[جتستّرسبلوغ]

[توب-فليغت] إفريقيا مع هواء حرّة

[غلندل], [ك-] إفريقية [ترفل], [إينك.] specialists in luxury African safaris, is offering free round trip air fare to Africa — worth more than $1,500 — on a pair of safari itineraries from October through December. Travelers can choose from a 12-day South Africa and Victoria Falls trip or 13 days in Northern Tanzania, both offering topflight accommodations and services. Designed for individual parties, both safari packages depart any day of the week and can be customized with optional extensions and other arrangements. Prices are per person, double occupancy.

The Great Migration, 13 Days Tanzania, from $11,195 per person

This safari combines northern Tanzania’s finest wildlife viewing with luxury lodgings. Highlights include 4 nights in the Serengeti with daily wildlife viewing, the famed Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most unique caldera in the world; Tarangire, one of Tanzania’s “secret” wildlife havens and home to a large elephant population; and Manyara National Park in the Great Rift, with its hippos and flamingos.

Beginning and ending with a night in Arusha, the itinerary spends two nights each at Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater, one night at Manyara National Park, and four nights in the Serengeti. Included are roundtrip air fare from New York, luxury accommodations, 29 meals, and daily game drives and other wildlife activities with highly trained guides. Accommodations are “Wildebeest” level, and include Arusha Hotel, Tarangire Tree Lodge, Lake Manyara Tree Camp, Crater Lodge at Ngorongoro and – for maximum wildlife viewing — Mobile Migration, a mobile camp in the Serengeti.

Depending on the month of departure, prices begin at $8,795 per person, based on double occupancy for November. October and December prices are slightly higher. Single supplement begins at $2,595. Round trip economy air fare from New York to Kilimanjaro is free for travel from October through December; Business class air fare is available upon request. Taxes, fuel surcharges and security fees are additional. Travelers can spice up their trip with an optional extension to Zanzibar.

Southern Explorer, 12 Days: South Africa & Victoria Falls, from $9,975

Capetown, Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls combine on this 12-day odyssey. Two days are spent at the legendary falls with three days each in Cape Town and Kruger National Park, plus an overnight in Johannesburg en route from Kruger to Victoria Falls and prior to departure. Two full days touring Cape Town plus a dinner with a Capetonian family are followed by a stay at Singita Private Game Reserve, including morning and afternoon wildlife drives. At Victoria Falls a walking tour and an evening sundowner cruise on the Zambezi provide various vistas of one of the world’s highest falls.

Top-of-the-line accommodations for “Ebony Class” departures are at the Cape Grace in Cape Town, at Singita Boulders/Ebony in the Sabi Sands, the Saxon in Johannesburg, and the River Club at Victoria Falls. Price includes 20 meals, accommodations, all transportation, sightseeing and safari drives in an open vehicle.

“Ebony Class” departures from October – December are $9,975 per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement is $2,875. Economy class air fare from New York to Cape Town with return from Johannesburg is free for departures from October through December (black-out dates apply). Flights to Victoria Falls and Kruger National Park are additional. Business class air fare is available upon request. Taxes, fuel surcharges and security fees are additional. Travelers can extend their trip to savor more of South Africa with optional tours to South Africa’s renowned Cape Winelands or Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve.

About African Travel, Inc.

Since 1976 African Travel Inc, under the leadership of its Founder and Managing Director, Dave Herbert, has designed custom-tailored, luxury vacation experiences to the African continent and beyond for discerning travelers. African Travel Inc.’s offerings stretch from Cape Town to Cairo, the Seychelles islands, Mauritius, Madagascar and Dubai. Travel + Leisure magazine named African Travel, Inc. one of the top ten tour and safari operators in 2007.

In keeping with its philosophy, African Travel encourages preservation and economic development through a number of activities, including donating a portion of profits to wildlife conservation and cultural preservation.

For more information on African Travel Inc.’s custom-tailored trips, see your travel agent, phone (800) 421-8907 or (818) 507-7893. Information is also available at http://www.africantravelinc.com  or by emailing ati@africantravelinc.com

Remembering Gorillas in the Mist

Baobab Expeditions in Partnership with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
Baobab Expeditions
www.baobabexpeditions.com

Remembering Gorillas in the Mist: Baobab Expeditions in Partnership with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

Denver, CO— This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Academy Award nominated movie, Gorillas in the Mist, starring Sigourney Weaver as real-life naturalist Dian Fossey and her work in the Congo with Mountain Gorillas. Although Dian Fossey died in 1985, her legacy continues on today in many forms. The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International (DFGFI) is dedicated to the conservation and protection of gorillas and their habitat in Africa. Baobab Expeditions, a company that takes modern day explorers on expeditions around the world, was hand-picked by the DFGFI for partnership as their travel provider due to Baobab’s unique, exploratory approach to expeditions through Africa and its conviction to support both wildlife conservation and community organizations.

