may 2011 edition
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May 2011 edition of Travel World NewsTRANSCRIPT
MAY 2011
e x e c u t i v e o f f i c e
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Connie Skoog
Travel World News (ISSN 1044-4602) is published monthly byTravel Industry Network, Inc., 28 Knight Street, Norwalk, CT06851-4707. The cost of a subscription in the USA is $25, inCanada $40. For subscribers outside USA or Canada, the rate is$80. Please send check or money order in U.S. dollars payable toTravel World News. For change of address, please enclose yourmailing label and send to: Circulation Department, Travel World
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All advertising in Travel World News is based on data submittedto the Publisher by the advertisers. The Publisher shall not be liablefor the accuracy or inaccuracy of any information contained inTravel World News and shall not be liable, including but not limited to consequential or special damages, to any party for anyproducts or services advertised or reported upon herein. ThePublisher shall not be responsible for typographical errors. All information contained herein is subject to change without notice bythe parties providing such products and services. The Publisherreserves the right to reject any advertising that has been submittedat his sole discretion. Upon providing a refund of any amount paidto the party whose submittal was rejected, the Publisher shall nothave any liability to any party for such rejection.
w e b s i t e
www.travelworldnews.com
MAY 2011 ISSUE NO. 275
INDUSTRY EVENTS 3
CALENDAR OF EVENTS 6
INDUSTRY NEWS 7
EUROPESix Smart Ways to ‘Sell’ Central EuropeTo Your Clients 10
Central Europe Experience B2B Exchange 11
Europe’s First Music Hotel, nhow Berlin Dazzles 14
Malta Is Magic in the Springtime WithCommemorative and Open-Air Celebrations 15
Malta B2B Exchange 17
FAM ANNOUNCEMENTSFor complete and current list please visit:www.travelworldnews.com/fams
CARIBBEANSandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa, Greenest in Riviera Maya 20
Caribbean B2B Exchange 23
Spring/Summer Deals at Ladera 24
Verdanza Hotel, San Juan, Celebrates theArrival of Summer in Advance 26
LATIN AMERICATara Tours Celebrates 30 Years 28
Peru B2B Exchange 29
Ecuador B2B Exchange 31
Book Latin America Destination Specialists 35
Central America B2B Exchange 37
AFRICABook Africa Destination Specialists 39
There’s Something Special About Senegal 40
Great Safaris’ Rangers Report Fast ApproachingGreat Migration on the Serengeti 42
South African Airways Now Non-Stop ExclusivelyFrom Johannesburg to New York 44
Africa B2B Exchange 45
EUROPE / Berlin Germany - page 14
EUROPE / Central Europe - page 10
AFRICA / Senegal - page 40
LATIN AMERICA / Peru - page 28
EUROPE / Malta- page 15
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LA CUMBRE CONTINUES HOSTED BUYERPROgRAM IN LAS VEgAS THIS SEPTEMBER
La Cumbre, The Americas’ Travel Industry Summit will take placeSeptember 7–9 at The Venetian Resort, Hotel & Casino in LasVegas, Nevada.With the goal of expanding support and helping in-dustry growth, La Cumbre is continuing its Hosted Buyer Programfor the third consecutive year. A continued benefit offered by thisProgram is the reimbursement of the registration fee—which in-cludes three nights of accommodation at The Venetian—for thosewho meet the requirements.
The Hosted Buyer Program provides not only incentive for regis-tered buyers but also benefits participating exhibitors, who often seean increase in quality throughout various segments, as well as agrowing attendance at the Meetings and Incentive sector. By
February 1, registered Hosted Buyers were up 34 percent comparedto the same date in 2010, clearly showing the program’s popularityamong potential attending buyers.
Hosted Buyer applicants must comply with these requirements:submit registration and complete payment before July 1, 2011 (lim-ited availability); pre-schedule a minimum of 25 appointmentsthrough the show’s online system; attend all pre-scheduled appoint-ments during the event; attend at least one of four destination presentations; and submit the passport at the entrance of the closing luncheon.
Over 250 exhibitors from all over the Americas, and 300 buyersfrom around the world are expected to attend. There will be a fullday of conferences and seminars, and two full days of pre-scheduledbusiness meetings.During this year’s event, La Cumbre will be pre-senting its new golf tourism segment, as well as continuing growthof its high-end segment.Registration is currently open for Buyers,GSAs, and Exhibiting companies. La Cumbre 2011, [email protected],
[email protected], www.lacumbre.com;
Reed Travel Exhibitions, www.reedtravelexhibitions.com
CHTA ExPANDS CONFERENCES WITH NEWEVENTS IN BARBADOS AND ST. LUCIA THIS YEAR
The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) has addedtwo new conferences for 2011 with a new Caribbean Hotel &Tourism Conference planned for Barbados June 1–3 and theCaribbean Boutique and Intimate Hotel Conference October 13–15in St. Lucia.
The Conference in Barbados will take place at the Lloyd ErskineSandiford Center and will air forecasts, trends and ways to over-come the specific challenges affecting the Caribbean tourism indus-try. The theme is linked to CHTA’s Advocacy campaign, “Tourism IsKey,” which creates awareness throughout the Caribbean’s variouscommunities of the importance of tourism to the region, based ondata from the Oxford Economics tourism economic impact study.CHTC will be followed by CHTA committee meetings, board meet-ing and the annual general meeting.
The October Caribbean Boutique and Intimate Hotel Conferencewill bring together owners and managers of the finest Caribbeanboutique and intimate properties to learn about the latest trends intheir unique and ‘quintessential Caribbean’ market segment.
CHTA’s calendar for 2011–12 includes: 15th Annual CaribbeanHotel and Tourism Investment Conference May 10–12, 2011, atMontego Bay Convention Centre, Jamaica; Caribbean Hotel andTourism Conference June 1–3, 2011, at Lloyd Sandiford ErskineCentre, Barbados; Taste of the Caribbean June 22–26, 2011, atHyatt Regency Miami, Florida; and The Caribbean Boutique andIntimate Hotel Conference–The Quintessential Caribbean, October13–15, 2011, St. Lucia; Caribbean Marketplace January 22–24,2012, at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas.Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA),
www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News4 • MAY 2011
INDUSTRY EVENTS
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DISCOVER AMERICA PAVILION AT TTg INCONTRI IN ITALY
The 48th edition of TTG Incontri will be held October 6–8, 2011,at the Rimini Fiera expo center in Italy. The country’s leading B2B-only international travel and tourism trade show brings tour opera-tors, professional buyers, travel agents, and travel retail distribu-tors from around the world to Rimini each year. Last year, the showexperienced a 21-percent increase in attendance—to over 42,000trade visitors. The three-day event is used to present the main newfeatures of tourism operators to the market. More than one thou-sand direct exhibitors and a total of 2,400 companies representing100 countries brought action to the floor in 2010.
The Discover America Pavilion is a strong USA feature at TTGIncontri. International travel and tourism shows offer some of themost cost-effective opportunities for making new and maintainingexisting contacts, developing overseas markets, introducing newproducts, and finding buyers, and the Discover America Pavilion, or-ganized in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, providesU.S. exhibitors with a choice of economical and hassle-free partici-pation alternatives. According to USDOC/OTTI Inbound TravelData, U.S. inbound travel from Italy reached 746,498 in 2010 andis projected to increase another 23 percent by 2015.B-FOR International, [email protected],
www.discoveramericapavilion.com, www.b-for.com
ATS FALL CONFERENCE SET FOR OCTOBER IN CzECH REPUBLIC
At the invitation of the Czech Tourism and the Slovak Tourism Board, travel professionals are invited to attendAmerican Tourism Society’s 2011 Fall Conference and Post Tour, with the event’s venue the beautiful Czech Republic andSlovakia.
The Annual Meeting will take place in one of the top spa townsin the Czech Republic: Luhacovice.
Scheduled for October 23–27, an outstanding conference pro-gram is being planned including the renowned Tourism Collegeoutreach.
A superb post tour will be offered in the picturesque regions ofMoravia and Slovakia October 27–30 and will take participantsfrom Luhacovice to Bratislava with visits along the way to SpaPiest’any and the Tatra Mountains.
Requests are already coming in, so those interested should email Dave Parry, ATS Chairman, supplying name and company affiliation to be sure they’re placed on the priority reservation list.
Space is limited.American Tourism Society (ATS),
www.americantourismsociety.org
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 5
INDUSTRY EVENTS
D A T E E V E N T L O C A T I O N C O N T A C T
TO LIST YOUR EVENTS EMAIL: [email protected] • FOR ADDITIONAL EVENTS VISIT: www.travelworldnews.com/calendar
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News6 •MAY 2011
2011-12 • CALENDAR OF EVENTS
jUNE1-3 Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Conference Barbados www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com3-5 Karibu Travel Fair Arusha, Tanzania www.karibufair.com9-12 ITE Hong Kong Hong Kong, China www.itehk.com 13-16 Intl. Luxury Travel Market ASIA Shanghai, China www.iltm.net13-17 U.S.V.I. Destination Symposium St. Thomas, USVI www.usvihta.com17-19 BITE 2011 Beijing, China www.bitechina.com.cn21-23 AIBTM Baltimore, MD www.aibtm.com22-24 CULTOUR Quito, Ecuador www.cultourfair.com30-Jul BTC Rimini, Italy www.btc.itAUgUST23-25 going on Faith Conference Richmond VA www.gofconference.com30-Sept 1 CIBTM Beijing, China www.cibtm.comSEPTEMBER7-9 La Cumbre Las Vegas, NV www.lacumbre.com11-13 Travel Mart Latin America Florianopolis, Brazil www.travelmartlatinamerica.com11-13 THETRADESHOW Las Vegas, NV www.thetradeshow.org20-23 IFTM Top Resa Paris, France www.iftm.fr20-23 Travel Media Showcase Oklahoma City, OK www.travelmediashowcase.com21-24 Astana Leisure Astana, Kazakhstan www.leisure.kz/en22-25 FITA 2011 Mexico City, Mexico www.fitamx.com28-30 PRHTA 25th Annual Convention San Juan, Puerto Rico www.prhta.orgOCTOBER4-6 The Motivation Show Chicago, IL www.motivationshow.com4-6 Ukraine Intl. Travel Market Kiev, Ukraine www.ukraine-itm.com.ua6-8 TTg Incontri Rimini, Italy www.ttgincontri.it/en-en11-13 IMEx America Las Vegas, NV www.imex-america.com12-14 Cancun Travel Mart Cancun, Mexico www.cancuntravelmart.com13-15 Caribbean Boutique & Intimate Hotel Conf. Saint Lucia www.saintlucianow.com17-20 Adventure Travel World Summit Chiapas, Mexico www.adventuretravel.biz 19-21 ABAV Rio De Janeiro, Brazil www.reedtravelexhibitions.com19-21 ITB Asia Singapore www.itb-asia.com21-23 Akwaaba: African Travel Market Lagos, Nigeria www.africantravelquarterly.com23-27 ATS Fall Conference Czech Republic www.americantourismsociety.org27-30 CITM 2011 Kunming, China www.citm.com27-30 ATS Fall Conference Bratislava, Slovakia www.americantourismsociety.orgNOVEMBER1-4 Pure Life Experiences Marrakech, Morocco www.purelifeexperiences.com2-5 DEMA Orlando, FL www.demashow.com7-10 WTM London London, England www.wtmlondon.com11-14 Taipei International Travel Fair Taipei, Taiwan www.taipeitf.org.tw14-17 Intl. golf Travel Market Antalya Expo, Turkey www.igtm.co.uk16-18 Cruise Shipping Asia Exhibition Singapore www.cruiseshippingmiami.com16-18 MITM Americas El Salvador, CA www.mitmamericas.com18-20 Philoxenia Thessaloniki, Greece www.philoxenia.travel29-Dec 1 EIBTM Barcelona, Spain www.eibtm.comDECEMBER2-4 Monte Carlo Travel Market Grimaldi Forum, Monaco www.monte-carlo-travel-market.com5-9 NTA Convention Las Vegas, NV www.ntaonline.com11-13 USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace Marco Island, FL www.ustoa.comjANUARY 201211-15 Vakantiebeurs Utrecht, The Netherlands www.vakantiebeurs.nl14-15 Travel & Adventure Show Los Angeles, CA www.adventureexpo.com14-15 The Philadelphia Inquirer Travel Show Philadelphia, PA www.inquirertravelshow.com18-22 FITUR Madrid, Spain www.ifema.es
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 7
INDUSTRY NEWS
KUMUKA WORLDWIDE ExPLORES A FRESH NEW LOOKAfter 28 years of operating tours around the globe, Kumuka Worldwide has unveiled a new
logo that reflects their diverse destinations and the freedom offered to explore the world.“Kumuka Worldwide began the start of its journey with a one-vehicle Trans African expedi-
tion in 1983. Now we have on offer tours to destinations right around the globe including Africa, Asia, Antarctica, Latin America, NorthAmerica, Europe and the Middle East,” said Steven Murphy, National Sales Manager for the US.
Kumuka caters to an array of traveling styles, with overland expeditions, family adventures, coach tours, luxury lodge holidays, energetictreks and cycling tours. Its diversity has made Kumuka Worldwide stand out among its clientele, many of whom are returning customers.With them in mind, the idea to formulate a new logo developed. “We wanted a new brand to say something about the people who travelwith us,” Murphy said. “Our clients are fun, professional and adventurous.”
Testimonials from returning travelers often speak not only of the great time they had, but also the amount of time given to take in sightsand make their way to places they’ve never imagined. One such testimonial was received from Karen Harkness who took a 30-day EuropeanCoach Tour: “I think what I enjoyed most about the tour was that on the free days you were given the information, given the tools, and yougot to choose what to do with it. On these days, you have no real restrictions on what you can do and when.”
These words resonate in Kumuka Worldwide’s new slogan, ‘the freedom to explore.’Careful planning has gone into developing itineraries allowing clients time to actually see the places they want to visit. Many trips allow
two-night stops. With so many different tours on offer around the world, there’s something to suit just about any type of traveler.Kumuka Worldwide, 800 517-0867, [email protected], www.kumuka.com
gOWAY’S BRUCE HODgE HONORED FOR COMMITMENT TO AUSTRALIAN TOURISM At the South Pacific’s largest trade event, the Australian Tourism Exchange,
the Chairman of Tourism NSW, Leslie Cassar (pictured in photo, left), gave aspecial tribute to Bruce Hodge (right), Founder and President of Goway, for histireless promotion of Sydney and NSW as a tourist destination. The event washeld at Sydney’s waterfront overlooking the iconic Opera House and was at-tended by all international buyers, as well as suppliers and tour operators fromaround the country. Cassar recognized that Bruce has been promoting the Stateof New South Wales to international travelers in the United States and Canadafor the past 40 years and acknowledged Bruce’s longstanding contribution to
tourism and on behalf of Tourism NSW and its Board, presented him with the inaugural Chairman’s Award for Long Service to Tourismin NSW. The award came at the end of a three-week trip to Australia for Hodge, who had traveled with delegates from the US TourOperators Association around the country, discovering experiences available and business opportunities promoting Australia.
Bruce Hodge, originally from Nambucca Heads in regional NSW, moved to Sydney then relocated to Canada in 1970 and started thefirst company to operate camping tours across the US and Canada. His company began to sell Australia to North Americans in theearly 1980s. Today Goway works with all major airlines and markets to both the USA and Canada, and is now the largest mover ofpeople from North America to Australia.goway Travel, www.goway.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News8 • MAY 2011
INDUSTRY NEWS
USTOA OPTIMISTIC ON AUSTRALIA TOURISM, DONATES TO RELIEF FUND Queensland is in top condition and eager to welcome US visitors, according to
a delegation of USTOA members returning from the association’s Out of CountryMeeting. The meeting, which took place March 27 to April 6, visited Brisbane,the Gold Coast, Cairns/Port Douglas, Hunter Valley and Sydney areas.
“Our members were impressed with how well Queensland has rebounded fromthe floodsand the tropical cyclone,” says Terry Dale, USTOA President. “Wewant to encourage agents to book Australia, and especially Queensland, and weare confident clients will have an exceptional travel experience.”
“We want to get the word out that Australia—and more specificallyQueensland—is open for business,” said APT President and Vice Chairpersonof USTOA, Bronwyn Wilson. “Australia offers unique, exceptional life experi-ences, plus unrivalled vacation opportunities.” she added. USTOA, www.ustoa.com
HAHN AIR SIgNS INTERLINE AgREEMENTS WITH FOUR NEW PARTNER AIRLINESHahn Air has now activated Interline e-ticketing (IET) with four new partner airlines: Ukraine International Airlines (PS), Dutch Antilles
Express (9H), Czech Connect Airlines (CQ) and Arik Air (W3).As part of the continual extension of their e-ticketing platform with newpartner airlines, Hahn Air announced a new Interline agreement with Ukraine International Airlines, the national airline of the Ukraine,based in Kiev. The carrier operates scheduled domestic and international passenger and cargo services to cities in Western Europe. Thenew partner airline Dutch Antilles Express flies between the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba, and international services to Venezuela.Czech Connect Airlines operates scheduled services to Russia and charter services to various popular summer destinations. The Nigeriancarrier Arik Air offers domestic, regional and international routes, mainly from Lagos and Abuja.
Travel agents can issue all new partner airlines on electronic Hahn Air documents (HR-169) through all Global Distribution Systems(GDS) worldwide. They can always refer to the Quick Check tool on Hahn Air’s website to receive real-time results and to check the ticket-ing availability of one of Hahn Air’s 238 partner airlines or a combination of airlines in their country.Hahn Air, www.hahnair.com
CORINTHIA HOTELS CELEBRATES OPENINg OF NEW FLAgSHIP IN LONDON Alfred Pisani, founder and Group Chairman of Corinthia Hotels was in New
York on a promotional tour to mark the opening of Corinthia’s new flagship,the Corinthia Hotel London, which opened April 16, and to promote theCorinthia brand.
The Corinthia collection includes luxury, five-star hotels and resorts createdin some of the most intriguing areas of the world: award-winning CorinthiaHotel Budapest in Hungary, Corinthia Hotel Prague in the Czech Republic,Corinthia Hotel St Petersburg in Russia and Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa inMalta. Their portfolio also features Corinthia Hotel St George’s Bay in Malta,the superior five-star Corinthia Hotel Tripoli in Libya, and the modernCorinthia Hotel Lisbon in Portugal.Corinthia Hotels, www.corinthia.com
ROYAL CELEBRITY RESIgNS USTOA MEMBERSHIPEffective in March, Royal Celebrity Tours, located in Miami, Florida resigned its membership in USTOA and as such no longer partici-
pates in the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program.“Travelers and travel agents should be aware that purchases of Royal Celebrity Tours, Inc. products made prior to March 21, 2011, are
fully protected under the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program. Client payments thereafter will not be covered by the USTOAprogram,” advises USTOA President Terry Dale. USTOA has valued Royal Celebrity Tours’ membership, and we look forward to welcom-ing the company back to the association in the future,” he adds.
