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General Travel News
Leaf Peeping in Virginia
Richmond, VA—With a toll-free line, a fall website and “Forester Tim” to advise on where and when to best enjoy the autumn colors of Virginia, the state tourism commission is promoting special events, lodging deals and recommended scenic drives. More than 350 packages for fall foliage and festivals are available this year along with the traditional corn mazes and pick-your-own-produce sites. Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway and routes through the Shenandoah Valley are among the state’s most scenic roadways. Forrester Tim, a staff member of the Virginia Department of Forestry, is available on the Virginia Tourism website at www.virginia.com in weekly updates and streaming video. Call Virginia’s Fall Leaf Line at (800)424-LOVE for his reports.
Family Bargains at New Museum
Philadelphia, PA—Families can enjoy the brand-new Please Touch Museum, opening October 18, 2008, with a Play & Stay Hotel Package, which includes tickets to this innovative children’s museum, as well as free hotel and museum parking. The package runs from November 1, 2008 to January 31, 2009 and includes four VIP passes with a “speed pass” to skip the lines at the museum. Special seating, four carousel rides and a discount at the Please Touch Café are also included. Go to www.gophila.com starting in mid-October to take advantage of this special offer.
Peabody Packages
Orlando, FL—Orlando’s favorite luxury hotel, located conveniently near the convention center, is home to the famous Peabody ducks that parade in and out of the lobby every day. Now you can enjoy the “Lights…Camera…Action Package” on offer at $229 per night (two-night minimum stay), which also includes a one-day admission for two adults to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida theme parks. Go to www.peabodyorlando.com.
Rare Chagall in New York City
New York, NY—A collection of rare lithographs showcases the achievements of Marc Chagall (1887-1985) and examines his lifelong fascination with the Bible. More than 100 etchings, lithographs and a celebrated oil painting are on view starting October 7, 2008 at the Museum of Biblical Art in New York City. “Chagall’s Bible: Mystical Storytelling” will be on view through January 18, 2009. His “Quai de Tournelle,” created in 1962, reinterprets the Crucifixion from the perspective of a Russian Jewish exile and is exhibited in this country for the first time. A special lecture series at MOBIA, located at 1865 Broadway at 61st Street, in October and November explores the artist’s life in depth. Visit www.mobia.org details.
Virginia's Wine Month
Irvington, VA—The intimate 106-room Tides Inn, set on a waterfront peninsula on Virginia’s Northern Neck, is celebrating the state’s 20th Annual October Wine Month with a special two-night package that includes a self-guided tour of six wineries, a great picnic basket, plus wine from each of the award-winning wineries. Did we mention the two manicures and pedicures, plus breakfast for two? Called the “Women Wild About Wine Package,” this is a great opportunity for a girls’ active getaway in the Chesapeake Bay area with tennis, golf, antiquing, and boating available nearby the award-winning Tides Inn. The two-night package, based on double occupancy, is $335 per person, per night and is valid through November 15, 2008 for Friday to Saturday stays. Call (800)843-3746 or go to www.tidesinn.com.
Grand Canyon Train Special
Williams, AZ—Stay in the historic town of Williams for a long weekend getaway starting at $270 per person with roundtrip train passes, three nights’
accommodations, some meals, and a bus tour of one of nature’s grandest wonders. Grand Canyon Railway (www.thetrain.com or call 800-843-8724) is offering
this deal in what is the easiest way to the see the Grand Canyon. The Canyon Limited Plus Package includes three nights’ lodging, two breakfasts and two dinners at the Railway’s Max & Thelma’s Restaurant, and roundtrip, coach-class train passes. The western-style Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is modeled after a nineteenth-century train depot and has an indoor pool. The second hotel in the package is the Maswik Lodge, located a quarter mile from the edge of the canyon.
Sunday Brunch in Boston
Boston, MA—Enjoy the great views and a classic Boston experience at the Taj Boston, where chef Franck Steigerwald and his fellow chefs present fall culinary favorites, chef Prabeen Prathapan offers traditional Indian fare, and chef Susan Lagalle presents delightful pastries. The Roof Package through November 18 allows you to make it a weekend with a deluxe room for two and guaranteed seating at the popular brunch. Visit www.tajhotels.com or call (877)482-5267 for reservations.
Baby News Alert
San Diego, CA—The San Diego Zoo is proud to announce the arrival of its newest baby. Weighing 145 pounds and standing 62 inches tall, a baby Masai giraffe was born on August 19 while on exhibit. Abby, the mom, gave birth after two hours of labor and is presently in the nursery area with her calf, a side yard to the giraffe exhibit that is still visible to the public. The San Diego Zoo is a 100-acre park run by the Zoological Society of San Diego, which also manages the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park and the San Diego Zoo’s Beckman Center for Conservation Research. Visit www.sandiegozoo.org.