As a result of this partnership, Baobab Expeditions has created conservation travel itineraries in partnership with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund that are specifically designed to give guests a greater insight into how this charity operates while providing adventurers with an unforgettable vacation experience. These expeditions give travelers the opportunity to view gorillas in the wild and visit Fossey’s historical stomping grounds. Since Dian Fossey’s death, DFGFI has continued and expanded her pioneering work with endangered gorillas. In addition, DFGFI now operates programs for education, health, and economic development in local African communities.

Some of the activities of the DFGFI include:

Daily monitoring, protection and study of the mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans, from the world-renowned Karisoke Research Center, founded by Dian Fossey. The center also operates educational programs, shares its scientific database with scientists and conservationists throughout the world, and provides training in tracking, anti-poaching, research, and other techniques.

Working with a series of community-based preserves and national parks in the Democratic Republic of Congo, to help protect a unique eco-region that is home to the endangered Grauer’s gorilla and many other rare species.

Helping to bring a healthier environment to local communities through health education, medical treatments, clean water, and disease prevention programs.

Supporting special needs of local communities decimated by war, including orphanages, widows’ organizations, women’s business groups, and small-scale economic development.

Providing educational opportunities, programs, and resources for local populations.

A portion of every Baobab trip booking goes towards this worthwhile organization. Trips are from 4-12 days and departure dates are year-round.

Air France Launches Congo Service

Air France began serving Pointe-Noire, in the Republic of the Congo, three times weekly. Departures are from Paris on Thursday, Sunday and Tuesday; return flights are Mondays, Fridays and Wednesdays.

Crew Wanted For 600 BC Sailing Expedition

Phoenicia Fact Sheet The search is on for keen sailors to take part in an ambitious expedition which aims to recreate the first circumnavigation of Africa believed to have been completed by Phoenician mariners almost 3,000 years ago.

The Phoenician Ship Expedition will set sail this summer from the ancient Syrian port of Arwad, which is where the 70 ft replica vessel is being built.

Led by Philip Beale who successfully headed the Borobudur expedition in 2003-04 sailing a replica 8th century Indonesian trading vessel from Indonesia to West Africa, this latest venture is more ambitious and will see the ship cover 17,000 miles over 12 months before she arrives in London.

“You don’t have to be Ellen MacArthur to take part in this project, although she’d be most welcome. We’re looking for people who have a sense of adventure and curiosity to be part of a small team in what will inevitably be challenging circumstances. We want a multination crew and obviously not everyone can take so long away from work and family commitments so we’d welcome applications from people who could come for part of the voyage” said Beale.

The Phoenicia team are in need of specialist skills such as medical, culinary, IT and photographic expertise as well as experienced and novice sailors. Applications forms are available to down load from the projects website www.phoenicia.org.uk

ALICIA KEYS AFRICA DOCUMENTARY online

AVAILABLE FOR EXCLUSIVE DOWNLOAD ON SPIRALFROG

SpiralFrog was selected by the non-profit organization, Keep a Child Alive (KCA), to be the exclusive download partner for the documentary of Alicia Keys’ month-long journey through Africa.

NEW YORK, NY, - SpiralFrog, Inc., (www.spiralfrog.com) the free and legal, ad-supported web-based music service, today announced it was selected by the non-profit organization, Keep a Child Alive (KCA), to be the exclusive download partner for “Alicia in Africa: Journey to the Motherland,” the documentary of Grammy Award-winning musician and Keep a Child Alive (KCA) Co-Founder, Alicia Keys’, month-long trip to Africa to visit communities affected by HIV and AIDS.

