Jetsettersblog

Spend valuable time together and create lasting memories while traveling as a family this summer. The leader in family travel, Thomson Family Adventures, offers a variety of unique experiences for families in Tanzania. Adventure, pen pals and cultural interactions give families the opportunity to have fun, learn new things together, and create lasting friendships with travel companions.

Tanzania Family Safari
Departures during summer & winter breaks 2011

Painting, Drawing & Wildlife
July 4th – 16th, 2011

Kilimanjaro Trek – Western Approach
June 26th – July 8th & August 6th – 18th, 2011

Active Safari for Families with Teens
July 2nd – 14th & August 6th – 18th, 2011

Custom Tanzania Adventure
Anytime you want!
For over 10 years, Thomson Family Adventures has worked with families to develop truly unique experiences that engage, entertain and educate young and old alike. With adventures ranging from learning painting, drawing and art in Tanzania to trips designed specifically for families with teens, Thomson understands what brings families together. For more information about rates and trip options, contact Thomson Family Adventures at 800-262-6255, or visit www.familyadventures.com

For travelers who are looking to experience the heart of Africa from off the beaten path, the Path of the Maasai Safari with Born Free Safaris is the perfect adventure. Designed for travelers who crave remote spaces, spectacular views, local interaction, traditional ambiance, and being outnumbered by wildlife, the Path of the Maasai Safari brings safety and expertise to a completely authentic African experience. The culture of local villages and the wonder of Tanzanian landscape and wildlife are captured in their traditional and natural magnificence. Travelers won’t feel as if they’re being given the tourist’s route through Africa, but rather, they will feel as if they are taking the first steps across this wild country. This safari is perfect for couples, singles, and families. Born Free Safari’s provides ideal accommodations for travelers of all ages, so the only prerequisite is a desire for true adventure. See the most miraculous sites East Africa has to offer; stay in remote lodges and tents; hike over the ancient terrain; become a part of the life that pulses through the vast and wild countryside.

Born Free Safaris offers the Path of the Maasai Safari tour all year long, and rates vary from $5879 to $6396, both double and single occupancy, and this includes all land arrangements including transportation in open 4×4 Land Rovers, nightly accommodation, meals, a professional tour guide, and all activities as outlined in the itinerary. To inquire about specific dates and day-by-day-itineraries, please call the Born Free office at 800-372-3274, or visit their website at www.bornfreesafaris.com

LONGWOOD, FL.; — This new volunteer vacation, offered by award-winning organization Biosphere Expeditions, takes travelers to the strikingly beautiful coastline of Western Australia to conduct a real scientific survey of iconic Australian flatback turtles. Volunteers will measure and tag turtles, as well as observe and record data about their nesting behavior, and learn how to help collect DNA samples. Biosphere Expeditions gives volunteers a chance to work side by side next to real scientists, providing average travelers with a very hands-on volunteer project, with opportunities to meet new friends while “giving back”. Volunteers work from a remote but very comfortable and modern beach camp with the aim of determining flatback turtle nesting numbers and how far dispersed this genetic population is along the seashore of Western Australia. With Australian flatbacks still listed as ‘Data Deficient” internationally by the IUCN Red List, the actions of this project will go a long way in assisting to fill in the information gaps for this species. Biosphere Expeditions bridges the gap between scientists at the forefront of conservation programs that are in need of funds and helpers, and enthusiastic travelers who during their vacation time and through their hands-on assistance and expedition contributions, want to support them. Dates: November 8-15th, 15th-22nd, 2010. Expedition Contribution: $1620 pp.

Southern Explorations
CONTACT: Justin Laycob
TEL: 877-784-5400
E-MAIL: justin@southernexplorations.com
WEB: www.southernexplorations.com
SEATTLE, Wash.—Southern Explorations, a company that specializes in unforgettable South America tours recently announced their 2011 lineup of adventure tours, and this year, they are offering three unique Central and South America family adventure trips. These family tours give parents and children a personal experience with the outdoor adventure, fascinating cultures, and natural beauty that make Costa Rica, Panama, and Patagonia so unique and exciting.

