® JUNE 2008

JAXFAX MAGAZINE The Travel Agents’ Path to Profits

18 Sweet Secrets 24 CYPRUS From Wine to Water 26 SPAIN Zaragoza’s Moment in the Sun 42 TURKS & CAICOS Grand Deals 46 MEXICO Tianguis Report 52 CHINA Streamlining the Odyssey 58 Culture with Humor

CHINA • JAPAN • AUSTRALIA • NEW ZEALAND • MEXICO • •

Providing Professional and C A E I

Reliable Services for 24 years... N S T A

R Asia . A E L . S A M • OOvveerr 1152 MMiilllliioonn CCoonnssoolliiddaattoorr NNeett FFaarrees s

E Hong Kong Discovery Vietnam & Cambodia Treasures

A $

R 7 Days / 5 nights 15 days / 13 nights Starting from 2888

C PPlluuss NNoonn--CCaappppeedd CCoommmmiissssiioonnss ffoorr $ I I Starting from 1139 Visiting 3N Saigon, 2N Hoi An, 3N C

R Includes round trip airfare and fuel sur - Hanoi, 2N Siem Reap, 3N Bangkok, FF,, CC && YY CCllaassss PPuubblliisshheedd FFaarreess WWoorrllddwwiiddee! ! A F charge from LAX/SFO. sightseeing, transfers, and meals as A • Many hotels and optional tours and specified. Includes international S • transfer options to select from. airfare, fuel surcharge from LAX/SFO

reat Fares O and domestic flights. T G U

S Beijing Discovery The journey features a cruise along T A 7 days / 5 nights $ the Mekong Delta, a visit to GTT = H E GTT = Tremendous Service & Starting from 999 the Cu Chi Tunnels, a Halong Bay

A Includes round trip airfare and fuel sur - cruise and a full day trip to Angkor Wat, a world heritage site. E M

L { { charge from LAX/SFO. Terrific Coffee Too! Classic Yangtze River E D Many hotels and optional tours and $ Starting from 2429

R 14 days/12 nights D transfer options to select from. I

GTT announces their I Visiting Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing C M Guangzhou Discovery and Shanghai plus 3 night cruise on "Low Season" Net Airfare Sale! A • 7 days / 5 nights $ the Yangtze River. • Starting from 1009 Includes international airfare

N SAMPLE ROUNDTRIP NET FARES STARTING AT: Includes round trip airfare and fuel sur - and fuel surcharge from LAX/SFO. P A Transfers, meals, sightseeing and T Johannesburg $917 Cairo $713 $481 Bombay $839 U charge from LAX/SFO.

S cultural events included as specified

E Many hotels and optional tours and I Auckland $913 Sydney $1043 Saigon $785 Manila $895 Shanghai $635 in the brochure or on the website. R transfer options to select from. K

These are weekday net airfares for travel in September - November, 2008 with a ticketing deadline of July 31, 2008. Asia and So. Pacific fares are T A

priced from LAX and all other fares are priced from NYC. The prices do not include any applicable taxes, security fees or fuel surcharges. Net airfares are O P Bangkok Discovery available from other cities but will vary in price depending on the point of origin within the U.S. All fares and commissions are subject to change without notice. Japan World Heritage $

• 7 days / 5 nights R $ Starting from 1239 10 days / 8 nights Starting from 2958 I A C Visiting Tokyo, Nikko, Mt.

I Includes round trip airfare and fuel sur -

NOW OFFERING NET FARES ON AIR FRANCE O Fuji, Hakone, Takayama,

D charge from LAX/SFO. Shirakawago, Kanazawa N • Many hotels and optional tours and I GTT Extends Starbucks Gift Card Promotion Through The End of 2008 and Kyoto. This tour fea -

S transfer options to select from.

• tures many of Japan’s In addition to our great prices, travel agents will earn a $5 Starbucks Card . UNESCO World Heritage L with each international net fare ticket and/or commissionable First or Business or P Asian Classics A

E sights and includes trans - Economy Class published fare ticket for the remainder of 2008. 10 days / 8 nights $ C A Starting from 2458 fers, meals, sightseeing and cultural events as specified in the I R brochure or on the website. Includes international airfare and F Visiting Hong Kong, Bangkok and S Participating GTT offices in the Starbucks ticketing promotion. fuel surcharge from LAX/SFO. I I

C Singapore. Includes international airfare DALLAS HOUSTON LOS ANGELES • and fuel surcharge from LAX/SFO. I

1-800-485-6828 1-800-868-6337 1-866-686-0066 1-888-856-8834 1-800-827-5882 S This tour includes comprehensive Prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject E or 972-490-3394 or 248-626-9181 or 713-774-4946 or 626-570-9009 or 206-381-9588 L sightseeing in each city, transfers and to availability or change without notice. P A meals as specified in the brochure or on the website O

To check our pricing online, go to: N R www.gttglobal.com and "Get A Login" Today! D Call toll free number: 1-888-288-7170 1609 W. Valley Blvd., #288, Alhambra, CA 91803 U S MEMBER [email protected] www.uv-asia.com E ASTA NON-QUALIFYING FARES OR COMMISSIONS Infant net airfares & some commissionable Economy Class published airfares may be

® American Society excluded from this ticketing promotion. GTT retains the right to determine which tickets qualify for the $5 Starbucks Card. of Travel Agents Integrity in Travel VOLUME 36, NO.6 JUNE 2008 ® 800-952-9329 www.jaxfax.com Consolifare Password: kenya JAXFAX MAGAZINE

DESTINATION FEATURES AND ARTICLES 12 COVE R FEATURE KENYA

Tracking Down the Big Five in Style As I scanned the vastness of the East African horizon, memories of summer camp flooded into my mind. “Going on a squeegee hunt!” I could hear my counselor chant - ing, her hands beating a slow marching cadence on her thighs. “Gonna catch a big one. I’m not afraid.” The children’s song, complete with hand gestures and sound effects, no doubt was inspired right where I stood – on a safari in Kenya. If we’d…

PUBLISHER’S CORNER 6 JAX FAX Magazine’s Dynamic Evolution: 37th Anniversary EDITOR’S DESK 8 Enlightening Our Leaders SNAPSHOTS 11 The Month in Review EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW 17 Titus Naikuni, Chief Executive, Kenya Airways 60 Fred Miller, VP Travel Industry Relations, Marriott International

DESTINATION ARTICLES 40 THE BAHAMAS Year of the Travel Agent 18 ISRAEL Sweet Secrets 42 TURKS & CAICOS Grand Openings and Deals The recent Oscar-nominated movie, “In the 46 MEXICO Tianguis Report Valley of Elah,” starring Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Theron, may have done more 52 CHINA Streamlining Odyssey for its name recognition than David’s... China is forever linked to its ancient civiliza - 24 CYPRUS From Wine to Water tion and many of the world’s most revered treasures, such as The Great Wall, Terra- For centuries, the island of Cyprus has had a turbulent history Cotta Warriors and Horses and the Yangtze that shaped its character. Its location on the sea route to the River. Today, travelers can also find... Aegean made it vital to traders as… 54 SPECIAL INTERESTS 26 SPAIN Zaragoza’s Moment in the Sun Spas: The Ultimate Reward 30 ITALY Under $500 a day 57 CRUISES Luxury on the High Silversea 36 BRITAIN Top Hotels for A “Brit” Easier to Sell 58 LOS ANGELES Culture with a Sense of Humor

2 JUNE 2008 WWW. JAXFAX .COM ®

CONTENT • JUNE 2008 TRAVEL MARKETING MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Jet Airtransport Exchange, Inc. (JAX) 52 West Main Street, Milford, CT 06460 DEPARTMENTS 203-301-0255 • Fax: 203-301-0250 Audited Circulation AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST 18 ROUND-UP: Pan African Safaris 20 Douglas Cooke, CTC Publisher & Editorial Director, [email protected] NEWS • BEST BUYS 19-23 Randi White Vice Pres./Associate Publisher, [email protected] EUROPE 24 Maria Lisella ROUND-UP: Wisdom of Rail Travel 28 Editor, [email protected] Chantal Guillou-Brennan NEWS • BEST BUYS 33-39 Art & Production Director, [email protected] Marjorie Vincent CARIBBEAN & BERMUDA 40 Business Manager, [email protected] ROUND-UP: Dominican Republic Faces Five Stars 43 Katie Hultgren NEWS • BEST BUYS 44, 45 Editorial Assistant, Listings and Circulation Manager [email protected] Clifton N. Cooke, CTC. CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA 46 Founding Publisher & Editor-at-Large, [email protected] BEST BUYS • NEWS 50, 51 Worldwide Correspondents ASIA & SOUTH PACIFIC 52 Tom Bross: Austria & Germany NEWS • BEST BUYS 53 Katharine Dyson: Special Interests Patricia Earnest: North America Danielle Hayes: Africa, South America SPECIAL INTERESTS 54 Kathy Feeney: Southeast Correspondent ROUND-UP: Spas - The Ultimate Reward for the Hard at Work Denise Mattia: Caribbean/Mexico BEST BUYS • NEWS 56 Merrie Murray: Mediterannean J. Herbert Silverman: Britain Jonathan Siskin: Cruise Editor CRUISE NEWS 57 Contributing Editors Steve Brown, Jeff Burdick, Ron Butler, Jad Davenport, Ben Frank, NORTH AMERICA & HAWAII 58 Chantal Guillou-Brennan, Patricia Harris, Ted Heck, Jehda Honculada, BEST BUYS • NEWS 59 Joan Jenkins, Mark Laiosa, Bob Levine, David Lyon, Barbara Rogers, Betty Rolston, Phyllis Cocroft Meras, Maggie Zellers INDUSTRY NEWS 61-62 Advertising in publication and on www.jaxfax.com [email protected] MESSAGE BOARD 63 Circulation & Subscriptions FAM TRIPS & STUDY PROGRAMS 64 [email protected]; 800-952-9329

