California It’s Time To Get Down To Earth With California Wine

Paul — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 18:57:40 +0000

Paul talks with Nancy Light of the California Wine Institute about how wineries in the state educate and entertain visitors during “Down to Earth” April. Think California wine is just red, white or rosé? It’s time to discover how “green” it is, too. Wine Institute has created California Wines: Down to Earth Month, a month-long, statewide celebration of California’s leadership in sustainable winegrowing and winemaking, featuring practices that are environmentally and socially responsible. This April marks the campaign’s second year.

Wineries across the state will engage consumers, policy leaders, media and trade with fun, sustainably focused festivities to learn about California wine’s eco-friendly practices and the people and places behind them. From Earth Day festivals and “green wine trails” to dog-friendly vineyard hikes, wildlife talks, horseback rides and eco-tours, the state’s wineries will highlight being green this April.

“Wine lovers can do more than taste; they can experience where and how wines are grown and made with our green-themed events this April,” said Robert P. (Bobby) Koch, President and CEO of Wine Institute. “We have made a long-term commitment to sustainability. Wineries and vineyards that produce nearly two-thirds of California’s winegrapes and wine participate in our California Sustainable Winegrowing program with more than 10,000 attending educational workshops since the program’s inception a decade ago. The scale of accomplishment is remarkable, as California is the world’s fourth-largest wine producer.”

Andy Newman Checks In On The Florida Keys

Paul — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 21:05:20 +0000

Andy Newman chats with Paul about the latest deevlopments in the Florida Keys. Andy, who fishes in the Keys and perhaps knows more than any living person about what has become America’s Caribbean tells the inside story on how to make the most of a Keys vacation. The website is one of the best and most comprehensive we have found on any destination and is packed with photos and videos of all the Florida Keys. Andy even knows the background of the legendary “Conch Republic” which has an anniversary this month. Andy even tells of the history of the amzaing road that connects all the islands of the Keys.

Check this out from the website. abot one of the quirkier episodes in the history of the Keys.

With activities ranging from a “drag” race for female impersonators to an exuberant sea “battle” featuring tall ships, the Conch Republic’s 10-day birthday party is set for Friday, April 19, through Sunday, April 28. Showcasing the republic’s eccentric spirit, the 31st annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration commemorates the Florida Keys’ secession from the United States following a 1982 U.S. Border Patrol blockade that virtually stopped traffic on the only road from the mainland. In protest, local officials staged the secession. After announcing the Conch Republic’s birth, they declared “war” on the mother country, pelted federal agents with stale Cuban bread, surrendered after 60 seconds and demanded $1 billion in foreign aid. Today patriots throughout the Keys fly the royal-blue flag of the republic, whose motto is “We Seceded Where Others Failed,” and celebrate the secession’s anniversary each year with a lively series of events. As well as the drag race and sea battle for sea dogs and wenches, festival highlights include the World’s Longest Parade, named because its sea-to-sea route down Key West’s Duval Street proceeds from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. The unique parade features the Second Time Arounders, an adult marching band made up of former high school, college and military band members ranging from age 18 to 85. The festival’s oldest event is the Conch Republic Red Ribbon Bed Race, a charity race of decorated beds on Duval Street. Starring racing teams of strange bedfellows, the quirky challenge is billed as “the most fun you can have in bed with your clothes on.” The schedule also includes a pirates ball and pig roast, ukulele festival, Conch Crawl showcasing Duval Street watering holes from the gulf to the Atlantic, two-day arts and food marketplace saluting the Keys’ Caribbean island roots, Conch Republic military muster and sailing race commemorating the Keys’ historic shipwreck salvage tradition.

Hurtigruten Ships Are The Ideal Way To Experience Norway

Paul — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 20:44:16 +0000

Paul chats with Hans Rood of the Hurtigruten Line. The company that sails up and down the coast of Norway and also on long cruises to the polar regions. Hurtigruten voyages have been the subject of television documentaries and the company’s long history provides a wealth of stories. This from their website pretty muuch sums up the experience in summer along one of the msot beautiful coastal voyages in the world.

Take time to enjoy the wonder of Norway’s Midnight Sun on board a Hurtigruten ship. This is a natural phenomenon found in latitudes north of the Arctic Circle, where the sun stays above the horizon for 24 hours. Brilliant sunshine through the clear Arctic air bathes the shores, fjords, mountains and bays in fiery reds, soft pinks and golden yellows complemented by the deep, soft greens of pine and hardwood forests.

Summer is the most popular time of the year for exploring Norway’s coast. Because of the light during the summer months, the whole country explodes into life. Flowers bloom, rivers fill with fish and giant waterfalls cascade towards the ocean creating a picture perfect setting for a summer holiday. At each port you will experience something different.

Bask at your leisure in the setting sun. You have all the time in the world; day and night sightseeing is the norm as going to bed is, for once, not necessarily the preferred activity in the small hours.

24-hour daylight provides energy to the flora and fauna along the coast, as well as to the Norwegians themselves, and this is likely to rub off on you as well. So, why not use his new found energy to experience Hurtigruten’s exclusive summertime shore excursions and activities.

Learning At The World’s Largest Cruise Show And The Travel Mavens

Paul — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 20:14:55 +0000

Cruise Shipping Miami is the world’s largest trade show and conference devoted tothe business of crusing and a few days there is an eye-opening and highly educational experience. The Travel Mavens blog is one of the most authoritative on cruising and that’s due to the experienced journalist at the helm. David Molyneaux

Big Sur International Marathon Wins Big on Beauty

Paul — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 23:02:26 +0000

It sells out nearly every year. This year it took just 26 hours for the 4,500 runners competing in the complete marathon to get their tickets. It’s the 28th year and the event attracts runners from all over the world. The Big Sur Marathon has been called “one of the jewels of American running” and “one of the best running experiences on the planet.” It has received honors as being named one of the country’s top three marathons (along with New York and Boston), the “Best Destination Marathon in North America,” one of the world’s “Top Ten Races To Do Before You Die.”The Big Sur Marathon began in 1986 with 1,800 runners and has grown in size, stature and number of events since then. The course record of 2:16:39 set in 1987 by Brad Hawthorne still stands today. In 1995 the “Power Walk” was added, and in subsequent years additional walks (now “Milers” since participants have the option to either walk or run) were added. A 5K that had welcomed a schools competition for many years spawned a new kids’ 3K run, now in its 6^th year in conjunction with the marathon. In 2010, the 25^th anniversary of the race, the Boston 2 Big Sur Challenge was introduced with the 400-person field filling immediately. In March 2011, a small but significant portion of Highway One collapsed forcing race organizers to implement an “out and back” course (a similar event and subsequent course alteration occurred in 1998). The past three years (2011-13), the Big Sur Marathon has been a site for the Runner’s World Challenge, bringing 300 VIP participants to compete in the race. The race has also achieved Gold Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport for being one of the ‘greenest’ marathons in the country.

Gettysburg Honors The 150th Anniversary Of The Battle

Paul — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 22:52:06 +0000

Carl Whitehill talks with Paul and Elizabeth about the upcoming events which will honor the 150th anniversary of one of the pivotal battles of the Civil War at Gettysburg. They also talk about the history of Gettysburg, the Eisenhower farm and what to do in the area.