Fall Foliage in Connecticut
Litchfield County, CT—Mid-September to late October is the ideal time to drive Connecticut’s tree-lined highways and country roads and to enjoy a weekend getaway. Choose a bed-and-breakfast or an inn and enjoy the Connecticut Wine Trail, the apple orchards, museums, and craft shops along the way. The Litchfield Hills Visitors Bureau at www.litchfieldhills.com offers a wide variety of driving tours that will accommodate interests such as history, photography and antiquing. Connecticut’s Route 169 is designated a historic roadway that leads to a wealth of attractions and historic sights.
Bargain Rates in Vegas
Las Vegas, NV—Hotel rates in Las Vegas are as low as they have been since 2003 and 2004, according to www.LasVegasAdvisor.com, so now is a great time to visit the Strip. Major luxury hotels are posting deals that include airfare credit offers, restaurant credits, and gas cards of up to $50. The city is not especially eager to promote lower rates, but with nearly 11,500 additional rooms available by December, it’s inevitable that lower prices will prevail through the end of the year. Check www.visitlasvegas.com for current deals.
The High Life in Hawaii
Travel Impressions is offering Hawaii vacation packages that offer resort credits, reduced room rates and upgrades. Check out www.travelimpressions.com for the packages, which include hotel accommodations, roundtrip airport/hotel transfers and car rentals in select locations on the islands of Hawaii, Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and Lanai.
Waterfalls on the Waterfront
New York, NY—From now until October 13, 2008, the New York City Waterfalls by artist Olafur Eliasson will be on tap along the city’s waterfront. It’s an awesome
sight with four 90- to 120-foot actual waterfalls installed along the city’s East River and visible from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Go to the South Street
Seaport where the New York Water Taxi offers tours to see each waterfall up close. The Circle Line (www.circleline42.com) is also offering tours.
Deals in Atlantic Canada
Canada—Discover the charms of our neighbors to the north in Atlantic Canada, where great seasonal deals run through the season to October. Calling on Saint John, New Brunswick; St. John’s, Newfoundland; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island, Canadian cruises are the newest travel trend. Check out the websites of www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca (800-561-0123), www.novascotia.com (800-565-0000), www.newfoundlandlabrador.com (800-563-NFLD), and www.gentleisland.com (800-463-4PEI) for current deals.
Endless Summer Package
Orlando, FL—Summer never really ends in Orlando with the Endless Summer Package with fewer crowds and more values from August 15 to November 15, 2008. Discover the offer for a weekend retreat for two nights and receive the third night free, or purchase one attractions ticket and get the second one free. Visit www.orlandoinfo.com/endlesssummer.
New French Bistro Opens
Philadelphia, PA—Check out Philadelphia’s newest restaurant, the Parc Restaurant, a Stephen Starr creation. Located in scenic Rittenhouse Square, this authentic French bistro experience seats 75 alfresco and offers a more formal setting inside. Choose from 160 varietals to enjoy with the wonderful French menu. Go to www.gophila.com for hotel packages for the fall. Parc Restaurant is at 18th and Locust streets. Call (215)545-2262 or visit www.parc-restaurant.com for reservations.
Fly Me to the Moon
Houston, TX—Space enthusiasts will love the new IMAX feature film debuting at the Houston Museum of National Science on August 22, 2008. “Fly Me to the Moon” highlights the flight of Apollo 11 in 1969 and includes a lighthearted G-rated storyline. Along with voiceovers by actors Christopher Lloyd and Nicollette Sheridan, the film stars cartoon tween-aged flies, who go along for the ride. A cameo of the real-life Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin adds to the drama. Check out www.hmns.org.
ArtWalk Festival in Whistler
Whistler, British Columbia—Whistler Village is abuzz with art during the summer, especially during the months of July and August, when ArtWalk comes to town. The cafes, restaurants, stores, hotels, and businesses throughout this scenic village become galleries for works of more than 50 artists hailing from Lions Bay to Lillooet. These temporary galleries display works in glass and ceramic as well as paintings, jewelry and photography. Commercial galleries will participate as well. Don’t miss the Whistler Village Gondola ride and set aside time for golf in one of the four championship courses in the vicinity. Summer accommodation packages are available through www.whistler.com/summer_packages and details on the ArtWalk are on www.whistlerartscouncil.com.
Dine and Save in Baltimore
Baltimore, MD—Foodies should head to Baltimore and the popular Restaurant Week, July 26 to August 3, 2008, when the savings and eats are simply great. Dine on three-course dinners throughout the city’s neighborhoods for $30.08 (dinner) and $20.08 (lunch) at more than 90 participating restaurants. New this year are culinary events, wine tastings, cooking classes, and more. Citywide hotel promotions, offering one night free with the purchase of two nights, make this a bargain all the way around. Visit www.baltimorerestaurantweek.com and www.baltimore.org for details.
Anthony Quinn Art Package in Boston
Boston, MA—The InterContinental Boston, voted “Best New Hotel” by Boston Magazine, is the perfect setting for “Monumental Works” by Academy award-winning actor Anthony Quinn on loan from the Anthony Quinn Foundation. To complement the dramatic sculptures, bronze bas-reliefs, lithographs, and sketches, the AAA Four Diamond 424-room luxury hotel is offering an art package through August 28, 2008 that includes deluxe accommodations, two tickets to the Contemporary Art Museum, a copy of Anthony Quinn’s “A Lifetime of Creating and Collecting Art,” a bottle of Santa Margarita Pinot Grigio (Mr. Quinn’s favorite wine), a commemorative art poster, and breakfast for two in Miel “Brasserie Provencale,” the hotel’s lovely French bistro signature restaurant. The package starts at $375. Call the hotel to book at (877)747-BOSTON or visit www.intercontinentalboston.com.