Member of: ASTA–American Society of Travel Agents; ATA–Africa Travel Assoc.; CALENDAR TRADE SHOW EVENTS 64 NTA–National Tour Association; ATME–Association of Travel Marketing Execu - tives.; CHA–Caribbean Hotel Assoc.; CTO–Caribbean Tourism Organization; LISTINGS AND DIRECTORIES 65- 102 PATA–Pacific Asia Travel Assoc.; USTOA–United States Tour Operators Assoc. “JAX FAX Travel Marketing Magazine” (ISSN 0279-7984) is published month - LISTINGS BY DESTINATION 65 ly by Jet Airtransport Exchange Inc., 52 West Main Street, Milford, CT 06460. Periodicals postage paid at Milford, CT, & additional mailing offices. DIRECTORY OF SUPPLIERS 103 POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to JAX FAX Travel Market - ing Magazine, 52 West Main St., Milford, CT 06460. COPYRIGHT 2007. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A. No part of this publication may be MARKET PLACE DIRECTORY 104 reproduced in print or electronically without permission. Direct requests for permission to the Publisher, JAX FAX, 52 West Main St., Milford, CT FRONT COVER: Photo credit: Kenya NTO 06460 or via E-mail: [email protected]

BP :: 800-518-7781 MD :: 866-933-5963 QM :: 877-625-2942 UM :: 800-742-3006

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PG :: 866-226-4565 D3 :: 866-322-5561 GA :: 800-342-7832 8U :: 877-359-0999

4 JUNE 2008 WWW. JAXFAX .COM PUBLISHER’S CORNER

JAX FAX Magazine’s Dynamic Evolution: 37th Anniversary JAX FAX Travel Marketing Magazine has Last year, we flipped the listings pages over, which been committed to a single mission for 37 appeared as two magazines bound together back to back. years: to provide our travel agent readers This met with mixed reviews and after one year we decided with information essential to selling travel to return to our original format. However, we still wanted to to your clients as profitably as possible. find a way to emphasize the two aspects of the magazine. During this time, we have sought to make our magazine as easy to use as possible so you can access the travel products Introducing the Tabbed Insert your clients need quickly. Our editorial is written to provide Starting with this issue, the “listings” section of JAX FAX the information necessary to persuade your clients to visit a will now be just a finger-flip away because of our new destination as well as the necessary logistics: how to get tabbed insert. Much like the Hotel and Travel Index, which there, where to stay, how to get around and what to see. most agents are familiar with, our fold out tab will allow you Every design aspect has been added or deleted to further to flip open to the reference section of the magazine. Imme - assist agents including the perfect binding that provides an diately following the tab, you will find the Index Page listing instant idea view of which destinations are featured in the most of the countries in the world with the corresponding most depth. page numbers for the respective air and/or tour listings. Likewise, our “Best Buys” are edited so you can scan the This new feature will not only serve to separate the two page and find basic product information including: destina - aspects of the magazine, but will serve to help agents more tion, price, hotel, tours, inclusions and booking contact. quickly find the information needed for their clients. Additionally, we try to survey the agent incentives that cross our threshold monthly to further boost your commission lev - What’s in a name? els on all travel products. People often ask about the origins of our name, JAX FAX. Our Listings of tour packages and consolidator airfares are When our company – JAX ( Jet Airtransport Exchange Inc. ) designed to familiarize you with the suppliers that service – was established, the business model was a database of specific destinations along with price, schedule, validity peri - worldwide charter flights and an 800 number that travel od and booking contact. The Listings’ format has changed agents could call to find out who was operating a charter very little over the years, but their positioning has. from point A to B. Within a year, agents requested “print - outs” of the charter listings, which eventually led us to Two Magazines in One developing a monthly hard copy publication that incorporat - Unlike other trade magazines that carry only Editorial con - ed its roots – JAX FAX Travel Marketing Magazine – with the tent, JAX FAX distinguishes itself as a reference tool in addi - dynamic evolution we have since followed. tion to providing excellent editorial content. For many years, The “FAX” is a play on the word “facts” because that is the editorial and listings were presented together in geo - what it was providing, facts about worldwide charters. Over graphic order. About eight years ago, we separated the edi - the years the magazine has changed drastically and evolved torial content from the listings to effectively create two into “ The Travel Agents’ Path to Profits ” it is today. publications within one cover. Doug Cooke, Publisher

6 JUNE 2008 WWW. JAXFAX .COM EDITOR’S DESK

Enlightening Our Leaders ext time you feel helpless, dis - ments for visitors entering the United States by land or sea, missed, disrespected and ignored with particular emphasis on the U.S.-Canada border. take a vist to the Travel Industry “The confusion and frustration that the impending imple - Association (TIA) website, mentation of the WHTI has created for American and Cana - www.PowerofTravel.org. Here, dian travelers should serve as a lesson for the entire United yo u will find the latest available data States government,” said Dow. With the introduction of all about the economic imNpact of travel in an easy-to-navigate for - new security procedures, communication is as important as mat that enables you to see the benefits of travel from the inter - the policy itself. national level down to individual congressional districts. More than 40 million Canadians visit the United States "It is surprising to find how many policymakers are not annually. Even a five percent drop in Canadian arrivals could fully aware of the power of travel in their own districts," said cost the U.S. economy more than $700 million. Roger Dow, President and CEO of TIA. "It is our responsibili - The Travel Promotion Act would establish a public-private ty to help America's leaders understand that travel is a vital promotion campaign - at no cost to the American taxpayer - to economic engine that powers job creation and growth." communicate complex travel policies and assure international Travel is one of America's largest exports and is one of the travelers that the U.S. is both secure and welcoming. Dow also largest employers in every state and congressional district--it urged the Senate to reduce congestion at land, air and sea is among the top 10 industries in 49 of the 50 United States. ports-of-entry prior to the summer travel season. Travel and related services account for one out of every “A busy summer travel season, coupled with increased eight non-farm U.S. jobs, $1.6 trillion in economic activity or identity requirements at border crossings, is a recipe for nearly three percent of U.S. gross domestic product (GDP). long delays, frustrated travelers and a loss of billions of dol - All of these facts add up to more startling information lars to the American economy unless there are sufficient regarding the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative border inspectors to keep trade and travel flowing smooth - (WHTI) that would finally require a sustained communica - ly,” said Dow. Let’s hope someone is listening. tions campaign to explain changing travel document require - Maria Lisella, Editor

8 JUNE 2008 WWW. JAXFAX .COM New York – – Snapshots Delhi Mumbai $ * $ * THE MONTH IN REVIEW 1266 1484 Houston – San Francisco – Kolkata Bangalore Aerosvit Flying Nonstop for Five Years $ * $ * AeroSvit expanded its services to New York on March 30, 2003, creating its premier non-stop flight 1587 1651 from to New York's JFK airport. Since 2003, the Los Angeles – Seattle – number of flights and passengers on this route has Hyderabad Chennai increased by 150%. The AeroSvit's flight frequency $ * $ * on this route increased from two weekly flights in 1653 1647 2003 to five weekly flights in 2008. In the past 5 years, the airline has flown over 350,000 passengers Depart: June 13 – July 17, 2008 Maxim Voloshyn, VP Intl. Sales across the Atlantic. Visit www.aerosvit.com Purchase by: July 17, 2008

A DATE in Punta Cana PATA Celebrates with Hainan During the 2008 DATE conference in New York PATA’s recent Dinner Pres - Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic, entation was hosted by Hainan Air - more than 30 agents participated in an lines, the fourth largest carrier in China, agency preview of the new Westin which is starting new non-stop service Roco Ki Beach & Golf Resort, to open from Seattle to Beijing, four times Spring, 2009. weekly. From left to right are: Simone Bas - sous, NY PATA; Kirti Surendran, Hainan Airlines, NYC; Jack Maraffi, Chairman of NY PATA; and Juliette Feffer, Pro - Travel, New York. For more information on the Pacific Asia Travel Association, visit www.pata-ny.org; for information on Hainan, visit www.hnair.com

From left to right are Bill Herberston (Conquest), Francisco Blanch (Account Director, Starwood Caribbean Collec - tion), Pam Bassett (Conquest), and Dave Krech (Director of Sales & Mar - keting, The Westin Roco Ki Beach & Golf Resort). Other guests represented Expedia, Apple Vacations, Mark Travel, Travelocity, Liberty Tours, GoGo World - wide Vacations, and Westjet Vacations.

