Jetsettersblog

Maine Innkeepers Getaways

Maine Innkeepers Association reports Growing suppport for “Giving Getaways” – Fifth Annual “Hospitality for Habitat” Program a success

Freeport, ME – – As the final numbers for the Maine Innkeeper’s Association (MEIA) fifth annual Hospitality for Habitat program are tallied, it is clear that visitors to Maine appreciate the opportunity to ‘give while getting away’. Hospitality for Habitat was designed to raise money for local Maine chapters of Habitat for Humanity, and since its inception in 2003 the program has grown each year. This year Hospitality for Habitat attracted more than 40 MEIA members and raised over $12,000 to help fund housing for Maine families.

Hospitality for Habitat runs in the spring, and participating Innkeepers offer a designated number of their rooms at half price in return for a $35 check written by the guest to Habitat for Humanity.

The increasing interest in the program supports the trend for “giving getaways,”- giving back to the region in some way while on vacation.

Hospitality for Habitat gives guests an opportunity to support and give back to the community where they enjoy spending their vacations in a meaningful way,” said Greg Dugal, Executive Director for MEIA. “The program is a perfect fit- The Maine Innkeepers Association members provide lodging for the traveling public; Habitat for Humanity helps provide lodging for families not otherwise able to afford it.”

According to Nancy Gray, Innkeeper/owner at the Freeport Harraseeket Inn, guests enjoy the program and look forward to travelling in the spring so they can participate. “Our guests love to book rooms when they know they are supporting Hospitality for Habitat. And the staff really enjoys the promotion which helps Maine families, so this year we actually extended the time frame at the Harraseeket Inn so more visitors could enjoy the discount and contribute to such a great cause.” Gray even cites one guest who wasn’t able to make the trip to Maine but sent the donation anyway. “People love doing the right thing when given the opportunity,” said Gray.

“We’re delighted that so many of our members stepped up to help us with this project again this year,” stated Dugal, as he counted up hundreds of checks from 44 participating properties. “And we hope each year, we can at least double that amount. We seem to have hit a chord with both Innkeepers and travelers - guests get a great deal on a wonderful vacation, Innkeepers fill beds during a slow period, and they both help a very good cause.”

The five top contributors to the program this year were the Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport; the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport, the Oakland House Seaside Resort , the Village by the Sea Hotel & Conference Center in Wells and the Mira Monte Inn in Bar Harbor.

About Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity International, based in Americus, Ga., is an ecumenical Christian ministry dedicated to eliminating poverty housing. By the end of 2005, Habitat will have built its 200,000th house and more than one million people will be living in Habitat homes they helped build and are buying through no-profit, zero-interest mortgages.  www.habitat.org

About the Maine Innkeepers Association

The Maine Innkeepers Association, a leading provider of tourism information to both Maine’s lodging industry and its visitors, represents nearly 700 B&Bs, camps, cottages, hotels, inns, motels and resorts across Maine, and their suppliers. Through communication, education, promotion and government affairs, the Association helps its members achieve prosperity and deliver a quality product to the consumer.

Maine Innkeepers Association is located in Freeport, ME and can also be found at www.maineinns.com

GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN AT B&BS

NO BOYS ALLOWED.

BedandBreakfast.com’s Top Ten Picks for Girlfriends’ Getaways

Austin, TX – Each year women plan to love ‘em and leave ‘em; going where the boys aren’t for a quick break from family and housekeeping responsibilities. Some call them adult slumber parties, most call them girlfriends’ getaways. Either way, women want to be spoiled and pampered, and they’re choosing B&Bs for the perfect girls’ getaway.

BedandBreakfast.com innkeepers have posted nearly 130 girlfriends getaways in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. From customized shopping trips to spas, Feng Shui classes and pizza, PJs and Pictionary, these B&Bs offer creative itineraries for the sisterhood. For a complete list, visit www.BedandBreakfast.com and click the Girlfriends Getaways link on the home page. Below are some top picks from BedandBreakfast.com’s editors for girlfriends’ getaways that groove.

Note: All packages include daily breakfast; unless otherwise specified, rates do not include local or state taxes and are for double occupancy. Packages cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts.

The Ruby of Crested Butte, Crested Butte, CO: Cowgirls don’t get the blues here, when they arrive to find gift baskets filled with Boss Lady smokin’ hot bath and body products and luxurious guest rooms. The day starts with a country gourmet breakfast and an adventurous day of horseback riding at Fantasy Ranch. A massage follows a day in the saddle, then fine dining out on the town and another perfect night sleep at the inn. The package, offered through October 5, 2008, starts at $450 per person including a two-night stay, gift basket, daily gourmet breakfasts, horseback riding, one-hour massage, and dinner at a Crested Butte restaurant.