And of course President Abraham Lincoln made what some say is one of the greatest speaches of all time at Gettysburg on November 19, 1863

“Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate — we can not consecrate — we can not hallow — this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

One Of America’s Great Port Cities And A Great Way To Sail There

Paul — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:30:26 +0000

Britt Rabinovici talks about American Cruise Lines with Paul at Cruise Shipping Miami. American Cruise Lines, the largest U.S. cruise company, operates the newest fleet of riverboats and small cruise ships in the industry and offers more than 35 unique itineraries along the rivers and inland waterways of the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, the Mississippi River and the U.S. East Coast, from Maine to Florida. Their two authentic paddlewheelers are a special experience but each of their ships cruise to destinations so special that few if any large ships could reach them. It’s truly a way to see America from ships the way the early settlers did but with considerably more luxury and comfort.

Richard Scher of the Port of Baltimore talks with Paul about how the Port has become a central hub for cruises into the region and how the surrounding area has maintained an historical link with it’s maritime heritage. Richard also point out some of the unique places to visit around the port.

Cruising The Koz Way – Dave Koz & Friends At Sea

Dan — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 14:51:13 +0000

Dan Forth talks with Dave Koz, one of the most respected artists in contemporary jazz. As a saxophonist – he’s in a league of his own. As your host of “Dave Koz & Friends at Sea” – he’s bringing onboard entertainment for cruising to another level too. On September 22, Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas departs Rome for a Mediterranean cruise like no other. If you like music, you’re going to love the friends that Dave will be bringing along. Michael McDonald, Sheila E. & Larry Graham are just a few of the incredible musicians who will be performing onboard. This is first class entertainment that is up close and personal. From unplugged performances to electrifying concerts and late night jams – this is definitely not your stereotypical theme cruise. Somewhere between catching the gigs at the ship’s Metropolis Theater and “Koz-a-Cabana”, there’s also a wonderful itinerary to enjoy including Athens, Sicily, Naples and more. Have a listen as Dave tells us more about the cruise and the spectacular entertainment he – and his friends – have planned for all onboard.

The Four Seasons Resort In The Maldives Maybe The Ultimate Getaway

Paul — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 07:07:58 +0000

Armando Kraenzlin joins Paul and Elizabeth to talk about the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru and at Baa Atoll – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which for many are the ultimate getaways. Armando is Regional Vice-President and General Manager of the resorts and their luxury dive boat. He tells how he landed in the Maldives and what about the incredible setting that keeps him there. Here’s some information from the website that describes it better than we ever could.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT MALDIVES AT KUDA HURAA

An enchanting garden island infused with traditional village charm, a mere 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, our private coral island is home to the charm of a Maldivian village by the turquoise sea. Here, palm-thatched pavilions and bungalows line the white sand or dip their feet into the crystal water. An island spa offers soothing Asian secrets. Sunrise, sunshine and sunset paint the endless sky.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT MALDIVES AT LANDAA GIRAAVARU

A remote natural wilderness in the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, 30-45 minutes by seaplane from Malé International Airport, this verdant, beach-fringed coral island embraces both idyllic, away-from-it-all retreat and sophisticated pleasures on land and water – from genuine ayurvedic therapies in the spa to splashing, sailing or diving in the jewel-like waters.

FOUR SEASONS EXPLORER

The ultimate liveaboard for marine adventurers, sailing between Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giraavaru on 3-, 4- or 7-night itineraries and private charters, this 11-cabin, three-deck catamaran takes you island-hopping in inimitable Four Seasons style. Avid divers, water enthusiasts, nature lovers and 21st-century explorers can discover remote shores and rarely visited dive/snorkelling sites among the untouched reaches of the exotic atolls. Four Seasons Explorer is a memorable adventure in itself, and an exciting complement to either or both of our Four Seasons Resorts Maldives.

Jason Venner Just Might Be The Cruise Director’s Cruise Director

Paul — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 07:58:04 +0000

Holland America Line Cruise Director Jason Venner talks with Paul and Elizabeth about the challenges of being a cruise director at sea. Aboard Holland America’s Eurodam he works with several dozen staff who provide the guest enhancements that add to the cruise experience. On a recent cruise, Jason juggled the demands of a new theme cruise complete with several celebrities, a changing itinerary due to weather and teaching dancing to passengers at two unplanned and totally impromtu dance classes. As Jason explains it it was all in a days work. But for the guests, they only saw an unflappable host who could keep them in stitches with quips before the stage shows.

Creating The Perfect Hotel At Sea, Holland America’s Eurodam

Paul — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 07:44:53 +0000

Stan Kuppens, lives to go to sea and it’s a good thing since he spends several months at sea as the Hotel Director aboard Holland America’s Eurodam. Stan joins Paul and Elizabeth to talk about the challenges of running a fine hotel at sea and also the advantages of a life at sea. Stan has had the opportunity to launch several of Holland America Lines new ships and has sailed several world cruises. A native of Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Kuppens always enjoyed sailing on different vessels traveling up and down the Waal and Rhine rivers. A frequent world traveler with his parents, Kuppens recognized that he needed to find a way to combine his love for travel and his appreciation for hospitality to support a career. So after graduating from the University of Hotel Management, he came to work for Holland America Line and was selected to be a part of the prestigious Management Trainee program — a multi-year program that provides training in all aspects of the Hotel Department, eventually leading to the hotel manager position. Kuppens has sailed with Holland America Line for 22 years, including the preparation and sailing of multiple Grand World Voyages and cruises to all continents around the world.

Modern Luxury Sets Sail Aboard The Celebrity Reflection

Dan — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 19:11:15 +0000

Paul and Elizabeth talk with Dan Forth about the debut of Celebrity Cruise’s Reflection – the fifth and final ship of the Solstice-class series. They discuss how Celebrity is working to expand their concept of “modern luxury” at sea as Dan shares some first impressions of this attractive addition to the cruise line. The Reflection is quite a sight – sleek, modern and elegant. From the Grand Foyer to the stairwells — the Celebrity Reflection is a floating festival of contemporary art. Likewise, it’s state-of-the-art featuring an iLounge with, you guessed it …an Apple Store. It even sounds good. The onboard entertainment seems to have been modernized as well …think Cirque du Soleil meets Rock of Ages. Overall, the Celebrity Reflection is at the cutting edge of modern day cruising.

Gary Arndt Lives Cheap In Poland

Paul — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 17:48:02 +0000

Gary is the Global Travel Correspondent for Traveling and checks in with Paul about his trip to Poland. He found it welcmong, cheap and full of great things to see. Gary is at ITB in Berlin and his next report will be on the world’s largest travel show and also his further adventures in Germany and catching up on lifelong quest to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

Gary is one of the most traveled people on the planet and each year he takes a small group of travelers with him on a photo trip to some part of the world. Read about it here from Gary’s website: Last year the tour was the fastest selling North American tour for G Adventures and we expect this year’s tour to sell out even faster.

We’ve put a lot of effort into making this year’s tour even better.