Costa Rica Tour for Families
This family Costa Rica tour is designed to captivate the imagination of the kids while providing parents with an opportunity to relax a bit. Aside from family-friendly accommodations and easily accessible leisure activities and meals, transportation and transfers are short and effortless, making this an easy trip for families. Highlights of the tour include close encounters with Costa Rica’s exotic wildlife, unique adventure activities like family zip lining tours, exploring the volcanoes and waterfalls of Costa Rica, a visit to the Rain Forest Arial Tram, and much more. Families have the option to drive their own vehicle or choose to have a van with a personal driver. 9 days. Prices start at $2510 per person. Year-round departures.

Panama Family Adventure Tour
Panama, Latin America’s newest eco-vacation spot, is becoming increasingly popular as a family travel destination. Panama vacations offer an ideal mix of deserted beaches, pristine rainforests, and fascinating wildlife. Because of the country’s size and geography, much of the travel in this tiny isthmus is by boat, which gives travelers and exciting perspective. When car rides are necessary, the trips are picturesque and short. On this Panama tour, families will get a personal tour of the Panama Canal, explore tropical Soberania National Park, with accommodation at the family-friendly Gamboa Rainforest Resort, a truly family-friendly destination. The Panama tour is topped off by two idyllic days at Panama’s largest Pacific resort, famous for its white-sand beaches and many swimming pools. 8 days. Prices start at $2,095 per person. Departures year-round.

Family Patagonia Tour
This family tour to Patagonia includes highlights of Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park with accommodations at notable estancias and lodges like Estancia La Tercera, providing families with unique cultural experiences and access to Patagonia’s natural beauty. With its magnificent ocean-side setting and three different eco-systems, this 935 square mile park has been called one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. It is an area of turquoise lakes and stunning mountain vistas, a place to see flamingos and condors, to ride the pampas like a gaucho, and to walk forever on its 155 miles of well-marked trails. With a well-planned, flexible itinerary, travelers will love the freedom and excitement that comes from Patagonia travel, experiencing nature at its most primitive and awe-inspiring. This Patagonia tour itinerary may be modified to fit individual needs and interests, and more difficult activities may be added for families that want a more active itinerary. Vehicle support is provided throughout the trip for additional flexibility on a day to day basis. 9 days. Prices start at $3500 per person. Departures available November-March.

For more information about South America tours with Southern Explorations, visit www.southernexplorations.com

When visiting the Pacific Northwest it’s easy to be stunned by the sheer variety of trips, tours, and excitement to be had. Starting in Seattle here’s a look at 4 adventures to be enjoyed in the region, without too much sensory overload.

The Culinary Adventure
The bustling port city of Seattle is a food-lover’s dream. While it may be best known as the home of fresh fish and Starbucks Coffee, there are many tasty adventures to be had here.

Check in: to Grand Chelsea Mansion for some new world elegance or experience the rustic charms and waterfront views of the Edgewater Hotel.

Sample the city: Once you’ve settled in, start the day with brunch at Anthony’s Homeport and then wander to downtown. What’s a trip to Seattle without a stop at Pike’s Place Market. Have cured meat sandwiches and fresh baked cookies at DeLaurenti and let your senses take in the sights and smells of this Italian deli. After a stop in Market Spice for an exploration of teas and spices, stroll down to Fran’s Chocolates and sample some gray and smoked salt caramels. Grab a pick-me-up at Caffe Vita, could this be the next Starbucks in the making, before heading to Capital Hill’s quirky Bleu Bistro for dinner and cocktails. For a more structured look at Seattle cuisine try a guided walking tour with Seattle Food Tours.

