Latest Travel Blog Entries

Friday, February 26, 2010

Discover scenic fjords, glacial splendor and Latin rhythms on Holland America Cruises' exceptional South America itineraries. There's time to savor a hassle-free vacation that blends iconic sites with off-the-beaten-path destinations in this continent of infinite wonder.

Nothing tops these 12-Day, 2010 South America Passage cruises for spectacular beauty and dramatic marine history.

From magnificent Puerto Montt and Punta Arenas in Chile to southernmost Ushuaia and the Falkland Islands' Stanley with its fascinating parade of penguins, these voyages encompass intriguing ports of call with unparalleled scenic cruising. Considered by many to be the highlight and most memorable aspect of a South America cruise, larger-than-life landscapes and seascapes present unforgettable grandeur.

Sailing aboard the elegant ms Veendam through the ice-capped fjords of the Chilean Fjords, guests revel in some of the world's most impressive scenery. From lush islands and small harbors to dense forests and thermal springs, diverse wonders of this extraordinary continent unfold. And navigational history comes alive as guests sail the Darwin, Cockburn and Beagle Channels, the Strait of Magellan and round Cape Horn.

Long a major milestone and trade route for clipper ships, Cape Horn is steeped in history. It marks the northern boundary of the Drake Passage, which Magellan's fleet first circled, and is a true rite of passage for many sailors. The trade route changed with the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914, but many sailors continue to sail this route, sometimes as part of a circumnavigation of the globe.

12-Day South America Passage sailings between Valparaíso (Santiago) to Buenos Aires – from $1,199 Sail dates: 11/2, 11/14, 11/26; 12/8/10; 1/23; 2/4/11.

Sunday, January 31, 2010

As you get ready to travel?

Here are some tips to give you peace of mind while you are away and make sure you do not make your house as a target of opportunity. These are some simple precautions from the experts.

• Be mindful of who is around when you are discussing your trip - there is no need to let too many people know or draw attention to the fact your house might be empty for a period.
• The best deterrent is to have someone housesit. If that is not possible, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to take in the newspaper, mail, and any other deliveries and keep an eye on the house. Give them your trip plans and an emergency phone number so they can reach you in case of an emergency. You can also arrange with the post office and newspaper to suspend delivery for the time you are away.
• Lock doors, windows and secure sliding doors (a metal rod or a broomstick in the sliding door track is an inexpensive lock), as well as the garage, the basement, and the attic. Some people even disconnect the power to motorized garage door openers.
• Move any valuables from plain sight.
• Check on your appliances, unplug anything that doesn't need to be on while you're away. Lower air conditioning/heating units to energy-saving levels.
• Set timers to turn on lights if you do not have someone staying at the house.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

AeroGal launched a daily non-stop route between JFK and Guayaquil. The carrier, which operates within Ecuador and to the Galapagos and Columbia, also serves Miami. For its New York service, AeroGal is using Boeing 767s seating 210 passengers.  In-flight service with AeroGal includes traditional Ecuadoran appetizers, such as empanadas, de morocho and chifles, and the menus often highlight regional specialties.
Latin America travel has fared much better than other markets due to the recession. Travel to South America has continued to thrive even in these tough economic times.

We have a great selection of Galapagos tours
 

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Revel in the sensual rhythms and riveting spectacle of Carnival in Rio. The streets are wild with color, dance, music and parties during Carnival.  Virtually everywhere become a site for celebration when people take to the streets in their costumed best. Make plans to attend the Samba Parade, Carnival Balls or Sambas School Nights. Join the revelers when approximately 300 bands are expected to take to the streets for impromptu parties and dances in this unforgettable annual event.

Featured Package:  Carnival in Rio
5 nights in your choice of hotel: Windsor Martinique, Astoria Palace or upgrade to the Sofitel Rio

Priced from just $1,969 pp  Please note that a Brazil visa is required for US Citizens & is not included in the rate.

Sunday, January 03, 2010

Is Costa Rica a good destination for a family vacation?

With natural wonders and sights that appeal to all ages, Costa Rica is an excellent destination for a family vacation. Whether you're 8 or 80, you'll be captivated by the rain forests, hot springs, jungles and volcanoes - and enthralled with the possibility of spotting turtles, toucans and monkeys. Globus has just introduced a collection of Family Vacations, including "Natural Wonders of Costa Rica". These vacations are specifically designed for intergenerational travel and are all about having fun and bonding as a family. You can also rest assured that with more than 75 years of travel experience,

Globus will ensure a worry-free and hassle-free vacation, allowing you and your relatives to concentrate on enjoying each other's company.