Adopt a Raptor?
Pine Mountain, GA—A Georgia destination is taking conservation to a new level. In an unusual Adopt-a-Raptor program, you can personally adopt and fund a bird of prey at Callaway Gardens, a 13,000-acre resort and nature preserve located an hour from Atlanta. Callaway Gardens features a butterfly conservatory, horticultural center and nature trails along with 931 guestrooms and residential homes. Participants in the Adopt-a-Raptor program can sponsor the food, training, husbandry, and housing of one of the resident raptors—for example, an eastern screech owl named “Winston” or “Vinnie,” the black vulture. Visit www.callawaygardens.org, call (706)663-5096 or e-mail development@callawaygardens.org if you are interested in expanding your family.
Sonoma Wine Country Summer
Sonoma County, CA—The 259 wineries in Sonoma County are welcoming visitors for the summer season for travelers searching for fun and budget-conscious regional experiences as airline prices soar. California residents can opt for a visit to the one million acres of Sonoma County where b&bs, resorts, hotels, and inns offer a wide variety of accommodations in all price ranges. A free visitors guide is available to research all the possibilities—from a spa escape to fine dining experiences to visits to the wineries by calling (800)576-6662 or visiting www.sonomacounty.com. Fifteen Visitors Centers scattered throughout the county are on tap for information and directions.
Gas Rebates Offered in Atlantic City
Atlantic City, NJ—A wide variety of properties in this gaming town are offering gas-savings promotions now through the summer to lure visitors. The Renault Winery Resort & Golf and Tuscany House Hotel (www.renaultwinery.com) is offering a $20 discount on packages until September 1, 2008, while Bally’s Atlantic City (www.harrahs.com) is offering Shell gas cards redeemable through a point system. The Atlantic City Hilton (www.hiltonac.com) and Resorts Atlantic City (www.resortsac.com), on the other hand, is tempting visitors with a $250,000 Gas Card giveaway, where 100 people will win gas for a year. The drawing is July 27 and eligibility is based on rated slot play. Details are available at www.atlanticcitynj.com/ac_gas_promotion.asp.
Millennium UN Plaza Hotel Gas Package
New York, NY—Through September 7, 2008, the Millennium UN Plaza Hotel, conveniently located on the city’s east side, is offering a Drive In and Save Package that saves guests on the hotel bill right away. Those who drive to the hotel will receive $50 off the price of their hotel stay, and if you drive an SUV, you’ll receive $75 off. Rates start at $249 per night. The hotel features a full-service health club, indoor swimming pool and indoor tennis court. The elegant Ambassador Grill serves international specialties. For reservations and more information visit www.millenniumhotels.com and use the promotional code “SAVE” or call (877)866-7529.
SEA LIFE Aquarium Set to Open in California
Discover the “Lost City of Atlantis” in the latest LEGOLAND California Resort attraction as the first gallons of water are poured into the brand-new SEA LIFE Aquarium, the twenty-ninth such center in the world. Officially opening in August, the public got the first peek at the SEA LIFE display in a preview center and Ocean Journey Café when they opened on July 1. The 200,000-gallon ocean display with a 35-foot-long acrylic tunnel will feature a host of sea creatures as well as a 72 LEGO models made of tens of thousands of bricks. The exhibit will stress marine conservation and education for the expected crowds of visitors. For more information log on to www.SEALIFEUS.com or www.LEGOLAND.com.
A Nantucket Escape
Nantucket, MA—Discover the charm and serenity of an island where fully 40 percent of the land is under conservation protection. Picture wild moors, sandy beaches, cobblestone streets, and a historic harbor, and you’re in the former sea-whaling capital of Nantucket. The seventh-century Veranda House, newly expanded and renovated, welcomes guests for its 127th summer season here. A new breakfast room, new lounge and new patio are just some of the improvements at this unique 18-room historic hotel. Guests will also enjoy the wraparound porches with views to enjoy wine and cheese, afternoon tea and evening champagne. Nightly rates during high season (two and four night minimum) range from $289 to $589, which includes accommodations, afternoon tea and breakfast. Nantucket’s scenic beaches and historic town center are all within easy reach. Visit www.theverandahouse.com or call (877)228-0695 and www.nantucketchamber.org for touring ideas.
Cable Car Package
Available now through Labor Day weekend, the newly renovated Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf is offering a special Cable Car package starting at $250 and including guestroom accommodations and two unlimited use all-day cable car passes per stay. Located across the street from the Mason/Powell Cable Car line, the hotel features 313 guestrooms and a newly renovated 24-hour StayFit@Hyatt Fitness center, plus an outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi. The Knuckles Historic Sports Bar & Grill offers a game room for pool. For reservations and information call (800)233-1234 or visit www.fishermanswharf.hyatt.com. Check out the Hyatt Retreat Packages online as well for year-long savings.