Keep a Child Alive is the non-profit organization that engages the public for a-dollar-a-day to buy the life-saving anti-retroviral drugs that keep children and their families alive in Africa. Alicia’s commitment to the fight against AIDS is contagious and she is leading the effort to spread the message of KCA, “Start a Virus to Stop a Virus,” virally, so she has selected a number of prestigious interactive media partners to help get the message out. Running April 9 - May 19, the full-length film will be available for download exclusively at SpiralFrog.com with information provided and donations accepted at www.AliciainAfrica.com

“We are proud to support the efforts of Keep a Child Alive and Alicia Keys,” said Matthew Stern, vice president of marketing for SpiralFrog. “This is a powerful and important story to tell. We hope to help make a difference in the lives of the African children affected by AIDS by driving donations to AliciainAfrica.com.”

“We have received extraordinary support from the music and entertainment industries,” says Leigh Blake, founder of Keep a Child Alive. “We are incredibly grateful to those organizations and celebrities who demonstrate their support by helping us generate awareness and donations for the families and children battling this disease everyday.”

SpiralFrog is enlisting the help of its advertisers in further spreading awareness by creating turn-key, cross-platform sponsorship packages. The exclusive availability of ‘Alicia in Africa’ on SpiralFrog will include promotion on American Idol on April 9th, advance screenings of the documentary on college campuses, viral marketing and an email marketing campaign that will reach over 20 million people. Additionally, Alicia Keys will also be embarking on her US tour in more than 30 cities to let Americans know where to find the film and how they can help. SpiralFrog will be promoting the exclusive availability to download the film on the ground at each of these events.

“Supporting artist initiatives and organizations like Keep a Child Alive is important to us,” said Joe Mohen, chairman and founder of SpiralFrog. “Our members are active and aware and want to know what is happening in the world. This is a serious issue and we are proud to play a part in spreading the word and opening the eyes of many who may not know how devastating the impact of AIDS is in Africa.”

“Keep a Child Alive is an amazing charity and we applaud every effort they make in helping to change the world,” said Mel Schrieberg, CEO of SpiralFrog. “Alicia Keys’ efforts with the organization are noble and extraordinary. We hope to help their efforts by offering this film to watch again and again, and motivate active support.”

When downloaded from SpiralFrog, “Alicia in Africa” will play on multiple formats, including PCs and Macs.

About SpiralFrog

Headquartered in New York, SpiralFrog (www.spiralfrog.com) is a Web-based advertising-supported music experience that combines music discovery tools with free and legal downloads of audio and video content licensed directly from the catalogs of the world’s leading music owners. With more than 2.6 million monthly uniques, over 900,000 registered users, 1.1 million songs and 4,000 music videos, SpiralFrog offers music-lovers a compelling alternative to illicit file-sharing and pirate sites, with a secure environment for them to satisfy their unyielding passion and thirst for music and entertainment information at no cost.

About Keep a Child Alive

Keep a Child Alive is a charitable and educational foundation committed to accelerating action to combat the global AIDS pandemic. With more than 28 million dead and 15 million orphaned, the disease continues, wiping out whole societies, threatening economic infrastructures and creating tragic family devastation. KCA provides life-saving medication, social support, and orphan care, to keep these children and families alive. KCA also develops global awareness campaigns targeted at boosting funding for the fight against HIV/AIDS. For just a dollar a day, you can help save the life of a child or a parent who cannot afford essential treatment and care in some of the world’s poorest countries. http://www.keepachildalive.org

Africa Adventure Consultants a Safari Leader

Boutique Safari Operator Now Offering Carbon Neutral Travel

BOULDER/ DENVER, CO - Africa Adventure Consultants continues to lead the industry with innovative safari design, and now they are pleased to announce the launch of a comprehensive effort to reduce carbon emissions as well. Africa Adventure Consultants has joined forces with Sustainable Travel International (STI) on its pioneering TravelGreen™ program, which allows Africa Adventure Consultants to offer carbon neutral safaris to travelers. Africa Adventure Consultants is STI’s first African safari operator partner implementing a sophisticated program that offers carbon offsets on every safari the company sells.

“Carbon neutral” means the point at which greenhouse gas emissions have been identified, measured, reduced where possible, and 100% of the remaining emissions have been offset through high quality renewable energy or energy efficiency projects. Total greenhouse gas emissions are a factor of the air travel to get to Africa as well as the style of safari people enjoy. Sustainable Travel International assists in determining the total greenhouse gas emission per traveler, and Africa Adventure Consultants then absorbs 50% of that amount and provides the option for the traveler to offset the remaining 50%.

