TRAVEL GREEK ISLES: Popular Greek Island Takes 'Hospitality' Too Far -- Reuters
TRAVEL GUIDES: Haven't Found the 'Perfect' Travel Destinations Book? -- Well, Write Your Own
Feel Like Writing a Travel Guidebook? Now There Is Help for Those Who Want to Write Their Own
More people than ever are traveling around the globe. And more people than ever are writing about it. A new book, Crafting the Travel Guidebook, offers help to all those who want to channel their travel prose into a book. Travel memoirs, destination guides and more are covered in this exceptional guide.
Liberty Corner, NJ (July 12, 2008) -- Ever feel like throwing your travel guidebook across the room? It could occur in the stuffy hotel room overlooking a highway that you thought was going to be so comfy and convenient. Or the book-throwing incident might happen on the sun-baked, pebbled beach where you don't have any change to get into the only ladies room available.
For author Barbara Hudgins, it happened many years ago and the guidebook simply hit the lamp in her living room. As a newly transferred resident to the state of New Jersey she had looked around for a way to research outings for her family. This was before the Internet so she perused the only guidebook around at the time. When she visited the places listed in the directory, she found the descriptions to be either limited in scope or completely misleading.
She then did what many disaffected guidebook readers had done before--she wrote her own book, New Jersey Day Trips, and it sold well for many years. Now Ms. Hudgins has come out with a new book written especially for those people who have an itch to transform their travels into prose. Titled "Crafting the Travel Guidebook," the work covers such topics as travel writing and researching, finding the right category, angle and voice, and editing and re-editing. There are also chapters on the different types of book publishers, how to write a book proposal and a 15-page list of book publishers who welcome travel writers.
The popular concept of a guidebook author is that of a grizzled guy who hikes and kayaks around the world and then zips his adventures into a handy laptop. In reality, travel books include memoirs and travelogues, how-to-do-it books and regional guides, books aimed at budget travelers and leisure travelers, students and senior citizens, ethnic groups and other special interests. There is also the wide world of outdoor recreation which is often coupled with a travel destination. Anyone and everyone can become a travel writer and some favorite guidebook series were begun by lawyers, engineers or piano teachers. For questions about how to begin the quest, Crafting the Travel Guidebook has the answer.
ADVENTURE TRAVEL: Forget Flipper and Dolphins, Try Swimming with 'Jaws'
Swimming with Whale Sharks, A Reality Near Cancun
A mere 45 minute boat ride from Cancun takes us into a unique experience with one of nature's most interesting creatures.
CANCUN, Mexico, July 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Swimming with the Whale
Shark, the largest fish in the world is a dream that can only become a
reality in few places throughout the world, such as Australia and
Belize. Closely and conveniently situated near the U.S., Cancun located
in the Mexican Caribbean, is particularly privileged due to the fact
that the majority of the whale shark species prefer these waters. The
best time to be a part of this fantastic adventure is during the months
of July and August.
The Whale Shark's impressive size and ample mouth extends to almost 5 feet when opened. These characteristics are just a few of the reasons
why this creature is so unique. Known as a migrant species, those who
study the migration of whale sharks are still uncertain where they
travel from or where they're heading next. All we know is that whale
sharks enjoy traveling through warm waters and tropical seas around the
globe.
The presence of this creature in the northern areas of Isla Contoy
and Cabo Catoche is thanks to the nutrient filled water, which
generates a large quantity of available food. This is a phenomenon
adventurers from all over the world come to Mexico to take advantage
of, being that the opportunity to observe the dynamics of this species
is limited to these summer months.
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TRAVEL VERMONT: Hiking and Rejuvenating at Appalachian Trail Spa
Appalachian Trail Adventures, Vermont's Premier Hiking Spa Destination Resort
Appalachian Trail Adventures is excited to announce its new economic Hiking Spa Vacation Program.
Killington, VT (July 10, 2008) -- Appalachian Trail Adventures Hiking Spa is excited to announce its new economic Hiking Spa Vacation Program. After receiving a high demand, ATA developed a program for those hiking spa vacationer. It provides the guided hikes, transportation, breakfast, lunch and the accommodations starting at the spectacular low rate of $130.00. In addition, a variety of a la carte options exist, such as massage, yoga, cooking classes, tennis lessons, water aerobics, canoeing and kayaking.