Give your taste buds a rest:Take in the exquisitely restored mansions and trendy galleries that fill the Queen Anne District. In the afternoon check out EMPSFM (Experience Music Project, Science Fiction Museum). The museum is located at the base of the Space Needle and offers exhibits ranging from a look into the Northwest music scene and evolution of the guitar in rock to an upcoming exhibit titled Battlestar Gallactica.

Traveling on: With your belly full prepare to leave Seattle for your next Pacific Northwest adventure. Catch a final glimpse of the Emerald City as you board the ferry to the enchanting Olympic Peninsula. If you get a little green around the gills on boats soar to Port Angeles on a Kenmore Air Shuttle.

The Cultural Adventure
The Olympic Peninsula is rich in natural beauty and culture. From quaint seaports to towering mountain ranges and lush rainforests the sights, sounds, and smells of this region offer a variety of exploits for the senses.

Check in: While in Port Townsend enjoy waterfront views and a touch of history while staying at the Clam Cannery Hotel. This restored historic all suite destination boasts views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Cascade and Olympic Mountains. For a tranquil escape try Observatory Point B& B. Nestled into the hills outside of Port Angeles, this peaceful B&B has a 360 degree view of the Olympic Peninsula’s splendor.

History and culture collide: Travel to the western most tip of Washington, Cape Flattery, for a glimpse into Native American life in the area. The Makah, one of five tribes found on the Olympic Peninsula, shares a look into their past at the Makah Culture and Research Center with artifacts discovered at a 500 year old site, once buried beneath the mud. Also on display: cedar dugout canoes and a full size long house replica. Next take a day to visit Port Townsend. In addition to striking marine views this charming Victorian seaport showcases quaint art galleries and shops. At the waterfront the Northwest Maritime Center aims to keep the area’s wooden boat heritage alive. Spend an afternoon watching a regatta or at a festival hosted by the Wooden Boat Foundation.

A sip and nibble: If the weather’s nice drive over to Finnriver Farm and Cidery for a look at sustainable agriculture and a sample of homemade hard cider. Also stop by Mt. Townsend Creamery for a taste of local artisan cheeses.

Traveling on:Cruise the royal blue waters of the Juan de Fuca Strait from Port Angeles to the start of your Canadian voyage. The Victoria Express will have you in international territory in less than an hour. From Victoria to Vancouver fly carbon neutral on a helicopter charter with Helijet.

The Adventure in Nature
Vancouver boasts a multitude of things to do for any type of traveler, but one of the best ways to get to know this bustling Canadian city is to chill out and explore the natural sights Vancouver has to offer.

Check In: Stay in the heart of downtown Vancouver at a bed and breakfast full of luxury, ambiance and unique Canadian history. Here, at the O Canada House, Ewing Buchan penned of the first English versions of Canada’s national anthem in 1908. This beautiful guest house offers a Victorian setting in one of the West End’s most historical buildings. www.ocanadahoue.com

For Nature Lovers (and everyone else): Less than a 15 minute walk from O Canada House is one of Vancouver’s premier getaways, Stanley Park. This 1,000 acre park is North America’s largest urban wilderness and is considered one of the world’s great parks. There are walking paths through lush gardens, world famous landmarks and wildlife areas. There are also tasty restaurants, art shows and entertainment scattered throughout.

Ride the Trails: A must-do in Vancouver is a ride along the 5.5 mile sea wall path. Rent a bike or a tandem bike to ride along the scenic waterfront close to Stanley Park and ending at Kitsilano Beach Park.

Water’s Edge: After the ride to Kitsilano Beach, take some time to lounge around the hip locale. Get some grub at the Boathouse Waterfront Restaurant, take a dip in the oceanside heated outdoor saltwater pool or just sit in the sand while taking in the sights.

Traveling On: Head north for a wildlife experience unlike any other. The drive from Vancouver to Port Hardy is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful drives in North America. However, the farther north you get on Vancouver Island the more rugged the land becomes. So, if driving doesn’t sounds all that appealing, there are direct flights with Pacific Coastal Airlines. There are also ferries from Vancouver with BC Ferries.