Grand Opening of Sandos Riviera Playacar Sandos Hotels & Resorts has expanded its portfolio of value-added properties on the Riviera Maya, Mexico, with the addition of the all-inclusive Sandos Playacar Riviera Hotel & Spa. The hotel officially opened on April 22, with a *Fares are exclusively available from the above mentioned preferred India partners. Fares may vary. special ribbon-cutting ceremony where Sandos officials, Fares shown are in US dollars and are for round-trip travel in Economy Class on Lufthansa or United. Saturday night stay is required and maximum stay members of the press, and tour operators were in atten - is 12 months. Fares are subject to change without notice and are based on the most direct routing to each destination. Additional transfers will increase dance. Shown at right: Jacques De Paep, Sales and Mar - the fare. Fares do not include fuel surcharge, fees, taxes and airport charges up to $480, including the September 11th Security Fee of a maximum of keting Manager for The Americas for Sandos Resorts. $10 per round-trip. Seats are limited and may not be available on all days/flights. Ticketing, cancellation, change and other restrictions apply. Visit www.sandoshotels.com

WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 11 >< >< >< >< >< >< <> <> <> <> <> O T

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K Tracking Down the Big Five in Style <> > By Susan McKee species of zebra, and used a spotlight < to see the small mammals that came > s I scanned the vastness of out after dark. All the while, we hoped < the East African horizon, the vultures circling overhead weren’t > memories of summer camp waiting for us! < flooded into my mind. < “Going on a squeegee Close Encounters with Wildlife > Ahunt!” I could hear my counselor chanti - There are two ways to head out to < ng, her hands beating a slow marching see wildlife in Kenya. The usual way is > cadence on her thighs. “Gonna catch a to book passage with a company spe - O

< big one. I’m not afraid.” T cializing in exploring the vast govern - N A > The children’s song, complete with Y ment game preserves, where wildlife Chetah ... thinking about lunch! N E < hand gestures and sound effects, no K roams unfettered, attracting tourists by > doubt was inspired right where I stood – elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, lion and the busload. Of course, that’s the prob - < on a safari in Kenya. If we’d been on foot buffalo. But, instead of guns, we intend - lem – one van driver spots a lion, and > instead of cosseted in a Land Rover, per - ed only capture by camera. suddenly 15 more vehicles will con - < haps we, too, would have been “going During my week, we must have seen verge on the spot. > on a hunt,” rustling through waist-high several hundred elephants, thousands The second way is to spend time in < grass and climbing the occasional acacia of buffalo, a dozen rhinos and a half- one or more of the privately-owned > tree for a better view. dozen lions, but we never caught sight game preserves. Access is controlled, < Like the colonial trophy-seeking hunters of a leopard. Instead, we followed and there are no government-imposed > of the 19th century, we were stalking the herds of wildebeest and gazelles, com - rules about driving off the marked < “Big Five,” searching the savannah for pared the stripes on two different <> roads or looking for game after dark. <> <> > >< >< >< < Choose Your Adventur e! > 7300 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 703 • , Florida 33126 < 800-327-0373 • fx: 305-446-8553 • www.karell.com • [email protected] > 12 < JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM <> < <> > Here, safari “sundowners” are routine: antelopes, wildebeest, zebras — are Hippo in Mara river. Livestock vs. Wildlife < guests enjoy cocktails out on the just dinner-on-the-hoof for the carnivo - And then there are the cattle. Bigne > savannah as the sun sets, and then rous predators. The massive herbi - has designed portable fencing that pro - < use a spotlight on the van on the way vores – rhinos, hippos, elephants – tects the livestock from the wildlife. > back to camp to look for the animals graze undisturbed. There are wary Each evening, the Masai herd their ani - < that have come out only after dark. groups of warthogs, occasional flocks mals inside the modular steel pens for > Each has its advantages and draw - of exotic birds, herds of graceful safekeeping. “Predators such as lions > backs, and each appeals to a different giraffe, and occasional sightings of the are good at summing up opportunities < type of client. The first is, of course, skittish dik-diks, a species of antelope for a kill,” Bigne says. “They go hunt - > more controlled. Accommodations are about the size of a small dog. ing elsewhere.” The fencing allows < booked at resorts with swimming The mix of animals changed as we cattle and wildlife to coexist, increasing > pools, three-star chefs preparing lavish moved from Amboseli to the Ol Pejeta the profit potential for both. < buffets and reliable WIFI access. There Conservancy. Richard Bigne, conser - Our final safari stop was the Ol Kinyei > are choices of activities for each day. vancy director, said that the project Conservancy, adjacent to the enor - near Mount Kenya was commercial – < Professional staff take care of guests’ mous Masai Mara Game Preserve in E

its purpose was to make a profit. E

> needs to make sure the wildlife stays K Kenya’s southwest that borders Tanza - C < outside the complex and in the wild. “But,” he added, “the money is rein - M N nia’s Serengeti. This park is the site of A