Davie School Inn, Anna, IL: This is one place it’s okay to whisper in class to your girlfriends. Now through October 25, 2008, customize a girlfriend getaway with options including a limo tour on the wine trail, massages for you and your BFFs (best friends forever), pedicures, manicures in your 850-square-foot suite with Jacuzzi (some sleep up to five) and dinner at the Hedman Peach Barn and Winery. Name the time and breakfast will be served en suite; that’s royal treatment for girlfriends looking for a break.

Room rates are $85-$225; package rates dependent upon inclusions.

Avenue Inn B&B, New Orleans, LA: Here’s a guilt free way to love ‘em and leave ‘em in New Orleans. The “No-Guilt Weekend” package includes three nights’ accommodations in a guestroom with two full-size beds perfect for sharing with up to four girlfriends, continental breakfast, massage, manicure and pedicure at Belladonna day spa and salon (includes tax), $250 in Riverwalk Marketplace coupons, a welcome gift and map of the city, and antique shopping on Magazine Street complete with innkeeper Bebe’s best-kept secrets and bargain hunting advice. Additionally, two tickets for two for the Original Cocktail Walking Tour, two streetcar passes for unlimited riding to the French Quarter and all the exciting venues of the city are included in this package for $399 per person.

White Cedar Inn, Freeport, ME: A complete color analysis and makeover is the perfect start to your girlfriend’s getaway shopping weekend in this Maine Outlet Capital. Julie Cunningham, owner of Julie Cunningham Color (JCC) and former National Trainer for Color Me Beautiful, will work one-on-one with guests, offering a color consultation for girlfriends on shopping excursions. Your one-hour session includes a complete color analysis to determine which colors are best suited to your own natural coloring, makeover with explanation of why these colors work for you, a JCC 42-color swatch wallet to take with you when you shop, and a JCC color analysis booklet. This package is offered on Fridays only through December 19, 2008, and is $95 per person when booked with an overnight stay. Rates are $115-$200.

Classic Rosewood, A Thorwood Property, Hastings, MI: Girlfriends will enjoy a choice of complimentary three P’s (popcorn, Pictionary game, and pizza) or the three M’s (manicure kit, chick flick movie, and facial masks) when six or more giggly girls of any age book two or more rooms here. Throughout the stay, breakfast is served according to your schedule, and 24-7 access to the pantry including hot and cold beverages, a bottomless cookie jar and ice cream are also featured. Rates are $97-$277.

Loganberry Inn, Fulton, MO: Grab your friends or sisters and plan a girls’ weekend for four. This package includes two guestrooms for two nights for four people, one private hour in the starlit spa, chick flicks, a two-hour spa indulgence including gentle restorative yoga, guided luxury facial complete with hot towels, sea salt soft hands treatment, and paraffin treatment, choice of hors d’oeuvres and wine or dessert, coffee and liqueur, two full breakfasts for each person for $183 per person. Available most days through May 2009.

Federal House Inn Historic B&B, Plymouth, NH: This package allows women 16 and over to travel in the moccasins of Native American women. On day one arrive and enjoy a presentation on New Hampshire’s Natural History and Heritage. Day two includes a hike or snowshoe (depending on time of year and trail conditions) along historic Native American routes, a picnic lunch, guidance on North Woods Survival skills including searching for wild food, and then dinner outdoors or in town. Day three means an early rise and shine with breakfast to go then early morning fishing or ice fishing (depending on time of year and ice-in/out conditions) a picnic lunch and target archery, shelter building, fire building, and outdoor cooking, including dinner. On day four, take in a day of canoeing, paddling, poling, and fishing on an historic river route (ice-out), or another snowshoeing or hiking day in New Hampshire’s wilderness plus dinner at the inn.

This package, including a four-night stay, guides, instruction and three meals a day is available year-round for $499 per person plus the room rate ($135-185/nightly). Good through January 2009.

