Latest Travel Articles

Tuesday, June 01, 2010

We all “feel” better getting away on vacation. Did you know it really is not just your imagination? Science and statistics show it is true.  Vacations can reduce risk of heart disease, depression and even slow down the aging process. How about this statistic… Two vacations can cut your risk of heart attack by 50%.

Vacations help reduce stress, which will always help your health. 

Here are some other  tips to reduce stress during travel.

• Get away long enough time to let go of your daily grind.  A week is recommended.
• Watch your time zones – too many time zones actually increase your stress on your body’s natural rhythms.
• Don’t over schedule your trip – Make sure you have quiet time each day.
• Be social – making new acquaintances has a restorative power.
• Enjoy physical activity – moderate exercise like swimming and walking are great energy boosters.

How sad that a third or us do not use all our vacation days!  Hopefully this will inspire you to take some time to better your health with travel.

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Saturday, May 01, 2010

So many unique places are found in South America, no wonder it's a favorite with all types of travelers. Here you'll find some of the most intriguing and amazing sights in the world. From Caracas to Cape Horn, imagine being at these remarkable places:

• Angel Falls, in Canaima National Park, Venezuela - The world's tallest uninterrupted waterfall at 3,230 ft, the view from the air is unforgettable.
• Cartagena, Colombia - The colonial walled city and fortress are a UNESCO World Heritage site well worth wandering for the history and striking architecture.
• The Amazon River - The longest river and largest river basin in the world, the Amazon runs 4,000 miles through seven countries; Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana and Brazil. With a diverse eco system and many unique species, it is a major destination for adventure and eco-travelers.
• Ecuador & the Galapagos Archipelago - The smallest country in the Andes has much to offer visitors. The colonial center of Quito, Pacific beaches, volcanoes both active and extinct, white water rafting, mountain cabins and Amazonia jungle lodges. The Galapagos Archipelago with its unique habitat and marine reserve is a province of Ecuador situated 600 miles west of the mainland.
• Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Peru - This area is the center of Incan civilization where ruins are still being discovered and visitors marvel at stories of ancient life. Machu Picchu, the ruined city high in the mountains is nothing short of breathtaking and the most visited site in Peru. Museums in Cusco and Lima bring Incan history, art and culture to life. Active travelers will want to take the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a four-day hike ranked one of the best in the world.
• Lake Titicaca, Peru and Bolivia - At 12,500 ft in the Andes, this is the highest commercially navigable lake in the world. The vistas of coastline and mountains are beautiful and there are some unusual islands to explore- like the Uros floating reed islands, some of which welcome visitors.
• Patagonia, Chile and Argentina - This expansive and remote region of ice fields, fjords, glaciers and mountains contains such romantic places as the Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas, Cape Horn, the Beagle Channel, Torres del Paines National Park. Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia; the world's southernmost city. Visit Magellanic Penguin colonies and enjoy the rugged outdoors in one of the most beautiful areas on the continent.
• Buenos Aires, Argentina - The favorite city of many world travelers is known for its magnificent architecture (including the home of the President, the famous Pink Palace), wide avenues, street side cafes, manicured parks and colorful barrios or neighborhoods. Seeing Tango dancers perform spontaneously in the street at historic La Boca gets you in the mood of this exciting city.
• Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil - Spanning the border of Argentina and Brazil is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world and the top attraction in South America. Walkways allow for good viewing of the 275 falls which stretch along a 1.67-mile stretch of the Iguazu River. Entry is through the Visitors Centre where you buy tickets to the Iguazu Falls National Park. Tour on your own or hire a bilingual guide. Nearly 2 million people visit the falls each year.
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - With magnificent beaches and mountains right in town, this is one of the world's most spectacular cities. Enjoy the long, sandy- and legendary- Ipanema, Copacabana and Leblon beaches while the famous statue of Christ watches over you from atop Corcovado Mountain. Take a cog railway ride to the top to see this amazing statue and panoramic views of the city and coastline. Rio's annual Carnival is the most lavish in the world and the most colorful time to visit.
  
  New Tours for 2011
• Globus Andean Explorer
  10 day exciting journey of Peru icluding Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, the Nazca Lines an a excursion to Lake Titicaca.
  