“We’ve found that our clients not only appreciate our initiative to protect and preserve the delicate ecosystems of Africa, but appreciate being given the voluntary opportunity to contribute directly as well.” said Kent Redding, President of Africa Adventure Consultants. “Earlier this year we worked to make our Denver office 100% carbon neutral, we continue to carefully select game areas in Africa that operate under sensitive environmental standards and now feel that Carbon Neutral travel is the next logical step. What does this mean for our clients? We are providing a way to travel to Africa with a limited negative impact on the environment.”

Africa Adventure Consultants also works with their African partner companies to reduce CO2 emissions by implementing solar and wind power schemes, reduce wood burning, protect land to create carbon sinks, and more.

Proceeds from purchased offsets are invested by Sustainable Travel International into high-impact sustainable development projects, including reforestation, renewable energy and energy conservation. These projects, which also benefit local communities, are located throughout Africa and other regions. Sustainable Travel International provides carbon offset projects that are independently verified by third-party sources.

The projects must verifiably reduce greenhouse gas emissions according to the CDM Gold Standard, consistent with the principles of the Kyoto Protocol, or meet the standards set forth by the Climate, Community, and Biodiversity Alliance. In 2007 Sustainable Travel International received the highest ranking in an independent study of carbon offsetting programs commissioned by the environmental group Clean Air-Cool Planet.

About Sustainable Travel International

Sustainable Travel International is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote sustainable development and eco-friendly travel by providing programs that help travelers and travel-related companies protect the environmental, socio-cultural and economic needs of the places they visit, and the planet at large.

About Africa Adventure Consultants

Denver-based Africa Adventure Consultants organizes safari adventures throughout East and Southern Africa, with destinations including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Namibia, Botswana, Malawi, South Africa, Zambia and Victoria Falls. The company sells destinations they know personally and offer guests assurance of strong on-the-ground partnerships with only the best local companies. Africa Adventure Consultants supports a variety of African conservation organizations, community-based tourism programs and humanitarian causes. With an eye on personal service, the principals create customized trips for individuals and small groups.

To learn more, please call 1.866.778.1089.

Biggest Earth Day Ever Fast Approaching

Top African Travel Providers Promote Sustainable Travel Practices

In 1970, Earth Day founder Gaylord Nelson, then a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, proposed the first nationwide environmental protest “to shake up the political establishment and force this issue onto the national agenda.” The Fazendin Portfolio, representing top African travel companies, takes the conservation of Africa’s delicate ecosystems very seriously and enthusiastically supports the global environmental initiatives that have been successfully implemented since the first Earth Day nearly four decades ago. Tourists are demanding environmentally friendly options and Africa’s finest travel providers are responding with a variety of programs in 2008.

Express Travel Group: The greatest eco-challenge facing Kenya today is finding the perfect balance between utilization and conservation of natural cultural resources to ensure sustainability. Kenya’s tourism is dependent on natural and cultural resources both of which can either be degraded or lost altogether if not properly utilized. Express Travel Group’s “Green Kenya” itinerary takes all this into careful consideration. By fostering exceptional relationships with some of Kenya’s most respected eco-friendly properties, this itinerary combines the best of the classic safari experience with enlightening environmental and community programs.

African Latitude: African Latitude strives to increase working relationships in safari operations with local communities in Kenya and Tanzania. Not only does the company have strong relationships with these communities, but they have created partnerships whereby the Masai people are directly involved with and benefiting from the tourism industry – the ultimate model for sustainable tourism today. The company is now building a community lodge which will bring benefit and employment to the local communities, linking different communities bordering conservation areas and national parks in East Africa and encouraging these communities to create their own conservation projects with the ultimate objective of helping them reap economic benefit from wildlife protection.

Choroa Luxury Safaris: Choroa Luxury Safaris operates luxury mobile safaris in Tanzania, which involves erecting tented camps for each individual safari group and completely removing these camps once the group is done — leaving absolutely no trace and minimal impact on delicate African ecosystems, including the famed Serengeti and Ngorongoro conservation areas.

EcoTraining: Thriving on the foundation that education powers conservation, EcoTraining provides “hands on” travel experiences for adventure travelers across the globe. EcoTraining’s philosophy is that no one can truly appreciate Africa’s wild places without actually spending time in the wild. Whether looking for professional safari guide training or for a learning vacation with a difference and an opportunity to experience the African bush first-hand, EcoTraining strives to educate and instill the great passion for and protection of the African bush in travelers from around the world.