Sandhill Crane B&B, Coralles, NM: Working with local artist Kate Reightley, budding sculpturers will learn to create a five-inch bronze sculpture. This package, offered on the fourth Saturday of each month for up to six people, includes two nights in a standard room, gourmet breakfast each morning, Wax to Bronze workshop including a light lunch during the workshop, and a finished bronze sculpture for $278 through October 2008

Black Sheep Inn, Hammondsport, NY: Grab a girlfriend and learn feng shui from a master practitioner as you use color to improve your life. Each day, you’ll spend time enjoying meals prepared with local and organic products, relax in nature and go home refreshed and peaceful while learning how to improve your life through feng shui. Your visit includes a two-night stay, indulgent organic breakfasts, a fireside dinner, a picnic lunch in the courtyard, and plenty of time with our Feng Shui practitioner, starting at $595 per person through 2008.

Andon Reid Inn, Waynesville, NC: Call your girlfriends and plan a fitness getaway with two Certified Personal Trainers with 30 years of combined experience. Your trip will include two nights in a B&B with breathtaking views of the mountains, daily fitness routines and tips personalized to the interests and skills of the group. The package includes healthy daily breakfasts, daily workout sessions, nutritional tips, healthy snacks and a full body massage. Package rates start at $599 per person.

Passages Inn, Gettysburg, PA: This inn and many area B&Bs offer Gettysburg Girlfriend Getaways TM for two to ten women. Topics include “Hearth & Home,” focusing on Civil War era civilian life; and “Body & Soul,” delving into Gettysburg’s reputation for the paranormal and its active church legacy. Contact participating inns for more information and pricing.

Elkhorn Inn and Theatre, Landgraff, WV: Have a real “four-wheeling” ATV adventure on the famed “Hatfield-McCoy Trail System.” This Girlfriend Getaway ATV Adventure Package includes one guest room with two beds, for two nights, dinner at the inn for two, half-day guided ATV tour for two, with lunch on the trail; plus plenty of additional outdoor fun and train watching. After the day’s ride, pick wild blackberries or relax with a bubble bath in an antique claw-foot tub. Helmets are mandatory and included with all rentals; trail permits are included with guided tours. This package, offered through September 2008, costs $650 for two.

DesBarres Manor Inn, Guysborough, Nova Scotia, Canada: Now through October 2008 enjoy a Food & Wine Girls Getaway in Nova Scotia, Canada. Kick off your one-night girls’ getaway package with Executive Chef Shaun Zwarun as he shares some of the culinary secrets behind the Manor’s signature dishes. Next there’s a tutored wine tasting as innkeeper Audrey Firth shares her secrets to matching food and wine. Next, retreat to your luxury room for a serious girl-talk session with chocolate truffles, before coming downstairs to join Chef Shaun for a five-course dinner tasting menu. You’ll say goodbye to your girlfriends the next day with a gourmet breakfast in the dining room. This package, including one-night stay, is $209 per person.

Look for nearly 130 girlfriends getaways on BedandBreakfast.com the best resource for B&B “BFF getaways. BedandBreakfast.com is the leading online bed and breakfast directory and reservation network worldwide,

listing nearly 7,000 B&Bs and inns. A variety of search functions and extensive maps enable inngoers to find the perfect B&B. Travelers can make reservations online, purchase The Getaway Gift Card from BedandBreakfast.com, welcomed at nearly 4,000 B&Bs in the U.S. and Canada, subscribe to free newsletters, read and write independent reviews, and post questions on expert-hosted message boards.

Additionally, for information on a range of independently owned distinctive lodging, visit www.BedandBreakfast.com’s sister site, www.Inns.com

GOLF TO A FREE STAY ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

HALFMOON BAY, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA:

For golfers ready to tune up their swing for fall, Rockwater Secret Cove Resort, on BC’s Sunshine Coast, has created the ultimate challenge with their Win your GolfVacation Package. Tee off at three Sunshine Coast golf courses in three days, and a hole in one at any of the three courses will win you back your room and green fees.

This package includes golf course green fees at Pender Harbour Golf Course, Sechelt Golf & Country Club, and the Sunshine Coast Golf & Country Club in Roberts Creek with two nights’ accommodation in a Rockwater Secret Cove ocean view room or a seaside cabin, for CAD $299 per person, based on double occupancy. For the ultimate in relaxation after a long day out on the greens, upgrade your stay to one of Rockwater’s ultra-luxurious Tenthouse Suites for just CAD $399 per person. These private oceanfront tents raised high in the trees offer guests endless ocean views, private balconies, and deluxe hydrotherapy soaker tubs - just the ticket after playing three rounds of golf.