ATA Hiking Spa hand picked its hikes out of the 1,000 miles of trails in the Green Mountains of Vermont with the best scenic mountain vistas, waterfalls, historical features and lakes for hikers of all abilities. In addition they hike along the Appalachian Trailand Long Trail, the oldest long distance hiking trail in the country. Even the novice hikes will take you along beautiful country trails and roads in the Green Mountain National Forest. In the fall some of the most spectacular foliage hiking in New England is offered.
<< MORE >>TRAVEL RVs: Families Can Save Up To 67% On Their Vacations and Still Have a Hoot!
Despite record-breaking fuel prices, typical RV trips remain the least expensive type of vacation, according to a new study comparing vacation costs. PKF Consulting, an international consulting firm with expertise in travel and tourism, found that "typical RV family vacations are on average 27 to 61 percent less expensive than other types of vacations studied."
Reston, Va. (July 10, 2008) -- Despite record-breaking fuel prices, typical RV trips remain the least expensive type of vacation, according to a new study comparing vacation costs.
PKF Consulting, an international consulting firm with expertise in travel and tourism, found that "typical RV family vacations are on average 27 to 61 percent less expensive than other types of vacations studied."
Even factoring in RV ownership and fuel costs, the study reveals that RV family vacations tend to be significantly less expensive than other types of vacations.
"This study re-affirms what RVers have long known, that RV vacations deliver greater economic value compared to other types of vacations," says Richard Coon, president of the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). "RV vacations continue to be the most affordable way for a family to travel because of the tremendous savings on air, hotel and restaurant costs. And these savings offset the cost of fuel."
TRAVEL DENVER-MINNEAPOLIS: Whether Democratic or Republican, You'll Enjoy These Two Cities This Summer
NEW YORK, July 10 /PRNewswire/ -- With the Democratic and Republican National Conventions rapidly approaching, politicians of all stripes are seriously concerned not only about their party's potential running mates, but also about potentially disastrous dinners and bored family members in convention cities far from home, in what may be the only trip some of them take this summer.
How will the Democrats figure out the best places to eat in Denver, and who will tell the Republicans what to do for fun in Minneapolis? What about the visitors to Denver and Minneapolis hoping to rub elbows with the movers and shakers in American politics? Where are the best places to go for people watching?
ShermansTravel.com, the web's leading source for expert travel advice, unbiased reviews from travel pros, and more than 1,000 editor-reviewed travel deals, has published comprehensive travel guides for more than 300 destinations, from Denver and Minneapolis to other cities and countries around the world, as part of its redesigned web site.
TRAVEL MISSISSIPPI RIVER: Tom Sawyer, Huck Finn and You Enjoying the Fall Foliage
Majestic America Line Invites Guests to Enjoy the Splendor of Fall Foliage Along the Mississippi River
Guests cruise through the Heart of America onboard American Queen while enjoying elegant accommodations and special values
SEATTLE, July 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Majestic America Line, one of the world's premier river cruise lines and the largest river and coastal cruising company in America, is offering guests a rare opportunity to see the colors of fall at their finest along the historical Mississippi River aboard American Queen at special savings. Guests will also receive a complimentary pre-cruise hotel stay, city tour and a $100 per person shipboard credit.
Majestic America Line offers eight American Queen Fall Foliage sailings on the Mississippi River, designed to highlight the brilliant, picture-perfect colors that the region is famous for. Guests will be enchanted by the rhythm of small-town America at its best and refresh themselves in the crisp, clean air of fall. Onboard Discovery Guides will share the history, culture and scenic landscapes with guests as they cruise along the river.
Seven-night St. Paul to St. Louis sailings depart September 6, 20 and October 4, 18 with 7-night St. Louis to St. Paul sailings departing September 13, 27 and October 11. The cruises visit Winona, Minn.; La Crosse, Wis.; Dubuque, Iowa; Davenport, Iowa; Burlington, Iowa; and Hannibal, Mo. Highlights include tranquil towns, bustling cities, an impressive system of locks and dams, Amish Country, Mark Twain's hometown, and the famed Gateway Arch.
TRAVEL AIRLINES: Virgin America is the World's Best, Say Travel + Leisure Readers
SAN FRANCISCO, July 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Virgin America, the California-based airline that is reinventing domestic air travel, today took the top honors as "Best Domestic Airline" in the prestigious Travel + Leisure Annual World's Best Awards readers' survey.
"We're delighted to welcome so many new winners this year," said Nancy Novogrod, Editor-in-Chief of Travel + Leisure. "Virgin America came on strong in its very first year of service, winning the prize for Best Domestic Airline."
Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards readers' survey is an annual, impartial reader survey that allows Travel + Leisure readers to share their opinions of their favorite travel finds.* Airlines are rated by Travel + Leisure readers in several categories: cabin comfort, food, in-flight service, customer service, and value.
"Virgin America was launched just last year with the goal of creating a different kind of airline: one built around providing an upscale, innovative, high-value customer experience for smart travelers in the urban destinations we serve," said Virgin America Chief Executive Officer David Cush. "So, we couldn't be more honored to take the top award as Best Domestic Airline from Travel + Leisure's readers -- those who fly the most and expect the very best in design, comfort and service in all their travel choices."
The complete 2008 results, including the Top 100 Hotels Worldwide, Top 100 Hotels in the Continental U.S. + Canada, and Top 10 Cities in the World, are featured on www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest now and in Travel + Leisure's August issue, available on newsstands July 22, 2008.
"These awards are certainly not a finish line," Cush said. "It shows that we are moving in the right direction, but our goal from the start was to design an airline by listening to what travelers actually want. We've already implemented customer suggestions taken from our seatback video-screens from some of our very first August 2007 flights. We may not be the biggest, but we aim to be the most innovative, customer-facing and best in the domestic airline market."
TRAVEL SPAS: So You Think You Can Dance and Vacation? Yes, You Can!
Deerfield Spa to Reprise Dance Week August 18-23
EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa., July 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Deerfield Spa announced today it will reprise Dance Week from August 18 to 23, offering the popular program for a second time during the 2008 season.
Dance Week at Deerfield features classes in Mambo, Merengue, Samba, Rumba, Swing, Fox Trot, Broadway Jazz, Irish Step and Belly dancing.
TRAVEL LUXURY CRUISE: Sail Along with the 10-Sided Celebrity Solstice Diamond
Boutique on Celebrity Solstice to be exclusive source of first-ever 86-cut diamond
MIAMI, July 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- This year's most eagerly-awaited cruise ship -- Celebrity Solstice -- just added another first to its series of exceptional offerings: A 10-sided diamond cut for the first time, and available exclusively on Celebrity Solstice. Aptly named the Solstice Diamond, the patented gem's 86 facets create a visible, distinguishing star pattern even more sparkling than the familiar 58-facet brilliant-cut diamond.
Sourced from conflict-free stones mined in Canada, the Solstice Diamond was created by UK-based Harding Brothers, who will manage the retail shops onboard. Mounted in hand-created settings and in varying sizes for rings, pendants and earrings, no two pieces will be alike.
The diamonds will be available in Celebrity Solstice's luxurious "Boutique C," one of 18 shops spanning three decks and 6,500 square feet onboard the ship.
"Celebrity Solstice's boutique areas have been designed to reflect the stylish and authentic ambience our guests will find throughout the ship," said Celebrity's Vice President of Hotel Operations Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. "Each shop will have its own distinct look, feel and, in some cases, even aroma. It will be a phenomenal collection of sights, sounds, styles and scents."
In addition to the high-end Boutique C, Celebrity Solstice's retail venues include:
The Lawn Club Shop
The refreshing aroma of freshly-cut grass will welcome guests in Celebrity Solstice's Lawn Club Shop, with golf-oriented merchandise, wine-related items, and a casual, contemporary resort line designed by Bobby Chan, whose apparel highlights pro shops and lifestyle specialty stores around the world. The shop also will feature a "grass"-soled flip-flop sold exclusively on Celebrity Solstice.
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TRAVEL GUIDES: Real People Offer Their Input On More Than 40 Top Desinations
Zonder Launches Guides to More Than 40 Top Vacation Rental Destinations: Vacation Planning Made Easier With Inspirational, Original Destination Content
Zonder, a leader in online vacation rentals, announces comprehensive destination guides highlighting more than 40 of the top leisure travel destinations in North and Central America and the << MORE >>
TRAIN TRAVEL: Empire Builder and California Zephyr are Eco Friendly and Budget Friendly
Vacations by Rail clients weigh in on top rail routes
Chicago
(July 7, 2008) -- Travelers looking to "go green" and see the
country need not look further than a train vacation from Vacations by
Rail. The Chicago-based specialty travel company selling independent
travel and group train tours and vacations around the world offers an
array of exciting Amtrak train vacations for every interest along the most popular train routes in the United States.