The Wildlife Adventure
Great Bear Nature Tours offers world-class wildlife viewing excursions in the Great Bear Rainforest. Excursions are based at the remote Great Bear Lodge, where one can savor the rare gift of close observation of grizzly bears living in their natural habitat and still be treated to wilderness-gourmet cuisine and soft beds at night. Trips range from three days to seven.

A walk on the wild side: Great Bear Nature Tours has constructed viewing stands along the river. From here, guests can watch the grizzlies fish for their favorite source of protein – salmon. Although, for days when the bears are munching on sedge or lounging around the forest, Great Bear will take guests viewing in boats. Three viewing tours are held each day and are designed for the grizzlies most active times.

Wildlife viewing without roughing it: The Great Bear Lodge is a five bedroom floating ecolodge that can only be reached by seaplane from Port Hardy (this flight is included in your stay). The lodge has a common area, cozy rooms with washrooms and showers located downstairs. There is a spacious wrap-around deck perfect for enjoying a glass of wine at the end of the day. There is an on-site chef who creates meals from local, organic ingredients and can cater to any allergy.

Tigers, lions and bears … oh my: No you won’t see tigers and lions, but there is a good chance you will see Bald Eagles, Great Blue Herons, Harbour Seals, River Otters and possibly mammals such as dolphins, Humpback Whales or Orcas.

Traveling on: You can fly from Port Hardy back to Vancouver and take a flight home from there. You can also take a ferry or drive back down to Seattle.

Lower Nightly Rates + Exclusive Amenities = More Excitement for Less at Puerto Rico’s Finest Hotels & Resorts

MIAMI, Fla. – This spring, a selection of hotels and resorts within the Hilton Worldwide portfolio in Puerto Rico are encouraging travelers to tap into their adventurous side and rejuvenate with an escape to the tropical island of enchantment – where no passport is required for travel by U.S. Citizens. Now through April 30, 2011, vacationers who book online at www.PuertoRicoGetaways.com  and stay at least two nights can create their own unforgettable Caribbean getaway with 20 percent off room rates, a resort credit of up to $100, 50 percent off on select tours for children and a $25 casino match bet coupon.

Available at seven Hilton Worldwide properties throughout the island, the new “Puerto Rico is Exciting” promotion is valid on bookings now through April 30, 2011 for travel between April 1 and October 9, 2011. Additional promotion details and starting rates are as follows:

With “Puerto Rico is Exciting” rates starting at $159, El Conquistador Resort, A Waldorf Astoria Resort offers a complete experience including the Coquí Water Park; the private, 100-acre Palomino Island, which features white sand beaches and recreational activities; the award-winning Golden Door® Spa ; an Arthur Hills 18-hole golf course featuring a driving range, putting green and golf demonstration clinics for the entire family; seven tennis courts; a casino; a 35-slip private marina featuring deep sea fishing excursions and scuba diving; and an array of unique dining options. El Conquistador Resort’s sister property, Las Casitas Village, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, is offering the promotion with rates starting at $195. Las Casitas Village, recently named one of the Top 30 Caribbean Resorts by Conde Nast Traveler, features private villas with full kitchen facilities, butler service, exclusive dining options and a breathtaking infinity pool – the ideal locale for a romantic escape or for families seeking a more luxurious retreat.

Located just five minutes from the airport in the fashionable Isla Verde district, El San Juan Hotel & Casino, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is now offering “Puerto Rico is Exciting” rates starting at $249. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, El San Juan Hotel & Casino is a renowned landmark featuring lavishly designed rooms; an extensive selection of dining and entertainment venues; La Galeria, a European-style walking village of boutiques; a 16,500-square-foot casino; the Edouard de Paris Spa boasting a variety of unique massages, facials and body treatments; and the alluring new Encanto Beach Club.

Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza, which features a unique downtown beach location with stunning panoramic views, is offering “Puerto Rico is Exciting” rates starting at $199. The hotel boasts guestrooms with rich décor; a variety of contemporary, flexible public gathering spaces; a 24-hour casino; water sports; tennis courts; San Juan’s only saltwater pool; a private outdoor massage area; a game room for kids; and a self-serve laundry facility ideal for families. In addition, the hotel houses two of Chef Wilo Benet’s restaurants, Varita and Pikayo.

“Puerto Rico is Exciting” rates at Caribe Hilton, San Juan start at $249. Centrally located just minutes from the heart of Historic Old San Juan, Caribe Hilton sits beachfront on an exclusive peninsula comprised of 17 acres of lush tropical gardens. Already famous as the birthplace of the piña colada, the resort is also known as the city’s largest hotel with 910 guestrooms, including suites and the Condado Lagoon Villas. Caribe Hilton features a secluded beach; oceanfront swimming pools; a children’s club; a full-service Olas Spa; and Morton’s Steakhouse. “Puerto Rico is Exciting” rates at the nearby Condado Lagoon Villas start at $249.

The “Puerto Rico is Exciting” promotion at Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort offers rates starting at $179. Guests can enjoy an affordable secluded beachfront escape, just a few miles from the historic downtown area of Ponce. With an array of recreational facilities, the Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort offers a beautiful free-form pool; Jacuzzi®; fitness room; tennis courts; sauna and spa; casino; and Costa Caribe Golf & Country Club, with a 27-hole Championship Golf Course designed by Bruce Bessy. Dining options range from lavish breakfasts served at La Terraza to the trendy La Cava.

To see why “Puerto Rico is Exciting” and book a visit during this limited-time promotion, call 1-888-564-1307 or visit www.PuertoRicoGetaways.com  Travelers should mention the booking code “P2” for all of the above hotels. Blackout dates may apply and vary by property.

*Offer valid for stays booked now through April 30, 2011 and completed between April 1, 2011 and October 9, 2011 at participating hotels and resorts within Puerto Rico. Offer is subject to availability and requires a minimum stay of two consecutive nights. Earn a $25 resort credit for two nights; $50 for three nights; $75 for four nights; and $100 for five or more nights. Resort credits are per room and may not be used towards room rate, taxes, gratuities and resort/service fees. Credit will be applied to folio at time of checkout. Unused portions of the credit will be forfeited at checkout and not reimbursed in cash or applied to future stays. Maximum of 2 children up to 12 years old qualified for the 50% discount on participating tours. Offer includes one $25 casino match bet coupon per room per stay to be redeemed at the casino where room is booked. For stays at Caribe Hilton San Juan and Condado Lagoon Villas at Caribe Hilton, the casino match bet coupon is valid only at the Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza’s casino. Casino match bet coupon is not redeemable for cash and hotels are under no obligation to replace lost or stolen coupons. Offer cannot be combined with other select promotions, discounts or offers and is not valid for group bookings. Each hotel has a policy to address deposits, cancellations and blackout dates that may apply. To book online at participating hotels, please request Plan Code “P2″. To book by phone, please call 1-888-564-1307 and request the “Puerto Rico is Exciting” offer.

Renew and recharge with an overnight package, spa treatments and spring menus at
Oregon Wine Country’s premier destination resort

NEWBERG, OREGON, March 18, 2011 – With the first days of a new season around the corner, Oregon’s wine country is framed by budding plants and trees and stunning sights and sounds. This spring, The Allison Inn & Spa offers several experiences to renew and recharge the senses. From menu items highlighting seasonal ingredients directly from the Chef’s Garden to personal outdoor yoga sessions and special ways to celebrate Easter and Mother’s Day, guests will leave with a spring in their step.

Spring Renewal Package

The Spring Renewal Package evokes a “spring fever” mood and includes two nights in a luxury guest room; two 90-minute custom facials in The Allison Spa using seasonal ingredients from the garden; a $50 credit per person to be applied in the salon; use of the indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and fitness studio and overnight valet parking. The package starts at $434 per person through May 26, 2011 based on double occupancy.