• Trafalgar Monkeys, Jungles & Volcanoes
  8 day family Costa Rica vacation

Tuesday, February 02, 2010

Chile is incredibly diverse...from the cool southern tip, to the dry northern regions, this country is stunning. From Colonial towns and lush thriving vineyards to the deep, formidable fjords. Chile is waiting to be discovered. Here are just a few of the areas you might visit while on a tour of Chile.

Santiago:  Santiago de Chile is a modern, sophisticated city with impressive infrastructure, world-class dining and shopping within easy proximity to neighboring regions well known for wine and impressive scenery. Take the funicular to see the Statue of the Virgin atop Cerro San Cristobal. It is a great photo opportunity, as it provides a great view of the city. Other sights include the Museum of Natural History, Santa Lucia Hill and a cathedral which has a painting of the Last Supper.

Valparaiso:  This is Chile's oldest and largest port city. It offers both a rich cultural and architectural legacy, with an intricately woven tapestry of streets and alleyways. Valparaiso is one of Latin America's most interesting urban areas. Visit Victoria Square, the Naval Maritime Museum and the Church of La Matriz.  Ride on the cable cars, also known as ascensores.

Torres del Paine National Park:  Found in remote Patagonia to the south, these soaring granite peaks are surrounded by glaciers, wilderness and lakes.  You will see amazing scenery and lots of wildlife, including everything from pink flamingos, to herds of sheep and guanacos.

Easter Island:  These mysterious and exotic Pacific islands are home to friendly indigenous Polynesians and the famous ancient stone faces. Some of the ancient sites you can see are Ahu Tahai, Orongo, Ahu Vaihu and Rano Kau.

Puerto Montt:  The scenery in this area is amazing.  You would not expect to see Alpine houses in Chile, but in fact this area was settled by Germany's in the 1800's, so you see the influence still today.  Puerto Montt is excellent for trout fishing and skiing in the winter.

Punta Arenas:  This is know as the gateway to Antarctica, and is the southernmost city in the world.  It is a small area that can be toured in about an hour. See the monument to Hernando de Magallanes in the main square, the bell tower and cathedral.

October through March are the best months for South America tours and travel to Chile. Like in many European cities, dinner is normally eaten after 8 p.m.  so make sure you eat a late lunch or have a snack.  If you are interested in shopping, the most popular items are blankets, wool rugs, pottery, Easter Island statues, hand made jewelry and local wines

S Brage http://www.atlastravelweb.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S_Brage http://EzineArticles.com/?Places-to-Visit-in-Chile&id=2736596

 

Saturday, January 02, 2010

Independent Vacation 2010 Prices Down 10 Percent Worldwide

LITTLETON, Colorado – September 23, 2009 – With nearly 40 offices staffed with more than 200 travel experts that extend as far as Asia and as wide as Europe, Monograms – the independent travel arm of the Globus family of brands – has inherited a rich reputation as a company travelers can depend on to help them simplify travel planning while personalizing their dream getaway.  And, in 2010, Monograms is taking this notion of dependability a step further, becoming the “go-to” company for travelers visiting a destination for the first time in nearly every corner of the world with 100 travel packages from which to choose the perfect escape – be it a family vacation, honeymoon, couple’s retreat or a much-needed girlfriend getaway.

“We give travelers the power to personalize their vacation without having to take care of planning details and logistics,” said Scott Nisbet, president and chief executive officer for the Globus family of brands.  “And, in 2010, we’re extending our offerings with new vacations in Europe, North and South America and Asia.”

Monograms 2010 vacation offerings provide travelers diversity in length of stay (itineraries range from four to 20 days) pricing and destinations, boasting getaways to Britain, Ireland, France, Holland, Italy, Hungary, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Russia, South America, Asia, the South Pacific and many cities and regions in North America. 

The company is not only expanding its vacation portfolio, it has increased the services that make Monograms the perfect travel companion.  For instance, Monograms is now providing travelers the chance to book activities and excursions online before their vacation.  And, Monograms has expanded the cities worldwide in which Local Host services and expertise are available.

