Jetsettersblog

Company is Offsetting Carbon Emissions on all of its 2011-2012 Tours

Adventurers seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences in foreign lands need look no further than one of Adventure Center’s award-winning tour suppliers, Dragoman. A new 68-page Overland Tour and Adventure Holiday brochure from Dragoman details 11 new trips and a product range more diverse than anything offered before by the 30-year-old adventure travel company. The company has also announced it is offsetting carbon emissions for all tours for the 2011-2012 seasons. From a five-week tour between Dakar and Accra, an area known for its bustling markets, colorful festivals and music, to a camel safari into the Kyzyl-Kum Desert, to a 12-day discovery of the land of the Incas, Dragoman’s itineraries offer no shortage of memorable experiences to those who enjoy wandering off the beaten path. Adventure Holidays are shorter and make greater use of local transport, allowing real life experiences and less impact on community resources, while Overland Tours, which can range upwards of 22 weeks, use specially-designed Mercedes trucks, and focus on genuine cultural interaction with local people.

The new trips, in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and South America, continue to follow Dragoman’s service philosophy: more inclusions at low prices; a passionate, well-trained crew; unique itineraries that incorporate lesser known, fascinating areas; responsible travel; always look for ways to offer local interaction and community support; and a more intimate travel experience – with a maximum of 21 travelers on Overland Tours and 12 on Adventure Holidays – and the option of private charters.

As passionate about preserving local culture as they are about exploring it, Dragoman has always created itineraries that aim to give something back to the incredible areas they visit. The Overland Tours often include community projects – ranging from the Karmi Farm clinic in India to the Inca Trail & Quechua Project in Peru – designed to create understanding about local issues while actively helping. Many of the itineraries include village and home stays, which put money directly into the local community, and visits to charitable foundations. The Adventure Holidays have smaller groups and favor local transport such as overnight trains, feluccas, private air-conditioned mini buses and tuk-tuks; physical challenge and comfort zone ratings help guests to choose the trip that is right for their needs.

In an effort to reduce even further the impact of travel on the environment, Dragoman has offset the carbon emissions for all of their trips in 2011 and 2012. The brochure offers tips for responsible travel and ways that individuals can contribute to the effort.

Additional information, brochures and reservations, can be obtained from travel agents or Adventure Center’s visitor-friendly web site, www.adventurecenter.com; or by phone: U.S. (800) 228-8747; Canada (866) 338-8735. Canadian travel agents needing bulk orders of brochures can order them at www.hippoexpress.com  in Canada while U.S. agents should call Adventure Center.

Adventure Center has provided world-class, affordably priced adventure travel experiences with one-on-one advice for more than 35 years. Formerly known as Trek Escapes/Trek Holidays in Canada and Adventure Center in the U.S., the company’s Travel Specialists have personally traveled to more than 130 countries and offer knowledgeable guidance to guests in selecting an “adventure of a lifetime.”

Tourists able to save big money on tropical island’s hire cars thanks to award-winning website.
Travellers and tourists can enjoy the best value for money Barbados car hire when holidaying on the tropical island thanks to new deals from award-winning online hire comparator Carrentals.co.uk. The website helps travellers save on car rental in more than 10,000 places around the world.

The Carrentals.co.uk service compares deals from all over the web to help tourists save, and offers the best deals from providers like Thrifty, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise and Hertz. So if the traveller wants to source and secure the best value car hire Barbados deals around, whether on simple saloon cars or big family SUVs, they can compare and save on the website.

Seeing the sights and scenery of Barbados can be expensive by rental car if the traveller doesn’t book ahead. Prices for Barbados hire cars booked on arrival at the island’s Sir Grantley Adams International Airport are prohibitively expensive to many, so the Carrentals.co.uk online advance comparison and booking services are the way to save.

Gareth Robinson, Managing Director of Carrentals.co.uk, said, “Our mission is to always get people the best deals on rentals wherever they are, and right now we can offer some outstanding value Barbados deals. Collecting a car at the airport and then heading off to your resort or hotel is the perfect way to start a vacation.”

Carrentals.co.uk compares car hire deals from more than 50 rental providers, including Alamo, Auto Europe, Budget, Holiday Autos and Sixt, in over 10,000 locations worldwide. To compare the latest car hire deals visit www.carrentals.co.uk.

About Carrentals.co.uk
Carrentals.co.uk was launched in February 2003 and grew to become one of the UK’s leading online car hire companies by 2006.

In 2007 the company re-launched its site to create the first major online price comparator in the travel industry. Using the latest technology the Carrentals.co.uk site now searches up to 50 different car hire websites, providing an impartial comparison of the best prices available in over 10,000 locations.