“We have enjoyed 10 years as members of USTOA. We wish them continued success in their role supporting the tour operator industry inthe US,” notes Craig Milan, Royal Celebrity Tours’ President.USTOA, [email protected]. www.ustoa.com
USTOA Vice-Chairperson Bronwyn Wilson (left) andUSTOA President Terry Dale present $10,000 to ThePremier’s Diaster Relief Appeal Fund, a trust designed tohelp affected entities and individuals and to aid recovery toAnthony Hayes, CEO, Tourism Queensland.
Alfred Pisani Founder and group Chairman, CorinthiaHotels (left) with Terry Dale, President, United States TourOperators Association.
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What do the culturally-diverse countries of
Austria, the Czech republic, Germany,
hungary, Poland and Slovakia have in com-
mon? They’re all being promoted under OnE
great marketing concept, the “Central European Experience.”
It’s a win-win situation for the six tourist boards involved, as
well as the U.S. travel agents who want to promote OnE attrac-
tive destination and six different countries, including the excit-
ing Star Cities of Central Europe, Vienna, Berlin, Prague,
Budapest, Munich, Salzburg and Bratislava.
In addition, CEE Coordinator, Sandra Tharas, points out
that it was back in 2004, the national tourist offices of Austria,
the Czech republic, Germany, hungary, Poland and Slovakia
created a joint marketing group called “Central Europe
Experience” (CEE) to promote the wealth of culture of
Central Europe.
As she put it, “with the region’s joint history and an abun-
dance of authentic experiences in culture, music, architecture
and food, it was a natural fit to join forces and present Central
Europe as a distinct region to the American traveller. The part-
nership was soon joined by many of the main city destinations
in the region.
however, she said that when it came to marketing, CEE’s first
strategy was to contrast “The Old and The new” of this region
via various marketing channels such as Pr (public relations),
online marketing, travel agent communication, and print ad-
vertising. Since the financial crisis in 2008, the group focuses
even more on “Great Experiences, Great Values,” reflecting
Central Europe’s riches of history, architecture and culture at
still reasonable prices. Today, the partnership is going strong
and the annual marketing plan focuses on strategic alliances
in the travel industry, as well as travel agent communication
and training, and Pr activities.
As stated by Ms. Tharas, “there are plans to enlist more
travel agent support by promoting Central Europe to the travel
agent community via a weeklong roadshow in a specific
region in the U.S. electronic newsletters, and a partnership
with Signature Travel network. During April, a roadshow was
held on the U.S. Westcoast. There are also country specific
and regional training programs (Austria, Germany and the
European Quartet).
Especially appealing to members of the travel trade is their
information-packed website, www.gotocentraleurope.com.
The website provides details on getting to Central Europe from
the United States via several U.S. and national airlines. And
once your clients get there, there are some terrific tips on get-
ting around by boat, car, train, and air. Practical information on
passport requirements, health concerns, safety and keeping in
touch, are included, too.
Any CEE inquiries should be addressed to the individual
country offices (see contact information on website) or via
email to: [email protected].
Generally speaking, what most travel agents like about the
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News10 • MAY 2011
EUROPE
Six Smart Ways To ‘Sell’ Central Europe To Your ClientsA n n C h A r l E S
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
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CEE website are the six Travel Themes, namely, Art & Culture,
Food & Wine, Shopping & Gifts, history & heritage, Active &
Outdoors, and Spas & Wellness. For example, check out The
Performing Art Festivals, Traditional Events, Capitals &
Elsewhere under Art & Culture. You can also find on this web-
site a listing of tour operators to Central Europe, including
American Travel Abroad, General Tours and Globus & Cosmos.
If your clients are looking for diversity, check out Germany
and the other Central European countries in the region.
“Germany is a great destination because it is so diverse
with the Alps in the south, the north and Baltic Sea in the
north, a great metropolis like Berlin, cozy villages, fascinat-
ing landscapes, castles and world class culture and
museums,” says Tim rosenkranz of the German national
Tourist Office. Check their website for an overview,
www.germany.travel.
let’s face it, travel agents must be well informed as to what
each Central European country has to offer, and be able to
pass that information onto their clients. For example, when
asked what makes Austria such a unique destination, Teresa
Faudon of the Austrian Tourist Office said: “A mixture of
breathtaking landscapes and bustling cities, and thousands of
years of history and a thirst for innovation, a thriving architec-
ture scene, as well as culinary experiences of the highest cali-
bre are integral parts of Austria.”
As Maria rachidi of the hungarian national Tourist Office
points out, “hungary may be a small country, but it packs an
awful lot within its borders. There is diversity in its landscape,
which ranges from flat and grassy plains to lush peaks and val-
leys and in its culture, which makes room for both traditional
wooden churches and vibrant modern nightclubs. “
“Budapest ranks among the world’s most scenic and enter-
taining capitals and is often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the
Danube.’ It is the perfect city destination: beautiful architec-
ture, rich, cultural life, delightful gastronomy and appealing
thermal spas. This is a place of variety, color and passion. Visit
hungary and discover love – for life.’”
The logo Slovakia, Little Big Country is a very effective at-
tention-getter and a clever way to get travel agents to recom-
mend this Central European country in the first place. Maria
Jasenakova of the Slovak Tourist Board shared these descrip-
tions with Travel World News:
“Slovakia, the unique country located in the middle of
Europe. Slovakia is the country somewhere you have never
been before. The people are warm and welcoming. The coun-
tryside is brimming with unspoiled natural beauty. You can trip
over a multitude of outstanding cultural treasures and the food
and drinks with influence of the Slovak, hungarian, Austrian
and Czech regional cuisines are out of this world. Take a city
break. The capital city of Slovakia –has an excellent location –
close to the borders of Austria, hungary, and Czech republic.
Bratislava is a compact city with several major hotels located
in the historic Old City area.“
Besides the marketing strategies used by the CEE, Mr. Pavel
Kosar, Director, Czech Tourism USA considers the European
Quartet (V 4) a very effective marketing vehicle for promoting
the four Visegrad countries, namely, the Czech republic,
hungary, Poland and Slovakia. The V 4 marketing group dates
back to 1991 when the four countries signed a declaration of
close cooperation on their way to European integration. They
work closely together in joint tourist promotions involving
overseas markets.
“The countries are located very close to each other, and for
this reason, we have the cooperation, promotion and necessary
funding to market these four countries.” said Mr. Kosar re-
cently. “later on, the common strategy was applied to Japan,
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News12 • MAY 2011
EUROPECENTRAL EUROPE FROM PAGE 10
Schöenbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria.
© W
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Prague, Czech Republic.
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Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 13
EUROPE
China, the United States and the Asian part of the russian
Federation. Of course, with the U.S. market, we work very
closely with the travel trade, and offer destination specialist
programs for all four countries, as well as roadshows.”
“Before 1989, we did not have the opportunity to promote the
countries in our region, but, of course, all that has changed,”
said Mr. Kosar. “Today, many travel agents sell the region –
not just one country. For example, travelers can start out in
Buda-pest, and then travel to Prague. Or they can start out
in Prague, and go onto discover several other cities in
Central Europe.”
The only airline flying to Prague direct is Delta Airlines.
"This year," says Mr. Kosar, "we are planning roadshows in
Chicago, Atlanta and Washington, D.C. in the United States,as
well as Toronto, Canada. In addition, he states that "during
October, the American Tourism Society will present a ATS con-
ference in Prague." Travel agents who sell spa vacations will no
doubt use this opportunity to visit the Czech republic which
has 37 spa towns.
In an effort to trace the origin of the Central Europe
Experience (CEE), “Travel World news” discovered that the
idea of launching the CEE actually came from Michaela
Klare, at that time, Director of the German Tourist Office and
Jan rudomina, Director of the Polish national Tourist Office.
however, they never made it formal, never elected any
governing bodies (board, executives, etc.) They simply got
together, as needed, and worked out the marketing plan for
the upcoming season or year. It was purely an informal
marketing initiative.
In terms of the marketing plans for 2011-2012, Mr.
rudomina said that “we as the European Quartet/V-4, will
continue our online Destination Specialist Program and are
planning to of-fer alumnus from selected markets to partici-
pate in a study tour to our countries at the end of the year. In
addition, since Poland will host the European Soccer Cup in
June 2012 , entire travel-related, infrastructure ( hotels, rail-
roads, highways, airports, etc.) is undergoing a major over-
haul and development now.”
When asked what makes Poland so special, Jan W. rudomina
replied:” From July 2011, Poland will hold the Presidency in
the Council of the European Union. Every six months, a differ-
ent member state of the European Union holds the Presidency,
presiding over the work of the Council of the EU. At the same
time, Poland becomes the host to most of the EU events and
plays a key role in all the fields of activity of the European
Union. It is responsible for the organization of EU meetings,
sets the EU’s political direction and ensures its development,
integration and security.”
“regardless of the EU Presidency, Polish former prime minis-
ter, Mr. Jerzy Buzek, was elected to the position of speaker of
the European Parliament in July 2008 for a three year term,”
Mr. rudomina added.
The Central Europe Experience, www.gotocentraleurope.com;
Austrian National Tourist Office, www.austria-tourism.at/us;
Czech Tourism USA, www.czechtourism.com;
German National Tourist Office, www.cometogermany.com;
Hungarian National Tourist Office, www.gotohungary.com;
Polish National Tourist Office, www.polandtour.org;
Slovak Tourist Board, www.slovakiatourism.sk;
European Quartet , Visegrad Four (V4),
www.european-quartet.com/roadshow
Odeonsplatz und Theatinerkirche, Munich, germany.
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The Main Square in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia.
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News14 • MAY 2011
EUROPE
Directly on the banks of the river Spree, and at the
epicenter of the music, fashion and creative scene,
a new lifestyle hotel opened in november that’s
unique in Europe: the nhow Berlin.
In recent years, Berlin has been at the cutting edge of culture
globally, with spectacular film festivals, avant-garde fashion
events, and lively trade fairs. And with over 700 music compa-
nies flourishing among its countless museums, theatres, clubs
and concert venues, Berlin has become a hub of creativity.
What could better fit this dynamic scene than a hotel inspired
by music? like a symphony for the senses, nhow Berlin is a so-
phisticated composition that fuses design, music, and culinary
and cultural specialties. Providing every convenience for those
enjoying the stimulation of sound, the hotel has its own music
manager and an integrated high-end recording studio in coop-
eration with hansa-Studios, where stars like rEM, David
Bowie and U2 have recorded international hits.
Cosmopolitan business travelers, jet-setters, party animals
and the hottest bands are awe-struck by the brilliance that
went into developing every aspect of this hotel. new York de-
signer Karim rashid is behind its interior design. his style
strikes the perfect chord with the building’s modern exterior,
designed by star architect Sergei Tchoban. The result contrasts
a rather strict architectural style with a playful, sparkling inte-
rior that breaks all the rules of convention.
The design is ‘color-coded’—the East Tower is pink, blue
dominates the West Tower and the Upper Tower is a subdued
grey. Wireless Internet and a huge choice of videos-on-de-
mand are available in every room, along with current connec-
tion cables and charging stations. Some of the TVs are inte-
grated into the mirrors. A high-end sound system provides
incredible audio quality. Thick mattresses, as well as windows
that can be totally blacked out, enable sumptuous sleep, while
warm wooden floors impart a welcome atmosphere (also ideal
for allergy sufferers).
rooms range from standard and superior to the breathtaking
2,777-sq ft nhow Suite with two floors and its own roof terrace.
A special feature of the suite is that it is directly and digitally
linked to the music studios. This means that instrumental and
vocal recordings can be performed with backup from the com-
plete range of studio technology, making the hotel suite a cre-
ative suite as well as suitable for receptions.
Planners will find a unique spot for their events with room for
up to 600 in seven different meeting rooms totaling over 10,000
sq ft. Presentation technology is top-notch, with a high-end
projector and five others that can be flexibly controlled from a
computer. Modular seating with high-end Bakura designer
chairs provides flexible seating arrangements.
The large hall overlooks the river through floor-to-ceiling
windows, and terrace access. At over 6,000 sq ft, it’s Berlin’s
biggest event space, with beamers built into the ceiling and an
entrance that will even admit a car. Standard services include
concert and conference recordings and top-quality streaming
all over the world. The facility for digital image recording at dif-
ferent points in the hotel coupled with in-house processing,
means interviews can be broadcast in real time, or put into cir-
culation after editing.
The bar at nhow regularly hosts international and local DJs,
and there’s loads of room for chilling out on vast terrace space.
Steam baths and saunas refresh spa-style, and an adjoining fit-
ness area is equipped with the latest Precor exercise machines.
The hotel’s bike rental makes it easy to set out on spontaneous
adventures in Berlin.
Paintings, sculptures, design objects and multimedia instal-
lations are arranged within a framework of constantly chang-
ing exhibitions and events. The in-house gallery launches a
new program three times a year, marking each with a special
party. Supplemental music and fashion events add to the buzz.
The restaurant at nhow is overseen by head chef Patrick
rexhausen, a true Berliner who learned his craft locally and
cooked his way from junior chef at the Adlon and ritz Carlton
hotels to chef at the Aspria Berlin and the Grand hyatt Berlin.
Guests will savor modern Franco-German cuisine of the high-
est quality, made with a regional touch from carefully selected
ingredients. In summer, there’s a breathtaking view over the
Oberbaumbrücke (bridge) from the panoramic terrace.
At the nhow Berlin, guests are truly in another world—a
world where everything is kicked up a notch, electric with en-
ergy. This exciting atmosphere, full of cheerful stimulation and
the best technical support, is the ideal breeding ground for the
creative experience. It needs to be felt firsthand.
nhow Hotel, www.nhow-hotels.com
Europe’s First Music hotel, nhow Berlin Dazzles haute and hot, this new property in Germany’s lively capital is really in tune with the times.
Where else can you request room service to bring a Gibson guitar to your room?
The hotel’s Seven Star gallery, cutting-edge and always changing.
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 15
EUROPE
The Maltese Islands—
an archipelago in the
Mediterranean con-
sisting of Malta, Gozo
and Comino—are small in size,
but are overflowing in cultural
and international events this
year. This European Island, with
direct and frequent flights from
all major E.U. cities, is a mere
two-and-a-half hour trip waiting
to entertain you this spring.
From art exhibitions, concerts
with your favorite pop or rock
artists, outdoor re-enactments
and medieval festivals, the
choices are never ending.
This May, an exhibition entitled
‘In Quest of Beauty,’ by world
renowned Czech artist Alphonse
Mucha (1860–1939), including
paintings, lithographs, sculpture,
jewelery, photographs, drawings
and other artifacts, will be held at
the Salon of the national
Museum of Archaeology, in Valletta. This Art nouveau person-
ality is widely known and acknowledged as one of the world's
greatest decorative artists of his time. The city of Valletta is a
UnESCO World heritage City, built in 1566, a year after the
infamous Great Siege, by the Knights of St John.
The In GUArDIA PArADE is a re-enactment that portrays
an authentic event that took place regularly inside Fort St.
Elmo. The re-enactment is about the inspection of the fort and
its garrison by the Grand Bailiff of the Order of the Knights of
St. John in charge of military affairs and runs from the begin-
ning of May until november. The Medieval Mdina Pageantry
and Flower Festival transforms the Silent City into days-gone-
by mode, enhancing it with fragrant varieties of flowers and
music. All museums, historic palaces and churches, including
the Co-Cathedral, are open throughout the festival for every-
one to enjoy from May 6–8. Mdina is the old capital city of
Malta and home to the noble Maltese Families. The Malta
Spring Fest organized in Qormi on May 7 and 8, encompasses
entertainment, traditions, exhibitions, Maltese food, cultural
experiences, music, fun and traditional folk music, with the
highlight of this edition being the attempt to bake the biggest
bread loaf in the World! Maltese fruit, traditional food, stalls
with vegetables and animal exhibitions, together with ancient
bakeries await your visit. Qormi is one of the oldest villages in
Malta with bakeries and other historical buildings dating back
pre-1400 AD. Also on May 7, Malta invites you to the 5th an-
nual Mechanical Ground Fireworks display, where ten towns,
villages and firework clubs come together to put on the most
splendid displays to behold your eyes.
From May 13 to 15, the village of luqa celebrates its People
and heritage, with open air festivities in the Piazza (village
square). This and so many more festivities or concerts such as
Santana in concert this July, the Malta Music Week end of
June, the Jazz Festival mid-July, renowned and internationally
celebrated Tenor Joseph Calleja, Ballets, Earth Garden Festival
and more, all beckon you to Malta’s Mediterranean shores.
Combine all this with an Island rich in history,
Mediterranean gastronomy, sunshine and friendly hospitality
and you have the perfect recipe for a unique European Island
holiday,
log on to the Malta Tourism website for more details and a
full calendar of events in the Maltese Islands.
Malta Tourism, www.visitmalta.com
Francesca Vincenti ©
Malta Is Magic in the Springtime WithCommemorative and Open-Air Celebrations
Mount Carmel Feast.
ma
rio
ga
le
a
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News16 • MAY 2011
EUROPE
MALTA’S MANY ATTRACTIONS BEST ACCESSED FROM CENTRALLY-LOCATED PALACE AND VICTORIA HOTELS
Malta’s location in the center of the Mediterranean, with its nat-ural harbors and experienced sailors, has for centuries establishedit as an important port of call. Over the past years, cruise liners haveincluded Malta as one of the top year-round destinations in Europe;Malta was awarded a Seatrade Insider Award as Destination of theYear (2008).
The imposing historical bastions enclosing the harbor welcomeover 250 cruise ships a year, and over 400,000 passengers all eagerto come ashore and explore the beautiful island, if only for a day.The Grand Harbour is Europe’s largest natural harbor and sees alarge number of cruise ships as port of call, turnarounds, as well ashome porting. Today, the Valletta Port is one of the top ten cruiseports in the western Mediterranean region.