This special offer is in effect from September 14, through October 30, 2008. Golfers ready for the challenge should call Rockwater Secret Cove Resort at (877) 296-4593 or for more information visit their web site at www.rockwaterresort.com

The Resort: Rockwater Secret Cove Resort is a private paradise located on BC’s Sunshine Coast 15 minutes’ drive north of Sechelt. Rockwater is open year round, and can be accessed via floatplane directly to the dock or by BC Ferry service to Langdale followed by a 40-minute scenic drive along the coastal highway.

Guests arriving by yacht are welcome to moor at Secret Cove Marina, a full service deep-water marina, and catch the shuttle to the Resort. The accommodations at Rockwater Secret Cove Resort are unique, as they enhance the Resort’s relationship with nature. Rooms in the lodge offer ocean view and pool view rooms, while the Tenthouse Suites reward guests with king-size beds, hydrotherapy tubs, fireplaces and expansive ocean views. These luxurious penthouse-style tents are perched on an Arbutus-covered peninsula along the ocean’s edge.

Bailey Robinson Events & Festivals This Autumn

Luxury tour operator BAILEY ROBINSON (www.baileyrobinson.com  tel 01488 689 700), the designer of aspirational bespoke journeys worldwide, has selected some of its favourite events and festivals for travellers this autumn.

- SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX 28 September
- BEAR and WHALE WATCHING, CANADA, September
- The first ASIAN BEACH GAMES, BALI 18-26 October
- THE RAMAYANA BALLET IN THE PRAMABAN TEMPLE, INDONESIA various dates
- WATER FESTIVAL, CAMBODIA, November

SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX 28 September

Singapore is the second of two new venues on the Formula 1 calendar this year and provides an incredible destination for the racing enthusiast. The event takes place at night on a floodlit street circuit that winds its way through the Marina Bay area where cars roar around a three-mile track of 61 laps and 24 turns.

PRICE: Bailey Robinson can arrange tickets for the track side action with accommodation at The Fullerton. Prices for a one-week trip start from £1,875 per person based on 7 nights in Quay Facing Room on room only basis including three days Grand Prix package and economy class.

BEAR WATCHING, CANADA September

September represents the pinnacle of bear watching in British Columbia as grizzlies, black bears and the rare white Kermode’ or spirit bear feed on the migrating salmon. During this time, the humpback whales also feed in Barnard harbour where the floating lodge of King Pacific Lodge is moored for the summer.

PRICE: A sample one-week holiday to Canada featuring King Pacific Lodge, starts from £6,150 per person including international flights to Vancouver in economy class with British Airway, one night at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel on bed & breakfast basis, charter flights to Kind Pacific Lodge and seven nights in wilderness view room on a fully inclusive basis including all guided wilderness activities.

ASIAN BEACH GAMES, BALI 18-26 October

The first Asian Beach Games will be held in Bali featuring 5,000 athletes competing in 13 aquatic and beach events including sailing, surfing, windsurfing, beach soccer, beach volleyball, marathon swimming and triathlon.

PRICE: Bailey Robinson can arrange a bespoke itinerary, complete with ringside seats and luxury hotel villa retreat accommodation at Kayaumanis Jimbaran. Prices for a one-week itinerary start from £2,295 per person for 7 nights in a one bedroom private estate at Kayaumanis Jimbaran on bed & breakfast basis including complimentary mini bar, 30 minute back and shoulder massage, complimentary limousine service within the local area, entrance to the games, international economy class flights.

RAMAYANA BALLET IN THE PRAMABAN TEMPLE

The Ramayana Ballet performs the Hindu epic “The Ramayana” against the backdrop of the Pramaban Temple, Yogyakarta - Java’s most lavish monument to Hinduism and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

PRICE: Bailey Robinson arrange an itinerary which includes tickets for the ballet, an exclusive temple tour of Borobodur, the largest religious monument in the southern hemisphere, by elephant. The cost of a one-week trip starts from £1,893 per person for 7 nights in a garden suite on a bed & breakfast basis, ballet tickets, local sightseeing and economy class flights.

WATER FESTIVAL, CAMBODIA November

Held annually on the banks of the Mekong, this is one of Cambodia’s biggest and most extravagant festivals. Over three days, during the full moon, up to a million people flock to the banks of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers in Phnom Penh to watch hundreds of brightly-coloured boats, some up to 20 metres in length, each with over 50 crazy paddlers, do battle in highly competitive races.

Each intricately decorated boat, representing one of Cambodia’s 21 provinces, races for top honours in a tradition that dates back to the powerful navy of King Jayavarman II, the 9th-century founder of the great Angkorian Empire.