Heritage Hotels: Kipungani Explorer Lamu, the stunning resort on Kenya’s Lamu Island recently announced its commitment to a long-term plan that will ensure that only local staff and materials are used in the development and maintenance of this property. Already considered the finest property on Lamu, this five-star property has proven that it doesn’t require giant generators, imported foods, or state-of-the-art gadgets to keep guests happy. By combining the latest environmental technologies with traditional local knowledge, Heritage Hotels is working to create a model for sustainable ecotourism throughout East Africa.

Dinknesh Ethiopia Tour: The Danakil Depression is considered a “cradle of mankind” for the large number of hominid remains found there. Only the Afrar people have been able to inhabit this difficult region, and continue living today as nomads tending to their livestock. This combination of culture, topography and climate make the Danakil Depression an exotic and mysterious destination for eco-travelers featuring the stunning landscapes and beautiful, enduring people of this remote region of Ethiopia.

The Fazendin Portfolio represents African travel companies providing classic African experiences. From luxury tented camping safari experiences to unique cultural adventures, this collection representing Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and South Africa was developed specifically with the needs and desires of North American adventure travelers in mind. Ever dedicated to environmental conservation, the company recently launched a comprehensive marketing CD including detailed information on the complete representation portfolio which has eliminated the need to print large brochures. To learn more about these eco-friendly travel options in Africa please visit http://www.fazendinportfolio.com/  

TRAVEL DYNAMICS AFRICA CRUISES

New York, NY – Observing elephants in Gabon’s Loango National Park, visiting the lush vineyards of Stellenbosch, South Africa, taking in a mask dance performance in Mali’s Dogon Region and exploring ancient ruins in Libya’s Leptis Magna may appear to have little in common, but with cultural and expedition cruise company Travel Dynamics International these are just some of the dramatic excursions to take place on the African continent from winter 2008 through fall 2009.

Nine customized Africa itineraries take passengers to remote attractions generally inaccessible to individual travelers or passengers sailing aboard the mass cruise liners. “Each year we’re thrilled to design special voyages for our passengers to experience the myriad facets of Africa,” said Vasos Papagapitos, founding co-president of Travel Dynamics International. “The continent’s raw scenic beauty and wildlife, rich culture and ancient history are in ever greater demand among discerning travelers, and Travel Dynamics International is gratified to offer them unique entrée into these natural and man-made marvels.”

Among the new and back-by-popular-demand cruises are:

Desert Kingdoms and Imperial Cities: A Christmas /New Year’s Voyage from Casablanca to Dakar - The ideal itinerary for holiday adventurers, this December 18, 2008 - January 2, 2009 cruise aboard the 34-guest Callisto embraces exotic culture—including the oral storytellers, jugglers, snake charmers and magicians of Morocco Marrakech’s Djemaa el-Fna Square—and evocative nature, as in the arresting silence of Mauritania’s desert and mountains. Guests will ring in the New Year in tropical Senegal to rhythmic drumbeats and Marche Soumbedioune’s colorful crafts.

Coexistence of Cultures and Faiths: Christianity, Islam and Judaism in the Maghreb and al-Andalus – This exploration of the three great monotheistic faiths in North Africa and Southern Spain unfolds in March 2009, with two nights in Marrakech before embarking on Callisto and sailing for the Moroccan towns of Essaouira, Casablanca and Rabat. An overnight excursion to Fez celebrates one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the world. Crossing the Strait of Gibraltar into Spain, where Islamic culture was well entrenched before the 8th-century Moorish invasion, guests will come to know the most treasured cities of al-Andalus: Seville, site of the Alcazar, and Granada, home of the incomparable Alhambra Palace.

The Road to Timbuktu and the Rivers of West Africa – A Travel Dynamics International favorite, this two-week voyage has departures in January and February, 2009. Prior to embarking on Callisto in week two, travelers will savor the dazzling attractions en route to fabled Timbuktu, including the Grand Mosque of Djenne, the bustling city of Mopti and the Dogon region, where mask ceremonies, vibrant rock paintings and mystical cliff dwellings await the culturally inquisitive. Transporting guests to Timbuktu is a chartered plane. Once aboard ship, the group will cruise down the Gambia and Saloum rivers of Senegal and The Gambia, experiencing the extraordinary villages and wildlife of the Kiang West National Park and the Makasutu Culture Forest. The voyage concludes amid the vibrant markets, fine museums and storied slave history of Dakar.