Easter Brunch at JORY, Sunday, April 24, 2011

A perfect place to gather family and friends on Easter, JORY presents a festive buffet menu created by Executive Chef, Sunny Jin. Choose from an array of salads and appetizers; savory entrees and a waffle, omelet and carving station at this garden-to-table inspired brunch buffet. Save room for Pastry Chef Shelley Du Plessis’ assorted pastries, tarts and cookies. Easter brunch is $48 per adult and $19 for children ages 5-10. Reservations recommended by calling 503-554-2526.

Celebrate Mom … in Gratitude, Sunday, May 8, 2011

Though every day should be Mother’s Day, this special day is set aside to honor mothers. Celebrate with joy, love and laughter as The Allison Spa shows gratitude to mothers with a $25 gift credit to the retail boutique with any two spa treatments booked. New merchandise arrives regularly, including artisan jewelry, signature robes, scented candles and soaps, books and wine. Services must be taken on the same day and mention the promotion at the time of booking. Spa reservations recommended by calling 503-554-2524.

Yoga in the Garden

Yoga fuels and restores the body, mind and soul. Perfect for the area’s spring and summer weather months, Yoga in the Garden commences July 3 and nature hikes take advantage of The Allison Inn’s surroundings. Private yoga lessons available all the year long are $70 per person or $90 for two persons with advance notice. The yoga instructors welcome all levels.

In our Chef’s Garden

The Allison resident gardener has been busy carefully selecting and planting vegetables in the one-acre garden. These vegetables will be incorporated into JORY’s new menus. Guests can look forward to: Thumbelina carrots, Padron peppers, imperial artichokes, cylindra beets and 50 varieties of tomatoes, etc.

Pinotini Cocktail

Another excuse to spend time in JORY Bar or the Living Room, mixologist Ken Bolick has created the Pinotini, a nod to the area’s well-known pinot noir grape. Made with Oregon pinot noir, Lillet blanc, Ciroc vodka and a touch of fresh lemon juice and agave syrup, the Pinotini is paired perfectly with the Friday & Saturday evening jazz performances. Visit the Allison website calendar to note featured artists.

The Allison, thoughtfully placed on 35 hillside acres, is independently owned and operated, has 85 deluxe guest accommodations, inclusive of eight suites and guest rooms span four levels. All accommodations have fireplaces, window seats, a balcony or terrace and spa-like bathrooms. Room rates are reasonable by California luxury resort standards, while delivering a similar quality guest experience: $305 – $1,100 based on single/double occupancy.

JORY, The Allison’s 100-seat signature restaurant, offers Oregon Wine Country Cuisine with an emphasis on a seasonal menu and fresh, local ingredients, many from the Chef’s Garden. The wine cellar boasts 700 wines and 50 wines by the glass. A private dining room, JORY Bar, a Chef’s Table and an Open Kitchen complete the culinary offerings, along with 24-hour in-room dining. Thursday nights, the Celebrity Wine-Tender events showcase local vintners.

The Allison Spa, nearly 15,000 sq. ft., the largest in Oregon, features 12 treatment rooms, three lounges, outdoor, landscaped garden terraces and fire pits, organic spa products complemented by ingredients grown in the garden, a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, saunas, steam rooms, Fitness Studio and a retail boutique.

For information or reservations, phone toll-free 1-877-294-2525 or 503-554-2525. Please visit: www.theallison.com  as well as on Facebook and Twitter. The Allison Inn & Spa is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts Boutique segment and is located at 2525 Allison Lane, Newberg (Willamette Valley), Oregon 97132 (less than an hour from downtown Portland and two hours from the Oregon Coast).

Overlooking Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps and surrounded by its very own private park, the Baur au Lac offers the ideal setting for a romantic getaway. For newlyweds, the hotel is now offering a special three-night honeymoon package, with highlights including opera tickets at Zurich’s historic opera house and a romantic boat ride on Lake Zurich.