PRICE: A holiday itinerary featuring the Water Festival and accommodation at the capital’s most luxurious, history-steeped hotel, the Raffles Hotel Le Royal, is priced from £1,495 per person for 7 nights in a state room on a bed and breakfast basis including transfers and economy flights.

Prices (based on travel during the events) are per person and include international flights, domestic flights and transfers and accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis.

Arctic In Focus 2009 Programme On Sale Now

Peregrine Adventures’ new Arctic programme for 2009, includes a Svalbard in Depth 14-night expedition voyage, focusing on photography and art amidst the spectacular icy wilderness of the Svalbard archipelago. Voyage departs Longbearyen 22nd June 2009.

Peregrine aims to undertake a complete circumnavigation of the major islands of the Svalbard archipelago, making frequent shore stops to hike, or simply admire the stunning scenery. Passengers enjoy zodiac cruises allowing close proximity to sea cliffs and abundant wildlife. This themed photographic expedition is accompanied by renowned wildlife photographer John Rodsted who will lead specialist workshops and excursions, including forays into the Arctic evening to capture images in the unique light. Also aboard will be Lars Jonsson, a celebrated Swedish artist whose paintings focus on nature, in particular capturing birdlife in their natural habitat. Birds will be at their best, at this time, resplendent in spectacular summer breeding plumage.

The voyage costs from £3,345 p/p including airport transfers, shipboard accommodation, all meals onboard, photography and art workshops and excursions, plus a highly experienced expedition leader and crew.

Peregrine Adventures
01635 872 300
sales@peregrineadventures.co.uk
www.peregrineadventures.co.uk

Self-Guided Travel Without the Hassle

Vancouver, BC—Self-guided travelers, the fastest growing sector of the travel market, desire vacations that are big on independence, adventure, and cultural immersion, but small on planning time.

The thought of planning an in-depth vacation can seem daunting, so hiring someone else to plan your self-guided trip may be the answer. Savvy travelers who want to avoid the cookie-cutter tour companies, travel independently, and create an itinerary that reflects their personal interests without the overwhelming stress of vacation planning now have the option of taking a self-guided vacation without the hassle.

Randonnee Tours, a leading specialist in self-guided travel, plans trips for travelers who seek a balance between the freedom of traveling on their own and the help and support of a guided tour. With Randonnee’s brand of self-guided trips, visitors can travel at their own pace while Randonnee takes care of the details.

They offer a wide variety of self-guided cycling, hiking, walking, multi-sport, and unique, active driving tours.

Every year, Randonnée Tours takes adventurers to Canada, France, Ireland, Italy, Spain, and the United States. Randonnee Tours books the hotels, arranges luggage transfers, and provides travelers with detailed route notes, maps, and behind-the-scenes support (like an on-site manager who ensures that guests are comfortable).

Then, visitors begin a unique and active vacation where their role is to ride/walk, explore, dine, and enjoy. This simple method of travel creates an unforgettable travel experience for people who want to travel without a tour group, but reap the benefits of organized travel plans.

www.randonneetours.com

Bridge & Wickers introduces Canada Vacations

Australia and New Zealand independent travel specialist Bridge & Wickers has introduced a Canada programme.

The operator has published a 36-page dedicated Canada brochure covering the west coast including the Inside Passage and Alaska, the Rockies and Vancouver. Toronto, Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa and the wild Atlantic seaboard are also offered as well as the St Lawrence Gulf and the Maritime Provinces.

Bridge & Wickers co-director David Wickers said: “Canada, with its remarkable scenic assets, will be a perfect complement to our existing Australia and New Zealand programme. Despite the ease of access, with the east coast comparable to flying to Egypt or the Canaries, the destination is still relatively little-known in Britain compared with the US, and with the current cost of travel in the Euro zone, Canada has become a very affordable option.”

The operator has a lead in price of £1128 per person without flights for a 11-night trip to Quebec.

United Vacations Free Companion Airfare to Canada

United Vacations is including free companion air fare to Canada for vacations of three nights or more booked by July 31 for travel through Dec. 31.

To receive the offer, enter promo code FLYFREE at the time of purchase. Clients who select Fairmont Hotels & Resorts can also take advantage of free nights at select hotels throughout Canada, including

The Fairmont Banff Springs and Quebec City’s Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.

For example, in Banff/Lake Louise, Alberta: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers a third night free;

The Fairmont Banff Springs offers a third night free. Montreal, Quebec: Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth - fourth night free.

In Quebec City, Quebec, the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac features a fifth night free,

Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu offers a fourth night free.