Booking a Cruise Deal
Kayak.com is a reliable travel website that now has expanded its online possibilities to include cruises. You’ll be linked to various cruise companies, but for discounts you need to go to last minute cruise deals or affordable cruises. The last minute cruises, especially in the Caribbean, can be discounted for as much as 75 percent. Another website worth a look is www.affordabletours.com.
Hot Deals
Orlando can be a bargain if you chose your accommodations with care. The “Summer Sizzle” package on offer from Rosen Hotels & Resorts will tempt travelers with a price as low as $49.45 per night. Now through August 15, 2008, four Rosen properties in Orlando, including Quality Inn International, Rodeway Inn International and Quality Inn Plaza, all located along International Drive, as well as Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista near Walt Disney World, are participating in this package. The hotels range in size from 315 rooms to 1,020 rooms. Kids eat free with an adult at each hotel, and swimming pools are on property for much needed downtime. This is an online offer only. Visit www.orlandohotels4less.com/cvbsummer. For more information call (877)224-5377.
Villa Deals
Wimco, a leading marketer of private villas and hotels in the Caribbean and Europe, has added a new feature on its website, which helps travelers make the most of their dollar. The website, www.wimco.com, shows the cost per bedroom, per night to provide a direct comparison with nightly hotel rates in the same destination. The “Value Villas” section compares rates in the Caribbean to demonstrate how economical it can be to stay in a villa rather than a hotel, especially for a family or a group of travelers.
Southern Comfort
Celebrating the food, drink and culture of the South, SoFAB (Southern Food & Beverage Museum) opens at New Orleans’ Riverwalk Marketplace on June 7, 2008. The first of its kind, this quirky museum focuses on menus throughout the United States that serve Southern food. The opening exhibits include the cuisine of New Orleans and Louisiana, “Eating at the White House - America’s Food” and “Wish You Were Here - Postcards from the South,” a never-before-seen collection of postcards depicting African-Americans and food. SoFAB is located at Riverwalk’s Julia Street entrance (www.southernfood.org).
Summer in Yosemite
Yosemite National Park, CA—The opening of Tioga Road on May 21 signaled the start of the season at Yosemite National Park, one of this country’s most beautiful recreational parks offering a wide variety of outdoor activities. Ansel Adams fans should include a visit to the Ansel Adams Gallery (209-372-4413; www.anseladams.com) to see his photography of Yosemite, one of his favorite subjects. In the park, rafting along the Merced River is a popular activity, especially during June and July, and you can either bring your own raft or rent one. Kayaking is allowed in the calm waters of Tenya Lake and swimming is permitted in all bodies of water except for Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. You need a valid California fishing license to fish in the park through November 15, and supplies and licenses are available at the Yosemite Village Sport Shop, Curry Mountain Shop, and at general stores in Wawona, Crane Flat and Tuolumne Meadows. Best advice? Take the shuttle buses to tour this vast expanse and sign up for a ranger-led tour for an inside look at the wonders of Yosemite. Details at www.nps.gov/yose.
Affordable Packages in Philly
Three hotels packages geared for busy summer travel are on offer in Philadelphia, and they include something for every age group. Philly’s More Summer Fun Hotel Package, running from May 23 through to September 7, 2008, encompasses 30 hotels. Each two-night stay includes a $50 American Express gift card. Go to www.gophila.com for booking information. The Animal Discoveries Hotel Package, geared for families, includes four tickets to the Philadelphia Zoo, the Adventure Aquarium and Ride the Ducks, plus free parking and a free shuttle ride from the Independence Visitor Center to the zoo. It’s good through November 30, 2008. The Philly Overnight Hotel Package, for two nights of the week, includes 30 plus hotels and includes free parking. Both packages are available on www.gophila.com.
Bette Midler's Stay & Play Package
The show must go on! If Bette Midler has anything to say about it, you’ll be joining her at Caesars Palace with a special Stay & Play Package available now. The centerpiece of the deal? Two VIP tickets to “The Showgirl Must Go On,” Midler’s new show in Vegas. Included in the package are a one-night stay at Caesars Palace and two complimentary drinks at the performance in preferred seating. Bette says it’s good to be a diva—and she flaunts it with style. Book on www.caesarspalace.com and for more information on the show check out http://bette.aeglive.com.
Simpsons Now in Orlando
A brand-new ride based on the irreverent Simpsons
television show opened May 15 at Universal Studios Florida. It’s
based on Krusty the Clown, the show’s cash hungry clown who sets
up a theme park called “Krustyland.” This new mega-attraction is
state-of-the art with the original stars of the show performing
the voices. The show’s producers collaborated with 20th Century
Fox television and Gracie Films as well as Universal Theme Parks
to create what is being billed as “the Ultimate Simpson experience.” Admission
to Universal Studios Florida is $71 for adults and $60 for children.
Check out www.universalstudios.com and www.simpsonsride.com for
details.