Websites searched include Alamo, Auto Europe, Budget, Ebookers, Hertz, Holiday Autos, Opodo, Sixt and Thrifty, with the Carrentals.co.uk site quickly comparing prices and allowing customers to refine their search by car type.

The Carrentals.co.uk site also features over 5,000 pages of travel information in a mini-guide format.

In 2008 Carrentals.co.uk was voted Best Car Hire Website in the Travolution Awards, and in 2010 it was Highly Commended in the Best Meta-search/Price Comparison category. To book or for further information visit www.carrentals.co.uk

CODY, Wyo.- The West was founded from the saddle. Today, horses remain the focus of the authentic Western travel experience. Dude ranches are popular destinations for riding adventures, with the leaders of the pack belonging to The Dude Ranchers’ Association. Since its creation over 85 years ago the DRA has worked to keep the highest standards in horsemanship, hospitality, and heritage in their member ranches. For a true cowboy experience try a pack trip in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness this summer with Deep Canyon 7 Guest Ranch or a California cattle drive with Hunewill Guest Ranch. At Colorado’s Wilderness Trails Ranch get a “horsecentric” education during a weeklong clinic with Erika Roberts, professional natural horsemanship clinician. Many ranches have special programs for families with small children as well. Picture the whole family in participating in a special rodeo after a week at the ranch. Whether you’re looking for a bit of trail riding between rounds of golf or a learning to pen cattle, the Dude Ranchers Association has a ranch vacation for you.

www.duderanch.org

Chile Expediciones
WEB: www.southexpeditions.com

QUITO, ECUADOR – Custom tour designer Juan Rodriguez of Chile Expediciones is inviting North American tour operators and travel companies to bolster their 2011 trip catalogue with a custom itinerary featuring the adventure, culture and gastronomy of Chile.

Chile Expediciones specializes in designing and operating completely custom tour programs for their distribution partners, enabling their partners to provide exclusive travel experiences for their clients in areas like Chilean Patagonia’s spectacular Lake District, or the Colchagua Valley, South America’s own Napa Valley. Juan Rodriguez, founder of Chile Expediciones, has been conceiving, planning and operating high-quality custom trips throughout Chile and South America for the over 18 years. Juan has always preferred to work with North American tour operators and travel companies, which allows him to focus solely on creating amazing, exclusive experiences that meet the high standards of his partners and their clientele.

Chile Expediciones is part of South Expeditions, a leading travel group with over 18 years of experience arranging a wide array of high-end customized trips and excursions for individuals, families and groups in Latin America. Their three companies, Travel Ecuador, Chile Expeditions and Galapagos Endurance are committed to designing and providing unique and wonderful experiences that will create lasting memories for their guests.

Goway Travel is offering day trips to Antarctica from Chile. “Antarctica is one of our most popular destinations and as the economic times improve, there has been a marked increase in bookings” said Don Forster, Goway’s product and marketing manager for Latin America. “Offering some of the most pristine natural sites in the world plus the chance to be adventurous by camping on the ice, kayaking by huge rookeries of penguins or simply enjoying the four daily landings and 18 hours of daylight, now is the time to travel to Antarctica with these amazing savings.”

Goway Travel offers a number of ways to visit this remote continent, from the day trip by plane to the peninsula, to an eight-day Antarctica by Air, Land and Sea, which saves time on the Drake Passage crossing. Also available is the classic itinerary taking in the best of the Antarctica Peninsula — 11-Day Antarctica Dream or the 14-day Quest For The Antarctic Circle.

Goway also offers the opportunity to take in the diversity of the Falklands Islands on a 17-day South Georgia And Peninsula trip. This itinerary also offers a trek across South Georgia similar to that taken by Sir Ernest Shackleton. Further enhancing these five choices to visit Antarctica are options to camp overnight, Kayak, ice climb or even scuba dive. The 2011 Latin America travel planner features these journeys to Antarctica as well as a selection of travel ideas in Central and South America. To order your copy of the Latin America Travel Planner, call 888-469 2955, email info@goway.com or visit www.goway.com. Goway offers travel experiences to Africa, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America and island destinations. For more information, call 800-387-8850 or visit www.goway.com

Newly uncovered pieces of Vietnam’s past have been stitched together and showcased for the first time in an updated edition of “Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi,” published last month by the Most Famous Hotels in the World. The book, which chronicles the Metropole’s 110-year story, features compelling characters and stories set in one of Asia’s most illustrious hotels.