The tour is going to consist of 2-weeks in Italy, from May 11-24, visiting many of the biggest attractions in the country: Venice, Florence, Cinque Terra, Sienna, Rome, Vatican City, Naples, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

In addition to taking amazing photos and visiting some of the greatest places in Europe, we will be scheduling time throughout the trip for hands on workshops dealing with photography topics such as better understanding your camera settings and editing photos in Lightroom. We will also have morning strategy sessions so you have a better idea of what and where to shoot when you are out photographing each day. I have already photographed most of the destinations we will be visiting so I can provide some first hand advice on where to go to get some great shots.

…AND you will have an opportunity to have your photography featured on my blog as well as the G Adventure blog and our respective Facebook pages, a combined audience of over 500,000 people!

We had a wait list for last year’s tour and there is a good chance we will again. If you are interested in going you might want to reserve a spot as soon as possible. You can hold your spot for 48 hours without paying.

Total cost of the tour is $3,499 which includes 13-nights accommodation, transportation between locations in Italy, 13 breakfasts, photography instruction and guided tours in Italy.

Gary is one of the best photographers we know. Travel and learn with him.

Cruise Reviews Sail New Seas With Mike Faust On Holland America’s Eurodam

Paul — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 01:08:26 +0000

Paul and Elizabeth talk with Mike Faust the 16-year-old entrepreneur behind the website, Cruise Currents. Mike is bringing a fresh look to cruising. He fell in love with cruising at an incrdibly early age and hasn’t looked back. Here’s a sample of his work from the website:

Cruising the Eurodam – Day 3 – At Sea

This is how close we came to docking in Grand Turk.Well today’s port of call was supposed to be Grand Turk, but due to high waves and dangerous winds, we were forced to abandon the port and continue on to San Juan. We actually were very close to docking in Grand Turk, but we were getting pushed around a lot, so I am thankful to Captain Emiel for making the wise decision to opt into a sea day. To make it up to the guests, Captain Emiel and Hotel Director Stan Kuppens sent every guest (except those underage ) a glass of champagne after dinner. I thought that this kind gesture was a very nice gesture to the guests and I can tell you that many of the guests were very happy and impressed with the gift.MorningAfter another delicious breakfast in the Lido Restaurant, I mostly relaxed throughout the day. I was actually the only person swimming in the aft pool which was very choppy and cool, but I still had fun nonetheless! It was soon time for lunch and I explored the dishes of the world on the starboard side of the ship. I ended up enjoying a very delicious stir fry dish with rice, beef, and soy sauce. It was fantastic!AfternoonLater in the afternoon I had the pleasure and privilege to sit down with Paul and Elizabeth Harryman and join them on their radio show, OnTravel. I won’t give away what we talked about, but you can catch the episode later next week both here on Cruise Currents and on OnTravel.com. I will also have an article forthcoming talking about Paul, Elizabeth, and their website OnTravel.EveningSoon it was time for dinner. Tonight we would be dining in Holland America Line’s famed Pinnacle Grill. If you’re not familiar with the Pinnacle Grill, the Pinnacle is Holland America’s exclusive steakhouse that serves some of the finest steak you will ever taste. Dinner begins with a sampling of breads from around the world, served with flavored butters, and special sea salts to use as spices throughout your different courses. Next came the appetizers which was a delicious, fresh Caesar Salad for me. Then the main course arrived. Tonight I would be enjoying a large, juicy, warm porterhouse steak. Cooked to the perfect temperature and grade, this steak was possibly the most delicious steak I have ever tasted in my entire life. This steak was even better than the steak I raved about 2 nights ago in the Rembrandt Dining Room! This steak was so finely prepared and seasoned, it could rival any steak served at any famous steakhouse on land. You may not really believe me, but I challenge you to step into the Pinnacle Grill on any Holland ship and try to find a steak that won’t blow you away. It’s not possible. The Pinnacle Grill takes the cake (sorry for the food pun) as the best meal I have had the pleasure of enjoying thus far.The night was finished off with a hilarious and entertaining magic show performed by Jeff Peterson and Indy, his magic dog. I have seen a few cruise ship magicians in my day, but let me tell you, you won’t leave Jeff’s show disappointed. I mostly credit the success of his show to his cute dog Indy, but hey, I’m a dog guy.So that wraps it up for day 3 here on the Eurodam. Join me tomorrow for my post recapping our first port of call, San Juan, Puerto Rico. See you soon!

Hanging Out On Holland America Lines’s Half Moon Cay

Paul — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 08:34:32 +0000

Imagine just hanging out on a Caribbean Island with nothing to do and all ambition fast evaporating in the trade winds. That’s just what Paul and Elizabeth did one day on Half Moon Cay. There is soft white sand to enjoy, incredible blue green waters to swim in and plenty of just plain quiet. Makes for a perfect day. Join Paul and Elizabeth on a perfect day in the Caribbean. While Holland America Line is committed to keeping 98 percent of its pristine private island wild, Half Moon Cay offers everything you need for a day of play on your Caribbean cruise. Park yourself in an air-conditioned cabana along a two-mile crescent of blinding white beach. Visit Stingray Cove to feed and learn more about the gentle creatures. Ride your horse to a deserted beach and into the surf. Or, take your kids to Half Moon Lagoon, island’s aqua park and children’s playground. Part of the Bahamas, Half Moon Cay lies about 100 miles southeast of Nassau and is visited on nearly every Caribbean itinerary.

Shore Excursion Highlights

Horseback Riding by Land & Sea: Head to the high point of the cay on horseback before a brisk ride in the surf.
Aqua Trax Adventure: Get on a personal watercraft for a tour of the island, then test your skills on an obstacle course.
Deep-Sea Fishing: The waters around the cay teem with wahoo, snapper, grouper and other fish. Catch (and release) them.

Crai Bower Talks Sun and Fun In Jamaica and Hawaii

Paul — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 08:28:07 +0000

Correspondent Crai Bower joins Paul to tak about fun in the sun in the winter. Crai talks about visiting Jamaica and how to have a great vacation beyond the all inclusive resorts that are so popular. He also talks about taking the family to Hawaii in the winter and the experience of playing golf below the snow capped peak of Mauna Kea. Here’s some background on Crai:

Crai S Bower began writing in a yellow, spiral notebook when he was fourteen. Today, he writes about diverse topics including 48 Hours in Montréal (Alaska Airlines Magazine), Top Cycling Towns (MSN.com) and” Bahamas’ Not Just for Pirates” (UP! Magazine). If he has a niche, it’s “adrenaline rushes that won’t kill you and end with a decent bottle of wine.” Bower thrives on the freelance life: teaming with creative agencies (ZAAZ, Saltmine, RMB Vivid), running a business and typing away in his Seattle studio. He maintains a diverse roster of journalism (travel, business, the arts, profiles) marketing copy (MSN, Expedia, Intel) and columns (AAAJourney.com). He can also be seen monthly on KCPQ-TV “This Morning News,” heard monthly as the travel commentator on NPR affiliate “KUOW Presents,” quarterly on KUOW Weekday and biweekly on the American Forces Network. A winner of several journalism awards, Bower is featured in the 2010 bestseller, “Seattle 100: Portraits of a City: Voices that Matter.”

Still, one facet of Bower’s life never changes- he starts most days spilling ink upon a journal page while trying not to spill tea upon his scarf.