Appalachian Driving Tours
The National Geographic Society and the Appalachian Regional Commission have joined forces to release 28 unique driving tours of the Appalachian region that highlight a broad array of historical, cultural, archaeological, and scenic sites. The rich heritage of this region, which encompasses 14 states from southern New York to northern Mississippi, offers rich ground to explore this summer. Plan your trip to include a quaint inn, art tours, local music, historic sights, natural wonders, hiking, and more. A newly developed companion piece at www.visitappalachia.com includes an interactive version of the driving tours, a downloadable PDF of the map, directions for driving vacations, and links to the Appalachian State Tourism offices for additional information on lodging, dining and sight-seeing.
Campton Place Packages
Food and Wine, Shopping and Movie programs are among the packages offered in 2008 by the Taj Hotel, Campton Place, a luxury hotel near Union Square with 110 guestrooms and suites. The “What’s Up Doc?” package highlights San Francisco’s movie heritage with a private tour, a personal collection of 25 DVDs to take home, a four-course en suite dinner for eight, and two nights in a luxury suite. The “Weekend Dinner Package” includes guaranteed admission to the Vessel Lounge and an eight-course tasting menu, available through December 31, 2008 at $625 for a deluxe room and $749 for a suite. The “Shopper Stop Package” is available through June 30, 2008 and includes shipping credit and a $150 Gump’s gift card. Visit www.camptonplace.com for package details and reservations.
Sex and the City
The Mandarin Oriental announced the launch of the new “Sex and the City Celebration Package” to honor the movie’s release on May 30, 2008. The five-star hotel’s package includes a $200 gift card to Henri Bendel and a limousine tour for up to five people of the Sex and the City Hotspots by On Location Tours. The hotel’s Lobby Lounge has created irresistible drinks—the Mr. Big Martini, Miranda’s Manhattan and, of course, the Carrie Cosmo. A complimentary Sex and the City Trivia game is included in this luxury one-night package meant for die-hard fans. Check out details and availability for April 15 through December 31, 2008 at www.mandarinoriental.com or call toll-free at (866)801-8880.
Wine Lovers Alert
A five-hour drive from all major eastern American and Canadian cities, the Finger Lakes region is not just known for boating, camping and outdoor activities. It is, in fact, an impressive wine-growing area, with more than 100 award-winning wineries, unique history and natural beauty. Add to that attractions such as The Corning Museum of Glass and fine restaurants and you’ve got the recipe for a great weekend getaway. Finger Lakes Wine Country makes it easy with a new 2008 downloadable Travel Guide at www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com.
Summer Savings
Check out the serious summer savings at the hip, urban resort and spa hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona, where modern architecture and Hollywood glamour combine to provide an urban retreat. The 194-room Hotel Valley Ho Tower offers great city and mountain views. For bookings made before May 1, the summer rates are as low as $109 weekdays and $129 on weekends. There is also a “So Summer” package for $149 that includes a free drink, ten percent off a Spa visit, twenty percent off a Trader Vic’s restaurant visit as well as coupons for shopping in the area call (866)882-4484 or visit www.hotelvalleyho.com. Summer rates are good through August 31, 2008, subject to availability.
Celebrate a Hotel's 50th Anniversary
These are some special rates. How does $50 a night sound to you? That’s the 1958 room rate the 50-year-old St. Francis Hotel Inn in St. Augustine will honor on the second night of your stay with a special anniversary package (the first night runs $129 to $189, depending on the accommodation). The inn is St. Augustine’s oldest bed-and-breakfast, dating to circa 1791, and is located at the corner of St. George and St. Francis streets. It has served as a hotel for 50 years and under the present owners has revived the restaurant that once graced the inn. How about $1.75 for a T-bone steak served with French fries and a salad? All accommodations include Southern breakfast, wine and hors d’oeuvres, tickets to the St. Augustine lighthouse and Museum, and bicycles to tour the town. The rates are good August 2008 through January 2009. Go to www.stfrancisinn.com for more information.
Getting Away from it All
Gunnison-Crested Butte, CO—Summer is a great time to go fishing, and there are more than 3 million fish and hundreds of miles of scenic waterways in Colorado to enjoy the sport and the great outdoors. Gunnison-Crested Butte in southwest Colorado has more than two million acres of wilderness for hiking, biking, boating, and especially fishing along the Gunnison, East and Taylor rivers. The Three Rivers Resort in Almont (visit www.3riversresort.com) offers fly-fishing packages starting at $395 per person with two nights’ lodging in a riverfront cabin, one full day of fly-fishing instruction and fishing equipment. Gunnison County holds state records for the largest brown trout, rainbow trout and kokanee salmon, so you know the fishing is good here. The season goes from June to November. For lodging, outfitters and recreational choices visit www.GunnisonCrestedButte.com.
Kids Club in Waikiki
Hula lessons and shoreline excursions plus a visit to the new Science Adventure Center at the Bishop Museum are just some of the fun things kids will do as part of a KeikiQuest Kids Club package on offer from June 15 to August 23, 2008 at any of the ResortQuest Hawaii’s properties in Waikiki. For $50, plus tax, per child, children (ages five through 12) can enjoy an adventure-filled day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and learn all about Hawaiian culture and the local environment under the watchful eyes of a fully trained staff. Call (866)774-2924 and visit www.ResortQuestHawaii.com for details.