According to U.S. Department of Energy data, Amtrak is 17 percent more efficient than domestic airline travel and 21 percent more efficient than auto travel on a per passenger mile basis. "Rail travel is an environmentally-friendly form of transportation," said Todd Powell, president of Vacations by Rail. "An Amtrak train vacation is the great way to travel across the U.S. and witness unspoiled pieces of our country in a very 'green' way."
Vacations by Rail recently polled more than 20,000 customers and web users on their favorite Amtrak rail routes. Rounding out the top 10 are:
1. The Empire Builder
2. California Zephyr
3. Coast Starlight
4. Amtrak Cascades -Pacific Northwest
5. Acela Express
6. Southwest Chief
7. City of New Orleans
8. Texas Eagle/Adirondack (Tie)
9. Silver Service/Palmetto
10. Sunset Limited
Another bonus of a train vacation across the country: cost. With the cost of gas making road trips to popular U.S. vacation destinations cost-prohibitive, rail vacations across the country are becoming a more affordable way to see and do it all in a unique and relaxing way.
<< MORE >>TRAVEL THEME PARKS: Doh! - The Simpsons Ride at Universal City Features Krustyland
The Verdict Is In! - The Simpsons Ride at Universal Voted World's 'Best New Theme Park Attraction'
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., July 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Accolades continue
rolling in for Universal Park & Resorts' new Simpsons Ride. Already
the subject of rave reviews by guests at Universal Studios Hollywood
and Universal Orlando Resort, Theme Park Insider.com has now voted The
Simpsons Ride as the "Best New Theme Park Attraction" worldwide for
2008. Theme Park Insider.com is a leading consumers' guide to the
world's most popular theme and amusement parks, written by consumers
themselves.
The Simpsons Ride showcases everything the popular television series
has made famous and that Simpsons fans love ... a great story, humor
and irreverence that are pure Simpsons, with original animation
starring cast members Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright,
Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria and guest star Kelsey Grammer.
Guests are
swept into Krustyland, a theme park created by the show's cantankerous,
cash-hungry clown. Meanwhile, maniacal Sideshow Bob has escaped from
prison and has taken control of the park to get his revenge on Krusty
and the Simpson family. Hand-picked by Krusty to be the first to ride
his newest attraction, guests are thrust into the middle of the action
and soar through Krustyland and Springfield on a ride that features the
world's first-ever cork screw that's animated.
TRAVEL DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: Come Discover 1,000 Miles of Jaw-Dropping Beaches
Dominican Republic's Celebrated Beaches Offer Diverse Vacations on One Exotic Island
1,000 Miles of Eco-Diverse Beaches Short Flight from U.S. Cities
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, July 2 /PRNewswire/ -- From northern surfer beaches to luxurious Punta Cana Beach in the east, down to beaches near Santo Domingo and west to the untouched beauty of Bahoruco, Dominican Republic (DR) beaches are celebrated as among the world's best. This exotic island is surrounded by diverse coasts that please discerning beach-goers and attract sports champions and celebrities alike.
"We are proud of our beautiful island's diverse beaches. Our dedication to preserve our marvelous coastal areas is moving the DR into the forefront of the world's most celebrated beach destinations," said Minister of Tourism Felix Jimenez.
Direct flights from major U.S. cities and a favorable exchange rate provide budget-savvy travelers with a variety of vacation options in the following coastal regions of the DR featuring unique "playas" (Spanish for beaches):
North Coast - Best Activity Beaches
Host to the National Kiteboarding Championships since 2001, Playa Cabarete is one of the best water sport beaches in the Caribbean. Strong waves and steady winds also make it popular for surfing and windsurfing. Just west, the resort town of Puerto Plata will host the November 2008 Caribbean Tourism Organization's Volleyball Championship Games on its marvelous beaches.
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TRAVEL ADVENTURE: Extreme Tour Planned to Cleveland Volcano in Alaska
Extreme Tourism: Russian Robinson Club Announces Expedition To Cleveland Volcano, Alaska
Team of Russian and American Amateur radio operators going to extreme DXpedition to Mt. Cleveland volcano, located in Aleutian chain in Alaska.
Bellingham, WA (July 5, 2008) -- The Russian Robinson Club members will mount Amateur Radio Expedition to the Chuginadak island, located 800 nm SE from Anchorage, Alaska, from July 21st to July 27th 2008.
The team members include Yuri Zaruba, Novosibirsk, Sergey Morozov, Moscow, Victor Vasilenko, Volzvsk Russia and Yuri Sushkin from Sudden Valley, Washington.