West Africa Discovery: Desert Cities, Imperial Capitals and Natural Treasures - This is a unique opportunity to cruise along the west coast of Africa from Dakar to Casablanca, with departures from February – March, 2009. Senegal, the poster country of new urban Africa, will intrigue cultural questers through such attractions as the Marche Soumbedioune, while those seeking the quiet beauty of the desert and mountains will revel in Mauritania’s natural offerings. This 13-night cruise aboard Callisto also features Marrakech’s magical Djemaa el-Fna Square.

South Africa by Sea - Beginning with two nights in Cape Town, this March 19-April 3, 2009 voyage aboard the board the all-suite, 114-guest Corinthian II boasts a number of calls not usually available on South African cruises. Travelers will enjoy touring Stellenbosch wine country and the bold Cape Peninsula mountains before tacking west for the acacia woodland of Hluhluwe-Umfolozi National Park, home to rare black rhinos; Addo Elephant National Park; and Port Elizabeth’s Victorian architecture. Humpback whales might be sighted off the bow as the ship forges through Richards Bay into cosmopolitan Durban.

A Voyage from the Cape of Good Hope to Gibraltar: Exploring the Cultural & Natural Diversity of Africa – For those who want to do it all, this grand voyage of March 31 - May 4, 2009 follows in the wake of the early explorers and merchant ships of the 18th and 19th centuries. Corinthian II will traverse the length of Africa’s Atlantic coast, calling at ports and exploring destinations largely unknown to travelers. Embarking in Cape Town, the port city near the landmark Cape of Good Hope, guests will explore virtually every country along Africa’s west coast: South Africa, Namibia, Angola, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe, Cameroon, Benin, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Mauritania and Morocco, before reaching the Rock of Gibraltar and wrapping up in historic Seville. This is an unprecedented opportunity to observe ancient cultures and tribal customs as well as landscape and animal life, from the dunes of Namibia to the wildlife of Gabon’s rainforests and from the markets of Ghana and Senegal to the medinas of Morocco.

Ancient Lost Cities of Libya and Tunisia: Greco-Roman Civilization Between the Desert and the Sea - History buffs and adventure seekers can get up close and personal with the ancient Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans who settled the coastal cities of Libya and Tunisia and turned them into centers of power. This nine-night cruise aboard Corinthian II during May – June, 2009 introduces travelers to Libya’s Leptis Magna–the capital of Roman North Africa–from the Arch of Septimius Severus to the Severan Forum and the Hadrianic Baths. Other attractions include the historic medina of Tripoli, also in Libya, and the impressive Roman amphitheater of El Djem in Tunisia. This voyage culminates in a visit to Crete and its historically rich town of Chania.

North Africa’s Mediterranean Coast Through the Centuries – On this expansive journey along North Africa’s entire Mediterranean coast, guests will sail aboard Corinthian II from Egypt to Morocco, discovering marvels like the Roman ruins of Djemila; the old city of Tlemcen; the World War II battlefields of Tubruq; and Libya’s Greco-Roman cities. The 16-night cruise (plus one night in a Cairo hotel) in October-November, 2009 will also explore the walled holy city of Kairouan, Tunisia, the Islamic world’s preeminent pilgrimage site after Mecca and Medina, and consider Tangier’s history of invasions, from the Phoenicians in the 7th century B.C. to the Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Visigoths and, in the 8 th century, the Arabs.

Passage to Leptis Magna: Exploring Ancient Landmark Sites of the Mediterranean - As the pioneer of cruise travel to Libya, Travel Dynamics is pleased to introduce travelers to its historic shores and monuments. This eight-night cruise (plus one night in an Athens hotel) in October, 2009 begins with an exploration of Athens and Crete’s historically compelling town of Chania before Corinthian II sets sail for North Africa. In Libya, participants will stroll through ancient Cyrene and Apollonia, and on to the Roman ruins of Leptis Magna, the most lavish ancient city of North Africa. They will also visit Tripoli’s Jamahiriya Museum and the remains of coastal Sabratha before sailing back to Athens via Pylos, with a visit to the Mycenaean Palace of King Nestor.

Rates begin at $6,995 per person, including suite accommodations, shore excursions, open bar, with wine served for lunch and dinner, and all taxes. For bookings contact Amalia Ciprijan at 212 774 1511 or email Amalia@travdyn.com.

The TDI Experience

Travel Dynamics International enjoys a peerless reputation of excellence in small-ship cruising, established in nearly forty years of operating and creating unique itineraries for the inquisitive traveler.