Jennifer Dombrowski Talks About Recent Travels and Military Discounts

Paul — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 21:51:52 +0000

Uber blogger and contributor to Traveling, Jennifer Dombrowski joins Paul and Elizabeth to update them on her recent travels and talk about how her blog on Iceland and the Northern Lights has gone viral. She also tells of new travel discounts on her website that include good deals for military personnel and families. She also talks about how to stay warm in an igloo in Zermatt. Here’s an excerpt:

A few years ago, my mom and dad send us on an igloo adventure in Slovenia as a Christmas gift. We had such a fantastic time, Tim came home and promptly ordered an igloo building kit from REI. We tried to build our very own igloo once right after getting our kit, but it was a bit too warm, the snow wasn’t good for compacting, and we started too late in the day. And the winters in Italy haven’t been very snowy ones since; they’ve been more like an extended autumn morphing into spring. So we were really excited when we were invited to Iglu Dorf by Zermatt Tourimus. Who wouldn’t want to spend a night right next to Switzerland’s most famous mountain?!

Photo courtesy of Iglu-Dorf

Dancing With The Stars on Holland America’s Eurodam

Paul — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 20:54:28 +0000

Paul and Elizabeth chat about the newest promotion on Holland America Line. Premiered on the Eurodam, Dancing With the Stars the popular television series goes to sea with a series of theme cruises. This is from Holland America on the new promotion. Whether you like to Tango, Quickstep, Paso Doble, or sit back and enjoy watching the sizzling performances, this program offers guests an entirely unique experience on the seas. Six theme cruises in 2013 and early 2014 will feature Dancing with the Stars: At Sea events including dance lessons; a chance to meet the dancers, ask questions and take photos; and a dazzling production starring celebrities and the famed dance pros, complete with glamorous costumes and routines from the TV show. Currently scheduled to appear on select sailings are two-time champion pro dancers Mark Ballas and Kym Johnson; pros Tristan MacManus and Lacey Schwimmer; and some of your favorite celebrity competitors.* More dance pros and celebrities to be announced. In addition to the theme cruises, every sailing on all 15 ships in the Holland America Line fleet will feature an exclusive Dancing with the Stars: At Sea program including dance lessons and an opportunity for some lucky guests to dance center stage in an exciting dance-off performance. These activities will feature the ships’ professional dancers and will be developed in collaboration with the show’s dancers and choreographers. Currently scheduled to appear on our 2013 Theme Cruises*:

June 22, 2013, ms Veendam, 7-Day Canada & New England Professional Dancers: Chelsie Hightower and Mark Ballas. Star: Shawn Johnson. Additional star to be announced.
June 30, 2013, ms Oosterdam, 7-Day Alaska Professional Dancers: Kym Johnson and Tristan MacManus. Stars: Carson Kressley and Shawn Johnson.
July 7, 2013, ms Oosterdam, 7-Day Alaska Professional Dancers: Kym Johnson and Tristan MacManus. Stars: Carson Kressley and Shawn Johnson.

2014 Theme Cruises: (Pros/celebrities to be announced)

January 5, 2014, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, 7-Day Eastern Caribbean
January 12, 2014, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, 7-Day Western Caribbean

Carmel’s Cypress Inn Pampers Pets In World Class Luxury

Paul — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 08:39:28 +0000

Ever wonder where pets want to go on vacation? High on the list has to be Carmel’s Cypress Inn. Pets aren’t just welcome they are treated as if they are registered guests. In fact on return visits pets are treated to special services just like their VIP owners. For all there are special treats, a yappy happy hour and pampering services that never seem to end. Of course the Inn does well for its bipedal guests who are pampered too. It’s in a landmark building in Carmel and the outdoor patio is a perfect place to de stress.

Elliot Gillies Talks About All Inclusive Scenic Cruises On The Rivers Of Europe

Paul — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:54:34 +0000

Elliot Gillies, joins Paul and Elizabeth to talk about Scenic Cruises, an Australian company setting new standards on the rivers of Europe. River cruising offers a unique and super convenient way of seeing many European cities and with Scenic everything including the excursions are included.

Here’s some background on an interesting company.

In the beginning …

Back in 1986 I began hosting packaged holidays for Melbourne-based seniors clubs along Australia’s famous Great Ocean Road to the small coastal town of Warrnambool. Warrnambool Scenic Coach Tours became remarkably successful in a very short space of time and allowed me the opportunity to expand to offer more variety in itineraries.

By the late 1980s we were expanding rapidly and offering tours to destination events such as World Expo ’88 in Brisbane and The Phantom of the Opera, which saw us recognised as Australia’s largest coach operator to this musical spectacular which played in Australia’s major capital cities. Our calibre of tours and increasing popularity was the catalyst for the company’s name change to Australian Scenic Tours and we purchased our first coach in 1989. Our continued growth ensured we could commission a custom-built fleet of 5-star Mercedes Benz coaches.

Moving abroad …

In the early 1990s we developed a successful program of tours across both Australia and New Zealand, followed by Norfolk Island in 1997 and Southern Africa in 1998. By the end of the decade we had expanded to host tours to Canada, Alaska and USA and refreshed our company name to Scenic Tours to reflect the international tour programs now offered.

Today we are the leading touring company to Canada and Alaska and continued overseas expansion has been a focus of for us, and we now operate itineraries on every continent. Scenic Tours also host holidays in destinations across Europe and Russia, throughout South East Asia, China, Japan and India, across Central and South America and Antarctica, and across the Middle East including Egypt, Jordan, and Dubai.

Cruising the waterways …

2008 hailed the beginning of a new chapter for Scenic Tours, with the launch of our exclusive Scenic ‘Space-Ships’ for Europe. Widely acknowledged as the finest on Europe’s waterways, our fleet of Scenic ‘Space-Ships’ have been designed to provide the best in passenger comfort, boasting unrivalled space, luxurious amenities and two full decks of Private Balcony Suites which feature full-size, private outdoor balconies adjoining the spacious internal cabins, a choice of dining and the option to enjoy private butler service. They are also the first river cruise ships in Europe to be 100% owned and operated by an Australian company. In July 2008 our first ships Scenic Sapphire and Scenic Emerald were launched and by March 2012 our seventh vessel, Scenic Crystal will be unveiled in our fleet.

The next chapter …

I’m so proud that Scenic Tours is still a private, Australian-owned company, employing staff and tour crew worldwide. We are truly global, operating hundreds of extended touring programs to many exotic domestic and international destinations. I find it personally rewarding that so many of our guests choose to travel with us again and again.

Our goal is always to provide the ultimate holiday experience and our 25 years of creating, hosting and delivering incredible holidays is underpinned by the strength of our people, product, knowledge and service. We are unified by the love of travel and we come to work every day to make that an exceptional reality for our valued guests through continued innovation and first-class service.

Glen Moroney
Founder and Managing Director

Behind The Scenes With Lufthansa At The Frankfurt Airport

Paul — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 01:24:49 +0000

Elizabeth talks with Paul about his behind the scenes look at the giant Lufthansa Cargo and Maintenance facility at the Frankfurt airport. Find out if he really did get to tour the Animal Lounge and kick the tires on the 747-8. Actually he only gently stroked one. Kicking seemed a bit risky. There will be more on both Lufthansa, Frankfurt Airport and the new Boeing 747-8 on future shows. One thing is clear, you can’t sense how big a 747 really is until you walk underneath it or perhaps lean in front of an engine.