Whereas some city centers are often located miles away from theport, Malta’s capital city Valletta is within walking distance of thewaterfront. Valletta is a UNESCO world heritage site and a centerof theatre, history, café life, wine bars and shopping. The newValletta Waterfront Cruise terminal is itself a one-stop shopwhereby cruise ships and their passengers can find all their needscatered to—check-in and baggage facilities, porterage, tax-freeshopping, a tourist information service, food and beverage facilities,retail facilities, taxi services, and a public bus service.
Thanks to Malta’s small size, a lot can be seen when stopping overby cruise liner. Visitors can book a range of guided tours to the threecities (Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua), Valletta, the Medieval“silent city” of Mdina or the prehistoric temples. One can also visitthe Crafts Village in Ta’ Qali. If the stopover allows for a full-daytrip, visitors can also experience the small tranquil sister island ofGozo. Many are so impressed with Malta, that within a few months,they come back for a longer stay in order to explore the Maltese cul-ture and way of life.
When the cruise begins or ends in Malta, it’s wise to plan on stay-ing a few days to explore what the islands have to offer. The Palaceand The Victoria hotels, centrally located, make it easy to travel toall corners of the island while being taken care of in two of its mostmodern and luxurious hotels. The Palace Malta, www.thepalacemalta.com;
The Victoria Hotel, www.victoriahotel.com
CARAVAN-SERAI TOURS HAS SPECIAL TOUR TOEgYPT, WELCOMINg VISITORS WITH OPEN ARMS
Visitors are invited to join Caravan-Serai Tours this month, May 14–24, for their Egypt: Post Revolution Tour. The tour will visitthe historic places of the Egyptian Revolution, and it will includemeetings with their contacts in Cairo—Dr. Jere Bacharach and Dr.Amal Sedky-Winter, sightseeing in and around Cairo andAlexandria, and a Nile cruise. This tour will be a great opportunityto see the monuments and sites of Egypt without the throngs of peo-ple usually present. Also, visitors will hear firsthand from peoplewho were present during the many days of protests at Tahrir Square.This tour is priced at $1,345 ppdo, land only (single supplement$435), and there is a group rate on the air from Egypt Air out of New York.
The first Caravan-Serai tour group to go to Egypt since the revolu-tion has just returned home and the had a great experience. The sitesdo not have the usual crowds, the hotels are not crowded and the peo-ple are very happy to see visitors coming back to their country.Travelers are urged to reserve their space and get flight information.Caravan-Serai Tours, 800-451-8097,
www.caravan-serai.com/tours/NewEygptMay2011.htm,
www.caravan-serai.com
TRAVELIVE LAUNCHES NEW LUxURY BRAND,TRAVEL2TURKEY
Travelive, the luxury travel and leisure company specializing incustom-made, upscale vacations, honeymoons, cruises and privateyacht charters in the Mediterranean, Africa & the Middle East, hasannounced the launch of its new travel brand, Travel2Turkey.Travel2Turkey offers packages that clients can customize with theirown travel dates, hotel selections, cruise preferences, and tours tothe sights they would like to experience.
“Travel2Turkey is modeled on the successful Travel2Greece andTravel2Italy brands,” said Mina Agnos, Vice President of Sales andClient Services. “Our vision in Turkey is to give our clients the abil-ity to plan a personalized, once-in-a-lifetime experience with the as-sistance of a Turkey expert who has traveled to each destination, in-spected each hotel, taken each tour, and who is able to provide thebest recommendations for the individual traveler. Our business isfounded on the belief that each traveler is unique and that theirtravel experiences should be, too.”
Travel2Turkey launches with eleven luxury vacation and honey-moon itineraries. Packages include a customizable mix of destina-tions, accommodations and private tours of the exceptional histori-cal sites of Istanbul, the cultural treasures and natural wonders ofCappadocia, Kusadasi, Pamukkale and Antalya and the luxuriousbeach resorts and gullet charters along the Turquoise Riviera.Travel2Turkey specialists consult with clients to determine the bestservices for them, and to package those elements into an excitingand unforgettable travel experience.Travelive, www.travelive.com; Travel2Turkey,
www.travel2turkey.com
Experience a journey through 7,000 years of history. The Maltese islands will capture your heart with their unique cultural heritage, diversity and hospitality.
Truly Mediterraneanwww.visitmalta.com
www.personalescapetravel.com www.arrigogroup.com.mt www.cavalierihotel.com.mt
www.hotelfortina.com www.maltawed.com www.mcc.com.mt
www.onsitemalta.comwww.sit.com.mtwww.topteamincentives.com
OUR HOTELS
Plaza Hotel, Plaza Regency Hotel,
Osborne Hotel
OUR VENUES
Villa Anna Theresa and Villa Arrigo and
has exclusivity on Palazzo Parisio.
OUR CATERING
Osborne Catering is the largest
catering establishment in Malta
Located on the doorstep of the Portomaso Yacht Marina,
easy walking distance to the popularresort’s attractions – Malta’s most
popular nightlife area, the Dragonara Casino and Spinola Bay –
the heart of St. Julians.
The ideal hotel to indulge in a variety of Spa treatments, excellent cuisine in achoice of six restaurants and one of the
best locations on the island. Four spa centers, conference facilities,
five swimming pools, hair salon, a state of the art dental clinic,
cosmetic surgery, a fitness center and a pilates studio.
Contact us for a list of tailored wedding packages.Find all the right reasons tocelebrate your Wedding orHoneymoon in the sunnyislands of Malta.One can marry in a typicalMaltese Palazzo and spend ahoneymoon at one of our outstanding 5-star properties.Enjoy a fantastic environmentwith a historic backdrop.Catering receptions or banquets at specificvenues are priced on request.
We provide total solutions
for any type of MICE
event in Malta, be it an
8-person management
training seminar or an
incentive for 600 sales staff.
We listen, very carefully, to our
clients’ requirements thus
ensuring each and every project
achieves the desired result.
on site malta
Characterized by its enthusiasm to go the extra
mile – with over threedecades of experience as
a Destination ManagementCompany in Malta hostingCorporate and Incentive
Travel groups in the MalteseIslands, SIT ensures the bestpossible arrangements and
guarantees service dedicatedto quality.
Top Team Incentivesoffers a varied array of services, including:
~ Transfers to and from designated points in deluxe coaches and minibuses
~ Limousine transfers~ Handling and assistance of groups
from time of arrival to departure~ Traditional karrozin rides
(local horse drawn carriages)~ Day trips to Sicily~ Cultural excursions.~ Combination group travel Malta/Sicily~ Day cruises on luxury yachts
and traditional fishing boats
We are Maltese and speak Maltese.We have contracted fares with most
major airlines from the U.S. andcan issue tickets originating in Malta to most major U.S. cities
and cities within Europe.We also have villa rentals, hotels,
tours and sightseeing.
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News18 • MAY 2011
EUROPE
EUROPEAN WATERWAYS REFURBISHESSEVERAL OF ITS LUxURY HOTEL BARgES
European Waterways has just completed its latest series of expen-sive upgrades to several hotel barges as part of its ongoing fleet im-provement program. Some of the vessels have recently spent timeout of the water in various specialist boatyards where skilled crafts-men have refurbished the vessels for the new 2011 season.
These luxury, fully-crewed ‘floating hotels’ take passengers onunique voyages along canals all over Europe, including France, Italyand the UK and to keep them in tip-top condition, several hundredthousands of dollars have been spent on them this winter.
In particular, La Belle Epoque, cruising the Upper BurgundyCanal, has received some real TLC after 15 years loyal service as thecompany’s flagship. She has brand-new air conditioning, wood pan-eling, insulation, electrics and even new beds have been installed.
Anjodi, cruising on the bucolic Canal du Midi in SouthwestFrance, now features new luxury bathrooms, saloon furniture andnew soft furnishings throughout.
And L’Impressionniste, which glides sedately through the heart ofBurgundy’s wine growing region, has also benefited from interiorimprovements, including one new bathroom, stylish new furniture,light fittings and bedding.
Prices for a six-night cruise in 2011 aboard Anjodi start from$4,190 for an individual booking and $29,500 for a full boat char-ter, La Belle Epoque and L’Impressionniste from $4,550 for indi-vidual bookings and $48,900 for a full boat charter.
European Waterways are also currently offering 25 percent or$5,000 off the full boat charter price on selected hotel barge depar-tures, including the three featured here, and approximately $815off per cabin on specific departures May to July.European Waterways, www.gobarging.com
AMAWATERWAYS INTRODUCES NEW MSAMAVERDE
Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways is introducing itslatest custom-designed new-build ship in Europe, the MSAmaVerde, sister to the MS AmaBella, with spectacular, innovativedesign and luxurious amenities.
The 161-passenger AmaVerde boasts the exclusiveAmaWaterways “Twin Balcony” stateroom design, consisting of aFrench balcony for unimpeded views and fresh air, plus a full-size
balcony enabling passengers to step outside and experience the riverfrom the privacy of their stateroom.
The ship offers large staterooms and suites ranging from 170 to350 square feet. All staterooms include such amenities as flat-panelTVs providing complimentary Internet access and first-runHollywood movies; plush terry robes and slippers and marble-ap-pointed bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads.
Passengers will enjoy exquisite cuisine by the line’s culinary ex-perts, members of the prestigious Chaine des Rotisseurs. Fine din-ing is enjoyed in the main restaurant and authentic Italian fare inthe Bella Cucina. A Wine Room is available for private dining andthe intimate Erlebnis Chef’s Table offers a private chef special tast-ing menu. Additional options include an “Early Riser’s” breakfast,light lunch and late-night snack in the Main Lounge plus Sun Deckdining on select days.
Public areas include the spacious Main Lounge and Bar, site ofnightly evening entertainment and piano music. The ship also fea-tures a relaxing fireside library; Observation Lounge; 24-hour spe-cialty coffee and tea station; fitness center and sauna; massage, hairand beauty salon; elevator; heated swimming pool on the Sun Deckplus complimentary Wi-Fi for those who choose to bring laptops,iPads or smart phones.
Currently on charter to the Australian market, the AmaVerde willbe available to the North American market for cruises beginning inOctober. Fourteen-night “Magnificent Europe” itineraries fromAmsterdam to Budapest are available for reservations now. AmaWaterways, 800-626-0126, www.amawaterways.com
PROMOTIONAL VIDEO ‘MOONLIgHT SONATAzAgREB’ WINS FIRST PRIzE AT ITB BERLIN
At the largest international travel trade show, ITB Berlin, heldMarch 9–13, the Zagreb Tourist Board won first prize in the musicvideo category with the promotional video “Moonlight SonataZagreb” performed by Ana Rucner.
Das Goldene Stadttor (The Golden City Gate), was awarded by a45-member jury from a long list of competing entries. The video’s ex-ecutive producer was Jakov Sedlar, and the award was received byZagreb Tourist Board Director Amelia Tomasevic, DSc, at the awardceremonies March 10. The award was handed to Tomasevic by theorganizer and jury president of this prestigious award,WolfgangÜHuschert.
The Zagreb Tourist Board attended this year’s 45th ITB jubilee to-gether with representatives of the Zagreb tourism economy, as wellas 11,163 exhibitors from 188 countries, an ITB record. In 2010,guests from Germany ranked the highest in number of visits toZagreb and overnight stays – 37,715 visits and 67,408 overnightstays. This success confirms that not only visitors, but also experts inthe field recognize Zagreb’s merits. This is a valuable award and in-valuable recognition for all the efforts and professional undertakingsinvested promoting Zagreb as a tourist and convention destination.zagreb Tourist Board, [email protected],
www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr
SAndoS CArACol ECo rESort & SpA, GrEEnESt in riviErA MAYA
Sandos caracol eco resort & Spa in Mexico has just opened its
eco-chic ocean view accommodations and facilities, making it the
most sustainable hotel in the region. a variety of environmental
preservation programs, educational eco-tourism activities for guests
and the new eco rooms combine to make Sandos caracol one of the
most eco-friendly hotels in the world.
Upgrading a total of 99 rooms, while maintaining the resort's eco-
logical standard of reducing cO2 emissions by 70 percent, Sandos
caracol incorporated new modern architectural designs for a more
contemporary look. in terms of sustainability, each room has an air-
conditioning system with low power consumption, a solar system to
heat the water to eliminate using gas, an internal lighting system
based on energy-efficient LeD and in-room water coolers to reduce
the use of plastic water bottles. additionally, there is a new recy-
cling system in place for wastewater.
Sandos caracol eco resort & Spa hotel is 45 minutes from
cancun’s international airport and just 15 minutes from downtown
Playa del carmen. The five-star resort lies on an extensive natural
area at the edge of an exotic jungle surrounded by cenotes, man-
groves and natural lagoons in an ecological environment harmo-
nious with nature.
Sandos Caracol Eco resort & Spa, www.sandos.com
trAvElErS CAn SwiM with thE world’SlArGESt FiSh on iSlA MujErES
each year from July 1 through mid-September, whale sharks, the
largest fish in the world, pass through the waters surrounding isla
Mujeres, a gem of an island located just six miles across the bay
from cancun, Mexico. These magnificent animals can grow to 35
feet in length and sport polka dots on their backs. They are called
whale sharks because, like whales, they feed like on plankton, and
are safe for those who want to experience the thrill of swimming and
snorkeling with them in the open sea.
boat tours offering the opportunity to see and swim with these
huge creatures are available from isla Mujeres, an island just off
the coast of Mexico, easily accessible from cancun international
airport.
The entire island will celebrate a Whale Shark Festival July
15–17. isla Mujeres offers accommodations for all budgets, beauti-
ful white sand beaches and excellent dining in the caribbean.
Swimming with the whale sharks in isla Mujeres offers visitors the
thrill of a lifetime.
isla Mujeres tourism Board, [email protected],
www.isla-mujeres.travel
rEAl rESortS’ MExiCAn propErtiES—luxurY-GourMEt ExpEriEnCES
Designed for the most discerning guests seeking a truly romantic
experience, The royal in cancun and The royal Playa del carmen
don’t take luxury standing still. in a constant effort to improve
guest services and amenities, while surpassing expectations, the
luxury-gourmet, all-inclusive, all-suite, adult-only resorts continue
to make enhancements to their service that inspire guest satisfac-
tion and awe.
“a true luxury experience is a continuously evolving work of art,”
said Fernando Garcia, Managing Director of real resorts. “at
The royal in cancun and The royal Playa del carmen we listen
to our guests, examine new technologies, and continue to make
refinements to our decor and our services. Our latest group of
enhancements may each go individually unnoticed, but
collectively they create a new level of luxury that outshines our
competitors and subtly says to each guest, ‘your comfort is our pri-
ority,’” he added.
Some of the new features include redecorated guest suites with
comfort-designed furnishings and mood enhancing color schemes.
in addition there are nuances such as adjustable LeD reading
lamps attached to the headboard, new luxury faucets in the baths,
a foot rest with the overstuffed easy chair, a posh rug accenting the
brilliant marble floors, and spa style bathrobes and slippers.
regarding service, guests will find an expanded wine list with more
wines and liquors incorporated into the all-inclusive experience, as
well as a broader wine list, including vintage wines, champagne and
spirits. in addition, the complimentary room service experience has
been enhanced: guests may still enjoy discreet delivery through the
‘Magic box,’ or opt for a more formal room service on a well-
appointed table.
SPazul, the Mayan influenced holistic spa at each of the resorts,
now offers complimentary hydrotherapy in addition to a full menu
of spa treatments at special resort pricing.
These additions complement the long list of amenities and ser-
vices that define The royal experience at The royal in cancun and
The royal Playa del carmen. These resorts boast the best location
in their destination with wide expansive beaches, yet close to shops
and exciting nightlife. created for romance, they offer ambience,
lavish amenities, sumptuous dining and gracious service.
the royal in Cancun, the royal playa del Carmen,
800-760-0944, www.realresorts.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News20 • MAY 2011
caribbean
lE MEridiEn CAnCun rESort & SpA rECEivES GoldEn KEY
The Mexico concierges association of the southeast region pre-
sented the “Les clefs d’Or” honor to concierge Jorge David Gómez
of Le Meridien cancun resort & Spa.
Les clefs d’Or (the Golden Keys) is recognition given by the Union
internationale des concierges Hôtels (UicH), which is present in 33
countries. The honor is the highest a concierge can receive and each
member is distinguished by a pair of crossed keys placed on the
lapels of their uniform which signifies knowledge of the destination
and someone who specializes in the personal needs of every guest
and ensures quality service.
To be considered for the award, concierges have to successfully
meet requirements such as having at least three years experience in
the position, participation in national congress, take a written ex-
amination that includes topics such as the history of Mexico as well
as national and international geography.
Jorge David Gomez carrales received the keys from Sub Director
of the board of the association of concierges Mexico and
Martina rodriguez, General Manager of Le Meridien cancun
resort & Spa.
le Meridien Cancun resort & Spa,
www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien
SAndoS hotElS & rESortS oFFErAFFordABlE SprinG And SuMMEr rAtES
Set amidst stunning tropical beachfront, the Select clubs at
Sandos caracol eco resort & Spa and Sandos Playacar resort &
Spa on Mexico’s riviera Maya are offering ViP services and ameni-
ties, including 24-hour food and beverage service, without the heavy
price tag. all-inclusive Select club rates at Sandos resorts start at
as low as $131 pp, per night.
after check-in at the Sandos Select club desk, visitors find a com-
plimentary welcome fruit basket and bottle of wine at their room.
Select club guests enjoy 24-hour room service, a separate ViP club
House facility adjacent to the beach with free internet service and
use of computers, a private section of the beach with teak sun beds,
parasols and bar and waiter service, daily continental breakfast and
cakes and treats from 7 am until 6 pm, a library with newspapers
and games as well as music and TV.
The Select club private pool area features an adults-only swim-
ming pool, a children’s pool, snack bar and terrace, showers/chang-
ing rooms, and cushioned chaise lounges.
Sandos caracol eco-resort & Spa offers a selection of eateries
and bars, including three buffet restaurants with international,
Mexican and italian specialties, four à la carte restaurants with
Oriental, brazilian and Mediterranean cuisine, a steakhouse, and
10 bars including a sports bar, beach bar, swim-up pool bar, chill
Out bar and a snack bar.
Sandos Playacar beach resort & Spa has a broad variety of
restaurants as well including two buffet restaurants offering inter-
national menu choices, two with Mexican and italian specialties, six
à la carte restaurants including an asian, French, brazilian,
Mediterranean restaurant, and a steakhouse.
Visitors of both properties can enjoy a day at Spa Sandos, featur-
ing an extensive menu of services and a gymnasium. Hotel guests
can use all facilities located on the first section of the spa free-of-
charge including the fitness center, hydro massage pool and
Jacuzzis, solarium, saunas, steam bath, showers and lockers.