For additional information, call 212 774 1534. Visit the enrichment cruise company’s website at http://www.traveldynamicsinternational.com/

B&Bs With Underground Railroad Ties

Commemorate Black History Month by staying in places where slaves were welcomed

Austin, TX – Throughout January and February, Americans celebrate the history and accomplishments of African-Americans with Martin Luther King’s birthday in January and Black History Month in February. In recognition, BedandBreakfast.com describes B&Bs that were once “conductors” or “stations” on what came to be known as the Underground Railroad. Relive history with a stay at one of these historic BedandBreakfast.com B&Bs, listed below, alphabetically by state.

Amelia Island Williams House, Fernandina Beach, FL: According to family stories, Marcellus A. Williams bought this home in 1859, allowing escaped slaves following the Underground Railroad to use his home as a haven during their journey to freedom. Built in 1856, this mansion included a trap door in the dining room closet, offering access to a secret room where slaves could hide.

Inn at Aberdeen, Valparaiso, IN: The renovation of this 18th century home revealed a hidden ladder beneath the old entry closet floor, leading the owners to believe that the house served as a way station for the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. The inn linked a known “safe site” in nearby Hebron with other locations to the north.

Christopher’s B&B, Newport, KY: Throughout 2008, stay in the Loretta or Beverly Rose Junior Jacuzzi room and receive two adult tickets to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Through museum exhibits and films, learn how enslaved Black Americans were able to achieve freedom against overwhelming odds. The package price is $135 and includes a one-night stay and two adult tickets to the Freedom Center. Additional nights may be added for $105 plus tax.

Hall Place B&B, Glasgow, KY: Here is one place where the Underground Railroad was literally underground. A cave under this B&B linked to a network of other caves that eventually surfaced at a nearby spring. Access to the caves through this B&B and a number of other nearby homes gave this area the nickname “Cave City”. Judge Christopher Tompkins, once a teacher for Abraham Lincoln and an Underground Railroad supporter, built Hall Place for his daughter. When he died, his will named each of the slaves working in his home, offering to care for them throughout their lives.

Ashley Manor, Barnstable, MA: Dating back to 1699, this historic B&B has a secret passage that can still be seen connecting the upstairs and downstairs, thought to be a hiding place for Tories during the Revolutionary War, and later, a temporary hideout for slaves. Allegedly, slaves climbed down a ladder, still found in the closet of the King George Suite, to reach the cellar, then fled into the night.

The Tern Inn & Cottages, Harwich, MA: Under the living room rug, a small round door leads to a unique little round cellar that has survived 150 years of restoration, remaining intact and undisturbed today. The trap door is still easily found, as the floor sags and creaks when one walks over the spot. They say that the cellar was used to hide runaway slaves awaiting ships going north to Canada.

Lathrop House, Springfield, MA: This inn’s location is convenient for visiting the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center in Hartford, CT, providing an intimate glimpse into the life of the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Also about a half hour away is the Connecticut Freedom Trail, a tour of buildings reportedly used on the Underground Railroad. In celebration of Black History Month, a complimentary second night or second room is offered for February 2008 bookings, plus a 20 percent lodging discount in 2008 for visitors who visit one of these historic sites during their stay.

Samuel Fitch House, Westford, MA: The innkeeper grew up in this home and spent hours climbing through a basement tunnel believed to be part of escaped slaves’ route on the Underground Railroad. The childhood bedroom offered a large walk-in closet with bookshelves in front of a removable wall, where it is believed slaves hid next to the warmth of the house’s chimney. Guests can still explore the tunnels and see movable walls on historic inn tours.

Cambridge House B&B, Cambridge, MD: Here’s a great lodging choice for those seeking to learn about Frederick Douglass and locally born Harriet Tubman. From here, visit the Harriet Tubman Museum, the Bazzel Methodist Church where her family worshipped, the Stanley Institute — a 19th-century African-American schoolhouse — and follow the Underground Railroad trails through Dorchester and Caroline Counties.

Insel House, Bois Blanc Island, MI: Throughout Black History Month, visit this secluded island B&B for a private screening of the Emmy-winning historic film Heritage in Black, produced and directed by innkeepers here and used by the Department of Defense for race relations courses. The Heritage in Black package offered throughout February includes two days’ accommodations, breakfasts and family style lunches and dinners, air transportation from either Cheboygan or Ste. Ignace, MI, airports, and a screening of Heritage in Black with comments from the producer for $290 per person, per day, double occupancy.