vested in conservation efforts.” S > This package is perfect for first-time U S E E the annual summer migration of an E E K K This area of Kenya used to be over - C < visitors or someone skittish about trav - C M M estimated 1.5 million wildebeest and N N grazed by cattle production, and period - A > eling in Africa. A S S From left: Masai near Amboseli. Masai masks zebra across the Mara River. The land U U S < The second, such as Jax Fax’s tour S ic drought cut into this previously major migration route.) profitable business. About 25 years Ol Pejeta has some unique areas is leased from the Olempusia group > with Gamewatchers Safaris , is almost My trip to Kenya began at Amboseli Selenkay Conservancy to limit grazing. ago, the conservancy started with within its fences, including the largest ranch, providing its Masai owners with < as luxurious, but the accommodations Porini Camp in the Selenkay Conser - “The Masai are not bush meat about 19,000 acres with the goal of black rhino sanctuary in East Africa an opportunity to profit from tourism. > are tents (albeit with indoor plumbing). vancy. In the East African language of eaters, so they are proud to live togeth - restoring wildlife to the area. The area counting about 75 black rhino – a pro - Gamewatchers Safaris was founded < Electricity is generated by solar cells. Swahili, “porini” means bush – as in er with wildlife,” notes the warden, has been expanded over the years. tected species, and one very special in 1989 by Jake Grieves-Cook, who’s > Neither the meals nor the activities land remote from urban areas covered David Kitasho. “Since we started the Now, its 75,000 acres are completely tame rhino, a “retired performer” who been involved in Kenya’s tourism < offer choices, because the number of with dense vegetation. project, things have changed for the enclosed (the fencing electrified by doesn’t mind being pet by humans. A industry for more than three decades. < guests is kept small. To get there, we drove down the better. The grass has returned, along solar power) — except for the wildlife chimpanzee sanctuary protects animals A descendant of British settlers, he > Visitors are, however, much closer to congested, bumpy Mombasa Road with native trees and bushes.” corridors which are guarded 24 hours a moved to Kenya when violence erupt - knew that wildlife in Kenya would be < the action. Animals roam through the that connects the port city of Mom - The conservancy built waterholes for day to keep out poachers. (It’s on a ed in their native Burundi. hunted out of existence if there were > campsites at night – and sometimes basa with Kenya’s capital of Nairobi. livestock and primary schools for the < during the day. (I had a visit inside my Much of the highway is under con - Selenkay Group Ranch residents. Of > tent one morning from a small green struction – it should be smooth sailing the 183,000 acres in the ranch (com - < frog.) The native staff mingles with the when it’s finished. On the portions munally owned by the Masai), about > guests, giving a glimpse into the already completed, there’s even a 12,400 are set aside for the conservan - < changing Kenyan tribal life. Our Masai th shoulder wide enough for bicycles. cy area. “We’ve benefitted from the Celebrating > guides – fluent in English — wore cell partnership,” Kitasho says. “This 75 Years of Excellence < phones clipped to the belts holding Communal Conservation Efforts model is a good example for other > their traditional red plaid robes in place. The Amboseli region, in the country’s Masai.” < In fact, cell phone service was avail - southeast, is often lush and green due to Out on the plains there’s plenty of SIGNATURE TOURS WITH SITA The year 2008, marks SITA’s > able everywhere we went, except for the water runoff from Mount Kilimanjaro “nature raw in tooth and claw.” Pro - Diamond Anniversary as the < one camp down in a valley. There, a (across the border in Tanzania). Still, peri - tected from the predations of Masai Footsteps - Airfare Included! East African Explorer - Airfare Included! company continues its tradition > bench next to a tree at the top of a rise odic drought affects this area as well. humankind, animals are free to play out Witness the migration of wildebeest to Few areas of the world offer such a of offering the finest of journeys, < just outside the complex was dubbed Because wildlife is better adapted to sur - their preordained roles in the food the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Also visit kaledoscope of memorable images as East at exceptional value. > the phone booth – it was the closest vival than livestock, the native Masai chain. Large herds of ungulates – Amboseli National Park, lying below the Africa.This tour offers the best of Kenya SITA World Tours provides < spot with good reception. entered into an agreement with the impalas, waterbucks, gazelles, most famous Mt. Kilimanjaro. and Tanzania. > both deluxe and luxury < 10 days, from $2,995 per person 16 days, from $5,760 per person accommodations for its exciting > tours and our personalized < Splendors of Africa Pyramids & Palaces service has been enjoyed by our guests for over seven decades. > This beguiling continent is full of dreamy Tour classical Egypt’s outstanding highlights Experience why, after 75 in the lap of luxury. Curise the Nile > visions of glory. Choose from the 15-day incredible years, SITA continues < itinerary in Southern Africa, or add Kenya aboard the luxurious new MS Tu-Ya. to remain a top choice for > for a 21-day tour. 11 days, from $2,230 per person travel to exotic destinations, < worldwide. <> 15 days, from $5,125 per person <> Africa & Mediterranean • Asia • Australia & New Zealand • India • South America • European River Cruising > 16250 Ventura Blvd., Suite 300 800.421.5634 < Encino, CA 91436 > [email protected] www.sitatours.com Seller of Travel, State of CA, < Reg # 23003643-40 > 14 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 15 >< < <> > no way for the people to benefit from Cell phone booth in Masai country, agricultural land, and by using it for eco - < it. Cooperative ecotourism, he discov - tourism, it can generate income. Kenya Airways Recovers > ered, was a way to preserve the “For the Porini Camps, we maintain a ecosystem. ratio of one tent (for two to four peo - < Kenya Airways (KQ ) told JAXFAX it was recovering passenger Grieves-Cook is also a member of the ple) per 700 acres,” he explains. “We > numbers lost during post-election chaos. < Executive Committee and is the don’t have permanent structures or > spokesman for the Kenya Tourism generators in our camps, and we use The airline saw numbers plummet when Kenya's disputed < Federation (KTF ), the umbrella body solar power. The objective is to make a December 27 election sparked violence and instability, killing more than > for all the trade associations represent - ‘light footprint’ so all can be undone 1,200 people, paralyzing parts of the nation and scaring off tourists. > ing the tourism industry whose mem - when we move out.” "We have improved, but and have not picked up to where we < bers include Kenya’s leading tour expect them to be," Chief Executive Titus Naikuni (right) told reporters. > operators, travel agents, hoteliers, air Nomadic Tourism Naikuni said he expects tourism numbers to pick up in July when the next high < operators, and eco-tourism operators “The Masai is a nomadic pastoralist season starts. He said the airline will restart its three times a week service to > covering all of Kenya. Grieves-Cook reports. “We lease rather who just wants to look after his cows. in June. That service was cancelled in February after the < “Conservancies allow the owner of the than buy, always advising the communal He welcomes a partner using an eco - French government advised against travel to Kenya. Nairobi is a major > land – the Masai – to gain income from group ranches to hold onto their land. logically sustainable model, and airways hub for east and central Africa. Kenya Airways is looking forward < wildlife and environmental conservation,” This is marginal land rather than good tourism doesn’t depend on rainfall the as it has just placed an order for nine Dreamliners to arrive in 2010. way rearing cattle does,” Grieves-Cook > JF: What distinguishes Kenya Airways ? rate identity and give us greater recog - comments. “Wildlife is better adapted The year 2008 will see the company < Naikuni: What makes KQ different and nition of as a world class airline. Our Eye Witness: Why Visit Kenya Now? to changing climate than livestock. make more investments in improving > unique is its growth from a loss making SkyTeam partners will benefit from our By Mark Laiosa Lions do well during the drought. Popu - operations in the Operations control < parastatal into a profitable and dynamic strength in Africa and we will also ben - Centre (OCC) and the Hub Control Cen - Kenya may well be facing its biggest of Nairobi and the old town area of lations of herbivores rebound when the > international carrier while remaining efit from their strengths in Europe, tre (HCC) at the Jomo Kenyatta Inter - challenge ever as recent violence caused Mombassa. The streets were alive with rain returns.” The bottom line? “We all < true to its African heritage. From a Asia and South America. national Airport. by a tightly contested presidential race the energy of daily life: In the Nairobi City benefit from responsible ecotourism.” > global perspective, KQ stands out as JF: Can you give us an equipment update? JF: Where do you see KQ in the next five dealt Kenya’s tourism industry a severe Market, located in the central business Except for the first leg of our journey, < among the most profitable airlines in Naikuni: Kenya Airways boasts one of years? blow: surprisingly, overall, tourism in the district, produce sellers and food vendors made by van, we flew from region to > the world with a 28% return on equity. the youngest fleets on the continent. Naikuni: The next five years will see first two months was down just a tad were doing a brisk business. region. Small planes are the fastest < Kenya Airways is the 31-year old The 23 all Boeing Fleet comprises four KQ solidify its position as a major carri - over 50 percent compared to the same Mombasa, which is set on the Indian way to get around in a country with > national carrier of the Republic of Boeing 777s, six Boeing 767s, three er in Africa by providing more linkages period in 2007. Ocean, is Kenya’s second largest city; mostly substandard roads. Although < Kenya offering over 30 international Boeing 737-800s, among others. across African cities. By April, a resolution was in place with its inhabitants are friendly sellers and Kenya is located on the equator, the < and regional destinations, moving more KQ received two EMBRAER 170 jets in Through its partnerships and alliances the creation of a power-sharing govern - creators of beaded jewelry. In both weather on safari wasn’t tropical > than 2.7 million passengers annually. 2007 and another one is scheduled to with other carriers, it will also play a ment. Tourism, Kenya’s largest industry, cities my American-accented questions because of the altitude. Nairobi, for < Through our Nairobi hub we have a be delivered in the middle of this year; greater role in opening up Africa to the was on a record breaking high in late were greeted with wide smiles and example, is almost as high as Denver. > network to destinations across Africa, we will also take delivery of three Boe - entire world. We hope to see the December, surpassing the million-arrivals answered politely and patiently. As Sunscreen is a must, as is a hat and < Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the ing 737-800s later this year. expansion and growth of Paris as mark for 2007. Following this success, tourists in any city, be alert and aware mosquito repellent. Anti-malaria pills > Far East. Kenya Airways flies to more To complement this fleet, KQ has another major hub for our European Kenya’s tourism faced what seemed to of your surroundings. are highly recommended. Call 303-886- < than 30 African destinations including invested more than $8.1 million in a operations. be insurmountable obastacles as badly 6953; [email protected]; > the major African capitals of Lagos, modern state of the art hangar at its KQ hopes to become a major player in timed as any could be. The strife struck Best Road to Recovery www.porini.com < Johannesburg, Kinshasa and Cairo. Embakasi base. world travel through its partnerships the country while it was in the midst of “The strongest way to help get Kenya Airways is the 31-year old > Within Europe, we operate to and from The modernization is further comple - with KLM, Air France and through its improving and growing its infrastructure Kenya back on its feet is to come out national carrier of the Republic of < three major cities, Paris, Amsterdam mented by continuous training of staff membership in SkyTeam. without putting its renowned wildlife and on safari and experience our wonderful Kenya offering over 30 international > and London where passengers can and constant upgrades in technology JF: Is there any component of your compa - culture at risk. country. We believe the people who and regional destinations, Other carri - < connect from all over Europe using our and systems. At the moment, Kenya ny that pays agents a commission? “The strife was not near areas fre - have already visited us will become our ers operate flights from New York’s > code share partners KLM and Air Airways has achieved 95% on e-ticket - Naikuni: Yes, we have attractive mar - quented by tourists, and we had zero biggest ambassadors, as they have JFK to Nairobi include American Air - < France. KQ flies to major destinations ing across the network. ket fares for individuals and group trav - tourist violence-related incidents with been for the past 50 years. By coming lines, British Airways, Kenya Air - > in Asia including Dubai, Bangkok and JF: Can you tell us of any major investments el with several interline partners such over 40,000 visitors on the ground during to Kenya, they helped us make tourism ways, Emirates, KLM, Lufthansa, < Guangzhou. being made for future? as NW/KL through our Amsterdam hub the crisis,” stated Rose Kwana, Public the leading sector. We expect they will Qatar Airways and Virgin Atlantic . > JF: Which alliances are you in and if not, Naikuni: KQ has placed an order for and United Airlines and Air Canada Relations Manager for the KTB in Nairo - help again, one safari at a time,” said U.S. citizens need visas to visit Kenya < which may you be considering to join? nine Dreamliners to be received in the through our London hub. bi. A Travel Warning was issued February Dr. O’ngonga Achieng, Managing Direc - either prior to departure or upon arrival. > Naikuni: KQ carefully selects its part - year 2010. JF: What would be your biggest wish for 8 and later lightened March 21, after a tor of the Kenya Tourism Board. For details, download the visa form at < ners. We seek to ensure that we get Last year, KQ also made huge invest - the carrier's future? power-sharing agreement was signed on The best reason to go to Kenya now www.kenyaembassy.com/visa.html > into partnerships that will give us a ments in upgrading its airline reserva - Naikuni: To see Kenya Airways February 28 and ratified and accepted by is the annual Wildebeest migration, a and complete it in advance to save < greater competitive edge, increase our tion system from CORDA to ALTEA become a major engine for change for Kenyan parliament on March 18. vast movement of animals across the clients the time and hassle of doing so > revenue and grow our market share. Sell. This investment in change will the growth and opening up of Africa. As Kenya’s second largest source mar - plains of the Masai Mara from Tanzania upon arrival. Cost per person is $50 > KLM has been our strategic partner for create seamless connectivity with our That means that KQ should be able to ket, the losses of arrivals from the United into Kenya. It starts late July into cash payable only in U.S. dollars. < the last 10 years. international partners and ensure maxi - bring the world to every part and capi - States, around 46 percent, deeply hurt August with Hundreds of thousands of For more information, call the Kenya > This partnership has allowed us greater mum compatibility across various dis - tal in Africa and the vice-versa. Kenya’s tourism industry. According to wildebeests following about 500, 000 Tourist Board, 866-44-KENYA; or visit: < reach and helped us tap into the expan - tributions systems. With the addition of 787-Dreamliners, the Kenya Tourist Board statistics, the Zebras, and predators culling the herds. www.MagicalKenya.com > sive KLM-Air France route network. Also in the year, a new learning facility we hope to provide airlines with U.S. nudged Germany aside, slipping in The experience is so incredible that < Kenya Airways gained full SkyTeam named, “The Pride Centre” that cost unmatched fuel efficiency, resulting in to second place, behind the British. WABC’s Good Morning America For consolidator airfares and tour > Associate Airline Status in September the company $8.1 million was opened exceptional environmental perform - I visited in mid-April and walked called the great migration the Seventh packages to Kenya see page 91 < 2007. The SkyTeam alliance is especial - to provide ample training for more than ance and phenomenal growth. > unescorted through the downtown areas Living Wonder of the World. of the Listings Section < ly important as it will grow our corpo - 4,200 staffers across the network. Call 866-536-9224; www.kenyaair.net > 16 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 17 >< AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