The fifth edition of “Metropole Hanoi” presents historically important anecdotes, excerpts and photographs freshly mined by author Andreas Augustin, who founded The Most Famous Hotels in the World in 1986 to research and safeguard the history of legendary hotels. The Metropole has seen the likes of Graham Greene, Somerset Maugham and Charlie Chaplin walk through its doors. The hotel also witnessed two wars, the first public film showing in the country, and some of Hanoi’s most progressive and dramatic years. For more information, email mcm@sofitelhanoi.vnn.vn or visit www.sofitelhanoi.vnn.vn

Laos unveiled plans to develop three islands on the Mekong River as “green resorts” for visitors to Vientiane Capital. Vientiane’s City Planning and Investment Department is encouraging private investments in hotels and other facilities on the river islands of Xingxou, Sangkhi and Kangkhong. The aim is to develop the sites “as green resorts offering relaxation and water sport activities such as jet skiing and fishing,” the Vientiane Times reported.

The islands are currently used to grow vegetables and other crops to supply the city. Xingxou island would require an investment of about $120 million, while Sangkhi and Kangkhong need an estimated $10 million each, a government spokesperson said. Laos has previously granted foreign investors permission to develop tourist facilities on Mekong River islands in the Don Chan District of Vientiane and in the northwestern province of Bokeo. Vientiane’s Planning and Investment Department believes developing river island resorts could attract more international tourists to the capital. Last year, an estimated 2 million foreign tourists visited Laos and more than 2.2 million are forecasted to arrive in 2011.Vientiane offers 37 official tourist sites including Buddhist temples, around 320 hotels and guesthouses, and 70 restaurants.

Quark Expeditions said the Akademik Ioffe has sailed its final voyage for the polar specialist. The former Russian research vessel converted to an expedition ship had become out-dated, said Quark President Hans Lagerweij. “The 21st century polar travelers want cabins with private facilities, stylish public areas, and a choice of places to congregate to share a drink,” he said.

The 107-passenger vessel was a time capsule of the early years of polar travel, when spartan efficiency was enough to satisfy the early adopters. The contemporary polar traveler is more sophisticated, unwilling to forgo the creature comforts for the thrill of adventure.

The 112-passenger Sea Spirit, Quark’s first luxury vessel, will fulfill the Ioffe schedule in the Antarctic in 2011-12. Every cabin has king or twin beds, facilities en suite, a seating area and exterior views. Some cabins have balconies. Drinks are free and a 10MB communication access card is included in the per-person price.

The education program, shore landings and concern for the environment that polar travelers have come to expect from Quark are transferred to Sea Spirit. Its limited capacity ensures the ship is eligible to visit all Antarctic landing sites.

Polar travelers who book an Antarctic cruise aboard Sea Spirit will save 15 percent off the published fares if they book before April 29. This savings does not apply to triple cabins, but it does apply to the ship’s Owner’s Suite.

Quark Expeditions has extended its hours. Phones now are open 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, Monday through Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. For more information, call 888-892-0171 or visit www.quarkexpeditions.com

Following her debut in January 2011, Oceania Cruises’ first new-build luxury cruise ship `Marina’ will offer two ex-UK cruises in summer 2011 as part of her inaugural European cruise season, before returning to her current winter destination of the Caribbean for winter 2011/12. The company will offer a further three ex-UK cruises, from Dover and Greenwich, on board their two mid-sized luxury cruise ships Regatta and Insignia.

Regatta will cruise a 12 night sailing from Greenwich through the North Sea to call into ports along Norway’s west coast, and down to Copenhagen, fares from £2,421pp, departing on 11th June.

Insignia will cruise from Dover on 11th July and 8th August, offering two cruises to ports in Belgium, Holland, the Baltic States, Russia and Scandinavia. Fares from £2790 pp.

The 1250 guest, beautifully appointed `Marina’ will sail from Dover on 15th July on her 14 night `Northern Knights’ round trip cruise of the coast of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, also calling into Norway, the Shetland Islands and the Isle of Man, with fares from £3,102 per person.

Marina’s second ex-UK ‘no-fly’ departure, on 29th July, leaves Dover for Amsterdam, Bruges and a cruise of France’s Atlantic west coast, down to Santander in Spain and returning to Dover 12 nights later. Fares are currently offer from £1199pp, including a saving of up to 50% plus $1,000 onboard credit per stateroom.

Cruises include all meals (including specialty restaurants), complimentary soft drinks and bottled water, excluding flights.

To find out more about Oceania Cruises, visit www.OceaniaCruises.co.uk  or call 0845 505 1920.

Summary of Oceania Cruises’ ex-UK sailings in 2011

1) ex-Dover, Round UK, Marina 15th July
2) ex-Dover, France’s Atlantic Coast, Marina 29th July
3) ex-Greenwich to Scandinavia, Regatta 11th June
4) ex-Dover, London, Belgium, Holland, Baltics, Russia, Scandinavia, Insignia 8th August
5) ex-Dover, London, Belgium, Holland, Baltics, Russia, Scandinavia, Insignia 11th July

Tiny tots to tricky teenagers – finding a holiday to suit the whole family isn’t always easy. Fear not, Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort in Playa Blanca, on the idyllic island of Lanzarote has the answer and with the launch of two new fun filled family packages there could be nowhere better for your family getaway this summer!