Thailand on a Shoestring
It’s not often you find a trip to Asia that includes airfare, so when you do it’s a good idea to follow up. Pacific Delight Tours is now offering an 11-day Bangkok, Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai package to Thailand and the Golden Triangle with prices starting at $2,598, including airfare. Highlights are the bustling capital of Bangkok with visits to the King’s gilded Royal Palace complex and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Although shopping is intriguing in Bangkok, reach for your wallet when you are in the northern village of Chiang Saen near the Burmese border and in Chiang Mai’s famous night market. Details at www.pacificdelightours.com and (800)221-7179.
Alaska Cruise Package
The Pan Pacific Vancouver hotel has just introduced its 2008 Alaska Cruise Package, which offers an ideal location for cruise passengers to enjoy a layover or pre-cruise accommodation. The package includes one night of luxury accommodation, breakfast buffet for two in Cafe Pacifica, which overlooks the waterfront, and transfer to or from Ballantyne Pier or Canada Place Pier for CAD$379. For details visit www.panpacific.com.
Eco-Resort in Tucson
The largest resort in southern Arizona is also Tucson’s shining example of an eco-resort. The 575-room JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa offers only organic fresh fish in its Primo restaurant and uses natural desert plants in its Hashani Spa. Now the resort adds a water park-like amenity to its roster of guest services. A brand-new $1.5-million Lazy River oasis debuts at the end of March. With 360-degree views of downtown Tucson and the Tucson Mountain Park, it’s a unique 110-foot long, ten-minute ride down to the start of the Starr Canyon River. The resort offers an Arnold Palmer golf facility, a one-acre pool area and the new 177,000-gallon Lazy River (with heated water). Call (570)792-3500 to reach the resort directly or visit www.jwmarriottstarrpass.com.
Ancient Biblical Art
San Francisco, CA—“Treasures from the Holy Land” at the Legion of Honor through August 10, 2008 includes rotating examples of the rare Dead Sea Scroll fragments that revolutionized the study of religious history. Artifacts dating from 5,000 years ago until the eleventh century A.D. will also be on display to elucidate these times. All on are loan from the Israel Antiquities Authority and most have never been on display outside the country before. This exhibit will be the first of a series of joint shows in collaboration with the IAA. The first Dead Sea Scroll on display is from the Book of Psalms, one of the best-preserved examples of biblical text that dates from the first century A.D. Check www.famsf.org for details.
Chesapeake Connections
Maryland—Spring weather brings warmer breezes to the Chesapeake Bay area, a rich estuary system that extends almost 200 miles within 12,000 miles of tidal shoreline. Covering six states and extending through the nation’s capital in Washington, D.C., the area offers a wide array of seasonal activities spanning a host of locations. Check out www.baygateways.net for excursions, activities, tours and more or call (866)229-9297 for tourism information in the bay area.
In the Know in Snow Country
Orinda, CA—A global leader for snow reports and resort information has expanded its’ international scope by expanding its information to include six European languages. OnTheSnow.com, a popular snow sports Web site visited by travelers to research and plan their ski trips, is now offering services to both European and domestic winter sports enthusiasts eager to explore snow conditions and destinations around the world. With its expansion of European content, the Web site added information on more than 1,200 ski resorts throughout Western Europe, from Norway to Greece and 25 countries in between, published in German, French, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, and Norwegian. As part of the Web site’s recent enhancements, people who visit www.OnTheSnow.com to help plan their winter vacation can scan the reviews section for independently generated reports on resorts and lodging options all submitted by other visitors. The site also includes a discussion forum to post blogs and photos and maintain a community-oriented aspect to better inform potential travelers.
History along the Heritage Trail
Southwest Virginia—The Virginia Coal Heritage Trail is an official Virginia Byway that encompasses more than 300 miles of scenic roadways that travel through the core of Virginia’s coalfield region. These picturesque roads offer glimpses of a century-old culture and travel through seven counties. A Virginia Byway is a special route that gives travelers access to areas of scenic, historic, recreational, cultural, natural, or archaeological significance. Along the way, travelers can view elaborate architecture in Pocahontas and experience Dante, an early 1900s coal company town. Today’s modern coal-mining operations are on display through Buchanan County and on railroad trestles that carry coal-filled trains through the mountainous territory of the region. For a more authentic experience, visitors can venture underground into the Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine, visit Natural Tunnel State Park where coal is still transported by train through a tunnel formed naturally more than a million years ago and stay at the Red Caboose Inn in Haysi. The Virginia Coal Heritage Trail features many points of interest, including several museums. For more information, visit www.Virginia.org/CoalHeritageTrail.