Learn To Live In The Outdoors With NOLS

Paul — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 01:11:54 +0000

Bruce Palmer joins Paul and Elizabeth to talk about outdoor survival skills and the lessons to be learned from the outdoors. National Outdoor Leadership School classes range from two weeks to a full academic year. Classes are attended by a diverse cross section of students. The minimum age is 14 and there have been students in their seventies. You do learn outdoor survival skills but the impact of the classes offer far more. Students come away with greater self-knowledge as well as an assurance that they can achieve more than they ever felt they could. And NOLS offers classes around the world. NOLS operates in some of the most incredible locations on Earth.

Brrrrrrr! Gary Arndt Checks Out The Yukon Quest And Even Tries Mushing

Paul — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 23:09:39 +0000

It’s cold in the Yukon and Global Travel Correspondent Gary Arndt checks in with a report on the Yukon Quest Dog Sled Race. The race covers 1,000 miles of cold terrain and the mushers and dogs are faced with what most agree is the toughest test of the sport in the world. Gary is one of the most traveled people on the planet and each year he takes a small group of travelers with him on a photo trip to some part of the world. Read about it here from Gary’s website:

Last year the tour was the fastest selling North American tour for G Adventures and we expect this year’s tour to sell out even faster.

We’ve put a lot of effort into making this year’s tour even better.

…AND you will have an opportunity to have your photography featured on my blog as well as the G Adventure blog and our respective Facebook pages, a combined audience of over 500,000 people!

Total cost of the tour is $3,499 which includes 13-nights accommodation, transportation between locations in Italy, 13 breakfasts, photography instruction and guided tours in Italy.

Gary is one of the best photographers we know. Travel and learn with him.

Anne Banas From Smarter Travel Talks About Free Food In The Air

Paul — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 22:55:46 +0000

Contributing correspondent to Traveling and Executive Editor of Smarter Travel.com, Ann Banas chats with Paul and Elizabeth about the few remaining airlines that still serve snacks and even real food in the air. All three of us agree that the best inflight food even in this day and age is to be found on Hawaiian Airlines.

Here are two excerpts from the Smarter Travel piece by

Christine Sarkis. “As if going to Hawaii weren’t reason enough to be happy, Hawaiian Airlines takes it to the next level with a variety of free food options (as well as meals you can buy). Passengers on morning flights from the continental U.S. and Canada to Hawaii can start their vacation early with a complimentary Mai Tai and a breakfast box containing Hawaiian bread, guava jelly, dried tropical fruits, and a macadamia-nut cookie. Free lunch and dinner options include teriyaki chicken, salad, and mango cake, plus a glass of wine.”

And then Anne told us about an airline we haven’t flown but definitely will. Porter Airlines.

The free-snack options on Porter will have you wishing the Canadian carrier served more U.S. cities. Almonds, vegetable chips, and cookies are standard complimentary options. During meal times, the airline offers snack boxes that include pastries, fruit, and yogurt for breakfast and sandwiches, salads, and chocolates for lunch and dinner. You don’t have to wait until you’re in the air for free treats, either: Porter’s three airport lounges (in Toronto, Ottawa, and Newark) are free for departing passengers and stocked with snacks such as chocolate-chip shortbread cookies and espresso drinks.

Arizona Wines On An AmaWaterways Wine Cruise In Europe

Paul — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 22:24:38 +0000

Filmmaker and winemaker Sam Pillsbury is taking his love of wine and sharing that love with the folks on an AmaWaterways Rivercruise this November along the Rhone in France. Sam Chats with Paul about Arizona and winemaking. Today, Sam’s Pillsbury Wine Company is widely acclaimed for the quality of the wine being made in Cochise County near Sedona.

Cruising The Rhine And Sampling Wine With AMAWaterways

Paul — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 04:28:16 +0000

Mark Johnson chats with Paul about the pleasures of visiting German Vineyards and the differences in German wines. They talk about how the perception of German wines differs from the reality. Mark’s Chateau Chantal winery in Michigan is a great place to start any journey involving Mark’s wines. The fall he is leading a wine cruise on the Rhine with AMAWaterways to bring his background and knowledge to play in touring a wine region he knows well. Johnson is the WineMaker and also the Vice President at Chateau Chantal. His responsibilities include overseeing Chantal’s grape growing and wine production and distribution marketing. Mr. Johnson received his B.A. degree in social work from Michigan State University in 1974. Mark lived in Germany for many years and in 1983, he received a degree in Viticulture and Enology at the Federal Research Station and Institute in Geisenheim, Germany. One of Mark’s interests in in making a truly unique wine.

On years when weather permits Chantal preserves a portion of the Riesling grapes to be harvested after the first hard freeze. Ice wine was first produced in Michigan in 1983 by Mark Johnson, who was working at Chateau Grand Traverse at the time. Chantal continues to follow the German laws that govern what wine qualifies as ice wine. German wine law is similar to the United States wine law and both dictate that ice wine must be picked only when the grapes are frozen on the vine. Because of the impossibility of predicting nature, making ice wine requires a great deal of luck. The grapes are generally picked in December after prolonged below freezing temperatures, to ensure they are frozen all the way through. But on warmer years the grapes cannot be picked until late into January or February. It can also be difficult to protect the grapes from birds and wind as they stay on the vine until after they are very ripe. Leaving the grapes on the vine until the first hard freeze ensures the grapes have reached their full ripeness while the ice captures the excess water leaving naturally concentrated sugars. Ice wine is sometimes referred to as liquid gold because of its high cost to make and purchase and because of the wine’s intense sweetness. When asked why Chantal still makes it year after year Johnson replied “A good ice wine is almost certain to bring home a medal or two. I do think that natural ice wine is something incredibly special, and it’s quite rare. And because they can’t do it in California.”

Anne Banas Doesn’t Fly The 787 But Does The Caribbean Affordably

Paul — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 23:32:44 +0000

One cold day in winter regular contributor to Traveling, Anne Banas, executive editor of Smarter Travel set out to fly to Poland on a brand new LOT 787 from Chicago. Alas she never made it as the plane was grounded before she got there. Another day in the life of a travel editor. However, all was not lost since Paul, Elizabeth and Anne spent the time talking about deals in the Caribbean and if any good deals exist while shopping in the islands. The beauty of travel is no matter what the weather you can always find something warm to talk about.

Kids Have It Made On A Cruise On Carnival Breeze

Paul — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 23:15:37 +0000

Paul and Elizabeth report on the new features and facilities for kids on Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship the Carnival Breeze. They talk with the director of the kid’s program on the Breeze, Ana Risdic. Camp Carnival as the kids program is known appeals to all ages from 2 to 17. In fact the dance club for teens is one of the hottest place on the ship and adults want to get in but can’t. Very cool. Some cruises might have only a few hundred kids and some can have as much and 1,400 but Ana can expand and contract the programs as needed. And judging from what we saw the kids have a blast. There are plenty of games and even a kid friendly waterpark and a ropes course to try.

A Cruise Director Talks About Life On The Carnival Breeze

Paul — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 23:00:02 +0000

Paul and Elizabeth talk with Butch Begovich Cruise Director on the Carnival Breeze about what it takes to be a cruise director. Butch is responsible for a large cruise staff but one of the things he enjoys most is being a game show host on the Hasbro Game on Carnival. And yes he doesn’t always keep his feet on the ground.