For summer getaways, Sandos caracol eco resort & Spa and
Sandos Playacar resort & Spa, all-inclusive rates begin as low as
$104 ppdo. Sandos vacations include accommodations, all meals
and beverages, sporting activities, daily activities program, super-
vised Kids club and Teen club, nightly entertainment and entrance
to the disco, and all hotel taxes, service charges and gratuities.
Sandos hotels & resorts, 866-336-4083, www.sandos.com
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011• 21
caribbean
hYAtt rEGEnCY trinidAd invitES GroupS to MEEt And BE GrEEn
Hyatt regency Trinidad in Port-of-Spain, one of the caribbean’s
premier business and meetings hotels, is encouraging planners to
take advantage of Hyatt’s Meet and be Green program with a spe-
cial discounted rate.
Planners who pledge to take the following ten steps during
their meeting, booked and held before March 31, 2012, will
receive a savings of three percent off the Master bill: 1–Use
products with 100-percent recycled content; 2–Print materials
locally; 3–Minimize shipping; 4–recycle during the meeting;
5–rather than setting materials at every seat, place meeting
materials, such as handouts, notepads, pens, etc., in a central
location so attendees can take as needed; 6–Maintain room
temperatures at an appropriate level; 7–eliminate disposable
water bottles; 8–Minimize use of other disposable products such
as plates, cups, napkins, and utensils; 9–Select locally grown
seasonal foods when planning the menu; and 10–Plan ahead
for the meeting to make it easier and more economical to keep
the meeting green.
Meet and be Green is one part of Hyatt’s larger pledge to con-
serve energy, minimize waste and create responsible, sustainable
corporate practices to care for the earth and guests. by empower-
ing guests to do the same, Hyatt and its planners can help minimize
the environmental impact of meetings.
With 428 guestrooms and 43,000 square feet of meeting space,
Hyatt regency Trinidad offers the largest meeting space in the
english-speaking caribbean. an expert team of conference coordi-
nators, food and beverage managers, entertainment and event plan-
ners enables the Hyatt regency Trinidad to customize gatherings
for 25 to 1,700 people. Versatile function space includes small
breakout rooms to two ballrooms, including the spectacular
16,000-sq-ft foot regency ballroom. Plus, the latest innovations
in meetings technology, audio/visual services and translation facil-
ities effectively combine advanced business service and amenities
with cross-cultural communication. Guests who suffer from aller-
gies or other breathing difficulties can rest easy when they book one
of the 19 respire by Hyatt Hypo-allergenic rooms at Hyatt
regency Trinidad.
hyatt regency trinidad, 800-233-1234, (program details)
www.hyattmeetings.com, www.trinidad.hyatt.com;
hyatt regency, www.hyatt.com
BolonGo BAY BEACh rESort oFFErS SuMMErSAvinGS on GirlFriEnd GEtAwAYS
Girls just want to have fun, and bolongo bay beach resort on St.
Thomas in the US Virgin islands is the spot for summer fun and a
great vacation value.
The laid-back beach resort has a new four-night girlfriend get-
away package just in time for summer vacation. available June 1
through august 31, 2011, bolongo bay’s Girls beach Getaway
package includes 10 percent off a four-night stay in an Oceanview
room for two; a manicure and pedicure for each person, with fresh
fruit and bottle of champagne for mimosas; a round of martinis at
bolongo’s oceanfront Lobster Grille bar; choice of sailing cruise on
the resort’s 53’ catamaran—either the Swim with Turtles half-day
snorkel trip or Sunset Harbor cocktail cruise; and a 45-minute
Jet Ski tour.
This fun, four-night girlfriend getaway to St. Thomas is just
$1,299 for two people, including all taxes, resort fees and energy
surcharges. Or, just $163 pp, per day. The package represents 28-
percent savings.
at bolongo bay beach resort, the fun in the sun is always in-
cluded. every guest receives complimentary non-motorized water
spaorts equipment, including snorkel gear, paddleboards, kayaks
and more, and a free discover scuba diving lesson.
at night, bolongo bay heats up with fabulous food at its
two on-site oceanfront restaurants and live nightly
entertainment.
Bolongo Bay Beach resort, 800-524-4746,
www.bolongobay.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News22 • MAY 2011
caribbean
C A R I B B E A N b 2 b e x c h a n g e
“Most RomanticResort in the World”
TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice,
4th consecutive year
Located on one of the Caribbean’s top 10 "Dream Beaches of the World",
the sophisticated and stylish Bucuti and Tara Beach Suites offer
Aruba's only refined and tranquil boutique resort experience.
Exchange your vows on our magnificent white sandy beach.
Let us make your honeymoon a celebration that you will cherish for a lifetime...
Eagle Beach • Aruba • Dutch Caribbean
i
www.bucuti.com
Princess Hotels & Resorts is a hotel chain specializing in holiday and urban hotels in top class tourist resorts, which,from the start, has enjoyed the prestige, confidence and consideration of our customers. A chain with a business philosophy and methodology inthe management of large hotels.
princess-hotels.com
www.lemanapany.com
www.bellafontebonaire.com
www.sugarbayclub.com www.villabeachcottages.com
Manapany appeals to every sense
Sight – panoramic ocean views andtropical jungle landscaping
Hearing – waves lapping the shore andbirds in and above the trees
Touch – comforting massage andcool terra cotta tile under bare feet
Smell – exotic oils and scented candles andaromas wafting from the restaurant
Taste – classic Italian cuisine and fresh fruits in the exotic cocktails
Experience culture and everything St. Kittshas to offer – fresh Caribbean air,
beautiful blue waters and lush foliage. Recreational facilities at our resort
include an air-conditioned fitness roomand a dedicated children's club.
The Royal St. Kitts Hotel’s 18-hole golfcourse is less than a 10-minute walk away.
Make reservations today and be preparedto experience the relaxation of Sugar Bay!
Imagine –
going back in time
and relaxing in an
unspoiled, peaceful
setting, surrounded by
an explosion of
nature.
It looks like a castle...It feels like home...
A Mediterranean colonial style Chateau, blends old world architecture with contemporary furnishings and art. An intimate luxurious oceanfront setting,perfect for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling and diving on your own ‘private’ reef.
Bellafonte will apply its personal touch to create a package to suit each of its guests needs.
SprinG/SuMMEr dEAlS At lAdErA in St. luCiA
Spring is the moment when savings start to bloom all over the
caribbean and the West indies’ Ladera in is no exception. in april
rates began to drop 30 percent over peak winter season. and in sum-
mer the value really heats up, as rates dip nearly 45 percent and the
trade winds keep things blissfully cool all year round.
Those who reserve seven consecutive nights in a Hilltop Dream
Suite pay for just six (a savings of $810 in spring, $715 in summer)
also receive $150 Food & beverage credit per room per stay
(through December 20, 2011). With a five-night reservation in a
Hilltop Dream Suite, a $150 Food & beverage credit is offered per
room per stay through June 30, 2011.
The Great escape is a three-night package that includes all meals
and most beverages, a “Soufrière experience” guided tour, a one-
hour massage at Ladera’s Ti Kaye Posé Spa, and round-trip airport
transfers. Summer rates start at $2,425 per room for three nights
and vary by room type and season.
romance in the Tropics is a five-night package that includes all
meals and most beverages, private poolside dinner by executive
chef Orlando Satchell, a “Soufrière experience” guided tour, two
treatments per person at Ladera’s Ti Kaye Posé Spa, a sunset cruise,
roundtrip airport transfers and more. Summer rates start at $6,050
and vary by room type.
For weddings, couples can reserve seven nights in a Hilltop Dream
Suite, or a Two-bedroom Villa and receive the romance in Paradise
Wedding Package free (a $950 value). Details are available online.
Peak to beach is an innovative six-night package for two that in a
single booking pairs two of St. Lucia’s iconic hotels, Ladera and cap
Maison. Guests can experience the majesty of the dramatic Pitons
during three nights at Ladera, followed by three nights at cap
Maison on the northernmost tip of the island, on a cliff overlooking
the caribbean Sea and with its own secluded beach. Spring/summer
rates start at $5,300 per couple for six nights.
ladera, 866-290-0978, www.ladera.com
hAlF Moon dirECtor oF SAlES & MArKEtinGMYrtlE dwYEr StEpS down AFtEr 34 YEArS
Director of Sales & Marketing for Half Moon, a rockresort
Myrtle Dwyer has retired from Jamaica’s premier luxury resort lo-
cated in rose Hall, Jamaica, after more than 30 years at the 400-
acre luxury resort.
During her tenure, Dwyer held several management positions. She
is credited with having developed various business segments for the
resort including groups and incentives, destination weddings, spe-
cial events, internet marketing, pre-arrival concierge, and customer
relationship marketing, among others.
John MacMullen, regional Director of Sales & Marketing for the
newly-appointed management company rockresorts, will direct all
strategic marketing for the resort, while Scott Ward, regional
Director of Sales, will be responsible for the Half Moon’s direct
sales initiatives. both are based in rockresorts’ Florida &
caribbean regional office located at Tempo Miami.
half Moon, A rockresort, www.halfmoon.rockresorts.com
dEdiCAtEd divE pACKAGES now AvAilABlEthrouGh GrEnAdA divE rESortS
Grenada Dive resorts offers diver-dedicated packages at
LaSource–the amazing holiday, an all-inclusive resort. Packages in-
clude all features of a regular LaSource holiday combined with the
professional dive services of aquanauts Grenada, the dive service
provider at LaSource.
LaSource resort is set in an enclave of tropical gardens and sur-
rounded by the sea on three sides. its first-class holiday experience
blends the best of an active vacation with spa treatments and great
dining. Dedicated dive packages are based on the three inclusive
boat dives per week’s stay adding value to an amazing dive holiday
with up to 20 dives per room for one week.
aquanauts provides up to three boat dives daily, weekly night dives
and snorkel trips to Grenada’s Marine and Sculpture Park.
enthusiastic dive instructors welcome guests who want to take a dis-
cover scuba dive or enroll in a certification course.
Packages with Grenada Dive resorts are also available for stu-
dents learning to dive. These include an online link to study the aca-
demics on the computer at home before traveling. “e-learning is a
very easy and fun way of getting your theory preparation for the
scuba course out of the way before your holiday, so while in Grenada
its all practical and fun,” says Gerlinde Seupel, director of Grenada
Dive resorts.com LLc.
Packages include seven nights’ accommodation at LaSource
Luxury double or single room, free dive gear hire and free nitrox
for accordingly certified divers. Packages for students include on-
line login for academics, pool session, four open water dives, all gear
hire, certification and three more dives after being certified.
Prices start at $1,360 pp and are available for secure online book-
ing on their website.
Grenada dive resorts, [email protected],
www.grenadadiveresorts.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News24 • MAY 2011
caribbean
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011• 25
caribbean
GrEnAdA SuMMEr FAMilY divE pACKAGEoFFErEd At truE BluE BAY rESort
True blue bay and aquanauts are offering a fun Family package
that includes seven nights’ accommodation for two adults and up to
two children, a 10-dive package for two adults, continental break-
fast buffet, and kids 12 and under lodge and dine for free when stay-
ing with parents and choosing from the children’s menu.
Special family-focus features also included are two three-hour
babysitting sessions, free “bubble making” children’s dive lessons,
complimentary use of kids’ fishing gear, kids hair braiding, kids jew-
elry making and 12-and-under cooking lessons.
The packages starts at $1,005 per adult, double occupancy.
More information is available on their website.
true Blue Bay resort, [email protected],
www.truebluebay.com
‘StAY in MAY’ inCEntivE oFFErEd BY GrAnd CASE BEACh CluB
a special “Stay in May” promotion, which features $105 in re-
sort credit vouchers, is being offered by the Grand case beach club,
located on the ocean adjacent to Grand case village, the culinary
capital of St. Martin in the French West indies. To qualify, guests
must stay three days or more, beginning May 1 and completing their
vacation by May 31, 2011. it is only valid for new bookings and may
not be used in conjunction with any other promotions.
The Grand case beach club has a variety of amenities for its
guests. These include a swimming pool; water sports and fitness cen-
ters; tennis court; island boutique; the Sunset cafe, open for break-
fast, lunch, dinner and Happy Hour seven days a week; and the
boardwalk, which wraps around the hill overlooking the ocean and
connects with the Sunset cafe. every unit is equipped with a full
kitchen and a flat-screen satellite TV.
reservations can be confirmed by logging onto their website or by
calling toll-free.
Grand Case Beach Club, 800-340-3016, [email protected],
www.grandcasebeachclub.com
FrEE wEddinG pACKAGE For CouplES At MAjEStiC rESortS
Majestic resorts in the Dominican republic are continuing to offer
a free wedding package for all confirmed weddings and for new wed-
ding inquiries for all wedding couples getting married in 2011 and
2012. no additional fees or taxes are charged.
The free wedding package is offered when a guest books a wedding
group with a minimum of 15 rooms or more for a seven-night stay.
For groups of less than 15 rooms, a fee of $1,750 will apply to the
basic wedding package.
interested couples should contact the wedding team at Majestic
resorts for further details.
Majestic resorts (hotel Majestic Colonial punta Cana,
hotel Majestic Elegance punta Cana),
[email protected], www.majestic-resorts.com
CAriBBEAn vACAtionErS CAn SAvE up to 35% At FivE BrEEzES rESortS & SpAS
For a limited time, travelers eager to enjoy an easy and affordable
vacation can take off with big savings at some of the most spectacu-
lar hotspots in the caribbean. For travel through December 23,
guests can save up to 35 percent off their stays at five breezes
resorts & Spas in Jamaica, curaçao and the bahamas when they
book by May 31.
in Jamaica, the all-suite breezes Grand negril commands an im-
pressive stretch of silver sand coastline. The flagship property boasts
six classic restaurants including French, italian and Japanese cui-
sine. at breezes runaway bay, adventure buffs have their fill with
activities such as scuba diving, sailing and the flying trapeze. With
the first golf school on the island, guests can also put around at
leisure and practice their swing with complimentary lessons on the
resort’s private course. breezes Trelawny is a favorite for all ages
with four swimming pools, a rock-climbing wall and a circus work-
shop. While children have fun at The Kids club, parents can enjoy a
rejuvenating break on the beach, by the pool or at the spa.
beyond Jamaica, breezes curaçao, the island’s only Super-
inclusive resort, attracts world-class divers and water sports en-
thusiasts alike to explore its 1,500-foot white sand beach whose
pristine waters burst with vibrant marine life. On cable beach in
nassau, breezes bahamas offers beachfront accommodations and
myriad activities, including windsurfing, kayaking, tennis and
beach volleyball—and a lively piano bar that stays open until the
last guest leaves.
breezes resorts’ “Super-inclusive” concept offers vacation
value—a single payment for accommodations; all meals and multi-
ple dining options including Japanese, italian and authentic re-
gional cuisine; unlimited premium brand drinks; myriad land and
water sports including equipment rental and instruction; entertain-
ment; weddings; recreational activities; and hotel taxes. Tipping is
not allowed.
Breezes, 877-Breezes (273-3937), www.breezes.com;
SuperClubs, 800-Go-SupEr (467-8737), www.superclubs.com
Bird oF pArAdiSE in AnGuillA oFFErSSuMMEr SurpriSES And SAvinGS
The owners at bird of Paradise, named a top villa in the world by
island and Ocean Home magazines, stress that anguilla is not
steamy like the US during the summer, with its island breezes and
temperatures up just a degree or two.
Owner Jon Dill remembers Long island summers. “You never need
to worry about stifling hot days for your summer picnic on anguilla,
no jelly fish or horseshoe crabs to worry about and always the beau-
tiful, turquoise water.”
Seas are calmer, with water remarkably clear, making summer per-
fect for sailing to the barrier islands. exploring deserted islands is
great family fun. “Our concierge will recommend our favorite boat-
man to take you to Dead Man’s cove on the backside of Scrub
island,” Dill says. “This is the last beach between the islands of the
caribbean and africa. a great spot to find shells, sea glass and mes-
sages in a bottle. also, all winter long the waves fill the holes in the
coral cliffs with water, which, then, evaporate in the summer months,
leaving sea salt for collection. My wife, Melody, uses it for bathing
and cooking.” Snorkelers or scuba divers will see big fish closer to
the shore during summer. and turtle encounters are great family fun.
Summers are the Dills’ favorite time on anguilla, but “it’s a tough
sell for americans who can only think of how hot and steamy the
southern USa is and, of course, have hurricanes on their minds.”
With fewer summer visits, rates drop; visitors can save
$1,000/night over high-season rates. Should a hurricane pass
through, the bird of Paradise will fully refund any days lost.
The luxury property is ideal for gatherings. There are two pools,
multiple living and dining areas and each bedroom is a master suite,
with outstanding caribbean views.
The “bird” will fit packages within a client’s budget—from just
the villa, to a villa with continental breakfast and daily housekeep-
ing, or all-inclusive rates that include villa, chef and cost of meals.
Their comprehensive website includes a video tour, floor plan and
photos of every room as well as the hidden hideaways of this expan-
sive property.
Bird of paradise, [email protected],
www.anguillabird.com
vErdAnzA hotEl, SAn juAn, CElEBrAtES thE ArrivAl oF SuMMEr in AdvAnCE
For a limited time, Verdanza is offering 50 percent off a second
night with a night booked, with the following added values: 15 per-
cent off meals at Verdanza’s three restaurants, a welcome drink per
adult, free internet access, $10 match-and-play coupon for play at
an isla Verde casino, and a special fixed self-parking rate of $8 per
day (with in and out privileges). in addition, children under five eat
free at eighty20 bistro.
rates for the first night start at $145 per room, plus nine-percent
government tax and 10-percent resort tariff. rate is ppdo with and
a minimum stay of two nights. Up to two children under 16 are wel-
come to stay for free in the same room with adults. The offer applies
to bookings made by May 31 for travel until June 20, 2011 (subject
to availability; restrictions may apply). The promotion is valid for a
maximum of two nights at 50 percent with two nights at the best
available rate, and the offer is commissionable at 10 percent for
travel agents.