“Monograms is the only brand in the world to provide travelers a Local Host in dozens of destinations around the globe,” said Steve Born, vice president of marketing for the Globus family of brands.  This on-site local expert helps Monograms vacationers get to know their destination by facilitating a half day of sightseeing.  Then, the expert helps them personalize their experience by providing suggestions, making excursion arrangements and answering questions while also taking care of such details as facilitating transportation between cities as well as airport and hotel transfers. 

“Our goal is to make our clients feel both comfortable and confident while traveling abroad,” said Born.

Monograms vacation packages also come with an impressive selection of hotels recommended for their location and amenities.  And, a daily buffet breakfast is included in most Monograms getaways (in Europe, South America, Asia, the South Pacific). 

“The plethora of services Monograms provides takes away many of the stresses the average person experiences when planning and taking a getaway – domestically or internationally,” said Nisbet.  “Our experts take on the details so our travelers can immerse themselves in their escape and focus on fun.”

DEAL ALERT:  Monograms 2010 package prices are down an average of 15 percent in Europe and 10 percent worldwide.

NEW Monograms vacations in 2010 include:
•    Rome & Sorrento (7 days), priced from $1,343
•    Brazil, Argentina & Chile (12 days), priced from $3,039
•    Costa Rica Wonders (7 days), priced from $1,299
•    Tokyo & Kyoto (7 days), priced from $2,099
•    Beijing & Shanghai (7 days), priced from $1,109
•    Bangkok & Phuket (9 days), priced from $1,219
•    Maui & Kauai (7 days), priced from $829
•    Vancouver & Whistler (7 days), priced from $549
•    Redwoods, Wine Country & Yosemite (9 days), priced from $699

The above prices are based on land-only, including intra-vacation air and rail transfers.  Air-inclusive pricing is also available, including hotel/airport transfers when Monograms issues tickets.

Visit http://www.independentvacations.org for a full list of 2010 vacation packages.

Saturday, January 02, 2010

Pack Fun into Quick Independent Vacations - here is a press release about the changing world of Independent Vacations.

LITTLETON, Colorado – October 28, 2009 – It’s no secret that Americans are changing their vacation habits: Many time-starved travelers are opting for quick getaways to fill their vacation void.  Monograms is making it easy for people vying for a quick escape to another city – domestically or internationally.  The company simplifies vacations for independent travelers on five continents, in more than 30 countries, by enabling them to personalize their vacation without having to take care of logistics and planning obstacles such as choosing the perfect hotel (in an equally desirable location) and getting from point A to B to city orientation and “must-see” sightseeing. 

Monograms offers four-day getaways to London, Paris, Rome, Venice and Sorrento, starting at just $480.  Domestically, travelers can enjoy short escapes to New York, Boston, Toronto, Chicago, New Orleans, San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington, DC for as low as $259.  And, week-long escapes in nearly every corner of the globe are also available, including: Britain, Ireland, France, Holland, Italy, Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Russia, South America, North America and Asia.

“Not only do we provide travelers a plethora of destinations from which to choose the perfect mini getaway,” said Scott Nisbet, president and chief executive officer for the Globus family of brands, the parent company for Monograms.  “As part of our international vacation packages, we include a half-day city orientation, ensuring our travelers don’t miss the must-see sights.  In addition, our Local Hosts share insights and suggestions to help vacationers make the most of their quick getaway.”  Domestically, Monograms provides travelers with 24-Hour Service On Call.

Taking advantage of nearly 40 offices and more than 200 support staff around the world, Monograms also offers travelers a selection of hotels known for their comfort, style, service and convenient locations.  In addition, Monograms takes care of flight arrangements, transfers from airport to hotel and transfers between cities, further simplifying the planning process and making it easier than ever to take a mini vacation.

“A vacation – short or long – should be just that … a vacation,” said Nisbet.  “At Monograms, we value a traveler’s time and need for an unparalleled, stress-free getaway.  Our experts take on the details so our travelers can immerse themselves in their escape and focus on fun.”

For more information about Monograms and the nearly 150 vacation packages available worldwide, visit http://www.independentvacations.org.