Riding The Rails To The Grand Canyon

Paul — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 04:20:26 +0000

Paul talks with Bruce Brossman about the Grand Canyon Railway which made its first journey to the South Rim in 1901, long before Arizona was dubbed the “Grand Canyon State.” With the arrival of the train, people could get to the legendary canyon with ease and comfort. Today, you can travel to Grand Canyon National Park along the same rail line your parents or grandparents did. Select from one of five vintage classes of service which have been lovingly restored. Journey to Grand Canyon National Park aboard Grand Canyon Railway and take a trip not only to America’s most recognized spectacle, but a trip back in time.
Long before there were Grand Canyon helicopter turs, air tours, white water rafting tours or even mule tours, there was the Grand Canyon’s train. Before paved roads, Grand Canyon hotels and restaurants, and even before the canyon was made a national park or Arizona made a state, let alone the “Grand Canyon state”, the Grand Canyon Railway brought interested travelers from all over the world to stand on the rim and ponder the feeling that touches all of humanity in a similar manner when they gaze upon the spectacle. The train was the lifeline to Grand Canyon National Park in the early 20th century. It was the railroad, along with the Fred Harvey Company, that commissioned and built most of the historic structures that still exist along the South Rim. The historic train almost faded into history itself when passenger service to Grand Canyon National Park stopped in 1968 as train travel gave way to the popularity of automobile travel. But like any legend it refused to die. As fate would have it, Grand Canyon Railway was reborn in 1989 when entrepreneurs brought the Grand Canyon’s train back to life. Today, the Railway carries tens of thousands of people by rail to the canyon each year. Notable passengers to ride the Grand Canyon Railway include Theodore Roosevelt, John Muir, William Howard Taft, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Clark Gable, Jimmy Durante, Doris Day, Warren Buffet, and Bill Gates.The Railway also offers vacation packages that include train travel, stays at Williams and Grand Canyon hotels, RV park stays and much more. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most visited and for a real experience stay in the iconic ElTovar Hotel.

Affordable Skiing In California With John Poimiroo On Mt Shasta

Paul — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:03:26 +0000

Regular correspondent John Poimiroo checks in with some great tips on affordable skiing in California and the West. The area around Mt Shasta in Northern California has great skiing and the prices are as low as the crowds. It’s the way skiing used to be before $100 lift tickets. Plus you get the incredible scenery and even a bonus at Lassen National Park. In far Northern California, the Shasta Cascade region is huge, covering 20% of California, and there is enough to do and explore to fulfill just about anyone’s interests. From glistening lakes and world-class rivers to scenic drives and backcountry roads, the Shasta Cascade provides something for everyone to discover and enjoy. The region can provide great recreation, adventure or pure relaxation – the perfect escape from the fast pace of city life. Come and enjoy the uncrowded, unspoiled wide open spaces where you will have the chance to Explore, Reflect, Refresh, Discover and Bond. Start planning your vacation now by exploring the website, www.shastacascade.com

David Lewin Shares More Insider Secrets of San Francisco

Paul — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 23:14:13 +0000

David Lewin joins Paul to talk about some of the latest happenings in and around the Hyatt Regency San Francisco. David, the GM of the hotel, reveals some of his favorite places to eat in the neighborhood and why the embarcadero area in San Francisco has become on of the hottest neighborhoods in the city. Here’s some facts: Boasting the Guinness Book of World Records’ largest atrium lobby, of over 42,000 square feet, the AAA Four Diamond Hyatt Regency San Francisco hotel is situated on the Embarcadero waterfront across from the historic Ferry Building. Guests of the Hyatt Regency enjoy immediate access and views to both the Financial District and the San Francisco Bay. With convenient location to famous attractions, you may choose to wander through Chinatown to Fisherman’s Wharf, take the ferry to Alcatraz, shop in Union Square or board the cable cars for a riding tour of the city all just minutes from the Hyatt Regency San Francisco. Public transportation is right outside your door when you stay at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco. Hop on a cable car, a bus, or BART, all located just a short walk away. Ok that’s what the website talks about. David and Paul talks about the best porchetta in the city at a food truck on weekend at the Ferry Building across the street from the hotel and the amazing farmers markets held there during the week.

And whether your thoughts turn to romance just on Valentines Day or all year long here are some recommendations from San Francisco native Molly Blaisdell for finding romance in the city by the bay. www.HerJourneyTo50.com. Some ideas: Enjoy a California Twilight Cruise aboard Red and White Fleet, Share a hot fudge Sundae at world famous Ghirardelli chocolate, Pack a picnic lunch and bring it on board a rented boat at Golden Gate Park’s Stow Lake, Stroll through the Conservatory of Flowers, Climb half way to the stars aboard one of the city’s iconic cable cars, Steal a kiss atop the Filbert Steps before joining the crowd at Coit Tower to view panoramic views of the bay.

Of course staying at the Hyatt Regency is pretty romantic too and you can do that anytime of year.

Geri Jacobs Reveals How Best to Visit Flanders And Brussels

Paul — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 22:49:44 +0000

Flanders is filled with history, incredible buildings and architecture and chocolate. Paul talks with Geri about what makes the norther part of Belgium such an attraction for visitors. Bruge, Ghent and Brussels are all part of the chat. And there is also beer and chocolate and even a hint of chocolate beer. We check the website and found some interesting events this year.

A beer festival in August :Take a city with an age-old brewing tradition and a brew that comes in more than four-hundred guises or flavours. Then take the most beautiful market square in the world and a crowd of bon vivants who – in good Brussels tradition – are always ready to clink glasses. That is what people understand here by a thoroughly enjoyable weekend! Cheers!

An international art exhibition in the Spring: In this first major retrospective exhibition of Belgian Modernism around 1920 for more than twenty years, Belgium’s historical avant-garde will be illustrated through visual and applied art, architecture, typography, photography , films, music ,literature and theatre. Belgian protagonists as Marthe Donas, Jozef Peeters, Jules Schmalzigaug, Victor Servranckx and Georges Vantongerloo will be juxtaposed with foreign contemporaries like Alexander Archipenko, Piet Mondrian, Lászlo Moholy-Nagy and Theo Van Doesburg. For dozens more check out VisitFlanders.US

Gary Arndt On Costa Rica Transportation And Bed Bugs

Paul — Sat, 02 Feb 2013 01:19:02 +0000

Gary Arndt checks in with tales of getting around Costa Rica and how his luck ran out after years on the road when he got bitten by bed bugs in a hostel. However he has the last laugh since his next stop is the Yukon where it’s 50 below. He talks about the difficulties of using local transportation to get around as well. He and Paul also talk about Gary’s latest tour to Italy. He is leading a small group of travelers on a photo safari to special places in Italy. Read about it here from Gary’s website:

Last year the tour was the fastest selling North American tour for G Adventures and we expect this year’s tour to sell out even faster.

We’ve put a lot of effort into making this year’s tour even better.

…AND you will have an opportunity to have your photography featured on my blog as well as the G Adventure blog and our respective Facebook pages, a combined audience of over 500,000 people!

Total cost of the tour is $3,499 which includes 13-nights accommodation, transportation between locations in Italy, 13 breakfasts, photography instruction and guided tours in Italy.