Verdanza Hotel, a member of Summit Hotels and resorts, focuses
on a personalized approach to hospitality without sacrificing the
amenities and conveniences of a full-service property. Located steps
from the beach in the isla Verde tourism district, the boutique prop-
erty has 222 rooms with nine suites, an expansive pool area with
Jacuzzi and water spray park, three restaurants, a pastry shop, a
newly-opened wine & tapas bar, and a rooftop fitness center with
panoramic views of the isla Verde area.
conceived for the leisure and business traveler who wants to
feel a more genuine vibe, Verdanza Hotel conveys a sense of belong-
ing with a distinctive local touch and a welcoming staff.
customized perks include free internet access, a pillow menu, in-
room coffeemaker with premium Puerto rican coffee, eco-friendly
bath products and a new program that caters to guests traveling
with pets.
in addition, its strategic location places guests minutes away from
San Juan’s convention center, historical city, cruise piers, marinas,
shopping and attractions, and just five minutes from the interna-
tional airport.
verdanza hotel, 800-625-0312, www.verdanzahotel.com
MAduro hAS GrEAt SprinG FlinG pACKAGEan excellent vacation travel offer with a $300 instant air credit is
available for the bahamas through Maduro Dive Fanta-Seas, a pre-
ferred dive travel wholesaler. The four-night packages with accom-
modations at select resorts in nassau or Freeport are available from
just $483 ppdo and include the hotel accommodations, diving and
airfare credit. all packages are backed by a best rate Guarantee
and are commissionable to travel agents. clients must book by May
9, 2011, for travel through December 22, 2011.
For further information or to make reservations, those interested
should contact Maduro toll-free or by email.
Maduro dive Fanta-Seas, 800-327-6709,
[email protected], www.madurodive.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News26 • MAY 2011
caribbean
Rio de Janeiro | Brazil
Enjoy the wonders of Brazil with the
largest Brazilian airline.
Sao Paulo | Brazil
To travel within Brazil is to be introduced to an enchanting part of the world, filled with beautiful beaches, charming forests and hospitable people always happy to welcome you. Not to mention major financial centers that make Brazil one of the most important countries in Latin America. You can count on us to help you enjoy all of it: 116 weekly flights from 5 cities in Europe and 3 in the United States, with connections to more than 62 South American cities. Fly with us for an astonishing Brazilian experience.
Visit tamairlines.com and passiontoflyandserve.com Call 1 888 2FLY TAM (235-9826) or consult a travel agent.
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TARA TOURS CELEbRATES 30 YEARS Tara Tours opened its doors
in 1980, realizing the dream
of Daniel and Hermine
Taramona. In the beginning
the idea was to sell only Peru.
This country was the closest to
their hearts as they met there
on a fam trip in February
1978. Hermine was escorting
her first travel agent fam and
Daniel was working with the
receptive tour operator.
As the years passed, travel agents began asking for programs in
combination with Peru such as the Galapagos, Ecuador or Lake
Titicaca, Bolivia even Chile or Brazil. That was the impetuous for
Daniel to travel to other South American countries in order to expand
their destinations and by 1984 they were selling all of South America.
That year Hermine and Daniel were invited to Guatemala and they
both fell in love with the country. Guatemala became their first coun-
try in Central America followed by the remainder of the continent.
Tara Tours began working with Braniff and Faucett Airlines, then
Eastern, Aeroperu, Varig, Ecuatoriana, Lacsa and LAN Chile. Later
they continued with American Airlines promoting Central and South
America, the US, Canada and the Caribbean.
Hermine’s passion was organizing and leading the travel agent fa-
miliarization trips and she has escorted more than 6,000 travel
agents to lecture and familiarize them with the great tourist destina-
tions of the regions. Daniel organized FIT and group travel programs,
designed the brochures and website and traveled to Travel Mart and
other industry-related trade shows to keep abreast of what is new and
happening in Latin America.
In 1998 Hermine was elected one of the 200 Most Powerful
Women in Travel by Travel Agent Magazine. She was active and held
office in TIA, the Travel Industry Association. Hermine and Daniel
are founding members of SATA, the South and Central America
Travel Association and have each been its President and Chairman,
and recipients of the prestigious Oscar Lobo Award.
Tara Tours, 800-327-0080, www.taratours.com
METROPOLITAN TOURINg WILL VISIT MAChUPICChU ON ITS ANNIVERSARY OF DISCOVERY
One hundred years ago on July 24, 1911, the American historian
Hiram Bingham arrived at the ancient Inca citadel of Machu
Picchu, an architectural treasure that remained hidden for over four
centuries under the lush vegetation of the Urubamba canyon, until
the Yale professor unveiled it to the world.
Metropolitan Touring has put together a special group departure
that will visit Machu Picchu on the actual anniversary date of this
majestic Inca citadel, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its
discovery and to celebrate the greatness of one of the New Seven
Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The program includes the most outstanding destinations in Peru—
Lima, Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and a two-day visit to
the majestic Machu Picchu—all with high-end services, stays at
leading hotels, return from Machu Picchu on the luxurious Hiram
Bingham train, wireless guiding system and a complimentary auto-
graphed copy of Cradle of Gold: The Story of Hiram Bingham, a
Real-Life Indiana Jones, and the Search for Machu Picchu written
by the American writer and researcher Christopher Heaney, who will
join and lead this special group departure.
While in Cusco, guests may also have the opportunity to see some
of the Machu Picchu archaeological pieces recently returned to
Peru, after nearly 100 years of stay in the US.
The first batch of 366 pieces of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu
that arrived represent the first of more than 5,000 relics Yale will
return to Peru in the next two years under an agreement made in
November between the University and the Peruvian government.
The government will celebrate its centenary July 7, when Machu
Picchu was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
by millions of online voters. The precise date of the 100-year an-
niversary of the rediscovery of Machu Picchu by Hiram Bingham,
however, is July 24, 2011. Metropolitan Touring’s group will visit
the Inca sanctuary on that date.
Metropolitan Touring, www.metropolitan-touring.com/peru,
www.metropolitan-touring.com
VIAjES PACIFICO ANNOUNCES PERUPROMOTIONS
PromPeru (Commission for the Promotion of Peru) has introduced
a new logo recently that will help promote its tourism, trade, com-
merce and exports. Renowned Peruvian personalities are acting as
ambassadors for the new brand—tenor Juan Diego Flores, singer
Gianmarco Zignago and champion boxer Kina Malpartida, among
others. On Peru Day, the New York Stock Exchange displayed a ban-
ner with the country’s new image, celebrating the country’s invest-
ment potential.
Every year, on the Sunday before the Corpus Christi celebrations
(June 11), 50,000 pilgrims from all over the Andes gather at the
summit of “apu” Ausangate to celebrate Quoyllor Ritti. After a
three-day celebration, men ascend the mountain at dawn to extract
big blocks of ice to be taken as offering to the Lord of Quoyllor Ritti.
The long line of men coming back down with their offerings on their
backs is an unforgettable sight.
Viajes Pacífico offers the chance to discover Lima as never seen
before on a new tour, Lima at Night. Approximately three hours
long, the tour is private and departs daily at 6:30 pm. More adven-
ture can be added by visiting the impressive Magic Water Circuit,
where over a dozen fountains send water shooting into the air, chore-
ographed to music and light. The memorable night can be topped off
with an exquisite culinary experience at Rosa Nautica, one of the
many prestigious Peruvian signature restaurants.
Viajes Pacifico, VIPAC Peru, 888-392-9793,
[email protected], www.vipacperu.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News28 • MAY 2011
LATIN AMERICA
DANIEL AND hERMINE TARAMONA
P E R U B 2 B E X C H A N G E
www.vipacperu.com
Memorableexperiences.
Friendlyadvice.
viajes
[email protected] Picchu
100th Anniversary
www.aracari.com www.muyuna.com
www.andeanorigins.com www.turismoinkaiko.net www.junglex.com
One aim in mind – to craft intelligent travel for people who want to immerse themselves in the very best Peru has to offer – people
who seek to understand the unique culture, cuisine and history of while staying in the best
available accommodations –from five star hotels to private estates.
Specializing in ecological cruise and lodging programs in the Amazon jungle.
Many international ecological groups have considered our program as one of the most exotic
and amazing destinations in the world.
Come and enjoy the wonders and mysteries of the Peruvian Amazon Jungle.
We specialize in matching unique people with unique places providing the expertiseand support that allows our customers toexperience those places fully, at first hand
and in their own personal style.
We at Turismo Inkaiko own and operate our fleet of touristic transport to ensure our
customers have access to the best.
Experience does count; ours will make yours unforgettable.
Expertise in organizing special interest trips;
cultural tailor-made tours; golf tours; trips off the
beaten path and adventure travel, like trekking,
horse riding, biking and rafting tours in Peru and
throughout South America for individuals and groups.
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News30 • MAY 2011
LATIN AMERICA
MY ExCLUSIVE jOURNEYS’ PERU TOURSINCLUDE LOCAL FOOD AND WINE ExPERIENCES
Culinary tourism is helping propel visitor arrivals in South
America. Diverse ingredients and a wide variety of cultural influ-
ences developed over the centuries by the Incas, the Spanish and
later Asian and African immigrants, make every meal a taste sen-
sation. My Exclusive Journeys, travel planners of private tours to
Latin America and Spain, are offering journeys to Peru that high-
light their rich local heritage and food and wine trends.
Memories of Peru: A Lavish Adventure starts at Lima, the capital
city, where guests spend the night before flying the next day to Cuzco
for three nights. A soothing massage starts tuning them in to the hol-
iday. A guide helps with selecting a restaurant offering culinary de-
lights of this ancestral land. Cuzco ruled over the Andes for five cen-
turies until the conquistadores erected Baroque buildings over Inca
foundations giving rise to an incredible cultural blending. Beyond
the city, travelers visit tiny Inca hamlets, colorful markets, archae-
ological vestiges and the enigmatic Sacred Valley.
The next stop is Machu Picchu, the most spectacular archaeolog-
ical site in the continent, reached after a luxurious ride on the vin-
tage Hiram Bingham train. Travelers may choose to trek the last
portion of the mythical Inca Trail to Machu Picchu if they have the
energy. After a night here, they board the train for Lima, a modern
temple of nouvelle cuisine and world-class museums.
There’s time to partake of a cooking and tasting session in Lima
before joining other modern explorers on a luxury cruise into the
Amazon jungle with all meals included for three or four nights.
Pink dolphins, troops of monkeys, screeching macaws and a
plethora of exotic plants are in view. Accommodations feature
high-quality cotton sheets, wonderful artwork, panoramic windows
and delectable cuisine.
The last stop is Lima before departing for the US. Rates for the
10-night journey (departing daily except Thursdays) start at $2,526
and include land transfers, accommodation, breakfast daily,
English-speaking assistance, lunch at a historic hacienda and a mas-
sage in Cuzco, meals in Machu Picchu and museum in Lima.
International and domestic flights are not included in the rate.
My Exclusive journeys, 888-334-6905,
[email protected], www.myexclusivejourneys.com
TARA TOURS PRESENTS ‘MAChU PICChU ON A bUDgET’
Tara Tours is promoting an unbelievably wonderful journey at an
unbelievably affordable price—‘Machu Picchu on a Budget’ with
private guide for just $1,294 ppdo.
This program lands in Lima with an immediate flight to Cuzco. A
quiet morning is spent there in order to get used to the high alti-
tude and to the surroundings. During the stay in Cuzco, once known
as the capital of the Inka Empire, a city tour and visit to the ruins
nearby of Sacsayhuaman, Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay and
other archeological sites are included.
The next day travel is by bus and train to Machu Picchu, one of
the most exciting places on earth. Temples, palaces, towers and
staircases are built into the side of the mountain. Here the private
tour guide takes the group from site to site explaining the advanced
world of the Inkas.
Overnight is spent in the village of Aguas Calientes, right at the
bottom of Machu Picchu.
The next day is at leisure to explore “The Lost City of Inkas” or
visit the Inka Thermal baths of Aguas calientes and visit the local
market. Return to Cuzco is mid-afternoon. On the way back, there’s
an opportunity to enjoy incredible views of the Andean peaks, the
Urubamba Valley and the powerful Vilcanota River.
This full and busy itinerary is for seven days and five nights
and departs every day from the US. The $1,294 ppdo cost includes
domestic airfare Lima-Cuzco-Lima via LAN Airlines and all
ground arrangements with daily breakfast, entrance fees,
Vistadome train tickets, private guide in Machu Picchu, private
transfers, and room taxes/service charges. Single supplement is
priced at $376.
Extension to the rest of Peru (Lake Titicaca, Colca, Kuelap, the
Amazon, Sipan and more) is available upon request. Airfare from
Miami (from $450–550) and add-ons from other major cities are
available.
Tara Tours has been organizing quality tour programs to Peru
for 31 years.
Tara Tours, 800-327-0080,
www.taratours.com/peru.htm#Machu_Picchu_on_a_budget,
www.taratours.com
E C U A D O R B 2 B E X C H A N G E
www.andandotours.com www.casaceibo.com
www.galacruises.com
www.explorertour-ec.com www.lunaruntun.com www.laselvajunglelodge.com
www.oceanadventures.com www.tropiceco.com
Our services are closely inspected, continually monitored and are certifiably
the best and safest in Ecuador and South America. Vehicles are in optimum
condition in both the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador. Guides, staff and crew
follow strict guidelines to guarantee a securestay at every destination. Travellers also
receive automatic insurance for all activities.
Located on the coast of Ecuador, twenty miles south of the Equator,
on the estuary of the River Chone, and five kilometers from the city of
Bahía de Caráquez.Experience the charm and the
hospitalityof the Ecuadorian coast, as Hotel Casa Ceibo offers its guests
an all around exceptional experience.
Princess of Galapagosthe perfect vessel for clients who look for an
affordable yacht that offers privacy and comfort. A tourist-class motor yacht for 16 passengers.
Features 8 double cabins with upper and lower beds,and private bathrooms; hot water; air-conditioning.A generous dining area, open towards the stern ofthe yacht. A front sun deck and open roof deck to
see the stars and enjoy thesea breeze.
We also offer land tours.
An Incoming Travel Agency and Tour Operator in Ecuador, specializing in
managing, operating and organizing naturalist cruises, diving packages, soft-adventures
packages and hotel-stay programs in Galapagosand on the mainland for individual passengers,
as well as for groups.
Our vessel in Galapagos, the beautiful Sea Man Catamaran II is completely new.
La Selva took two years to dream up, sixmonths to find and another two years to build. Many of the employees that helped build the
lodge still work for us now.
Bathe in the luxury of our world class destination spa and hotel surrounded
with spectacular views.
LUNA RUNTUN, Adventure SPA offers Baños tours including 11 hikes, rafting, canyoning, biking, horse backriding,
travelling through the country side and the Amazon rainforest tours.
After enjoying our daily adventure tours relax your body and soul in our
beautiful volcanic SPA.
Adventure SPA
Bonaire is the #1 dive destination in theworld! The multitude of coral species andexotic fish make the island one of the best
dive destinations in the world, with a fringingreef system, unique in the caribbean.
Only on Bonaire is it possible to enter directly from the shore and enjoy
the warm, calm and clear water.
There are beautiful apartments available at our Casa Bonito.
An award–winning ecotourism company providing high quality travel experiences inEcuador’s most spectacular natural areas in
the company of its native people.
We offer our clients an unforgettable experience in a culturally sensitive style,
while contributing to the conservation andsustainable development of places we visit.
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News32 • MAY 2011
LATIN AMERICA
gALExTUR’S CITY ART hOTEL SILbERSTEINOFFERS ITS UNIqUE FURNIShINgS FOR SALE
The changing demands of a growing tourism and travel market
have motivated Galextur to create a new vision for accommodation
that will fulfill and exceed expectations for its guests. Going on 17
years strong, and known as a touristic leader in Ecuador, Galextur
is introducing a completely new project to achieve a guest experi-
ence that combines superior levels of comfort and luxury.
Art, design, atmosphere, convenience—these are just some of the
characteristics of the new City Art Hotel Silberstein. This exceptional
boutique hotel is located in the heart of Quito. Here guests can feel
the coziness of an older, three-storied house in beautiful colonial
style, with wooden stairs in the entrance hall leading them to their
rooms. The ample lounge invites guests to relax or read a book out of
the hotel library, next to the beautiful fireplace. They can enjoy a
glass of red wine or whiskey to start the evening. City Art Hotel
Silberstein doesn’t just offer romantic atmosphere but also the con-
venience of wireless Internet access throughout the entire hotel. In a
covered yet open-viewing ceiling cafeteria on the third floor, break-
fast is served in the morning and tea in the afternoon.
Its location in the touristic center of the Ecuadorian capital ensures
convenient transport connection. Guests can reach the historical city
center, the park El Ejido, the traditional craft market and various
restaurants by taxi or bus.
galextur, [email protected], www.galextur.com; City Art hotel
Silberstein, www.galextur.com/city-art-hotel-silberstein
YACUMA ECOLODgE MAINTAINS gOAL OFSTRIVINg FOR SUSTAINAbILITY IN ECUADOR
Yacuma Ecolodge is a joint ecotourism initiative of the Rainforest
Indigenous Community of Chontayacu and Pamir Travels Group
Ecuador. Founded in 1995, the Ecolodge provides employment op-
portunities through nature-based ecotourism.
The goal at the outset of the Yacuma project was to create a viable
ecotourism lodge that was wholly owned and operated by local
Ecuadorian managers and staff. To accomplish this, Pamir trained
villagers in a broad range of activities. Today, 15 families receive
regular direct economic benefits from the sale of their crafts made
in a sustainable manner.
In March 2004, this extraordinary area was declared a protected
rainforest reserve by the environment Ministry of Ecuador. For com-
pleting all the efforts toward sustainable work, last year Yacuma
was awarded Smart Voyager Certification, demonstrating its adher-
ence to strict environmental, social, safety and comfort standards.
On July 23 last year in a very special ceremony, Yacuma was
awarded Terra Luz recognition regarding Sustainability, Conserva-
tion of the Yacuma Protected Rainforest Reserve, and its support to
the local Indigenous Chontayacu Community.
Yacuma Ecolodge was announced as the winner of
SustainableTrip.org’s Making a Difference Award for February
2011. Each month, the SustainableTrip.org editors carefully select
one tourism business that is making outstanding efforts to conserve
natural resources and improve livelihoods in local communities.
Yacuma Ecolodge stood out for its work with the Chontayacu rain-
forest community, particularly its involvement with the Chontayacu
indigenous community school.
Sustainability goals focus on respecting and benefiting local peo-
ple and the environment. Yacuma provides a chance to find out more
about the lives of those inhabiting the jungle surroundings and the
private reserve, and to share time with them and learn about their
traditions and way of life. Yacuma pledges to continue this commit-
ment toward efforts that benefit the neighboring community.