Sweet Secrets of Israel IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS National Park, the Archaeological Park and the he recent Oscar-nominated movie, “In the Valley More Access to the Holy Land Burnt House of Kathros-in addition to three other Old City of Elah,” starring Tommy Lee Jones and Charlize Following the launch of Delta Air Lines’ March 2008 new daily attractions, including the Ariel Center for Jerusalem in the Theron, may have done more for its name recogni - flights to ’s Ben Gurion Airport from New York JFK, several First Temple Period, the Ramparts Walk, the Roman Plaza tion than David’s epic battle against Goliath, which international airlines have debuted new daily flights to Israel. and Zedekiah’s Cave. The HolyPass-which costs $25 for raged here, but this region, flanked by the gently British Midland (www.flybmi.com ) recently began daily adults, $13 for children and is valid for one week-is available Trolling hills of Judea, still remains one of the Holy Land’s flights between London’s Heathrow and Tel Aviv’s Ben Guri - for purchase at tourist sites throughout the Old City, and at less frequented gems. on airports, with connecting flights to the U.S. and Canada many Jerusalem hotels; travel agents can purchase group O

Set just 45 minutes southwest of Jerusalem, the Valley of T on Star Alliance partner airlines. N passes (valid for 10 people) through the HolyPass website. L

Elah remains one of Israel’s most tightly held secrets: Min - E Czech Airlines (www.czechairlines.com ) will also

A Carmel winery in Zikhron Ya'akov

R Visit www.holypass.co.il S utes after exiting Highway 1 linking Israel’s two major cities I increase its summer service from to Tel Aviv from of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, the verdant approach to the Val - plethora of charming country restaurants serve up an array seven flights per week (in 2007) to 11 flights (in summer Sita’s Moroccan Foray ley of Elah gives way to secluded monasteries and vine - 2008). And the Vatican’s airline, Opera Romana , is expect - of culinary treats. One such spot, Pa’amon, is nestled Morocco combines a fascinating culture, outdoor pursuits yards where Israelis and more and more travelers come to ed to debut six weekly flights from Rome and Verona to among the vines of a local vineyard and offers a selection of under the Moroccan sun and flavorful cuisine. With non- sample the rising stars in Israeli wines. The region surround - Israel, two of which will fly to Ovda Airport in the southern local wines and rustic cooking. A little farther afield, off one stop flights from New York to Casablanca and affordable all- ing the Valley of Elah is one of the hotspots of Israeli vinicul - city of Eilat. of the back roads, Jerusalemites come for a traditional Sat - inclusive packages from major tour operators, the ture. Wine exports from the country have doubled since urday afternoon Cholent (from the French “chaud, lent,” enchanted Kingdom of Morocco, a land of legend and 2001 with France the number two importer of Israeli wine Best in the Middle East referring to its overnight recipe) at the pastoral Bar BaHar adventure, is easily accessible and surprisingly affordable. after the United States. Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport has been judged restaurant near . Tucked away in the Esh - Sita World Travel takes guests on a journey through some of “best airport in the Middle East” and the “world’s second taol Forest, Tavlin’s menu uses herbs and spices native to Morocco’s most captivating cities with the “Imperial Cities” lux - Top 10 Israeli Vineyards best airport” that handles 5-15 million passengers a year, the area and specializes in locally produced cheeses, and yet ury package. This seven- or 10-day trip departs for Casablanca Near the gates of the Dir a-Rafat Monastery, wine fans says Arie Sommer, Israel Tourism Commissioner for North more boutique wines. A fragrant spice market is attached. every Sunday from numerous gateways. First stop on the tour come to taste the Moni Winery’s signature Estate Reserve. and South America. The survey was conducted by the is the capital city of Rabat, where attractions include the Casbah This family-run operation established in 2001 and perched -based Airports Council International (ACI) whose The Underground City of Beit Guvrin of the Oudayas and the Hassan Tower. Fès, a living Medieval high above Tzora and the larger Efrat Winery pro - Airport Service Quality Survey is based on the results from At the southern end of Route 38, which leads from the city, unfolds its ancient, labyrinthine medina, with age-old handi - duces upwards of 40,000 bottles annually. More boutique nearly 200,000 questionnaires completed by passengers in main Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway to the Valley of Ellah, craft souks, magnificent architecture and delicious cuisine. After wineries pepper the valley and Rogov’s 2008 Guide to Israeli 2007. The survey captures the passenger’s immediate stands the biblical town and now national park of Beit crossing the Atlas Mountains through Berber villages and the Wines ranks Ella Valley, at Kibbutz Nativ HaLamed Heh, in appraisal of 34 airport service factors, from check-in through Guvrin. Originally a Jewish settlement dating back at least town of Beni Mellal, the tour arrives in Marrakech with its the top 10 of Israel’s wineries. Tours here include demon - to departure at the gate. 3,000 years, the sprawling city over time became home to famous Djemaa el Fna Square, Dar Si Said Museum, Saadien strations of the latest in winemaking technology as well as Ben Gurion International Airport is served by more than 70 Byzantine Christians and later Muslims. Impressive bell- Tombs and the Menara and Agdal Gardens. Starting at $1,295, how some methods from antiquity are still practiced today. airlines, with as many as 130 weekly nonstop flights con - shaped caves and underground chambers were hollowed by this package includes: the option of luxury or deluxe hotels with necting North America to Israel and vice versa - on A ir hand out of the soft chalk creating an entire underground private facilities; six to nine breakfasts, one lunch, five or nine Monks and Pottery Canada, Continental, Delta, El Al and Israir . city. In the park, which stretches over 1,000 acres, visitors dinners; roundtrip transfers; transport by air-conditioned vehicle Nearby, down a gently winding road, Israel’s first meteoro - clamber through the subterranean columbaria where carrier with English speaking driver/guide; tours fo Rabat, Meknes, Fès logical station still functions and is maintained by monks pigeons were raised, and see mosaics, ancient churches HolyPass Opens Doors in Jerusalem’s Old City and Marrakech; special Moroccan dinner with folklore show; within the confines of the Beit Jamal Monastery. During vis - and Byzantine tombs. During Chanukah, Beit Guvrin’s caves The millions of people who will visit Jerusalem’s Old City and on the 10-day version, travel by land rover over the sand iting hours, visitors admire the remains of a mosaic from a serve as a popular candle-lit venue for concerts. this year can now save on admission to the city’s most dunes at Merzouga and spend a night under the stars in a 5th-century Byzantine church that occupied the site until the famous sites with the HolyPass. The new smart card pro - Bedouin camp. Persian invasion of 614. A more modern structure erected Intimate Stays vides access to two major sites-such as the City of David Call 800-421-5643; www.sitatours.com by Salesian monks in the 1800’s stands today, as well as a The Valley of Elah is an easy daytrip from either Jerusalem second church for the 32 Sisters of Bethlehem, who are or Tel Aviv - less than 45 minutes from either. Those wishing sworn to a vow of silence. This idyllic setting is often the to sleep over can choose from an assortment of bed and venue for concerts and a favorite pit stop for cyclists. Even breakfasts and even monasteries, and at - when there are no performances, the nuns wordlessly sell Wahat A-Salam, a Jewish-Christian-Muslim community charming, hand-painted pottery. established by a Jewish-born Dominican monk from Egypt, there is a comfortable guesthouse. Goliath’s Come-Uppance Pink Floyd bassist Roger Waters played here in 2006; fans Hiking amid the remains of ancient towns like Azeka and clambering to catch a glimpse of him caused one of the King Hezekiah’s Sokho help conjure up the epic biblical bat - worst traffic jams in Israel‘s history. tle between David and Goliath, which the Bible tells us took For details on the region including accommodations and place here. Ancient wine presses dot the ruins, attesting to more attractions, download www.touryoav.org.il/english.pdf; the valley’s winemaking importance over the millennia. In For general information on Israel, visit www.goisrael.com summer, hikers and bikers bask in the shade of forested Bri - tannia Park and along the banks of Nahal Sorek, one of For consolidator airfares and tour packages to Israel Israel’s longest watercourses. When it’s time to eat, a see page 88-89 of the Listings Section