Escape Guest House, Brooklyn, NY: This B&B is just a short stroll from Plymouth Church, the “Grand Central Depot” of New York’s Underground Railroad. According to church history, slaves traveling to Canada were hidden in the tunnel-like basement beneath the church sanctuary; you can still visit there today. The church’s first pastor, Henry Ward Beecher, was a dedicated abolitionist and younger brother to Harriet Beecher Stowe, famous author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

Inn by the Mill, Saint Johnsville, NY: The inn is comprised of a collection of 19th century buildings, including a barn, carriage house, hog house, and a stone grist mill built alongside the Timmerman Creek. The mill was once part of the Underground Railroad and has three secret rooms below the basement floor. Each night, the water to the 30-foot waterwheel was shut off, allowing slaves to pass safely through the 1,000-foot-long water tunnel.

Saratoga Farmstead, Saratoga Springs, NY: Former owners and abolitionists Clarissa and Benjamin Dyer used the farmstead to connect to the Underground Railroad. According to some, a young black boy and his enslaved mother died while hiding in the attic. Legend tells that for many years thereafter, each time someone tried to climb the attic stairs, the boy’s ghost put an arm out, tripping the intruder and protecting his mother. During a session with a visiting expert on the paranormal, these ghosts were released to “the next level,” and visitors can now navigate the stairs safely.

Whispering Pines B&B, Nebraska City, NE: Guests of the inn are a short stroll away from the Mayhew Cabin (aka John Brown’s Cave), one of the oldest buildings in Nebraska and currently Nebraska’s only recognized National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site. In 1855, Allen B. Mayhew, with the aid of his father-in-law Abraham Kagi, built the cabin out of cottonwood logs. The Mayhew Cabin became a stop on the Underground Railroad in the late 1850s, used by slaves escaping to Canada.

Six Acres B&B, Cincinnati, OH: The Underground Railroad was very active in Southeast Ohio. Many Quaker families and others in the community courageously hid and conducted freedom seekers toward Canada. This beautiful home was built between 1850 and 1860 by Zebulon Strong, noted abolitionist and participant in the Underground Railroad.

Columbian Inn, A Bed and Breakfast, Columbia, PA: Pennsylvania was filled with stops on the Underground Railroad, as the Amish and the Quakers were particularly sympathetic to the desperate search for freedom. This inn was a known stop along the Underground Railroad.

Speedwell Forge B&B, Lititz, PA: During Black History Month, stay here and explore the plight of escaping slaves with the nearby Bethel AME “Living the Experience” tour. This eye-opening and spiritually moving experience begins and ends at the Lancaster Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, a station on the Underground Railroad. Learn how the Amish played a part, crafting quilts that led people to safety.

Tattersall Inn, Pt. Pleasant, PA: An underground concealed room once used as a stop on the Underground Railroad is found in the original part of this circa 1753 building. Just two blocks away, a containment of rooms with tunnels leading toward the river can be found in a former hotel-turned-store.

Passages Inn, Gettysburg, PA: Located near the cemetery honoring “Negro” veterans, stay here and take the “Freedom Lies Just North” Underground Railroad tour of Pennsylvania’s rural Adams County with local historian Debra McCauslin. Stand in the footsteps of a former thriving “colored” community and learn how local Quakers sheltered escaping slaves while aiding their passage to freedom. The Freedom package includes two nights’ accommodations, daily gourmet breakfast, town tour and “Freedom Lies Just North” program for $280 per couple.

Across the Way B&B Fassitt Mansion, White Horse, PA: Located halfway between Philadelphia and Harrisburg, this 1845 mansion was built by Captain William Fassitt as a way to entertain guests and throw lavish parties. A known “safe house” on the Underground Railroad, it was also a frequent stop for freedom seekers heading north.

Golden Stage Inn, Proctorsville, VT: Under the ownership of Universalist preacher Rev Warren Skinner, the inn was a stop on the Underground Railroad for fleeing slaves making their way to Canada. Rev. Skinner was known locally for his sympathetic views on slavery.

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Underground Railroad DVD  Underground Railroad DVD Perhaps the most dramatic protest movement against slavery, The Underground Railroad was a massive organized movement to free slaves. This exciting documentary details the struggles of escaped slaves during the Abolitionist movement. Narrated by Alfre Woodard, Underground Railroad celebrates the many heroes along the way who helped to pave the road to freedom. Cara Saposnik, All Movie Guide

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