Yacuma Ecolodge, www.ecuadoramazonjunglelodge.com,
www.yacuma-lodge.com
CANODROS EMPhASIzES LUxURY, ADVENTURE,RESPONSIbLE TOURISM IN 2012 PLANS
Continuing their master plan to constantly increase guest satisfac-
tion and the quality of their programs, Canodros S.A. will be intro-
ducing more improvements for 2012 that include new programs for
their cruises in the Galapagos Islands aboard M/V Galapagos
Explorer II. Their Islands itinerary starting January 14 will offer op-
tions for a six-night cruise Saturday to Friday, a four-night cruise
Friday to Tuesday as well as four nights Tuesday to Saturday.
A new Elite program for their Renaissance and Majestic Balcony
Suites includes butler service and 24-hour assistance; a bottle of
champagne in suite on arrival; assistance for unpacking luggage (on
request); luxurious bathrobes, linens and towels; room service until
10 pm; soft beverages for mini bar; afternoon canapes served, as well
as fresh fruit and local handmade chocolates in the suite; exotic bath-
room amenities; pillow selection; environmentally friendly beach bag;
cloth drying and shoe shine service throughout the cruise; personal-
ized stationery; special guidance in the islands; exclusive cruise doc-
uments and online check-in process; and complimentary daily inter-
national newspaper of choice (subject to availability).
Changes during dry dock 2011 for the renovated Renaissance
Balcony Suites and new Majestic Balcony Suites include 32” flat
TVs, a blue Ray disc player with a special selection of movies, new
elegant linens and special towel selection, and the Bose Sound Dock
II digital music system.
Canodros S.A. and the Galapagos Explorer II have obtained ISO
9001:2009 certification.
Canodros S.A, www.canodros.com
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 33
LATIN AMERICA
LATIN TRAILS’ FAMILY FRIENDLY FLEET MAkES FOR gALAPAgOS FUN
With pioneer boats in first-class and luxury categories, Latin
Trails is one of the most family friendly companies to cruise the
Galapagos Islands. The company’s cruises each have a capacity for
16 passengers and are ideal for adventurous families traveling alone
or in groups of two or three. Besides each boat’s various amenities
and world-class services, Latin Trails is now offering children under
12 a 50-percent discount on all 2011 summer departures in any of
their three boats.
Latin Trails’ fleet provides the ideal environment for family travel.
Meals can be prepared so parents enjoy the best national and inter-
national gourmet cuisine, while their kids can munch on special
kids’ favorites such as pizza. Each boat has rooms to accommodate
triples, and cribs can be situated in any cabin required. Every single
room has panoramic windows, private bathrooms with hot/cold
water, air conditioning, safe and television. Ample dining Al Fresco
areas, Jacuzzis, fully equipped DVD rooms and more keep everyone
onboard busy and happy.
From a passionate guide who brings out the best of Galapagos dur-
ing an M/C Galapagos Journey I excursion to M/Y Galapagos Grand
Odyssey’s special entertainment for kids, every boat has unique at-
tractions. The Galapagos Journey I has an itinerary ideal to awaken
every child’s inner scientist and makes learning a fun, hands-on ac-
tivity. Even teens are dazzled by this place’s endemic species.
The company’s brand new luxury Galapagos Grand Odyssey re-
cently set sail with amenities that go beyond family-friendly. The
vessel boasts triple room design and top deck cabins connecting so
families can enjoy each other’s company while still having privacy.
There’s a kids’ corner equipped with classic children board games
and even a Nintendo Wi. The new yacht even has a spa with a full
massage menu for those parents in need a little ‘me’ time.
With amenities like wetsuits in all sizes and full DVD collections
that range from Hollywood’s latest blockbusters to award-winning
Galapagos documentaries, and now half off for kids, Latin Trail’s
Galapagos tours are exceptional family affairs.
Latin Trails, www.latintrails.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News34 • MAY 2011
LATIN AMERICA
kLEINTOURS RECOMMENDS REFREShINgEThNO TOURISM ExPERIENCE IN ECUADOR
The Kichwa-Karanki indigenous community of Magdalena is lo-
cated around 9,842 ft above sea level at the slopes of the Imbabura
volcano in the Ecuadorian north, near Quito. This is a most privi-
leged location surrounded by valleys and lagoons, home to
Atahualpa, the last of the Inca emperors. Immersed in a remark-
ably breathtaking pastoral setting, its inhabitants observe the same
harmonious relationship with their environment they’ve kept for
centuries, tending to their livestock, cultivating their land and en-
joying the clear mountain air.
Kleintours has developed a social and community-based tourism
project to help them improve their living conditions by creating jobs
and promoting ethno tourism. Tourists who want to participate in
their cultural traditions can lodge with them and enjoy exquisite
meals prepared with the crops of the land and the sumptuous morn-
ings of the magnetic Ecuadorian Andes.
There are five comfortable houses to receive guests, all of them
having a private bathroom with cold and hot water, hairdryer,
biodegradable soap and shampoo, fireplace, and board games.
Travelers can take advantage of the optional activities in the
area—mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking to nearby hills,
crop planting and harvesting and gastronomy lessons. They will also
encounter farm animals central to the residents’ everyday life such
as guinea pigs, chickens, pigs, cows, and sheep.
Complete details are provided on the Kleintours website page de-
scribing the Chaski Route–Magdalena Karanki Community.
kleintours, www.kleintours.com/en/karanki-magdalena.html,
www.kleintours.com
MAY IS PERFECT FOR A RELAxINg VACATION IN ECUADOR WITh ENChANTED ExPEDITIONS
Bearing the title of Cultural Patrimony of Mankind since 1978
given by UNESCO, Quito has now been designated “Latin American
Capital of Culture” for the present year 2011.
Visitors should start their trip with a visit to this charming colonial
city. From here it’s easy to reach the different regions of the beauti-
ful Andean country. Enchanted Expeditons delights in hosting the en-
tire experience, helping to plan and organize the trip of a lifetime.
The company has an excellent reputation for personalized service,
with more than 30 years in the travel business. Their sales team ea-
gerly answers questions and accommodates every special need.
A visit to the Galapagos Islands is an important part of the
Ecuador journey. This experience will be truly unforgettable aboard
Enchanted Expeditions’ comfortable yacht, Smart Voyager-certi-
fied “Beluga.” Guests can benefit from special last-minute deals or
early bird promotions with affordable all-inclusive rates from
$2,400 pp, per week. The Beluga accommodates 16 passengers in
eight double cabins (four lower/lower berths, two matrimonial beds
and two with lower/lower berths that can be joined to create matri-
monial options). Cabin 1 has three beds (two lower and one upper
bed), each with private bathrooms equipped with hot- and cold-
water showers, fully air-conditioned, spacious social areas with all
the comfort and facilities of a superior first-class motor yacht, and
panoramic windows in the salon/dining area.
The itinerary consists of daily excursions ashore the islands and
snorkeling and swimming in the unique undisturbed ecosystem sur-
rounded by exotic, fearless animals. Travelers will enjoy time on the
spacious sun deck or relaxation in the shade atop the deck while
cruising between islands.
Monse and Wendy at the Quito office are available at the Quito of-
fice to take reservations and to satisfy any requests for additional
tour information.
Enchanted Expeditions, [email protected],
www.enchantedexpeditions.com
AbOVE ThE CLOUDS RETREATS ON ThE EqUATORMAkE REALITY OF LIFE DREAMS
Cheryl Reed, North American physical therapist and Ecuadorian
coffee grower, divides her time between two worlds and is offering
weeklong retreats this summer in Ecuador, encouraging others to dis-
cover what brings them joy. Fourteen years ago, Reed took a trip to
Quito as a volunteer to service disabled children. She felt an immedi-
ate connection to Ecuador and soon after purchased a 24-acre farm,
where she now lives her dream.Reed’s retreats offer the opportunity
to experience methods that uncover participants’ heart’s desires
while surrounded by some of Mother Nature’s most beautiful scenery.
The skills they learn will assist them in realizing the future they want
and can be used long after the retreat ends.
El Encanto Resort, the site of the retreats, is situated on 326 acres
of lush, cloud forest reserve. Less than half a square mile in this area
contains more biodiversity than the US and Canada combined.
The seven-day retreats are being held in July and August of 2011
and include airfare from Miami, lodging, meals and all retreat activ-
ities. For those wanting to see more of Ecuador, a three-day trip to
an indigenous market in Otavalo is offered at additional cost.
Reed will donate 10 percent of retreat profits to Project One
Corner, which will help fund educational costs for underprivileged
children in Ecuador.
Above the Clouds Retreats, www.abovethecloudsretreats.com
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 35
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News36 • MAY 2011
LATIN AMERICA
ExOTIC CAYE bEACh RESORT CO-hOSTS ASSETPROTECTION AND gLObAL INVESTMENT FORUMON AMbERgRIS CAYE
Belize’s Foreign Affairs Minister Honorable Wilfred Elrington
recently welcomed attendees of the Presidents Week Asset
Protection and Global Investment Forum to Ambergris Caye, an
annual event sponsored by Hemispheres Publishing, Inc.
The conference, now in its 13th year, brings international in-
vestors from around the world to Ambergris Caye for five days of
presentations on international business, finance and investment.
The conference is dubbed “Presidents Week” because it was
founded as a small gathering of corporate presidents who wanted
to exchange insights on the world economy, demographic and mar-
ket trends, and new investment opportunities.
Belize was chosen for the forum because it offers a combination
of natural beauty, warm weather, business-friendly environment,
and reputation as an international banking center. Located in
San Pedro, Exotic Caye Beach Resort and Caye Bank Financial
Centre are the host resort and conference center for this special
annual event.
While the conference is no longer limited to corporate presidents,
it continues to be a private invitation-only event where attendees
have the opportunity to speak personally with international experts
on business, investments, banking and economic trends, as well as
entrepreneurs offering investment opportunities.
Exotic Caye Beach Resort is part of Grand Baymen and the ECI
Development family of communities. More information about ECI
is available online.
Exotic Caye beach Resort, [email protected],
www.belizeisfun.com;ECI Development,
www.ecidevelopment.com
ChAA CREEk SEES VISITORS ChOOSINg bELIzEAS A TOP hONEYMOON DESTINATION
Belize is attracting attention as an exciting honeymoon destina-
tion, according to the managers of the Lodge at Chaa Creek, who
combined informal surveys of honeymooning guests to create a list
of top ten reasons for honeymooning in Belize, posted on the Belize
Travel Blog. As follows:
1 – Beautiful location—Belize sits in the heart of the romantic
Caribbean. 2 – Best of Central America. Ability to combine a
Caribbean holiday with Central America’s pristine rainforests and
exotic wildlife, jungle rivers, ancient Maya temple sites and other at-
tractions rates highly among honeymooning guests. 3 – Excellent
weather, with average temperatures 81 along the coast and 69 in the
interior hills, perfect for honeymooning any time of the year. 4 –
Affordability, with proximity to the US and Canada, and in-country
costs cheaper than most Caribbean spots. All-inclusive vacations
such as those offered by Chaa Creek provide real value for money,
with reasonable dining, entertainment and car hire. 5 - So much to
do, with beautiful Caribbean beaches and a vibrant, pristine forested
interior filled with Maya temples and archaeology sites. 6 – Stress-
free honeymoon. English-speaking, tiny and uncrowded, Belize is
easy to get around, with money pegged two-to-one to the US dollar
simple to work out. 7 – Belize’s friendliness. Residents are a multi-
cultural mix of harmony and tolerance. 8 – Ultimate Surf and Turf
honeymoon holidays. Belize, at just 180 miles long, encompasses
everything from its huge Barrier Reef, hundreds of islets, white
beaches to the Maya Mountains, lush rainforest, Mountain Pine
Ridge, rolling savannah, and an incredible network of caves and rem-
nants of temples and cities. All-inclusive packages like Chaa Creek’s
Rainforest and Reef combinations access the best of these worlds.
9 – Variety. The Barrier Reef, second largest on the planet, is dot-
ted with almost 200 tiny islands and offers some of the best snor-
keling, scuba diving, fishing, boating and kayaking in the world.
Added to its ancient attractions and opportunities for horseback rid-
ing, canoeing, biking, birding and hiking, honeymooners enjoy a
range of activities.
10 –Flexibility. Due to its unhurried, uncrowded nature, Belizean
resorts and tour operators are generally open to helping honeymoon-
ers create their own unique experiences, often remarked upon as a
definite plus.
Chaa Creek’s General Manager Lucy Fleming comments, “More
and more couples are looking to combine a bit of tropical adventure
while celebrating their love, and we’re responding to this trend by
offering more varied packages that cater to a range of interests and
budgets. As Belize’s first eco-resort, we also pride ourselves on of-
fering a high degree of comfort and jungle luxury, but in a responsi-
ble, sustainable manner that contributes to, rather than degrades
Belize’s precious environment and society. Guests tell us that they
appreciate our green approach, so it’s a win-win situation for visi-
tors and Belize.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek, 877-709-8708,
[email protected], www.chaacreek.com
belize’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, honorable Wilfred Elrington(center), welcomes Mike Cobb (left), Chairman and CEO of ECI Development; and (right) Paul german, Director of Tourism,ECI Development.
Bringing the Americas Togetherwww.sata-usa.com
www.amigotours.net
www.barefootpanama.com
www.haciendadelmar.netwww.laviamaya.com www.mayaskyguatemala.com
www.mesoamerica-travel.com
www.roatanvillas.com www.schuvartours.com
www.turistaintl.com
We are driven by the satisfaction ofoffering excellence in our services aswell as the competitive quality of ourproducts. We are committed to the
protection of the environment in thedevelopment of our events and to
adhere to the responsibility of promoting the wonders of our country
through our work.
We insure customers to get the most out of their stay by offering cultural,
natural, historical and adventurous experiences to make sure you experience
the authentic flavor of Nicaragua. Additionally, we hotels, transportation, car rental, tourist information and will
help with any other travel arrangements.
We know Panama!Come experience it with us..
Explore deserted islands, experience indigenous cultures in the Comarca Kuna Yala or in
Soberania National Park. Soak up the sun on Panama’s Pacific and
Atlantic coast beaches and islands. You’ll hike virgin forests in Panama’s
mountains and national parks all while being amazed by the abundant wildlife.
Based on the principle of CUSTOMER SERVICE,
we aim to exceed expectations, attention to detail to makes an experience in Guatemala
truly unforgettable.
Our Vision: To be the leading tour operator
in Guatemala
Our Mission: Working as a Team to satisfy
the customer, and always give the best of our country.
Schuvar Tours is a dynamic organizationthat adjusts to the changes in the global tourist market, creating new products and services in the industry. We promote products that are new and pioneering, therefore offering higher quality services to our customersaround the globe.
A few meters from the waters edge –two of themost beautful villas in Roatan on West Bay Beach
in the Bay Islands of Honduras.
Layed out in mature tropical gardens with terraces overlooking the Caribean Sea. Ideal vaca-
tion rentals for families or Honeymooners.Situated in the Paradise Beach Club you can take
advantage of all the clubs ammenities.
La Vía Maya/Viajes jett S.A.
is one of the major travel agencies in Guatemala. We are registered with INGUAT,
the Guatemalan Government Tourist Commission,and members of ASOPTUR,
the Association of Guatemalan Receptive Tour Operators.
gUATEMALA, FOR ITS SIzE, ThE MOSTDIVERSE DESTINATION ON EARTh.
A hauntingly beautiful and
incredibly diverseregion. Blessed
with outstanding archaeological sites.The endless tropical beaches and islands areperfectly positioned for scuba divers, islandand beach lovers along with national parks
and protected areas, pristine landscapes,cloud forests nestled high in the mountains.
An exciting, yet peaceful friendly region on the verge of touristic discovery.
WILD PLANET ADVENTURES MAxIMIzESPOTENTIAL FOR RARE WILDLIFE SIghTINgS
Costa Rica’s “Veranito” season in July is a wildlife lover’s dream,
a month-long break in the rainy season that showcases the expertise
of Wild Planet Adventures, with increased chances of seeing rare
and highly endangered wildlife.
A 14-day Costa Rica Ultimate Wildlife Eco-Tour during this sea-
son is $4,398 ppdo (single supplement $798) and combines jungle
lodges and private reserve accommodations, meals, guides, en-
trance fees to over eight national parks and all activities, including
whitewater rafting, a canopy tour, sea kayaking with dolphins, night
snorkeling in bioluminescence and more. Dates coinciding with
Veranito are June 25 to July 8; July 2–15, 9–22 and 16–29; July
23 to August 5; and July 30 to August 12. Nine-day itineraries from
$2,798 are also offered. The itinerary visits remote and rarely fre-
quented destinations, allowing highly experienced guides to find
more species. The coast-to-coast adventure follows a trapezoidal
route east from San Jose starting with Cahuita National Park on the
Caribbean (excellent for primates), then north to Sarapiqui, Arenal
and Monteverde Cloudforest, and stopping at a number of Pacific
coast beaches on the way down to remote Corcovado National Park.
Accommodations take inspiration from their mountain or coastal lo-
cations and often offer sighting possibilities running the gamut from
sloths to primates to endangered sea turtles to Resplendent Quetzals.
Wild Planet Adventures, 800-990-4376,
www.wildplanetadventures.com/content/view/12/50/,
www.wildplanetadventures.com
PARADOR RESORT & SPA IS A NATURE LOVERS’NEST IN COSTA RICA
Costa Rica is the reigning capital of green travel and Parador
Resort & Spa in Punta Quepos is one of its brightest stars. Located
minutes from Manuel Antonio Park, world-famous for its bio-diver-
sity, the luxury resort is on a mission to showcase and shelter Costa
Rica’s Central Pacific Coast.
Parador Resort & Spa, the area’s top eco-friendly property, ex-
plores a charming combination of preserved rainforest and beaches
with its six-night Eco-Friendly Package. Guests enjoy horseback rid-
ing, a mangrove boat excursion and walking tour of Manuel Antonio
Park, with the respite of an amenity-packed Superior Room. The
package starts at $283 per room, per night, valid for travel through
December 20, 2011.
Parador Resort & Spa’s experienced bilingual guides lead the way
through this diverse ecosystem. Mangrove tours explore the swamps
filled with crocodiles, boa constrictors and monkey population.
Guests ride on horseback through the jungles and hills to nearby
waterfalls, discovering the secrets of the forest and the history of the
preserve and medicinal plants. After a walking excursion through the
wildlife-laden Manuel Antonio National Park, they relax on the
park’s silky stretch of beaches that border the lush jungle.
Parador Resort & Spa, www.hotelparador.com
VIAVENTURE SUggESTS UTILA FOR SIghTINgAND SWIMMINg WITh WhALE ShARkS
Utila, a small island located off the coast of Honduras is a great
spot from which to spot whale sharks. Although more frequent in the
months March–April and August–September, the whale shark is
regularly sighted around the Island of Utila, and unlike dolphins or
other fish which tend to school or travel in pods, are usually solitary.