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U.S.-based tour operator Ker & Downey’s roots began over four decades ago in Botswana and since then, they HOTEL UPDATE Pan-African Safaris have grown into an award-winning force in the global travel The Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa on Mozam - Ethiopian Airlines recently launched “Ethiopian Jour - industry. Its clientele includes celebrities and those who bique’s Bazaruto Island is now welcoming guests to its neys,” a new collection of vacation packages showcasing demand the utmost in privacy, to the family down the street new luxury spa, operated by the renowned Sanctuary the best of East Africa. The new tour packages combine the who has always dreamed of the ultimate safari experience. Group from South Africa. The Sanctuary Spa at Indigo Bay excitement of an African safari with the immense history This 10-day private journey, Luxury in the Bush begins in is only the second of its kind in Mozambique, following that only the cradle of humanity can provide. Johannesburg with clients staying in a luxury room at the the opening of The Sanctuary Spa at Rani’s Pemba Beach Ethiopian Journeys brings together the most Westcliff . Next, it’s three nights at the award-winning Hotel and Spa last year. Set in southeastern Africa, awe-inspiring experiences of East Africa, packaged Madikwe Hills in the Madikwe Game Reserve where Mozambique is bordered by the Indian Ocean to theeast, in tours that have been designed for U.S. travelers. reportedly Big Five wildlife experiences are unforgettable. Tanzania to th north, Malawi and Zambia to the northwest, All vacation packages feature Ethiopian Airlines plus Next, it’s three nights in luxury at Leopard Hills where Zimbabwe to the west and Swaziland and South Africa to hotel and land tours. Itineraries range from East Africa guests are spoiled from the moment they arrive; ending the southwest. to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. with two nights at Kings Camp . Pricing starts at $6,651 per Guests are treated to physical, mental and emotional Among the three tour packages are: The “Queen of person double. wellbeing while enjoying the exquisite vistas of the island Sheba Tour” featuring the northern historic and cultural Call 800-423-4236 E-mail [email protected]; and 360 degree views of the Indian Ocean’s indigo colored route of Ethiopia. Highlights include Blue Nile Falls, Gondar’s www.kerdowney.com waters. www.indigobayresort.com castles and churches, Lalibela’s churches carved from solid Among the top value packages Karell Holidays offeres is The spa menu at Pemba Beach Hotel and Spa , also rock, and Ethiopia’s oldest city Axum. the six-night Kenya Highlights, which has been featured in managed by The Sanctuary Spa Group , reflects Pemba’s The “Tanzanian Odyssey” features one of the finest safari Frommers’ Budget Travel Hot Deals. Accommodations are Arabic and African influences. Specially trained therapists frican safaris are among those once in a lifetime experiences in all of Africa. Highlights include the expansive in the Nairobi Safari Club, Samburur Lodge , The Ark , are on hand to exploit the natural healing and relaxation vacation propositions that demand time and a bit landscapes and wildlife of the Serengeti National Park, Lake Naivasha Simba Lodge and Mara Simba , all of powers of geranium, snowbush, lanyana and buchu, "the more change than many other vacation options. Mount Kilimanjaro and the Ngorongoro Crater known as the which are considered top-notch properties. Sights include African antidote to modern living.” However, with more and more packaging of “Eden of Africa.” Samburu Game Reserve, Aberdare National Park, Lake Call 011-27 11 467 1277; fax: 011-27 11 465 9623, Email: safaris that take place on foot, in jeeps combined The “Ethiopian Tribal Discovery” tour features the south - Naukuru and the Masai Mara. [email protected]; www.raniresorts.com Awith luxury stays in lodges or tenting, the prospect of the ern route of Ethiopia where travelers can literally step into a Prices is seasonal and starts at $1,752 per person double South Africa's Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa has added experience delivers much more than one can imagine. looking glass into a time and culture that is supremely htrough June 30 and again from Nov. 1-Dec. 15; and $1,798 the Pezula Private Castle on Noetzie Beach to its portfo - Researchers say, the majority of people in the U.S. under - unique. Here travelers can discover amazing tribal communi - per person July 1-Oct. 31 for land arrangements only. lio of ultra-luxury accommodations at the 2,500-acre resort stand that in fact a memorable experience delivers more ties that have seen little change over the last 1,000 years. Visit www.karell.com or www.karellholidays.com located on South Africa's famed Garden Route. than consuming a lot of “stuff,” ie, cars, toys and all the Call 800-445-2733; www.seeyouinethiopia.com Walking safaris have always been a popular mainstay of Says Pezula Chairman, Keith Stewart. "The Castle has a other conspicuous consumer objects. Mountain Travel Sobek’s offerings, as they give partici - spectacular location with breathtaking views, complete Untouched Botswana pants a deeper awareness of their surroundings, but of late privacy, five-star service and access to all Pezula's facili - New Links from Zambia to Tanzania “The time of not being able to confirm your clients on any there has been an increased surge of interest, due to adven - ties and activities. Now with direct flights between Lusaka, Zambia and Dar- trip because the minimum passenger numbers have not ture travelers wishing to experience the “real” Africa The Castle has two units - the Main Castle and the Hon - es-Salaam, Tanzania, Norman Carr Safaris has teamed up been met are over,” says Garth Jenman, president of Jen - beyond the usual crowded game lodges and safari circuits. eymoon Castle, which are serviced by a team of hand- with Fumba Beach Lodge to develop the Bush and Beach man African Safaris, which is represented in the U.S. by extra departures to existing trips. New this year on the clas - picked personnel, including a resident chef, housekeeper vacation package that combines a safari with unwinding at a EZ Africa. However, the company’s 14-day Botswana sic Ultimate Tanzania Safari adventure is a three-day walk - and butler. Menus are selected daily in consultation with resort. Clients will spend six nights in the unspoiled environ - Wildlife Breakaway is filling up quickly. If your clients’ pre - ing safari in the celebrated Serengeti. The 12-day program is the chef according to the freshest available ingredients. A ment then head to exotic Zanzibar Island for a three-night ferred departure dates are unavailable, he advises agents to priced at $4,995 per person double, land-only with depar - fully equipped gymnasium, heated outdoor pools and tropical beach getaway at Fumba Beach Lodge . consider the company’s brand-new “Botswana Untouched tures June 28, July 27, Sept. 21, and Dec. 21. thatched gazebo complete the extraordinary facilities. The land rates start at $4,975 per person double. Norman Mobile Safari.” Clients will explore Botswana’s finest Call 888-687-6235; www.mtsobek.com Visit www.pezularesorthotel.com Carr Safaris offers guests a choice to go on safari in vehicles National Parks during this 14-day safari. In 4x4 vehicles, they or the more up-close and personal option of a walking safari travel from Johannesburg to spend their first night at the through the bush. The four camps have been set up so that Limpopo Riverin the Tuli Block, to see white rhinos in the a walk from one to the next is conducted at a non-strenuous Khama Rhino Sanctuary and giraffe, elephant, zebra, impala, pace with a fully-qualified guide and armed game scout. roan, sable, wildebeest, among a few, in the Savuti Game Once in Zanzibar, travelers will stay at the 26-room Fumba Reserve after experiencing the vastness of the Makgadikga - Beach Lodge, which lies concealed from the tourist areas, di Pans. They will explore the Okavango Delta in traditional surrounded by beaches and offers spectacular diving and dug-out canoes and enjoy the Chobe National Park’s wildlife snorkeling. Guestrooms are scattered throughout the by land and on a boat cruise on the Chobe River. This is a grounds, shaded by a forest of baobab trees and palm true African wildlife adventure. Additionally, Jenman African fronds; each suite has a private roof terrace overlooking the Safaris offers camping options for more adventurous clients. Indian Ocean. Rates include all inter-Africa flights, accommo - A number of departures on selected tours throughout the dation, meals, game-viewing, bar, laundry, National Park year with guaranteed departure dates. fees, taxes, transfers to/from Mfuwe Airport, guided reef Call 888-219-8162; www.jenmansafaris.com/tour; other sites dives, and village walks. Jenman represents www.africanluxuryhideaways.com E-mail [email protected]; or visit www.victoriafalls.biz; www.capetownsafaris.com; www.normancarrsafaris.com www.travel2madagascar.com

20 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 21 AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS

Morocco NTO Comes Home, to the Big Apple $ KENYA $ KENYA The Moroccan National Tourist Office celebrated its 175 2 Karell Holidays pres - 172 0 SITA World Tours’ Classic return to New York with a gala event at Midtown Loft on ents 7 day/ 6 nights Kenya Highlights Kenya 11-day program, one of the tour opera - Fifth Avenue, under the direction of Rachid Maaninou, direc - package, featured in Arthur Frommers tor's most popular tours allows guests to trav - tor North America. Abbas Azzouzi, CEO based in Rabat, Budget Travel's Hot Deals. Accommo - el by road between camps, to take in every delivered a presentation touting major new infrastructure dations include one night in each of experience that Kenya has to offer. developments as Morocco modernizes its tourism industry the following: Nairobi Safari Club in Another popular Kenya program is SITA's for a sustainable future. Several leading tour operators Nairobi, Samburu Lodge in Samburu Masai Footsteps which is a seven-day pro - attended, pictured on the right. National Reserve, The Ark in Aberdare gram includes Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Rachid Maaninou was recently named director of the National Park, The Lake Naivasha Nakuru and Amboseli National Park. Laudie O T Americas for the Moroccan National Tourist Office (MNTO), Robert Paris of Club ABC Tours, Abbaz Azzouzi, CEO, Moroccan N Simba Lodge in the Lake Nakuru Hanou, SITA's Vice President adds "This O C which has returned to New York for the first time since clos - National Tourist Office (Rabat), Rachid Maaninou, MNTO Director, C Reserve and two nights in Mara Simba safari takes in three of the most picturesque O R O O ing its office in late 2001. Maaninou will be responsible for North America, and Nikos Tsakanikas, Homeric Tours in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. T regions of Kenya and is truly one of the most N M A building Morocco’s markets in the U.S. and Latin America. Included are meet and greet service on Y exciting destinations in the world to experi - N E Maaninou joined MNTO in Rabat in late 2002 as an execu - the same time protecting its superb cultural and environ - arrival Nairobi, roundtrip transfers air - K ence". Masai Footsteps starts at $1,720 per tive in the public relations department and rose rapidly to mental assets. Under the new plan, Morocco’s cities and port/hotel, 6 night accommodations, 7 Breakfasts, 5 Lunch - person double for land arrangements departures daily director of international markets in February 2005. Prior to diverse landscapes will be promoted for relaxation and es, 5 Dinners, game drives accompanied by a professional except Tues. and Fri. that, he held various positions with Moroccan hotels, tour escape from stress; the search for cultural authenticity; the driver/guide and inclusive of park entrance fees. Internation - SITA World Tours, headquartered in Los Angeles, Califor - operators and travel agencies following post-graduate stud - discovery of nature and traditional lifestyles, and sports and al air is not included and package price is based on seasons. nia with offices throughout the nation, including New York, ies in tourism and hospitality in Tangier and at the University physical adventure. New development in Morocco’s cultural Call 888-777-1046 or go to www.karellholidays.com Houston, Dallas, Chicago, and continues of Toulouse. He completed his education with a degree in destinations will also add another 30,000 beds and boost offers a myriad of African safaris in destinations such as tourism management, and his research paper on marketing inventory to 230,000 by 2010. $ ISRAEL Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Uganda and South Africa. ecotourism in Morocco earned a special jury plaudit and rec - “Set at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, linking east 349 5 No matter the budget or special interest, Call 800-421-5643; www.sitatours.com ommendation for publication. and west, Africa and Europe, we are proud of our rich her - Ya’lla Tours USA has a program to match. Two nine-day, “The MNTO is glad to be back in New York and I am proud itage, which we will honor and protect as we evolve to fulfill privately escorted tours are designed to connect Jews and to be named the first director of the Americas,” said Maani - the aspirations of our visitors...we welcome you to visit and Christians with their spiritual and cultural roots. Magnificent nou. “We’ve seen remarkable growth in the number of see for yourself,” said Maaninou. Israel focuses on Jewish heritage with two nights in Tel Americans traveling to Morocco since the global travel For more information, contact the Moroccan National T212- Aviv, 2 nights in Tiberias and four nights in Jerusalem. recovery began in 2003, and it makes sense to re-establish 221-1583/1584, fax 212-221-1887; E-mail [email protected]; The Christian Journey of Faith is a spiritual pilgrimage visit - our presence here to work more closely with the industry www.visitmorocco.com ing all the significant sites associated with Jesus as well as and the media.” a number of Old Testament sites with one night in Tel Aviv, Indeed, in 2007 Morocco’s U.S. visitor numbers were up two nights in Tiberias and five nights in Jerusalem. Both 14% as more Americans discovered the special allure that Customizing Small Group Safaris tours begin any day in Tel Aviv and are priced from $3,495 combines cultural richness with a diversity of landscapes in From the Garden Route to the Okavango Delta and Victo - per person double. a relatively compact destination. Europeans have been ria Falls, International Expeditions ’ new Inventing South - Travelers on a budget will enjoy the 8-day Israel Highlights flocking to Morocco for decades, drawn by its Mediter - ern Africa custom desk creates itineraries for travel in motor coach tour. Conducted as a general interest tour, yet ranean and Atlantic beaches, Atlas Mountains and vast Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique and Zambia. For families it visits many sites significant to both Christians and Jews. Sahara Desert as well as its African-Arab-European heritage. looking to create a one-of-a-kind experience, the new Invent - Priced from $1,095 per person double, this tour begins For Americans, it’s an easy destination to reach, just under ing Southern Africa desk customizes travel to allow for maxi - every Sunday in Tel Aviv with two nights each in Tel Aviv, seven hours flying time from New York to Casablanca, and mum flexibility. Jerusalem and at a kibbutz hotel in the Galilee. the dollar still goes much further here than many destina - Perfect for a family expeditions(or honeymooners, couples Call 800-644-1595; www.yallatours.com tions in Europe. and small groups), however large or small, the desk can cus - “Under the Vision 2010 plan, whose goal is to boost tom-tailor any journey around specific dates or events $ ZAMBIA Morocco’s tourism arrivals to 10 million by 2010, we have including family celebrations, birthdays, graduations and 240 New at The Bushcamp Company is the Bush attracted a lot of investment to build new hotels, resorts and anniversaries. In addition International Expeditions arranges Spa at Mfuwe Lodge , which embraces ancient therapeutic infrastructure in a carefully controlled, sustainable way. private trips for groups using pre-arranged transportation heritage of Africa through its products that contain blends of Under the strategy developed in 2003, we have been and accommodations. indigenous plants. expanding our marketing efforts ever outward, and so I will While each Southern Africa program is crafted to accom - Rates for the Bushcamp Company properties range from also be focusing on Canada and Latin America in coming modate personal interests, most custom itineraries range $240 to $560 per person double per night. Some of camps years,” he added. from 12 to 14 days and cost an average of $7,500 per per - are opened seasonally: Mfuwe Lodge is open all year, The first of six new generation Atlantic and Mediterranean son, excluding international air. IE also sells itineraries to Kapamba and Bilimungwe opened on April 20 and closes coastal resorts will open in May 2009 in Saïdia, with the last Peru, Costa Rica and Panama, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Jan. 2 while Chindeni, Chamilandu, Bilimungwe , and slated to open by July 2012. Bringing 130,000 new beds to Rwanda. Kuyenda are open from June through October. the inventory, these resorts are one aspect of a multifaceted Call 800-633-4734; E-mail [email protected]; Call 011-260-6-246041; [email protected]; plan that is reorganizing Morocco’s tourism industry while at www.ietravel.com/family www.bushcampcompany.com

22 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 23 EUROPE Cyprus from Wine to Water Story and photos by Denise Mattia or centuries, the island of Cyprus Winery (www.antoniadeswinery.com ) has had a turbulent history that in Lemesos (Limassol) have been given shaped its character. Its location documentation, which proves that Cypriot on the sea route to the Aegean wine dates to 3500 B.C.E., and, at the made it vital to traders as wide - charming hillside village of Omodhos, Fspread as Asia Minor, Mesopotamia, JAXFAX was shown a 50-foot long Egypt, Greece and Byzantium. There’s ancient wine press. In June 2006, the hardly a stone that can’t be traced to an Cyprus Tourism Organization developed elegantly styled edifice, artifact or statue and announced The Wine Routes of The intercontinental Hotel – Aphrodite Hills of historical significance. Cyprus, a project to attract special interest JAXFAX toured the island, stopping at tourism. Scheduled to begin later this Mainliners Berthing the old harbor in the city of Lemesos year, the excursions will be offered to Today, Limassol (Lemesos) is the (Limassol), to visit the Cyprus Medieval wine devotees in America and abroad. island’s main gateway for cruises destined Museum, a 16th century fort, which was Thirteen tours will cover the five vine for ports in the east and west. In addition constructed on the site of a Byzantine cas - producing areas of Laona, Vouni Panagia- to weekly ferries to Greece (summer tle. While walking past the ground’s shad - only), there are several cruise ships that ed gardens to adjacent streets lined with sail to Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Greece and restored buildings, it was apparent that the the Greek islands. These affordable, fami - lifestyle and culture of this thriving city is ly-friendly cruises range from three to 11 linked inexorably with its past. The reno - days and are aboard modern ships with vated municipal market has become a comfortable staterooms, restaurants, casi - popular venue for concert, dance, art and nos and spacious lounge and entertain - theatrical events, including a wine festival ment areas. Among the cruise lines are in September, a ten-night, consume-as- Louis Cruises , www.louiscruises.com ; much-as-you-want wine-tasting affair. Icon in Agios Neophytos Monastery in Pafos Salamis Tours Ltd, www.salamis- tours.com and Paradise Cruises , Educating Palates Ampelitis, Commandaria, Pitsilia and www.paradise.com.cy . To educate visitors and locals about one Lemesos (Limassol). Two special routes Cruise passengers can also choose of the oldest alcoholic beverages in history, will be devoted to Commandaria, the from major U.S. cruise lines, which offer the Cyprus Wine Museum in neighboring sweet, dessert wine, created – so the stopovers to this popular destination in Erimi conducts lectured tours about Cypri - story goes – by the Crusaders under conjunction with their Mediterranean and ot winemaking. Exhibited are centuries-old Richard the Lionheart, and said to have European itineraries. Among the big-name jars and vessels on loan from the Cyprus been made at the Cyprus Medieval Cas - cruise liners are: Holland America , and Pierides Museums, in addition to early tle. Participants will be able to visit www.HollandAmerica.VacationsToGo.c documents, which illustrate how grapes museums and archaeological sites and om ; Celebrity Cruises , www.Celebrity were cultivated, and the wine produced, attend cultural events as well. For more Cruises.com ; Oceania , www.oceania stored and enjoyed. www. cypruswine - information, a special website, DVD, cruises.com ; and Silversea, www. Sil - [email protected] . maps and tour guides for the routes are versea-Cruise-Line.com The wine producers at Antoniades available from the CTO. Continued on page 37

24 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM EUROPE “Thirst” display at Expotur Zaragoza 2008 Expotur in Zaragoza

Zaragoza’s Moment in the Sun untouched and, art. His family came unfortunately, from Zaragoza and the unknown. But, city claims him as its this international expo will finally open the world’s eyes to a own. (The Goya family lived in Zaragoza, but his father took city that was and is a major part of Spain’s history, one that a temporary job in Fuendetodos where Goya was born included Iberian, Muslim, Roman, Jewish and Christian reli - there. Yes, they moved back.) gious influences. It will introduce curious travelers to thou - The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pilar, a pilgrimage site for sands of years of culture that influenced Spain and the city Catholics, houses the pink marble pillar. Legend says that that gave birth to various cathedrals, basilicas and muse - Mary brought the pillar to Zaragoza 30 years after her son ums. died. A church was built there a year after her visit and Most people aren’t aware that ancient Roman ruins are many more were built over it. Over the centuries some tried scattered throughout the city and that even more are being to take pieces of the marble, so it was covered and protect - found at every construction site. Since the Romans arrived ed. One small oval opening allows visitors to touch the in Zaragoza about 14 BC it’s no surprise. There is so much stone. Centuries of rubbing have created a concave dip in of the past underground the government now oversees any the rose-scented marble icon. pending development. The oldest stone bridge, or the Puente de Piedra, still A limestone Roman theater was unearthed decades ago. spans the Ebro River and is used today. This gothic bridge Now called the Caesaraugusta Theater Museum it is open was garnished in recent years with four bronze lions, done to the public and protects the ruins and the artifacts found by the sculptor, Francisco Rallo. there. (The city’s first name was Caesaraugusta, its moniker There are far too many sites, spots and historic monu - given by the Romans.) ments to list. But, once there, people will find it all. And The Aljaferia Palace, originally Islamic, was declared a then others will come and find that and more. Zaragoza offi - National Monument of Historical and Artistic interest in 1931 cials know this and they are getting the city ready. Buildings O T and is also a UNESCO site. This 9th century turreted and are being transformed into hotels. New railways and bus N