The expedition team will fly from Seattle, Washington July 17th to Dutch Harbor Alaska, sail to Chuginadak island and setup a camp with an Amateur radio equipment. Operations will continue for one week weather permitting.
The idea behind Amateur Expeditions is to give radio operators all over the world the chance to contact very rare territory, places where no one operated before.
In times of crisis and natural disasters, Amateur Radio is often used as a means of emergency communication when wireline, cellular phones and other conventional means of communications fail.
Mt. Cleveland is a 5,675-foot-tall (1,730 m) active stratovolcano on the west side of Chuginadak Island. Chuginadak volcano and an unnamed volcano form the east side of the island. Mt. Cleveland is almost perfectly symmetrical and 5 miles (8 km) wide at its base. It is also one of the most active volcanoes in the Aleutians.
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TRAVEL WEST TEXAS: There Will Be Untouched Wilderness and Yes Country for Old Men
Wilderness Tourism Beats High Gas Prices
VAN HORN, Texas, July 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Wide open spaces and private
hikes in wild lands restore the soul, and are worth the extra expense brought about by high gas prices.
"We offer a rare personal connection to the land," says Beth Nobles,
Regional Coordinator of the Texas Mountain Trail. "There aren't many
places left completely untouched in this country, but they're still
here in West Texas in abundance, still very much part of the vacation
experience. You can see the land as the earliest Spanish explorers did,
as the Apache did, as the early ranchers did. What if vacationers
always choose to stay closer to home, forfeiting the chance to see
herds of antelope, or hike a mountain away from the crowds -- just you,
the clear blue sky, and the trail?"
Though Hollywood knows about the region's unspoiled landscape, it
still remains a well-kept secret. Last year's Oscar winners, "No
Country for Old Men" and "There Will be Blood" were both filmed in the
region. Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park,
allow hikers to enjoy wild desert and mountain trails in relative
privacy.
TRAVEL SMART: Do You Really Want to Spend This Much to Get Your Own Money?
London, UK (July 3, 2008) -- With 309 million overseas transactions on UK-issued bank cards taking place in 2007 and holidaymakers withdrawing £7.1 billion from overseas cash machines*, Airport Parking and Hotels, the long stay parking specialist, has created a comprehensive list outlining the costs of using your credit and debit cards abroad on its website www.aph.com. The table highlights which debit and credit card companies are charging consumers the most when spending on their cards or withdrawing cash while on holiday.
Capital One credit cards proved to be the least cost affective, charging £25 to withdraw £500, closely followed by American Express, Egg and Virgin Money all of which will charge up to £18 to withdraw the same amount of cash.
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TRAVEL SAN ANTONIO: Alamo City Has New Discount Pass
San Antonio & Beyond: A Prepaid Pass to Attractions and Museums™
SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The state’s top leisure destination now boasts an easy – and affordable – way to see some of its most popular attractions. Tourism officials in San Antonio announced the launch of San Antonio & Beyond: A Prepaid Pass to Attractions and Museums. The prepaid pass offers, at a discounted price, three bundled packages to museums and attractions for visitors. A Downtown Pass includes entry to family-friendly spots in downtown, while the Museum Pass features many of the Alamo City’s popular cultural and historic venues. Offering the deepest discounts, the Super San Antonio Pass packages all participating attractions and sites.
With an eye to grow the program next year, the San Antonio Tourism Council developed and coordinates the San Antonio & Beyond passes. Tourism Council chair Henry Feldman says, “The San Antonio & Beyond passes offer visitors an easy way to plan their visit. Moreover, as new attractions are added, the pass encourages visits to a diverse range of the destination’s most popular attractions.” The Tourism Council hopes it will encourage even more full travel itineraries.
“The pass provides us an opportunity to learn about our visitors; we will learn about attractions that are popular but, even more useful, we hope we receive feedback from travelers about what attractions and sites they would like to see packaged in a San Antonio & Beyond pass package,” says Tourism Council president Marco Barros. “Ultimately,” says Feldman, “San Antonio & Beyond passes are about service, and facilitating visitors’ experiences.”
For more information about San Antonio & Beyond passes, contact the San Antonio Tourism Council at 210-886-9991. “It is such a convenient program that offers such great discounts, in fact you can save more than 48% if you buy the Super San Antonio Pass," Barros added.
<< MORE >>TRAVEL PARIS: Dance Your Way Through Orly and Charles de Gaulle -- Really!