That said, it is not uncommon for five or more singular whale sharks
to be sighted in a single day along the northern shores of Utila.
Utopia Village, located on the small island Utila off the coast of
Honduras, is a small resort with 16 rooms. The reef just in front of
the resort and its remote location, a 20-minute boat ride from the
only village on the island, makes Utopia a perfect spot to relax.
At Utopia Village, the whale shark and dolphin excursion includes
a theory session by WORSC scientists who explain the biology, be-
havior, research and conservation of the elusive whale shark. After
the session, a boat excursion is provided on the Miss U to search for
these gentle giants and perhaps have the rare chance to snorkel with
them in their natural environment. All whale sharks spotted have
distinguishing markings and spots. The submission of dates, photos
and descriptions are welcomed by the WORSC research team to help
track existing tagged sharks and identify new ones in the area.
Viaventure, [email protected], www.viaventure.com
ADVENTURE IN bELIzE WITh MY ExCLUSIVE jOURNEYS
My Exclusive Journeys, known for fantastic adventures in Central
America, offers “Adventuring Belize,” a journey that combines the
mysteries of the ancient Mayan people with the exploration of the
second largest barrier reef in the world and beautiful beaches.
The seven-night journey begins with a night in Belize City before
transferring to the historic Cayo District for four nights. Guests can
explore the Maya Underworld as they travel by canoe into the eerie
five-mile limestone cave with a guide and powerful flashlights. They
will learn the archeological significance of the cave, which was used
for ceremonial purposes and as a funeral site by the ancient Mayans.
Adventurers travel through the jungle to Tikal, Guatemala, once
the most powerful city in the Americas. Tikal is still a world of
magic with a huge complex of temples, altars, pyramids and palaces
peeking out above the lush jungle. Today they’ll see monkeys,
aracaris, motmots and maybe a jaguar.
Explore the quaint town of San Ignacio and go cave tubing in a
subterranean river past unusual rock formations, Maya pottery and
artifacts. Placencia, a sleepy fishing village with posh boutique ho-
tels, is the last stop on this expedition. Travelers head to the Belize
Barrier Reef for snorkeling or scuba diving or relaxing on 16 miles
of beach. Rates for the seven-night expedition start at $1,857 and
include accommodations, breakfast daily, a massage, some lunches,
cave tubing and airport transfers per person, sharing. Rates do not
include international or domestic flights.
My Exclusive journeys, 888-334-6905,
[email protected], www.myexclusivejourneys.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News38 • MAY 2011
LATIN AMERICA
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 39
book AfricA with the following DestinAtion speciAlists
Dave Herber t CTCChie f E xper iential O ff icer
w w w.g reatsafar i s .cominfo@g reats far i s .com
800 409 7755
www.aarcotravel.com
www.roarafrica.com
www.aardvarksafaris.com
www.tusker.com www.ultimateafrica.com
Doing business since 1984.
We operate from the Southeast side of Chicago in the South Shore Community.
Tell Us Where and We’ll Get You There!
Whether your voyage to Africa is a once in a lifetime adventure or you’re a frequent traveler, you deserve to experience aholiday that far exceeds your expectations. Gorillas, big game,
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AccentingAfrica.comis an Africa only tour and travel agency.
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The finest qualityBig Game Hunting, Wing shooting andAdventure Safaris in East Africa with Legendary Adventures.
A safari to the famous national parks and
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Tanzanian adventures,
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News40 • MAY 2011
africa
When ATA returns to Senegal may 25–29 for its
36th ATA World Congress, it will present a
wonderful opportunity to revisit or take a first-
time visit to what was the first democratic
country in Africa. Just a quick six hours and 39 estimated
minutes, and you’ve arrived in Dakar, the capital and a west-
ernized city with many French touches, due to the influences
of colonization by the French for three centuries.
local tour operators have been busy designing and offering
several familiarization trips within Senegal, with the oppor-
tunity to experience more of the country as well as tours to
nearby countries.
Here are two exciting “off the charts” Senegal trips that del-
egates to the Congress can enjoy. By taking advantage of ex-
cellent fams being offered, agents will be able to sample what
they should market to clients to create satisfying Senegal ex-
periences—tours available year-round that will be talked
about for a long time afterward.
Senegal Safari—The crème de la crème is the fabulous
seven-day pre-Congress tour that includes airport welcome,
hotel transfer, lunch at Chez lutcher restaurant, a tour of
Dakar the first day, a tour of Pink lake the second day with
4x4 drive along the sand dunes, a visit to a Fulani village. The
third day starts an adventure that is not usually anticipated
by tourists to Senegal.
There’s an early morning departure for Tambacounda, the
capital city of the Senegal eastern region. enroute you will
discover and enjoy the fascinating changing vegetation, from
the savannah, to the bush and the forest. lunch enroute in the
city of kaolack and then on to the city Tamba.
Here comes the surprise! A safari at Niokolo koba National
Park, one of the largest protected wildlife areas in Africa, es-
pecially in West Africa. The fauna are the Sudanian type with
all species of African mammals, antelopes of all kinds and
sizes, bushbucks, duikers, roan antelopes, water bucks and
kobs (similar in looks to the impala). oh yes, and lions,
(claimed to be the largest lions in all of Africa), elephants,
hyenas, wild dogs, buffaloes, leopards and panthers and 300
varieties of birds.
your wildlife drive is in an open 4x4 vehicle, making it easy
to view and photograph the surrounding wonders. The game
drives and the safari wildlife experience is fair comparison to
the east and Southern Africa safari offerings.
This park is 2.23 million acres, encompassing the
above-mentioned Sudanese savannah and the Guinea forest
housing over 84 species of mammals. With 15,000 plant
species recorded, it is a paradise for botanists. UNeSCo
listed the park as a World Biosphere reserve, and it is a World
Heritage Site.
The tour does not end here—it continues on to kedougou
where you will visit the market and the traditional miners of
the Tinkoto village and then proceed to Tamba for dinner and
overnight. The next day, there’s a visit to the town of kaolack,
a peanut trading and processing center. The city also has an
There’s Something Special About SenegalAgents will get a chance to preview this African prize at ATA’s 36th Congress this month.S y lv i A F r o m m e r - m r AC k y
A Saint Louis fisherman’s village, Senegal.
architectural jewel in a magnificent mosque.
Dakar/Pink lake/loumoul—A five-day/four-night trip.
Please note that most visitors to Senegal have traveled to the
famed Pink lake, but this voyage takes you to loumpoul
village and a 4x4-wheel drive to the dunes with camel riding,
and a tented lodge for the night. Next stop Saint louis with a
horse-drawn carriage tour of the colonial houses, the
Governor’s Palace, the fishermen villages and the Guet Ndar
fish market. Saint louis is practically on the border of
mauritania.
The tour includes a visit to Gandiol lighthouse and then an
exciting boat ride to discover the langue de Barbarie
National Park. The return trip to Dakar is by the little Coast
via Thies with a stop to visit a typical village or shopping at
Tivaouane for wicker works. Time at leisure at Saly Beach sta-
tion, arriving back to Dakar, after five days of seeing Senegal,
in time for dinner.
These are a small sample of the familiarization tours that
tourism specialists at the Africa Travel Association Congress
can experience.
The Senegal scene
Senegal has all the assets required for fantastic tourism.
it’s just a few hours away from major tourist markets; five
hours away from Western europe and less than seven hours
from the east Coast of the United States. it is a sunny coun-
try claiming more than 3,000 hours of sunshine yearly.
All forms of tourism can be experienced in Senegal
seaside resorts—leisure, aquatic sports, horseback riding,
discovery and more, cultural tourism, bird watching, sport
tourism—hunting and scuba diving, ecotourism, historic mu-
seums, gorgeous natural sites, six major game parks and re-
serves, and botanical adventures with the country’s diversi-
fied fauna and flora. Game drives and the safari wildlife
experience is fair comparison to the east and Southern Africa
safari offerings.
Despite various influences (Western influence due to a
long French presence in West Africa, middle eastern
influence due to a tradition of multiple exchanges with
North Africa and Arab Countries), Senegal has its own
brand of exotic music, food and customs giving it an unusual,
happy flavor.
its weather is tropical. Senegal is home to some of the most
photographed beaches in the world. The reefs and cays of the
coast are heaven for divers, holding out the promise of extra-
ordinary sightings of the underworld.
Dakar is one of the busiest cruise ship ports in Africa and
boasts an exciting restaurant and club scene, as well as duty-
free shopping.
Senegal represents a very accessible way for clients to ex-
perience Africa and everything it holds.
Africa travel Association, www.africatravelassociation.org
‘Hidden TreASureS’ CuLTurAL HeriTAGeTour of WeST AfriCA PreSenTed bY ACT
africa connection Tours (acT) has designed a cultural heritage
tour of various West african countries entitled, “Hidden
Treasures.” africa is a continent filled with treasures that have not
been discovered, and acT tours reveal these treasures to travelers.
These tours are designed to give each adventurous spirit a lifetime
of wonderful memories.
The ‘West african Hidden Treasures’ cultural heritage tours lead
visitors from Senegal to Guinea Bissau and to Guinea conakry or
from Senegal to Mali and Guinea conakry. Our tours go up to Ghana.
Travelers see the hidden treasures of Guinea Bissau and experi-
ence the Bijagos island—an archipelago that time has left un-
touched. While there, they can view the incredible saltwater hippos.
They’ll be intrigued by the pink lake in Senegal, a rare natural phe-
nomenon, caused by a unique combination of microorganisms and a
high concentration of salt that gives the water its pink color. Or, they
travel to the Senegal river Delta and explore the Djoudj National
bird sanctuary, a world heritage site, which has a vast array of birds,
or perhaps they might prefer a quite and lovely sail on the Niger
river in a traditional Pirogue. Visitors will step back into time into
the fabled city of Timbuktu, which in medieval times was the intel-
lectual center of West africa.
Guests will get to experience the culture of the Wolof people of
Senegal, the Tuareq tribesmen of Mali, the fulani of Senegal and
the Bassari people. They will enjoy the tropical climate, gorgeous
landscape, and the natural beauty of these impressive and beautiful
West african countries. These hidden treasures await those who
want to experience in-depth the fascinating culture of africa.
African Connection Tours (ACT), [email protected],
www.actours-senegal.com
KAbA VoYAGeS iS reAdY To inTroduCeTouriSTS To THe deeP SeneGAL
With Kaba Voyages Senegal, a travel budget will produce much
more than expected. With English-speaking tour guides and well-
established partnerships with travel specialists in many categories,
the company ensures broad visitor enjoyment. Travelers will get to
enjoy well-planned cultural excursions and tours, a wide variety of
sea and sun accommodations, the very special and fresh
West african cuisine, satisfying community-based experiences, fun-
filled dance and folklore events, and top-of-the-line air-conditioned
transport always.
Kaba Voyages is a travel agency with modern equipment and the
competence needed to welcome tourists to the deep Senegal in
africa. The company is known for its quality service as land opera-
tor for individuals and groups. Ticketing is collaborative with all air-
line companies.Groups from all over the world—french, Spanish,
Germans, americans, English and others—have enjoyed and appre-
ciated their attentive, expert services.
Kaba Voyages, [email protected],
www.kabavoyages.com
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 41
africa
SuSAn MASHibe nAMed YounG GLobALLeAder bY WorLd eConoMiC foruM
World Economic forum has honored a
Tanzanian woman, Susan Mashibe,
founder and Executive Director of Tanjet,
as a 2011 Young Global Leader (YGL). The
honor recognizes up to 200 outstanding
young leaders from around the world for
their professional accomplishments, com-
mitment to society and potential to con-
tribute to shaping the future of the world.
Drawn from a pool of almost 5,000 candi-
dates, the Young Global Leaders 2011
were chosen by a committee chaired by H.M. Queen rania al
abdullah of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and comprised of re-
spected international leaders from business, government and media.
Mashibe is the executive director and founder of TanJet, an inter-
national fixed Base operations service and the first company of its
kind in Tanzania, mastering logistical support for corporate, diplo-
matic, and private jets. TanJet has transformed the way business avi-
ation operates in East africa, and its clients include Heads of State,
monarchs, fortune 500 executives, celebrities, and military flights.
Mashibe runs another company, Kilimanjaro aviation Logistic
center, that processes landing and overflight clearances for private
jets throughout the african continent.
She was born in Kigoma and grew up in Mwanza, first dreaming of
becoming a pilot when she was just four. after graduating from sec-
ondary school in Mwanza, she went on to flight school and to study
engineering in the US. Since forming TanJet in 2003, Mashibe has
been recognized with a number of honors, including the 2009
archbishop Tutu fellowship award and the 2009 Tanzania Women
of achievement award.
in Tanzania, Mashibe shares the honor with a representative from
the State House, Elsie Kanza, Economic advisor to the President,
who has also become a 2011 YGL. Serving as a personal assistant
to the President since 2006, she’s also worked with the Ministry of
finance and the Bank of Tanzania. The two highly successful
Tanzanian women join 12 others in sub-Saharan africa, among a
total of 190 YGLs from 65 countries worldwide.
forum of Young Global Leaders, www.younggloballeaders.org;
Tanzania Tourist board, www.tanzaniatouristboard.com
oMonG’We TrAVeL iS offiCiAL TrAVeLPArTner of Ziff
Omong’we Travel & Tours, a travel company based in Dar Es
Salaam, Tanzania, has been selected as the Official Travel Partner of
the 14th Zanzibar international film festival (Ziff) scheduled to
be held in Zanzibar June 18–26, 2011.
Ziff is East africa’s largest film, music and arts festival, bringing
new talents together from all over the world. Each year, some of the
most captivating and cutting-edge cinema from africa and beyond is
screened in venues across the island. The enchanting port of Stone
Town is the festival’s main venue in Zanzibar and is also a UNEScO
World Heritage Site. films and concerts are held in an outdoor am-
phitheatre in the Old fort that dates back to the 1600s. films and
exhibitions are also shown in other listed buildings around Stone
Town such as former royal palace, The africa House, and ceremonial
palace, The House of Wonders. apart from films, visitors can experi-
ence live music shows, local art exhibitions and literary events. as
official travel partners, Omong’we Travel & Tours will help visitors
with hotel accommodation, local transportation and arrangements
for various tourist attractions.
omong’we Travel, [email protected],
www.omongwetravel.com
GreAT SAfAriS’ rAnGerS rePorT fAST APProACHinG GreAT MiGrATion on THe SerenGeTi
Luxury african Safari outfitter Great Safaris is reporting that the
early rains have started in the Serengeti Plains of Tanzania, a pre-
cursor to the famous Great Migration.
The Great Migration occurs every year as the rains cease and the
southern grasslands wither. The wild creatures of the vast Serengeti
gather in massive herds for the slow march north through the
Serengeti, toward the promise of water and sweet new grasses in the
Northern Serengeti and the Masai Mara of Kenya. With their own
promise of a moveable feast, the carnivores tag along, darting
through the shadows in search of the too old, too young or too slow.
This is the great migration—the Greatest Show on Earth.
On april 4, Great Safaris’ rangers, on the ground in Tanzania, had
this to report: “The early rains just started! The migration will soon
be trekking toward the central Serengeti. By the end of May we will
see the huge herds rumble and split—some moving into the western
Serengeti while the balance will turn northward. if the rain patterns
hold, the spectacular crossing into the Masai Mara should take
place between June and July.”
Great Safari’s 10-day Greatest Show on Earth itinerary show-
cases the best of the great migration, from the fabled tree-climbing
lions of Lake Manyara and amazing wildlife of the Ngorongoro
crater, to the outstanding game viewing in the heart of the
Serengeti. common species include lions, cheetahs, leopards, ele-
phants, wildebeest, baboons, warthogs, zebra, giraffe, rhino, and
more. Great Safaris offers year-round daily departures with pricing
starting at $4,975 ppdo. airfares from JfK to East africa good for
travel June 1 through august 10 are from $1,990 plus $178 tax.
additional months of travel are available on request.
Great Safaris offers the convenience of a US booking office cou-
pled with 10 on-site offices in africa fully staffed by dedicated pro-
fessionals. Destinations include Botswana, Kenya, the Seychelles,
Zambia, Egypt, Namibia, South africa, Zimbabwe, Jordan,
rwanda and Tanzania. The company is a member of the United
States Tour Operators association, aSTa Tops, and airline
reporting corporation.
Great Safaris, www.greatsafaris.com
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News42 • MAY 2011
africa
SuSAn MASHibe
SAA AnnounCeS AGenT fAreS STArTinG AT $699 for KAribu TrAVeL And TouriSM fAir in JuLY
South african airways has announced exclusive economy and
business class fares starting at $699 (plus taxes) for travel agents
attending Tanzania’s annual Karibu Travel and Tourism fair in
arusha, June 3–5, 2011.
“South african airways (Saa) recognizes that Destination
Tanzania is in high demand among travelers, and since Saa offers
a same-day connection from JfK to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, we
hope that these special fares will encourage more travel agents to
experience Tanzania for themselves,” said Gregg Truman, Vice
President of Marketing, South african airways. Truman added,
“the Karibu Travel and Tourism fair makes it easier for agents to
meet suppliers all in one place.”
The special airfare is valid from May 27 to June 10, 2011, for
flights from New York or Washington D.c. and can be booked up to
two weeks in advance.
Tanzania’s Karibu Travel and Tourism fair is the largest travel in-
dustry event in East africa. Now in its 12th year, it has become “the
place to meet” for the region’s travel industry partners from around
the world. Part of the uniqueness and excitement of The Karibu
Travel and Tourism fair is that it is an outdoor event that offers a
real safari ambiance. The annual event is organized by the Tanzania
association of Tour Operators (TaTO), Tanzania Tourist Board
(TTB) and the Ministry of Natural resources and Tourism (MNrT).
amant Macha, TTB’s Director of Marketing, added, “Since
america continues to be Tanzania’s number one source market for
tourism, the discounted fare that South african airways provides is
an excellent opportunity to help TTB attract more travel agents to
the Karibu Travel and Tourism fair.”
South African Airways (SAA), 866-359-7227,
www.flysaa.com; Karibu Travel and Tourism fair,
www.karibufair.com
PLAnHoTeL reSorTS And HoTeLS LAunCHeS “STAr of THe eAST–ZAnZibAr”oWned bY renCo SPA
Star of the East in Zanzibar consists of eleven unique villas com-
pletely immersed in a natural landscape. “The gardens and green
areas have been created on coral rock which we had to cover with
soil before planting with plants which had been grown in a nursery
nearby,” explains Dr. Doria, an expert in creating ‘inconceivable’
gardens.