Gary is one of the best photographers we know. Travel and learn with him.

Ft Smith, Arkansas Has Lots Of History And Carolyn Joyce To Bring It To Life

Paul — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 04:56:45 +0000

Carolyn Joyce is a national treasure. In costume or not she brings the history and lore of Ft. Smith Arkansas to life as few people can. Of course getting to tell people about a brothel that is on the National Register of Historic Places does give her a great start. She chats with Paul and the new US Marshalls museum that is being planned and also the colorful characters, like the famed “Hangin’ Judge” Isaac C. Parker. They’ve even saved his jail aptly named “Hell on the Border.” Check out the website and you’ll find enough history, stories and attractions to keep you visiting for months. And as Carolyn reveals, the whole area is a sports and outdoor recreation paradise. Not to mention the hunting, fishing and fall color.

Miss Laura’s Social Club

Our Visitor Center is located in historic downtown Fort Smith, in a restored former bordello! Make us your first stop and we’ll give you a tour of this Victorian mansion which has been restored to its original ambiance (the first bordello listed on The National Register of Historic Places). Perched on the banks of the mighty Arkansas River, an exciting adventure into the past awaits as you begin to discover this once boisterous border town of Fort Smith!

Of the seven houses on “The Row” in 1900, Miss Laura’s is the only survivor and has served as Fort Smith’s official Visitor Center since 1992.

Bring a heart that loves history and let us show you ways to fill it! We’ll provide a guided tour and offer lots of ideas and brochures to help you get the most out of your visit.

Jennifer Dombrowski Found An Island She Doesn’t Want To Leave

Paul — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 04:35:02 +0000

Jennifer Dombrowski, blogger and global traveler checks in with Paul and Elizabeth about her recent travels. She and husband Tim spent New Years in Iceland to see the spectacle of bonfire, fireworks, and formal parties. Earlier they visited an island in the Maldives they wanted to stay in forever. Here’s a great introduction to Jennifers blog:

Best Dozen Posts of 2012

Every now and again, blog post roundups take the travel blogging world by storm. We don’t participate often, but when we were nominated by Women on the Road to share our Best Dozen Posts of 2012, it seemed like a great way to reflect on the last year. Especially since we officially just celebrated our one year blogaversary of the launch of JdombsTravels.com. So here are our Best Dozen Posts of 2012:

1. Most Popular Post

One of the great things about living so close to Venice is discovering all the best festivals that you’ve never heard of. Perhaps that’s why our post on the Festa del Redentore was our most popular post in 2012. I discovered the festival back in 2010 when I spent six month exploring all the off-the-beaten-path towns and festivals in Italy. Venetians are still celebrating the end of the plague in a massive party culminating in a 45-minute long firework display. We now go every year.

2. Most Helpful Travel Tip

After near daily messages from readers, I compiled all my best tips for Easy Ways to Save on Your Next Flight into one post. Tips like when the best time to search for flights, when sales are released, and how to use split fares (one of my favorite ways ever to save BIG) gave the Festa del Rendentore post a run for its’ money. Read more:

Anne Banas Of SmarterTravel.Com Shares Her Passion For Chocolate And Pastry

Paul — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 04:30:56 +0000

Anne Banas just got back from Europe …

Paul and Elizabeth welcome back Anne Banas, executive editor of SmarterTravel.com. Anne provides regular travel reports from her recent experiences on the road but this time we talk about chocolate and pastry. What better reason to travel than to sample these delights around the world.

This is an example of some of the great advice Anne provides at Smarter Travel.com: Bad weather can wreak havoc on your travel plans. With headlines playing up planes stuck on tarmacs and newspapers printing images of exhausted people sleeping on airport floors, it’s hard to avoid total panic. But it doesn’t have to be that way when your flight is grounded.

Here’s a primer on your rights and other important things you need to know when bad weather strikes.

The Bad News

Airlines consider bad weather situations—including snow storms, hurricanes, fog conditions, and so on—to be “force majeure” events or “acts of God,” and are not the fault of the airlines. Therefore, when it comes to your rights when there’s a cancellation, the one basic thing you are entitled to is a refund—no free hotel stays, no ground transportation, and no food vouchers (though airlines might offer these options at its discretion).

And there are other potential woes. Even with a flight refund, travelers may not be fully reimbursed in these situations since they might have missed a cruise departure or tour (which may or may not be fully refundable), or they might need to pay for extended hotel nights and other travel expenses out of pocket.

Plus, travelers might have to wait quite a while, depending on the severity of the storm, before being able to return home or reach their intended destination. It can takes several days for all passengers to be rerouted. And although airlines often add more air lift, it still takes time to relocate planes and flight crews.

The Good News

Airlines have learned from the past and now preemptively cancel flights before storms hit. In theory, with the advance warning, fewer passengers will find themselves stuck at the airport than in the past. Though it might seem counterintuitive, you’ll have better access to resources in the comfort of your home or hotel room than at the airport.

Also, airlines have historically waived change fees so that customers can rebook without penalty. Normally, you would have to pay a hefty fee (up to $150 for domestic and $250 for international flights) to alter your ticket. However, date restrictions will often apply, and every airline’s waiver policy is slightly different in each circumstance.

Some Helpful Tips

While weather can disrupt your travel plans, here are some essential tips to minimize stress and allow you to take matters into your own hands: Read more

Cruising With Paul and Elizabeth on the Carnival Breeze

Paul — Sat, 19 Jan 2013 19:14:17 +0000

Paul and Elizabeth report on what’s new and what isn’t on the Carnival Breeze. They take listeners on an audio tour of Carnival’s newest ship from the tandoori restaurant on deck to the show lounge which seats nearly half the ship’s passengers. The Breeze is Carnival’s newest ship and features a raft of great features.

Carnival Breeze’s many on-board features, which include: A top-deck with WaterWorks, an expansive water park with a 312-foot-long enclosed corkscrew water slide, a splash zone, 300-gallon tipping bucket and other attractions; SportSquare, an action-packed recreation area with a suspended ropes course, mini-golf, an outdoor fitness section and more; and the Seaside Theatre, a massive LED screen displaying movies, concerts, and other programming. Then of course theres is the food, including Guy’s Burger Joint, developed in tandem with Food Network personality Guy Fieri; BlueIguana Cantina serving authentic tacos and burritos; the Cucina del Capitano family-style Italian restaurant; Fahrenheit 555, a classic American steakhouse; RedFrog Pub offering Caribbean-inspired drinks and snacks; and the poolside watering holes RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar. And they talk about Hasbro, The Game Show, with larger-than-life adaptations based on the company’s iconic games; Playlist Productions, combining captivating live performances with high-tech LED staging and special effects; “Punchliner Comedy Club presented by George Lopez,” a partnership with the popular comedian and TV personality, the first ship we’ve been on with a line waiting to get into the Club.; and Thrill Theater, an immersive, interactive experience that makes guests feel as if they’re part of the movie.

Andrea Sachs Goes On Safari For Moose In Maine

Paul — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 15:54:51 +0000

These moose are locked in eternal combat in a window at the LL Bean store in Freeport Maine. Andrea Sachs went on a moose safari in Northern Maine near Moosehead Lake. She and Paul talk about moose encounters both real and imagined over the years. Her story in the Washington Post is a fascinating and very entertaining account of her moose safari in Maine. Here’s how it begins.