A real craze, dance courses attract more and more French people. One out of four people interviewed (27% admits to have taken lessons and 40% say they are ready to practice dancing in a sports club).
The passengers who pass through Paris airports in summer time can learn to dance one of the 15 dances demonstrated by "L'Ecole des Vacances" trainers. Free, the lessons offered in boarding lounges last 10 to 15 minutes."I teach Salsa, Tcha tcha tcha and disco lessons. Fifteen minutes are enough to learn the basic steps. Our dance lessons are fun, and addressed to the whole family. Holidays start at the airport! "says Audrey, dance trainer at Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport
The dance floors of L'Ecole des Vacances designed by Aéroports de Paris boutiques are real dance studios. A large mirror allows the learners to reproduce the trainer's movements. The dance floor is surrounded by a thread curtain. A play of light and the essential disco ball recreate the dance floors ambiance.
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UNUSUAL TRAVEL: Believe It or Not, You Can Get to Ripley on Half a Tank!
ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--More than 50% of the U.S. population lives within a half tank of gas of one of the 50-plus Ripley Entertainment attractions located in the U.S. and Niagara Falls, Can. Based on auto industry averages, 53% of the U.S. population can visit a Ripley family attraction and get home on one tank of gas or less! Believe It or Not!
“Ripley attractions have always been convenient, value oriented, unique, and full of family fun,” said Ripley Entertainment president Jim Pattison Jr. “With the price of gas and the rising costs of all travel, our attractions are well-suited for day travelers from coast to coast.”
Operating 11 different brands of family attractions in 13 states (and nearby Niagara Falls, Canada), gives Ripley Entertainment the advantage of great diversification – both operationally and geographically - which gives it relative stability in the current economic climate. That variety, notes Pattison, “has helped buck the national trend so far this summer in many of our drive-to markets.”
Pattison adds that Ripley attractions are not only close at hand, but many are offering savings and value-added activities for families who venture out during this fuel-phobic summer.
U.S. (and Niagara Falls, Canada) Ripley attractions include Ripley’s Aquariums, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museums, Great Wolf Lodge of Niagara Falls, Canada, Ripley’s Haunted Adventures, Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Mazes, Ripley’s Moving Theaters, St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains, Ripley’s Mini-Golf, Ripley’s Super Fun Zone entertainment centers, Guinness World Records Museums, and Louis Tussauds Wax Museums.
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TRAVEL EL SALVADOR: Guatemalans and Americans Drive Tourism Up by 24% in 2008
The number of foreign tourists arriving in El Salvador has increased by more than 24%
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TRAVEL ASIA: Shangri-La Hotels Offer Their Own Corner of Paradise -- Sunday Times
Readers of Britain's Sunday Times Travel magazine have recently voted Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts as their "Top Chain" worldwide for luxury accommodation, in a poll of over 3,000 readers.
Hong Kong (June 28, 2008) -- Readers of Britain's Sunday Times Travel magazine have "attested by an avalanche of votes for hotels in the chain" that Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Asia Pacific's leading luxury hotel group, is their "Top Chain" worldwide for luxury accommodation. Over 3,000 readers of the monthly magazine responded online to a call to vote for their favourite hotel, agency and destination by endorsing individually listed candidates and volunteering others.
Sunday Times Travel was launched in 2003 as an up-market consumer travel magazine, published under the auspices of the Sunday Times national newspaper. "The typical Sunday Times Travel reader enjoys the finer things in life and is a sophisticated and seasoned traveller," says Editor Ed Grenby. Sunday Times Travel is purchased by approximately 50,000 travel enthusiasts each month.
Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently owns and/or manages 55 hotels under the Shangri-La and Traders brands with a rooms inventory of over 28,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties featuring extensive luxury facilities and services. Shangri-La hotels are located in Australia, mainland China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. The group has over 50 projects under development in Austria, Canada, mainland China, France, India, Japan, Macau, Maldives, Philippines, Qatar, Seychelles, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States. For more information or reservations, please contact a travel professional or access the website at www.shangri-la.com.