The Princesa Yaiza children’s park, Kikoland offers an exceptional 10,000m2 of space filled with sporting facilities for all age groups to enjoy. From tennis courts and football classes to shows in the amphitheatre, Kikoland is popular with both little ones and older children alike, offering hours of family fun. Combine this with special family accommodation, delicious children’s menus in the restaurants and a lively activity programme Princesa Yaiza offers an unforgettable holiday experience for all.

Booking a family holiday at Princesa Yaiza is now even easier with the launch of two new family packages.

For Family Enjoyment Package

The package includes: Free entry to Kikoland, breakfast buffet, fruit and chocolate in room upon arrival, slippers and robe for children and adults for use during their stay, two hours of free baby sitting during the holiday, Princesa Yaiza Circuit in the Thalasso Centre, Kiko surprise gifts for children upon arrival, juice, water or sparkling wine as a welcome drink, a romantic dinner for two with a gourmet menu at the gourmet “Isla de Lobos” restaurant

Princesa Yaiza offers 7 nights’ accommodation for 2 adults and 2 children in a suite measuring 77m² based in the Family Enjoyment Package from €2,267 (£1,939*)
To book please contact www.princesayaiza.com or call +0034 928 519 206

Royal Family Getaway Package

The package includes: Free entry to Kikoland, breakfast buffet, slippers and robe for children and adults for use during their stay, juice, water or sparkling wine as a welcome drink, Kiko surprise gift for children, a romantic dinner for two with a gourmet menu at the gourmet “Isla de Lobos” restaurant, two hours of free babysitting during the holiday, personalised check-in, bedroom with specially decorated with children motifs, extra mini-bar with a varied assortment of products for children, fruit and chocolate in room upon arrival.

Princesa Yaiza offers 7 nights’ accommodation for 2 adults and 2 children in a Royal Kiko Suite with two bedrooms and two independent bathrooms based on the Royal Family Getaway Package from €3,247 (£2,777*)
To book please contact www.princesayaiza.com or call +0034 928 519 206

Family Highlights:

Kikoland Children’s Club

With children always in mind, Princesa Yaiza has developed excellent facilities for new born babies to teenagers. A young person’s paradise, Kikoland offers extensive sporting and leisure facilities supervised by a first-class and professional team of entertainers – the hotels mascot Kiko even pops in daily to say hello! Play huts, pools, children’s sports area, amphitheatre, cinema, Play Station room and snack bar are all available to enjoy.

Knowing that different age groups take pleasure in different activities, Princesa Yaiza has adapted each of the Kikoland play huts accordingly. The Cooky play hut has been kitted out to ensure that those under two are perfectly looked after with cots, baby bottle heaters, microwave, nappy changers, special play area with inflatable castle and small swimming pool. Hooky is a hut for children from three to six years, with colourful swings, pool and everything they could possibly need to play, paint and dress-up. Children from seven to eleven will have a whale of a time in Kiko, a hut where sporting activities (volley-ball, mini-basketball, tennis and table tennis) and games are organised. While in Gremlyns teenagers from twelve upwards can enjoy board games and Play Stations without little terrors getting in their way!

In the evening there is a whole host of activities for the family to enjoy, from shows such as Mary Poppins and Beauty & the Beast in the Kikoland amphitheatre to the always-popular mini disco and movie nights.

Royal Kiko Family Suites – The Ideal Family Accommodation

The Royal Kiko Family Suites are a big draw for families, featuring two bedrooms, one of which is especially designed for children with colourful contemporary motifs, Play Stations and beanbags. The Suites even offer a living area with stylish kitchenette, ideal for making lunches and snacks. Alternatively, the Kiko Snack Restaurant is located near the Royal Kiko Family Suites and offers a delicious array of light bites made especially for tiny taste buds.

Family Dining

With eight dining options including both a la carte and buffet, Princesa Yaiza offers exceptional value and is sure delight even the fussiest of eaters with delicious creative menus. Restaurants range from traditional Spanish, Mexican, Japanese and Italian cuisine to the gourmet slow cooking concept in Isla de Lobos Restaurant, all of which offer special dishes for little ones, there’s even a restaurant dedicated to families in the Family Suite area. At breakfast children are kept entertained by Kiko, who pays a visit to say good morning and invite all children to join the day’s activities.

Babysitting

For guests wanting to venture out sans-enfants, babysitters and nannies can be booked on a 15€ hourly rate, 20€ after midnight.

Featuring five large swimming pools, a 50 treatment room Thalassotherapy Spa, atmospheric Plaza and boutique shopping options, Princesa Yaiza is a holiday both adults and children can enjoy!
www.princesayaiza.com