Thanks to significant recuperation of water through ad hoc instal-
lations, green areas are provided irrigation without wasting water.
The grounds have been remodeled so each villa is guaranteed a
splendid sea view.
Project architect since its inception is Dr. Germano aghemo. Both
he and Doria are from Turin, italy. aghemo led the Gemma dell’Est
project in 2004 and in 2007.
Still at Gemma dell’Est, directed planning of the Baobab congress
centre and then continued in 2009 to follow every detail of the
eleven new villas.
Built on almost 4.5 acres, the villas are surrounded by a splendid
botanic garden and a large saltwater swimming pool for guests’ ex-
clusive use—the only one of its kind on the island. Each villa has its
own private pool, a garden full of lush vegetation and a fountain,
with everything located to ensure total privacy. a restaurant is avail-
able to all guests.
President Dr. Passeri said the project is the result of two years’ work
by local workmen supported by italian expatriates under the man-
agement of Dr. Lorenzo Monti, Director of infrastructure Division
and Engineer, and Dr. Marco arcangeletti, Project Manager.
Each villa is built on one level around 2,000 sq ft, and is equipped
with a modern system of solar panels. “This exploits to the full the
natural energy Zanzibar provides every day, says Passeri. “The re-
sort is supplied with a modern purification system and the outgoing
water is used for irrigation in our gardens.”
Drinking water is from wells close to the resort, treated with re-
verse osmosis to reduce salinity. The villas have hydro-massage
baths and outdoor panoramic showers.
With their unique level of service complete with butler, Passeri
confidently describes the property as a paradise fit for the most de-
manding traveler or romantic honeymooners.
Star of the east–Zanzibar; Planhotel,
[email protected], www.planhotel.com
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 43
africa
Renowned for our highly experienced travel specialists
Conveniently available via phone 6:00 am - 6:00 pm PST or online
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www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News44 • MAY 2011
africa
South African Airways Now Non-Stop exclusivelyFrom Johannesburg to New yorkP e T e r G AT T
Here’s some great news to pass on to your Africa
bound clients. South African Airways (SAA) has
announced that its popular New york-
Johannesburg service will now also operate non-
stop from Johannesburg to New york, resulting in the fastest
way to travel between New york and Southern Africa.
Through last month, flight SA203 from Johannesburg to New
york made a 1-hour passenger and refueling stop in Dakar,
Senegal. However starting may 1, flight SA203 will depart
Johannesburg at 8:35 p.m. for a non-stop journey to New york
that will arrive at 6:40 a.m. the following day. The change now
means that SAA offers non-stop flights both to and from New
york’s JFk airport to Johannesburg, South Africa. Having
flown this route nearly a dozen times over the years i will cer-
tainly look forward to being able to fly non-stop in both direc-
tions in the future.
Anytime that you can eliminate re-fuelling stops, extra secu-
rity checks, any passenger disruptions on long-haul travel is a
huge plus and i am sure that this will be popular news with
both your repeat and potential first time Africa clientele. in ad-
dition, when travelers arrive in New york, they will have even
more morning connection choices through a number of air-
lines that can take them to points throughout North America
and the Caribbean.
“Travelers have told us that they truly value SAA’s morning
non-stop service from JFk and the range of excellent, same-
day connection opportunities it affords to more than 40 desti-
nations in Africa. But they’ve also expressed that they would
love it even more if our return flight also operated non-stop,”
said marc Cavaliere, executive vice president, North America,
for South African Airways. “We’ve answered their calls, and are
pleased to announce a return non-stop flight to New york.
Now, they will be able to enjoy more time on the ground in
Southern Africa, in such remarkable places as Cape Town,
victoria Falls or the indian ocean islands, before they begin
their return journey home.”
The updated schedule for SAA’s daily service between New
york and Johannesburg is as follows, effective may 1:
•SA203 – Johannesburg/New york, departs Johannesburg at
8:35 p.m., arrives in New york at 6:40 a.m. the following day.
•SA204 – New york/Johannesburg, departs New york
at 11:15 a.m., arrives in Johannesburg at 8:40 a.m. the
following day.
South African Airways features daily nonstop service from
the U.S. to South Africa with departures from New york JFk
and afternoon direct service from Washington Dulles (with a
stop in Dakar, Senegal) that offer travel convenience and
award-winning service. Travelers in Premium Business Class
enjoy 180° fully flat-bed seats, and in economy Class enjoy the
most legroom versus competitors. every seat on board offers
an individual on-demand entertainment system, pillow, blan-
ket and amenity kit. SAA’s route network features connections
to nearly 20 destinations within South Africa and more than 25
cities across the rest of the continent. To complement this net-
work, a variety of privileges awaits those who join voyager,
South African Airways’ premier mileage program. As a Star
Alliance member, South African Airways is able to offer its cus-
tomers 1,172 destinations in 181 countries and more than
21,200 flights daily, including convenient connections from
more than 25 cities in the U.S. through code share service with
Star Alliance member United Airlines. members of United’s,
Continental’s, US Airways’ and Air Canada’s frequent traveler
programs are able to earn and redeem miles on all SAA flights.
JetBlue Code Share
in other recent South African Airways news, SAA and JetBlue
Airways have announced an expansion of their interline part-
nership, with South African Airways now offering code share
services on JetBlue flights effective march 3rd. The code share
service will be available with SAA flight numbers on JetBlue
flights to 20 cities served by the airline in the U.S., connecting
through either New york’s John F. kennedy international
(JFk) or Washington, D.C. (Dulles) airports and SAA’s
Johannesburg hub, where passengers can access connections
to more than 45 cities throughout South Africa and Southern
Africa. Travelers, whether in Southern Africa or the U.S., can
now book their South African Airways flight between 20 cities
served by JetBlue in the U.S., with the ability to check bags
through for their entire journey.
south African Airways, 800-722-9675, www.flysaa.com
business Class wine service.
A F R I C A B 2 B E X C H A N G E
AFRICA CONNECTION TOURS
SENEGALCultural roundtrips in
West Africa:Discover the hidden treasures of
the Ancient AfricanKingdoms and Empires.
Africa is unique,we shall prove it.
Africa Connection ToursEmail: [email protected]
Phone: (221) 33 849 52 00Fax: (221) 33 821 83 26
www.actours-senegal.com www.natureexpeditions.com
Why Travel with Nature Expeditions?
“To give clients exceptional
service, exemplified by courteous,
professional actions while
subscribing to the highest
standards of morals and ethics
in the tourism industry.”
E A S T A F R I C A
www.acaciaholidays.com
www.robinpopesafaris.net
www.gorillatours.com www.jemialadetours.com
www.tanzaniaodyssey.com
www.nomadroutesadventures.com
www.wildlife-explorer.com
A dedicated quality control departmentthat ensures that standards of punctuality, knowledge and efficiency for drivers and
guest relations’ staff are kept at high levels. Every vehicle must pass a stringent quality control check before being
allowed out on Safari.
In the tropical rainforest of Uganda, Congo and Rwanda lives the rare Mountain Gorilla.
This ‘Gentle Giant’ is one of 11 different primates you can visit in the pearls of Africa:
Uganda and Rwanda. Others include chimpanzees, baboons,
colobus and vervet monkeys – all of which can be seen during our safaris.
But Uganda and Rwanda have much more to offer in terms of nature and wildlife,
and a paradise for birdwatchers.
EXPLORE NIGERIA Experience this vibrant country of
striking contrasts – a combination of traditionand culture with one of the most modern
lifestyles on the African continent –known for crude oil, cultural heritage,
eco-tourism potentials and affordability. Land of a thousand dialects and diverse
ethnic cultures, indeed Africa’s ‘melting pot’.Fun-loving, friendly people ready to welcomevisitors and share their rich cultural heritage.
For special trips anywhere in East Africa
We have garnered a wealth of experience in
creating the perfect safari tour. Our main
focus has been on customer satisfaction.
If you have a passion for wildlife, culture,
heritage, adventure, exploration and mountain
climbing we can turn these dreams into reality.
Unrivalled service and comfort
allow a rare opportunity to
experience first class
accommodations in areas of
outstanding beauty for use
exclusively by our guests.
Each tent is situated for maximum
privacy withuninterrupted views.
Individually designed menus and
a fine collection of wines and
beverages are presented in a candlelit-dining tent in a
tradition of style dating back decades.
We are one of the few Tanzaniasafari specialists worldwide.
Our knowledge of Tanzania, itswildlife, beaches, lodges, andislands (including Zanzibar) is unparalleled; we wrote theCadogan Guide to Tanzania,
now in its second edition, and our experience and enthusiasm
continues to thrive.
Offering the best Zambia safaris –
with private walking safaris, exclusive game
lodges and some of the finest luxury houses
in Africa. With our new lodge, Pumulani
on Lake Malawi, we now offer unbeatable
‘bush and beach’ holidays.
Our unmatched knowledge
of the region enables us to
create a safari that is perfect.
www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News46 • MAY 2011
africa
SouTH AfriCAn AirWAYS nAMeS MArC CAVALiere Sr. ViCe PreSidenT, GLobAL SALeS deVeLoPMenT
South african airways (Saa) has an-
nounced that Marc cavaliere, Executive
Vice President for North america, has
been named Senior Vice President, Global
Sales Development. in this newly created
position, he will oversee several depart-
ments within Saa’s commercial division
including airline alliances, e-commerce,
sales planning, distribution, customer call
centers and regulatory affairs. cavaliere
will now be based at South african
airways’ headquarters in Johannesburg.
a 30-year airline industry veteran, cavaliere joined South african
airways as head of the North american market in 2006. Prior to
that, he served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Distribution for Spirit airlines. He has also served as Vice President
for aviation Management, a leading consulting firm specializing in
South american and Latin american carriers, and in several sales
and airport operations roles for american airlines and Pan am.
Todd Neuman, Vice President of Sales for North america, will
serve as acting Executive Vice President for the region until a re-
placement is named.
South african airways features daily nonstop service from the US
to South africa with morning departures from New York JfK and
afternoon direct service from Washington Dulles (with a stop in
Dakar, Senegal). The Saa network features seamless connections
to nearly 20 destinations within South africa, and more than 25
cities across the rest of the continent.
South African Airways, 800-722-9675, www.flysaa.com
THe bLue TrAin JoinS THe exPLorATeurPorTfoLio
The Blue Train, South africa, has joined the ranks of the world’s
best travel experiences under their new membership agreement with
The Explorateur Portfolio. chosen under the strictest of criteria, the
luxury rail experience joins a prestigious portfolio celebrating ex-
ceptional and brilliant sojourns as individual and savvy as each of
their readers.
The Blue Train is a five-star moving hotel on wheels, proffering
lavishly appointed suites complete with en-suite marble bathrooms,
signature personalized butler service, an award-winning wine list
and world-class cuisine prepared by a team of chefs traveling aboard
each journey. The route travels through the soul of South africa,
showcasing stunning vistas as it glides comfortably en-route be-
tween Pretoria and cape Town, stopping for a charming excursion
just before traditional high tea is served.
readers of The Explorateur Portfolio and its e-newsletter series
are treated to a signature exclusive offer of a complimentary sou-
venir gift en-suite upon embarkation, after being served a delightful
mimosa, glass of champagne and light fare in the departure lounge.
TheExplorateur is a unique forum, filled with positively fabulous
insider information and unprecedented exclusive offers at the
world’s most unique and interesting properties. its perspective is
fun, fresh, fearless and uber-current, delivering honest reviews, de-
tailed destination info, and signature theExplorateur Exclusive of-
fers for subscribers only.
The explorateur Portfolio, www.theexplorateurportfolio.com
SiTA WorLd TourS inTroduCeS LuxuriouSAfriCAn HoneYMoonS
With fine infrastructure, transportation and accommodations and
general political calm making it easy to provide dependable, high-
quality products in africa, SiTa World Tours has introduced two
new africa honeymoon itineraries to their choices.
SiTa’s 10-day/nine-night “South africa and Victoria falls
Honeymoon” itinerary opens to the best of cape Town with wine
tastings in the region’s renowned wineries and opportunities to sam-
ple the breathtaking natural surroundings that include hiking, shark
diving and helicopter tours. Then it’s on to the famous game reserves
and finally to a grand finale at Victoria falls.
an “Ultimate Honeymoon” package pampers honeymooners for
13 days/12 nights exploring South africa from cape Town’s fabu-
lous attractions to the pristine game reserves of Kruger National
Park to a lavish resort on tropical Matemo island and home from
Johannesburg. The “Ultimate” package includes a romantic dinner
on the beach, wine and chocolates in the room, a couple’s massage,
and even special gifts.
SiTa has established a Wedding registry and will make the first
deposit of $100 into a registered newlywed’s account. The Wedding
registry makes it easy for friends and family from across the coun-
try or around the world to contribute and share in the joy of the wed-
ding celebration. SiTa will manage the registry, assist with design
of the Wedding registry information card, send guests an acknowl-
edgement card thanking them for their gift on the couple’s behalf,
and most importantly, expertly handle all the travel arrangements.
Known for customized itineraries and diverse cultural opportuni-
ties, SiTa World Tours enhances africa tours with authentic
experiences. chimpanzee and gorilla trekking, walking safaris,
lavish al fresco dining under the stars, boating excursions, elephant
safaris, surf and fly fishing expeditions, their concept emphasizes
personal experience.
With africa so vast it encompasses practically every climatic zone,
clients can choose a destination based on when they wish to travel
and exactly what they want to see. SiTa World Tours operates cus-
tomized tours throughout the year with itineraries that include
Kenya, Tanzania, the Masai Mara, Tanzania, Uganda, rwanda,
South africa, Mozambique, Swaziland, Namibia, Botswana,
Zimbabwe, Zambia, Madagascar, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Tunisia
and Dubai.
SiTA World Tours, 800-421-5643,
MArC CAVALiere Sr.
Travel World News • www.travelworldnews.com MAY 2011 • 47
africa
GoWAY’S AfriCAexPerTS AddS LeiGH STAfford To reSerVATionS
Goway’s africaExperts has
announced the appointment of
Leigh Stafford to the reservations
department. “Leigh brings a wealth of
experience and expertise to the depart-
ment,” commented Moira Smith,
africaExperts General Manager.
‘Having lived and traveled extensively in
Southern africa she complements our
current team of experts.”
Leigh spent 12 years as a guide
in Namibia followed by three years selling africa in the UK.
She is passionate about conservation and the preservation of
africa’s unique and awe-inspiring wildlife and spent several
years working for conservation and volunteering for wildcat
organizations.
africa is the continent that Leigh calls home and she loves shar-
ing her knowledge and passion.
Leigh is based in the Vancouver office.
Goway Travel, 888-496-2088 (x6336, Leigh Stafford),
[email protected], www.goway.com
TonGAbeZi inTroduCeS CHiLdren To AfriCAWiTH unique fAMiLY HoLidAYS
This month, Tongabezi in Zambia will be opening their com-
pletely renovated Garden cottage, a much-loved family hideaway
with two full-size bedrooms, a private lounge and dining room and
exclusive plunge pool.
Every Tongabezi activity will be available, and a valet and an
activities manager will ensure the visit includes exciting
excursions.
Bigger families can book Tangala House—three double rooms
with en-suite bathrooms and a twin room with a separate bath-
room, a large swimming pool, trampoline, lawn games and vari-
ous board games as well as a television nook.
it comes with a full complement of private staff and dedicated
chef, as well as private guiding and exclusive use of boats and
vehicles.
Tongabezi’s commitment to children on safari extends to meals,
with a dedicated children’s menu and chef to accommodate spe-
cial requests, preferred meal times and separate hosted meals for
kids, allowing adults to enjoy extended excursions and some
grown-up time by themselves.
Specially trained valets provide a safe introduction to the
african continent, which indoctrinates children to notice the
unadulterated joy in wildly diverse cultures, expanding their
knowledge of the world.
Many specially designed activities are offered: tracking the
Tongabezi grounds; visiting Tujatane, where kids can play with
local children to see how they live and learn; fishing challenges,
like learning to fish for the legendary tiger fish; quiz nights (usu-
ally the last night), with pizza and milkshakes and a quiz on
what was learned during the stay (with, of course, an official
Tonga Test certificate).
Other activities are african Bush TV (storytelling around the
fire), and tours of the falls, town center and game drives that can
be tailor-made.
at Mosi-Oa-Tunya game park, kids visit the baby rhino, beetles,
worms, lion ants and learn how to make toothbrushes and other
bush skills.
also, there’s an african Treasure Hunt, campfire drumming ses-
sions, and child-friendly board games in the event of bad weather.
Parents can join in or not, depending on whether they’d prefer a
romantic dinner on the san pan. rates vary depending on choice
of accommodation.
Tongabezi, [email protected],
www.tongabezi.com
KALAHAri SAndS HoTeL & CASino in nAMibiA underGoeS MAJor renoVATion
Sun international’s Kalahari Sands Hotel & casino
in Windhoek, Namibia, is currently undergoing a $14.5-million
refurbishment to refresh its guest rooms, restaurant and pool
deck. The refurbishment is expected to be completed by the end
of May.
Guest rooms will boast multiple enhancements after the
renovation. Each of the hotel’s 173 guest rooms will be refash-
ioned to feature king-size beds, 40” flat-screen TVs and luxurious
full baths with separate showers. The color palette of the
rooms will be earthy and rustic, creating a warm yet relaxing
ambiance.
Kalahari Sands Hotel & casino continues to prioritize energy
efficiency, making further improvements and allowing them to
use 35 percent less energy. New Solaview windows have been
added to shield the room from UV rays, and aluminum window
frames, as well as split-unit air conditioners, have been installed
in all rooms.
The rooftop pool at Kalahari Sands Hotel & casino, a favorite
among guests, will be complemented by the completion of an
entirely new pool deck. The Dunes restaurant and Terrace,
which overlooks bustling independence avenue, now boasts a con-
temporary look with elements of the hotel’s desert theme tastefully
incorporated.
Kalahari Sands Hotel & casino is a leading hotel in Namibia and
promises guests a luxurious stay. The hotel is in a prime location
on Windhoek’s independence avenue and features a variety of
amenities to guarantee guests the best stay possible. The casino
features 150 slot machines along with 11 tables and has sections
for both smokers and nonsmokers.
Kalahari Sands Hotel & Casino, Sun international,
[email protected], www.suninternational.com
LeiGH STAfford