-In Maine, follow that moose– Ed Mathieu pulled the Jeep to the side of the road, the tires rumbling on the icy gravel. He jumped out, walked purposefully around the vehicle and squinted at the crusty snow. As he bent down for a closer look-see, I recognized his intense expression as the same one I’d seen on the faces of trackers on safaris in the wilds of Canada and Africa. Ed was staring at the past, described in a trail of footprints: A moose had been here. Now if only he could predict the future: that I would see a marvelous Maine moose. Setting out from Portland for the two-hour drive north, I was buoyed by the odds. According to state wildlife biologists, 75,000 moose reside in Maine, with about 1.3 moose per square mile in the Moosehead Lake vicinity. I knew from an earlier conversation with Ed, who runs Moose Country Safaris & Eco Tours, that we were going to canvass a wide swath of wooded land and shoreline near the lake. Since moose typically roam within a two- to four-mile radius, I imagined a veritable petting zoo of Bullwinkles. Read how it turned out

DINELA Offers Amazing Deals On Dining In LA

Paul — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:03:27 +0000

Stacey Sun joins Paul to talk about LA’s Restaurant week promotion which provides special prices on meals at some of LA’s hottest restaurants and some of the hottest chefs around. Check out dineLA.

Los Angeles has one of the most dynamic dining scenes in the country, offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. From California cuisine to organic ingredients, food trucks, and Restaurant Week (January 21 – February 1, 2013), LA’s culinary influence can be felt across the country. Foodies can experience the fine dining of Wolfgang Puck, Thomas Keller and Nobu Matsuhisa, as well as a new generation of culinary stars like Kogi BBQ Truck founder Roy Choi, Top Chef champion Michael Voltaggio, and Ricardo Zarate, named Food & Wine’s Best New Chef in America. Global kitchens can be found in culinary neighborhoods across the city, while LA’s beach cities offer some of the best oceanfront dining in Southern California.

Peter Knego Knows More About Cruise Ships Than Just About Anybody

Paul — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 01:01:41 +0000

Sailing with cruise ship expert Peter Knego on the Carnival Breeze gives Paul and Elizabeth a chance to hang out and talk with the renowned author, videographer and ship antiquarian. Knego is one of the few people from the outside to have actually visited and filmed the ship breakers in Alang, India. His passion is recording the cruise fleet today and working to record the historical record of the great classic liners of the past. Born in Los Angeles, CA in 1960, Peter’s interest in passenger ships started in 1973 when he was assigned to research the LUSITANIA for an American History course. In early 1974, he began visiting and photographing nearly every liner and cruise ship that came to Los Angeles, beginning with P&O’s SS ARCADIA, and continues to do so to this day. While he was at UCLA, Peter took his first “serious” cruises, beginning in 1980 with American Hawaii’s newly-rechristened SS OCEANIC INDEPENDENCE. Every year thereafter, he made it a point to sail in an elderly passenger ship until the early 1990s, when he furthered his mission to seek out and document every “forgotten” liner left in the world. In 1992, Peter traveled to Greece to visit the forlorn and soon to be lost former SS AMERICA. Further travels included a 14 night voyage aboard ACHILLE LAURO just a few weeks before she was destroyed by fire; trips to the Ukraine to document the former Cunard twins LEONID SOBINOV and FEDOR SHALYAPIN; an extended “tour” of the Far East to cover aging liners in Japan and China; a visit to the US Reserve Fleet in VA to document the nuclear ship SAVANNAH; a special expedition to the Philippines to see the former Italian liner MV AUGUSTUS; and back to China for the former ANCERVILLE and ORIANA. Dozens more ships have followed over the years.

TSA Works To Make Security At Airports More Efficient

Paul — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 00:57:25 +0000

TSA Administrator John S. Pistole talks with Paul and Elizabeth at the event marking the opening of new security pre check lanes at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California. Pistole talks about the need for vigilant screening but also a sensible approach to being able to assess risk and narrow the numbers of passengers undergoing intensive screening procedures. This should speed security times and make the process easier for the majority of airline passengers. They also talk about the growing success of Global Entry. For more information and to get accurate and up to the minute answers to questions check out the TSA Website. Here is the complete press release concerning the program at John Wayne Airport.

WASHINGTON – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today announced that John Wayne Airport (SNA) is the 35^th airport in the nation to offer TSA Pre✓™ to eligible passengers. Under TSA Pre✓™ U.S. citizens traveling domestically who are select Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and US Airways frequent travelers or members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler programs are now eligible to participate and may receive expedited screening benefits. The TSA Pre✓™ lane is now available at Checkpoint A.

TSA Pre✓™ is part of the agency’s larger effort to implement risk-based security concepts that enhance security by focusing efforts on travelers considered higher risk and about whom the agency knows less. To date, more than 5 million passengers have experienced TSA Pre✓™. TSA Pre✓™ is now available in 35 airports for Alaska, American, Delta, United and US Airways frequent flyers.

“Over the past year, we’ve expanded TSA Pre✓™ to 35 airports, covering all 28 of the largest airports along with seven others across the country,” said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole. “In the coming year, we will continue partnering with airlines, airports, and the traveling public to further expand TSA Pre✓™, making air travel safer and more efficient for the traveling public.”

Eligible passengers include U.S. citizens flying on participating airlines as well as those who are members of CBP Trusted Traveler programs, including Global Entry, SENTRI and NEXUS. As of November 15, Canadian citizens traveling domestically in the United States who are members of NEXUS are also qualified to participate in TSA Pre✓™. Individuals interested in participating can apply by visiting www.globalentry.gov.

If TSA determines a passenger is eligible for expedited screening through the TSA Pre✓™ pre-screening process, information is imbedded in the barcode of the passenger’s boarding pass. TSA reads the barcode at the designated checkpoint and the passenger may be referred to the TSA Pre✓™ lane where they will undergo expedited screening, which could include being able to leave their shoes, light outerwear and belt on, allowing them to keep their laptop in its case and their 3-1-1 compliant liquids/gels bag in a carry-on.

TSA has expanded TSA Pre✓™ benefits to U.S. military active duty members traveling through Charlotte Douglas International, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Honolulu International, Ronald Reagan Washington National, Seattle-Tacoma International and Washington Dulles International airports. Other TSA risk-based security measures, in addition to TSA Pre✓™, include modified screening procedures for passengers 12 and younger and 75 and older.

TSA will always incorporate random and unpredictable security measures throughout the airport and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening. TSA’s multi-layered approach to security also includes behavior detection officers, explosives-detection systems, canine teams, and federal air marshals, among other measures, both seen and unseen.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was created in the wake of September 11, 2001, to strengthen the security of the nation’s transportation systems and ensure the freedom of movement for people and commerce. Today, TSA secures the nation’s airports and screens all commercial airline passengers and baggage. TSA uses a risk-based strategy and works closely with transportation, law enforcement and intelligence communities to set the standard for excellence in transportation security. TSA’s workforce is comprised of approximately 50,000 frontline officers who screen approximately 1.8 million travelers each day at more than 450 airports nationwide. For more information about TSA, please visit our website at www.tsa.gov.