Spacious in Seattle
Seattle, WA—The Seattle Art Museum has completed a major expansion that adds an additional 118,000 square feet of new space just in time for the museum’s 75th anniversary in 2008. The new space includes galleries, public spaces, a restaurant, expanded museum store, and a spacious entryway and lobby. Approximately 2,400 objects are now on display at the museum, nearly tripling the number of works previously displayed. For the upcoming anniversary, some of the area’s most prominent art collectors and museum patrons have given gifts from their collections, totaling nearly 1,000 pieces altogether. In the near term, visitors to the museum can enjoy a special exhibit, "Japan Envisions the West: 16th – 19th Century Japanese Art from Kobe City Museum" taking place from December 1, 2007 through January 6, 2008. For additional details, visit www.seattleartmuseum.org or call (206) 654-3100.
Traveling Among the Trees
Orick, CA—Redwood Parks Lodge Company has launched Redwood Adventures Tours, offering a range of tour packages to visitors of the Redwood National and State Parks. These tours range from a one-hour "Orientation Tour" designed to inform visitors about every facet of the parks to a six-hour comprehensive and flexible "Full Day Tour" designed to provide an intimate look at the unique sites found in the four separate parks within Redwood National and State Parks. Tour packages range in price from $18 per family or group for the Orientation Tour to $135 per person for the Full Day Tour. Each tour is hosted by a certified Adventure Guide and participants receive an orientation packet for each tour. To celebrate the launch of the new company, a two-for-one special for per-person pricing is on offer as well as special rates for larger groups. For more information, visit www.redwoodadventures.com or call (866) 733-9637.
Hollywood Goes High-Tech
Hollywood, CA—The West Hollywood Convention & Visitors Bureau has recently launched a completely re-designed, cutting-edge website to the public, www.visitwesthollywood.com, serving as the premier resource for the area’s latest news and information. The new site hosts technologies that include live streaming video information, a “Hot News” column delivering breaking news directly to users’ email boxes, expanded, in-depth content detailing the history of the city along with its neighborhoods. The website also continues to host ARES, a booking engine allowing visitors to book any of West Hollywood’s 14 hotels directly online at discounted prices, an interactive 3-D map of the area, as well as content in four different languages, and a Travel Club enticing visitors to sign up for discounts on local restaurants, shops and hotels.
A Grand View of Vegas
Las Vegas—Las Vegas Grand Canyon Tours has expanded their service with the addition of three new VIP Grand Canyon Helicopter tours, plus a flight along the famous Vegas Strip. VIP Grand Canyon Helicopter tours are one-day tours that give visitors an adventurous alternative to the acclaimed gaming capital by offering a true sightseeing excursion. The three tours include the VIP Floor Landing tour, VIP Air Only Tour and VIP Sunset Tour. Each tour features private limousine transportation to the McCarran Executive terminal to board a state of the art Eco-Star Jet Helicopter, where informative guides narrate the history of Las Vegas and area landmarks such as the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam and Colorado River. Visit www.lasvegasgrandcanyontour.com for more information.
A Legacy of Heroes
North Charleston, SC—Enthusiasts of firefighting history will find plenty to marvel at with a visit to the North Charleston and American LaFrance Fire Museum and Educational Center. With a view towards stimulating and educating visitors, the Fire Museum features several innovative displays that include films depicting the history of firefighting, an interactive exhibit dealing with home hazards, and the Great Escape exhibit, which allows young visitors to experience flying down a fire pole and learning proper methods of fire safety. The American LaFrance collection is housed within the museum and features eighteen antique fire trucks, a hand operated fire pump and two horse-drawn steam engines dating back to the early 20th century. The Fire Museum benefits from its location near to the North Charleston Visitors Center and area shopping, as well as the Charleston International Airport. For more details about the museum, visit www.legacyofheroes.org or call (843) 740-5550.
An Archway to Ecotourism
St. Louis, MO—Several St. Louis ecotourism attractions are helping to educate visitors on how to save endangered animal and plant species, as well as teaching how to more easily help preserve the earth’s environment. At the forefront is the Missouri Botanical Garden, a 79-acre garden eco-friendly site. Within the garden is the Climatron geodesic greenhouse, where visitors can experience a lively rainforest style setting and take a close-up view at exotic plants, birds and bubbling waterfalls. The Kemper Center for Home Gardening allows visitors to discover ways to utilize their home gardens more effectively and in environmentally friendly ways. Specialty gardens demonstrate how to attract butterflies, bees and birds and the center’s "plant doctor" helps diagnose gardening problems and propose eco-safe solutions. The Missouri Botanical Garden also operates three additional eco-friendly sites—the Butterfly House, the Shaw Nature Reserve and the EarthWays Home. For additional details, call (314) 577-9400 or visit www.mobot.org.
Discover Kentucky
Frankfort, KY—The Kentucky Department of Tourism has released a new travel guide highlighting the state’s multicultural history, heritage and travel attractions. The 40-page guide provides visitors information about sites, activities and destinations that include and interpret Kentucky’s rich multicultural legacy. In addition to the guide, a special Web site has been created at www.kentuckytourism.com, which also allows visitors to tell the story of their cultural heritage. The guide spotlights various cultural tourism destinations throughout the Commonwealth, including Mantle Rock, Cherokee State Resort Park, Kentucky’s involvement in the “Underground Railroad,” and profiles of famous Kentuckians such as Mary Britton, the first African American physician in Lexington and Isaac Burns Murphy, the first three-time winning jockey of the Kentucky Derby. To request a copy of the Multicultural Tourism Guide, visit www.KentuckyTourism.com.