The honeymoon package includes:

Accommodations in a River Suite
Complimentary cocktail at the Rive Gauche restaurant or the Terrasse upon arrival
In-room welcome package, including a bottle of champagne, strawberries, a box of Baur au Lac’s signature chocolate, “Chocolat 1844,” and flowers
Five-course meal for two at the hotel’s Pavillon restaurant (excluding beverages)
Rose petal-filled bathtub
Limousine transfers to and from Zurich airport
Two opera tickets (advance reservation required)
One-and-a-half-hour boat ride for two on Lake Zurich
Complimentary access to the hotel’s fitness club

Valid through December 31, 2011, the offer is priced from CHF 4,346 (approximately US$4,712) per person, based on double occupancy and inclusive of VAT and service charges.

For more information, visit: www.bauraulac.ch

Free Eco-Inspired Events and Activities Support National Efforts of

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants Across the Country

MIAMI – As the world prepares to celebrate Earth Day on April 22, Kimpton’s EPIC Hotel in Miami announces a week-long series of environmental, service-focused events and activities for guests, staff and the local community.

EPIC is one of 51 hotels and 52 restaurants across the country helping to honor Kimpton’s 30 year commitment to environmental responsibility and care by bringing Earth Day to new heights with the launch of Kimpton’s EarthCare Week, from April 15 – 22, 2011. The celebration comes as the U.N. Environment Programme (UNEP) announced recently that one of the fastest and most promising green industries is sustainable tourism, with travelers paying increasing attention to green travel service suppliers, and opting for more green travel choices.

EarthCare Week is a national Kimpton celebration that builds upon the company’s devotion to environmental responsibility and will inspire guests to give back to the local communities when they stay, eat and play with Kimpton. In Miami, local community members, hotel guests and restaurant diners can participate in Kimpton EarthCare Week events via the following scheduled activities hosted by EPIC:

Friday, April 15 – Friday, April 22:

• Pedometer Days: to promote a more environmentally-friendly and healthier alternative to driving, EPIC is encouraging guests to walk during “Pedometer Days.” Pedometers will be made available at the front desk and progress will be tracked during daily wine hour, with prizes awarded to guests, and their pets, who log the most steps.

• Restaurant Launch Weekend: In partnership with the local and organic, Paradise Farms, Area 31 presents the following specially-created “100% organic EarthCare Week” five- course menu for guests priced at $55 per person and offered exclusively for dinner:

o Green Crunch Vegetable Salad with Watermelon Radish & Rhubard Vinaigrette

o Heirloom Carrot Soup with Chic Pea Fritter & Hanni’s Goat Cheese

o Toasted Quinoa with Poached Quail Egg, Smoked Tofu, and Pickled Spring Onion

o Braised Faro with Kale, Creamed Adzuki Beans, & Roasted Oyster Mushrooms

o Staff Picked Carambola with Passion Fruit & Caramel

Sunday, April 17:

• Community Service Project Day: EPIC Hotel employees will spend a day at “Roots in the City,” an urban farm in Overtown, FL. There, the group will cultivate, plant, weed and seed throughout the three-acre plot of land, in an effort to help maintain and sustain the urban farm for the local community.

Monday, April 18:

• Round-Up Recycle Day: EPIC Hotel invites the community to drop off their unwanted electronics for recycling. Local electronics retailer, Best Buy, has agreed to handle the recycling and will offer a gift card for items turned in.

• Yoga on the Lawn: Between 6:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m., Exhale spa will hold a complimentary Vinyassa Flow with a live DJ on the EPIC lawn for guests and employees to encourage outdoor activity, health and wellness.

Tuesday, April 19:

• Plant a Tree: A team from EPIC will conduct a special tree-planting ceremony on the Trust for Public Land Miami Circle Historical Site located across from the hotel.