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TRAVEL NEW ORLEANS: 3-Day Music Extravaganza Set for Fourth of July Weekend
JW Marriott Hotel New Orleans Welcomes Guests for the Essence Music Festival Over Fourth of July Weekend
New Orleans, LA (June 29, 2008) -- The JW Marriott New Orleans, LA Hotel is welcoming out-of-towners to New Orleans for the annual ESSENCE Music Festival taking place Fourth of July weekend at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
Presented by Coca Cola, The ESSENCE Music Festival features three full days of world class music, accompanied by daytime festival activities, featuring free and open-to-the-public ESSENCE Empowerment Seminars, non-profit community organization exhibits, food booths showcasing world renowned New Orleans cuisine, a book fair, author signings, celebrity meet-and-greets, sponsor exhibits, the Essence Boutique, as well as the popular ESSENCE Marketplace, which offers a unique collection of fine arts and crafts for sale throughout the weekend.
A stellar lineup of performers to include Rihanna, Kanye West, Chris Rock, Patti Labelle and many other top artists throughout the three-day music extravaganza are sure to set the city ablaze. Hosted by Jonathan Slocumb, this world-class musical event is not to be missed and concludes Sunday, July 6 with an afternoon of gospel music performances.
Let the JW Marriott turn a weekend away into a memorable New Orleans getaway, with upscale New Orleans hotel accommodations that include plush new bedding, high-speed Internet access and three phones. Relax and dine at Shula's: America's Steak House after long days spent at the festival, and linger over cocktails at the chic Shula's Lounge before retreating to private spaces for the night, and discover the soulful side of New Orleans.
<< MORE >>TRAVEL MYRTLE BEACH: Golf Till You Drop and Enjoy Every Minute of It!
Families Turn To Myrtle Beach For The Best Values During Family Golf Month
Country superstars Amy Grant and Vince Gill are the "Spokes-Family" for month-long festivities this July.
Myrtle Beach, SC (June 29, 2008) -- "Golf is a great way for families to spend unhurried time together," says popular country music artist Amy Grant who, along with her singer-husband Vince Gill, makes up one-half of the official "spokes-family" for Play Golf America's annual Family Golf Month this July. And when families look for an affordable destination to vacation and tee it up, there's no better place than Myrtle Beach, America's golf capital.
Myrtle Beach has more than 100 golf courses, many of them officially listed among America's greatest. And, greens fees in this golf-centric town are surprisingly affordable -- especially in the summer months when most visitors to the area have their sights set on the area's pristine beaches.
Here's a look at some of the Myrtle Beach area's best deals. All these offer great summer rates and have special discounts for kids when accompanied by a paying adult.
On the unhurried southern end of Myrtle Beach's Grand Strand, there's no better place to take the family than Pawleys Plantation. This "gated" community is warm, welcoming and secure. Here you will find Charleston-style elegance, the Southern charm of Kiawah and the casual elegance of Hilton Head -- but at a great rate. In addition to golf, families can enjoy cycling and swimming here, as well as checking out the many species of sea birds that make their home there. When it's time to chow down, the kids can choose from traditional kid-friendly fare, while Mom and Dad can enjoy gourmet dishes prepared by a head chef who was recently named "Grand Champion" at an American Culinary Federation competition.
TRAVEL MALDIVES: British Tourists are Flocking to Islands for Luxurious Holidays
Kuoni Travel, the UK's foremost long haul travel operator, announce a rise in the number of Britons enjoying luxury holidays to the Maldives, despite the ongoing credit crunch.
(June 29, 2008) -- Kuoni Travel has announced that the first six months of 2008 saw a 28% rise in the number of people enjoying luxury holidays in the Maldives, compared to the same time period in 2007, despite the UK presently suffering under the strain of a credit crunch.
The popularity of Maldives holidays continues to grow, with these luxury holidays seemingly unaffected by the UK's changing financial landscape. Kuoni Travel's recent developments to improve the usability of their website, most notably the addition of a wide choice of video guides, have no doubt helped maintain the Maldives' status as their most successful destination.
Indeed, Kuoni travel videos (http://www.kuoni.co.uk/videos/) have helped many holiday makers gain an insight into several of the top destinations around the world, not just the Maldives, helping travellers to get to know their chosen destination before setting foot on a plane.
"The Maldives is one of the destinations which have not been affected by the current economic climate," commented Kuoni's eBusiness Director, Matt Rooke. "In fact, with it's 'no-news' tranquillity and natural beauty, it is the ideal destination to escape from press coverage of the economy."
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TRAVEL ROAD TRIPS: Frommers Has Travel Recommendations for Those Fretting Over High Gasoline Prices
The great American road trip is on--even with $4 gas. Traveling a few hours from home to see local sights is still affordable, and Frommer's® Travel Guides can help reveal where to drive to without breaking the bank.