Ready for Liftoff
Kennedy Space Center, FL—Thrill seekers and
would-be space travelers will find a true-to-life experience at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The "Shuttle Launch
Experience" was designed by NASA and a
team of astronauts to create an authentic simulation that takes
guests on a journey to experience an actual Space Shuttle launch
into orbit. Everything from the gantry-styled walkway, to step-by-step
launch sequence is faithfully recreated to bring the experience
to life. Images of the Shuttle on the launch pad, close-ups of the
main engines igniting and the view back down to Earth during ascent
are shown through a combination of screens that move up and down
via robotic arms enhanced with atmospheric, sound and lighting effects.
The $60-million, 44,000-square-foot Shuttle Launch Experience serves
as the centerpiece of a $160-million, 10-year redevelopment plan
to transform Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex into a place where
all of NASA's activities around the world can be experienced. To
learn more, visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com
or call (321) 449-4444.
Discover a Full Day of Family Fun
Orlando, FL—Discovery Cove, a tropical retreat
where visitors can swim with dolphins and spend the day with their
favorite sea life, has now been made an all-inclusive destination
where guests can take part in every attraction the park has to offer.
The all-inclusive admission packages allow participants to choose
from among the dolphin-swim package, non-dolphin package or Trainer
for a Day. Discovery Cove also features snorkeling activities among
tropical fish and rays, hand-feeding exotic birds and relaxing on
the beaches. The reservations-only adventure limits attendance and
includes a full day of interactive activities, parking, plus a seven-day
pass to either SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. For
more information, visit www.DiscoveryCove.com
or call (877) 4-DISCOVERY. Prices vary seasonally.
Taking Flight in Tennessee
Pigeon Forge, TN—The Helicopter
Headquarters is an interactive facility, which highlights the history
of flight by way of visual displays and historical elements that
include more than 10 different full-size helicopters. The 25,000-square-foot,
multi-million dollar facility allows visitors to trace the history
of helicopter aviation by exploring the aircraft's role in history,
from world conflicts to Hollywood scenes. For all-ages fun, Helicopter
Headquarters provides Cybercopter Sims, placing visitors right at
the controls, where they may choose from a variety of free flight
missions through a virtual landscape. The museum is also home to
Scenic Helicopter Tours, which offer guests an aerial tour over
the nearby Smoky Mountains. For more information call (865) 429-2929
or visit www.helihq.com.
Cultural Immersion and Cost Savings
Santa Fe, NM—Visitors to New Mexico's numerous
and diverse family of state-run museums can benefit from the one-ticket
pass recently introduced by the New Mexico Department of Cultural
Affairs. The New Mexico CulturePass allows the purchaser one-time
visits to each of the eight museums and six monuments that are funded
and operated by the State of New Mexico. The $20 pass is valid for
one year from date of first use and is available to both New Mexico
residents and tourists. The price represents more than a 50 percent
savings if all 14 museums and monuments are visited. The CulturePass
is being sold at all state museums and monuments on the department's
website, www.newmexicoculture.org
as well as the Tourism Department's visitor centers.
Hollywood's First "Home"
Santa Barbara, CA—While most people recognize
Hollywood as the birthplace of the movie star, few may realize there
was another Southern California location that preceded it. Home
to California's first major movie studio, Flying "A" Studios, in
1910, Santa Barbara was the original "Hollywood." In the early days
of cinematic history, the city's ideal climate and background served
the up and coming industry well for more than 1,000 films between
1912 and 1921, and has since set the scenes for the likes of The
Ten Commandments (1923) and The Graduate (1967), as well
as hundreds of features all benefiting from the region's rich locale.
Aside from being a popular location for film production, Santa Barbara
is also home to a thriving film and creative community that hosts
many festivals, including the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Visit www.santabarbarafilmtour.com
for more information about the city's historic landmarks and the
many film tours available.
"Freedom" in the Front Row
Gettysburg, PA—One of America's most famous
sites is offering visitors the chance to relive history during a
pivotal period in our nation's history by way of the unique "Fields
of Freedom" attraction. A highlighted feature in the new Gateway
Gettysburg development, "Fields of Freedom" is a 30-minute movie
that retells the story of the climactic battle of July 3, 1863,
the third and decisive day of fighting in Gettysburg. The state-of-the-art
documentary was shot on location in Hagerstown, Maryland and was
created by an Emmy Award-winning production team to enhance the
true to life experience. The theaters at Gateway Gettysburg offer
a viewer-friendly experience that includes rocking chair seats and
plenty of walking and viewing space between and above rows. Gateway
Gettysburg is located adjacent to the historic site of the famous
Civil War battle and offers visitors choices in lodging, dining,
shopping, and entertainment. To learn more, visit www.gatewaygettysburg.com.
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