• Lights Out Power Hour: From 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., EPIC Hotel will host wine hour by candlelight to conserve energy.

Wednesday, April 20:

• Community Awareness Day: EPIC Hotel will welcome second graders from local elementary schools, courtesy of the Early Learning Coalition of Miami-Dade/Monroe, to meet with EPIC’s Director of Engineering, who will educate them on energy conservation and recycling.

Thursday, April 21:

• EPIC Hotel will host a fundraising and awareness-building event for the Trust for Public Land on the 16th floor pool deck from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Attendees and guests will enjoy complimentary cocktails from Bacardi, complimentary organic wines from Naked Winery, and complimentary hors d ‘oeuvres. A donation is encouraged to attend the event, which will also include a silent auction. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Trust For Public Land. Local environmentally-conscious businesses and vendors will also be showcased during the event. To attend, or for more information, contact Christina Loria @ Christina.loria@epichotel.com or 305.967.7303.

“Since our opening in 2008, EPIC has maintained its commitment to environmental responsibility, doing its part to contribute to a more sustainable world,” said Joe Schwingler, EPIC’s general manager. “We are pleased to participate in Kimpton’s EarthCare Week while encouraging our guests, staff and the local Miami community to do their part as well.”

In April 2010, Kimpton’s EPIC Hotel earned its Silver level Green Seal certification in recognition of its environmental responsibility. Green Seal certification is an important third-party validation of Kimpton’s more than 100 environmentally responsible operational practices. Under Kimpton’s EarthCare program, the company is able to more effectively measure its nationwide reductions in waste, energy and water consumption.

Kimpton’s innovative EarthCare initiatives date back to the company’s inception in 1981 and include several industry firsts such as in-room recycling bins and the use of non-toxic cleaners brand-wide. Diners at Kimpton restaurants have access to increased sustainably produced wine selections on menus, can take advantage of in-house purified water through a national partnership with Natura® and enjoy sustainable seafood dishes in accordance with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program. In 2010, under the direction of master sommelier Emily Wines, Kimpton introduced a Wines on Tap program at restaurants across the country to provide fresh wine by the glass, strengthen relationships with local vineyards, conserve corks and reduce waste. New initiatives that were recently added to Kimpton’s more than 100 daily environmental practices include converting certain paper products to Fiberstone, a tree-free, water-free, natural paper alternative and converting to printer ink with a 70/80 ratio of bio-renewable content (higher BRC than soy ink).

To learn more about Kimpton EarthCare Week events and happenings at EPIC, visit www.EPIChotel.com To learn more about Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and other EarthCare Week events going on at other Kimpton Hotels, please visit www.lifeissuite.com,  www.Facebook.com/Kimpton  and www.Twitter.com/Kimpton.   Read the Jetsetters Magazine feature about the Epic Hotel.

MUNICH, GERMANY,– Cinemas across Munich are gearing up for the annual International Documentary Film Festival, also known as Dokfest.

Returning to the Bavarian capital for the 26th time this year, the event is due to begin on Wednesday May 4th and will run for seven days.

The festival, which was founded by local filmmakers in 1985, aims to maximise the exposure of creative documentaries while providing directors with a platform to showcase and discuss their work.

It has played host to some of the biggest names from the world of factual filmmaking over the last 20 years and continues to be a major highlight of Munich’s cultural calendar.

Although the programme for this year’s event will not be formally released until the end of April, visitors can expect plenty of premieres, classic retrospectives, workshops and discussions based on the latest trends in the world of documentaries.

In addition, prizes for the best features will be handed out by a jury of international experts.

The 2010 edition of the festival saw approximately 12,000 people enjoy 72 different films at six venues.

Screenings take place at cinemas, museums and cultural centres across the city, giving visitors a chance to explore Munich and enjoy the movies at the same time.

Individual film tickets are priced at EUR8 (GBP7), while those intending to see more of the festival can buy a full pass for EUR7