Hoboken, NJ (June 26, 2008) -- The great American road trip is on--even with $4 gas. Traveling a few hours from home to see local sights is still affordable, and Frommer's® Travel Guides can help reveal where to drive to without breaking the bank.
You can't assume fuel is "free" any more. But especially when you pack
people into the car, or drive a fuel-efficient car, driving still
compares favorably to the price of bus and train tickets for nearby day
or weekend excursions. We've analyzed several trips from four major
American cities, taken by three sample people: Patty Prius, driving all
alone in her fuel-efficient 2006 hybrid; the Camry Couple in their
trusty 2006 Toyota; and the Ford Family, two adults and three children
in a 2006 Explorer SUV.
As you'll see below, taking to the road can still make sense if you
have your own fuel-efficient car and you plan to take your buddies or
kids along for the ride. But if you plan to drive alone in a gas
guzzler, or you balk at car-rental fees, it makes sense to hop on a
train or a bus. Frommer's Guides always have the latest directions both
by roads and public transit to the world's top destinations, helping
you decide how best to make your way.
TRAVEL MUSEUMS: New York's Whitney Museum Open Exhibit of Inventor Bucky Fuller
New York's Whitney Museum is showing the works of master innovator and Utopian, Buckminster Fuller at a new exhibit entitled, "Buckminster Fuller: Starting With the Universe."In its June 30th edition, Newsweek magazine describes Fuller, who nearly everyone called Bucky Fuller, as "an impossible figure to pigeonhole." Among his many hats were architect, artist, professor, poet, philosopher, futurist, and of course, inventor.
Fuller is best remembered for his creation of geodesic domes. But he also tinkered with a one-piece, take-it-with-you bathroom, a three-wheeled automobile, and a patented blueprint for an underwater city, the magazine notes.
"The Whitney show dips a toe into very deep and swirly waters," reporter Cathleen McGuigan writes. "The limitlessness of his thinking can sometimes strike you as kind of arrogant or even nutty, but it's inspiring nonetheless."
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TRAVEL CHARLESTON: Sail Boats and Other Water Activities
Sailing Season in Full Bloom in Charleston, S.C. and its Beach Resorts
Charleston, SC (June 23, 2008) -- Regatta season is in full-swing in Charleston. The historic port city, its resort islands, and the surrounding area are full of boating enthusiasts seeking adventure, balmy breezes and smooth sailing. There are several sailing events that aim to satisfy, offering sport and fun on the water.
ResortQuest is offering visitors to Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Isle of Palms
and Wild Dunes exciting and exclusive ways to save, all while staying
in fully-equipped private homes, villas and cottages. The area offers
miles of pristine beach, championship golf, tennis, biking, nature
tours, shopping, dining, water-related activities and more. A program
called ResortQuest Privileges offers special rates and discounts on
activities, tours, dining, and shopping from area venues.
The Charleston Yacht Club Open Regatta will occur July 19-20. This is a Points Regatta for the South Atlantic Yacht Racing Association (SAYRA) Junior Series and is open to all one-design boats with 3 or more boats registered. The Carolina Yacht Club will hold their 2008 Open Regatta on July 26-27. The Rockville Regatta, on August 2-3, allows sailors to race the waters of Bohicket Creek and the North Edisto River,while spectator boats enjoy the backdrop of shrimp boats and the unspoiled beauty of this quaint little village. Both the James Island Yacht Club and the Hobcaw Yacht Club in Mount Pleasant held regattas in June. Charleston Race Week, a highly competitive annual premiere One-Design, PHRF, and IRC regatta, is in April each year.
For anyone who may not be familiar with the term, a regatta is most often defined as a series of sail boat races usually occurring over a weekend. You don't have to know port from starboard to appreciate the elegant silhouette of sailboats tacking into the wind, or the skill it takes to cruise the Lowcountry's rivers and creeks. Many a seafarin' lad and lass enjoy testing their competitive prowess in these races, and for those that would rather watch than do, the social aspects of such events can be particularly appealing. On or near the water, is a great place to see old friends and meet new ones.
<< MORE >>TRAVEL SAVINGS: Marriott Offers Global Incentives to Travelers
Marriott's Global Summer of Savings
This summer, Marriott International, Inc. is offering guests the opportunity to take advantage of special travel deals in select destinations around the globe.
Washington, DC (June 23, 2008) -- This summer, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) is offering guests the opportun