In Toronto, Ontario, the Fairmont Royal York has a third night free and free breakfast.

 In Vancouver, British Columbia, The Fairmont Waterfront offers a fourth night free and The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver has a fourth night free.

Gay Departures in Concert with Yukon Pride Adventure

YUKON PRIDE
CONTACT: Stephen Dunbar-Edge
TEL: 867-668.2932/867.332.2281 (cell)
E-MAIL: info@yukonpride.com
WEB: www.yukonpride.com

YUKON TERRITORY, CANADA— During the weeks of August 24th and September 12th Great River Journey is providing departures to the clientele of Yukon Pride, an adventure company which specializes in gay and lesbian travel. They are offering an exclusive, eight-day wilderness safari down the historic Yukon River in Northern Canada. This 600 kilometer excursion through the heart of the Yukon, offers a window on its rich culture, vibrant history, unspoiled wilderness and warm, friendly people.

The government of the Yukon has allowed same sex marriage since July of 2004 thanks to a lawsuit brought on by Stephen Dunbar-Edge, the owner of Yukon Pride, and his spouse. The Yukon has no residency requirements and only a 24 hour waiting period to obtain a marriage license. Great River Journey offers many beautiful locations along the journey to perform weddings. Choose from one of the historically themed lodges or make it more romantic with the mountain ranges and the Yukon River in the background.

Please check out Stephen’s website at www.yukonpride.com for more information.

Traveling by riverboat and floatplane with frequent stops allows guests to hike, kayak, and bird watch. Included are visits to geologic and historic sites related to the First Nations people and the Klondike Gold Rush.

Overnight accommodations along the route are provided at Upper Labarge Lodge, Homestead Lodge and Wilderness Outpost. Lodges are remote, luxuriously rustic and exclusive, offering guests unique access to the backcountry in comfort. Fine cuisine featuring local ingredients and traditional foods is served throughout the journey.

Great River Journey provides the premier, high-end, low-impact river tour experience in North America with the adventure of a unique, world-class riverboat safari into the wilderness, history and culture of the Yukon.

For more information, please visit them on the web at www.greatriverjourney.com  www.yukonpride.com

Canadian Travel Company launches ViaRailVacations.com

Canadian Tourism at all time low…or is it?

Exclusively Canada Ltd. is a Canadian travel company experiencing record breaking growth with launch of new VIA Rail focused portfolio site.

Exclusively Canada Ltd. today launched its latest Canadian consumer travel site, ViaRailVacations.com. This new portfolio site focuses on vacation packages featuring travel on Via Rail trains and routes and is part of the company’s ongoing expansion strategy. Exclusively Canada continues to experience record breaking growth year over year, despite the Statistics Canada numbers (www.statcan.ca/english/freepub/66-001-PIE/66-001-PIE2008003.pdf) released last month showing tourism to Canada hitting an all time low.

“We continue to find strong growth in long haul travel to Canada” says Shannon Wilkinson, Vice President of Marketing at Exclusively Canada Ltd. “While the number of day trips over the US border have decreased sharply, these are not the consumers we are reaching.

 The high Canadian dollar and longer lineups at the border have made Canada less attractive for single day excursions, however, we are still an appealing destination for our US neighbors looking for multi-day vacation experiences, as shown by the only slight decline in visitors who spend at least one night here.” Wilkinson notes that Exclusively Canada’s US business has increased nearly 20% over the same period in 2007 and more than doubled in the last 24 months.

The company has also become one of the fastest growing partners for Via Rail Canada by creating interesting vacation package combinations showcasing VIA Rail trains, which it promotes passionately to a variety of global markets. This special relationship spurred the creation of the www.ViaRailVacations.com  website which the company will use as a focused opportunity for marketing Via Rail vacation packages.

For additional information on VIA Rail Vacations, contact Shannon Wilkinson or visit http://www.viarailvacations.com .

EXCLUSIVELY CANADA LTD.

(http://www.exclusivelycanada.travel/) was founded in October of 2002 to provide group and fully independent vacation planning and packaging services to North American travel agencies and affluent international travelers.

In 2004 the company launched its consumer direct strategy under the brand CanadaYourWay (http://www.canadayourway.com/) 

 Exclusively Canada has grown rapidly to become one of the world’s top marketers of independent luxury travel in Canada.

Exclusively Canada Ltd. is an active member of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA), the National Tour Association (NTA), the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), and an annual participant at Rendezvous Canada, Canada’s premier international tourism industry marketplace.