N I The Baroque-style Basilica del Pilar built in the 18th century, A fortified palace, complete with a moat, ancient arches and lines will make it easy to get to Zaragoza and, once there, to P S ornate carving, was transformed by different religious as see its spectacular sites. Zaragoza is as vital as , By Denise Dube bars, restaurants, thermal spas, a police station and the head - each century and each religion passed through Zaragoza. , Bilbao or Valencia. The expo won’t just deal with quarters for officials of the International Water Decade, desig - The Cathedral of San Salvador, better known as La Seo, is issues of water—it will reintroduce the world to an interna - aragoza, the capital of Spain's Aragonian region, is nated from 2005-2015. About 80 countries and countless another treasure. Located in Plaza Pilar, the 12th century tional treasure. Yes, it’s about time. equidistant from Barcelona, Madrid, Bilbao and businesses are part of this event, one that will draw almost building combines various architectural styles that range For information, contact the Tourist Office of Spain: New Valencia--all well-known and well-traveled sites. Lit - six million visitors and create jobs for about 10,000 people. from Romanesque to neoclassical. A panoramic 360-degree York (212-265-8822); Miami (305-358-1992); Chicago (312-642- tle known and visited even less is Zaragoza, also Innovative buildings—including a high-rise gray facility shaped city view is all yours by taking the great dome elevator to 1992) or Los Angeles (323-658-7188); www.spain.info known as Saragossa. It runs along the Ebro River like a water drop—unusual and environmentally correct the tower. The basilica’s dome was painted by Goya . Zand is the Cinderella of Spain. This princess has been mod - bridges, towers and parks will dot the property. The world will Do not miss the Museo de Zaragoza, which houses a good For consolidator airfares and tour packages to estly hiding behind too much humility and hasn't made any - watch during those three months as visiting dignitaries focus amount of Goya’s work. His frescoes are all over the walls. Spain see page 77-78 of the Listings Section one's "must see" list--not yet, anyway. But it is going to, in a on water-related issues while in Zaragoza. But those six mil - The 18th century artist was considered a founder of modern huge way, when the International Water and Sustainable lion will see so much more than the expo. Once they have Development Exposition opens here this month. visited—not just the expo—they will have no choice but to tell The Expo Zaragoza runs from June 14 to September 14 , others, who will also want to visit. Ready or not, Zaragoza will 2008, and has been a few years in the making. Award-win - become one of those “must see” spots. Discover Spain with Spanair ning architects have transformed about 145 hectares of And, it’s about time. The world seemed to lose touch with Zaragoza into a water park, open green space, playgrounds, this gem steeped in ancient history, keeping it quaint, Spanair offers:

G E-ticketing on every GDS

GREECE•SPAIN•ITALY•TURKEY•EGYPT•PORTUGAL G Spain Pass, fare base code QDSPB2, LAND OF GODS CANARY ISLANDS COSTA DEL SOL ZORBA’S ENVY • 39 years of 2 coupon minimum at USD 140* & SULTANTS 2 OR 3 ISLANDS $ $ outstanding service From p.p.d.o. From p.p.d.o. G Travel Industry Help Desk $ $ 1489 2089 • Family owned From 2419 p.p.do . From 2079 p.p.d.o. 7 DAYS • 5 NIGHTS 13 DAYS • 11 NIGHTS • Personalized service 12 DAYS • 10 NIGHTS 10 DAYS • 8 NIGHTS Airfare, 5 N / 5 D Car Rental Airfare, 2N ATH, 3N Mykonos, Need assistance? Call Spanair's help desk Airfare, 2N IST, FD IST, 6D cruise Greek 14 DAYS • 12 NIGHTS 3N Santorini, 4D cruise Greek • High quality tours Isles & Turkey, all meals on cruise, 2N at 1-888-545-5757 Airfare, 4N each island, Car HONEYMOONERS COMP 2 Isles &Turkey, all meals at affordable rates ATH, HD ATH SS, all transfers on cruise, all transfers, Rentals, Honeymoon treats. CAT UPGRADE ON GREEK & • Proud member of NTA #1 HONEYMOON SPECIALISTS TURKEY ISLAND CRUISES Half Day Athens tour. CALL US FOR INFORMATION ON GREEK ISLAND HOPPING HONEYMOON & JETSETTER PACKAGES

Rates apply for specific departures and include transfers, breakfast & air fuel surcharge. Port dues and air taxes are additional. Add ons for USA cities available. Large selection of tours to Greece, Italy, France, Spain, Egypt, Turkey, Israel and Cyprus.* Weddings in Santorini, Mykonos & Crete. Individual tours, F.I.T's, Groups & Customized Itineraries. *Fare does not include taxes - see your GDS for all rules 800-223-7880 • 718-721-3808 • Fax: 718-721-4019 • Email: [email protected]

26 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 27 EUROPE

Wisdom of Rail Travel ubbed the “Great Unifier of Europe” after World War E II, Europe’s rail network might once again be at the P O R U E

top of agents’ lists of products they proffer this year. L I A

Well-traveled clients can easily manage rail rides over R astronomical fuel prices this summer; and for new - (www.flightcentre.com ); www.OctopusTravel.com ; Rail Dbies, rail tickets offer a far less stressful option compared to tak - Europe (www.raileurope.com ) and STA Travel ing to the open road. (www.statravel.com ). The Eurail Group , owner of the popular Eurail Pass for Euro - Earlier this year the Eurail Group unveiled its new branding pean announced a 5% increase in passenger numbers for 2007. with a new logo and tagline. The pass range was updated with Passenger numbers exceeded 468,000 for the year, setting a new participating countries, such as the Scandinavian countries new record since sales began nearly 50 years ago. of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The Eurail Group Changing travel behavior has impacted Eurail’s sales. Overseas manages the famous Eurail Passes that allow unlimited train trav - visitors are becoming more sophisticated, and their desire to visit el in Europe for non-European visitors worldwide. Additionally, as much of Europe as possible has been replaced by a wish to this year Eurail Group took over management of the InterRail explore just one or two selected destinations. Eurail reports product range aimed at the European domestic market, a move booming sales of one- and two-country passes. With the addition that prompted the new, more inclusive branding. of the very popular Eurail Italy Pass in 2007, sales of single coun - Now passengers can travel throughout the region’s excellent try passes have sky-rocketed by nearly 500% and now account rail systems using just a single pass – the Eurail Scandinavia for 16% of all Eurail’s sales (compared to a mere 3% in 2006). Pass, which replaces the former ScanRail Pass. But so have regional passes such as the ScanRail Pass. And as The new pass enables unlimited 2nd class rail travel in all four high as the euro may go, the Swiss Travel Pass may very well be participating countries and is available throughout a range of valid - one of this year’s top bargains. ity periods. Discounts are offered to groups of two or more and Product lines, much like the rail network themselves, are criss - to young people under the age of 26. Prices start from just 50 crossing corporate lines this summer more than ever. Agents euros or $76 a day for a four-day Saver Pass making cross border can choose from purchasing tickets and passes from the ACP connections easy and efficient. Traveling from to Rail and Britrail (which sells a wide variety of passes throughout takes just over six hours, while Stockholm to is a the U.K. and beyond) the Eurail Group , which sells passes with - five-hour ride. Connections between and Stockholm are in 20 countries. by ships operated by Tallink Silja Oy , which gives Eurail Pass Rail Europe , which also sells rail products to 31 countries, is holders a 50% reduction on the full fare of the crossing. the top seller for the Eurostar, the high-speed passenger train The Eurail Group offers a wide range of passes from single operator between Britain and mainland Europe, which reported a country options to the classic Eurail Global Pass, valid in 20 coun - 21.3% rise in traveler numbers to 2.17 million between January tries. Visit www.EurailGroup.com and March 2008, compared to the same period last year. Ticket Unlike other travel products purchased in Europe that have revenues increased by 25.2% during the first full three-months become more expensive as the dollar falls against European cur - of carbon neutral journeys on High Speed 1, the new 186 mph rencies, the dollar prices of all Swiss Travel System products sold line between St Pancras International and the Channel Tunnel. in North America by Rail Europe are fixed for the entire year. ACP Rail and Britrail are offering travelers aged 16 to 25 who Because the dollar has fallen 15% against the Swiss franc purchase any Eurail Pass a 50% discount on the regular adult recently, a traveler buying here in North America saves consider - price of a standard-class BritRail Consecutive Pass, BritRail Flexi - ably over purchasing the pass in francs in Switzerland. Pass, BritRail England Consecutive Pass or BritRail England Flexi - The Swiss Pass in 2008 starts at $174 (2nd class) or $261 (1st Pass. The discount offer is valid throughout 2008. With the class) per adult for 4 consecutive days of travel on Swiss trains, discount, the all-access, standard-class, four-day BritRail Consec - postal buses, city transit systems and lake steamers, and the utive Pass costs $130; the FlexiPass, $165. The discounted cost price is guaranteed for the whole year. Swiss Passes are also for a four-day BritRail England Consecutive Pass is $105; the available for non-consecutive days within a longer time frame FlexiPass, $133. Visit www.britrail.com (Flexipass). Among the bonuses of a Swiss Pass: free admission Additionally, ACP is selling the Eurail Scandinavia Pass for rail to more than 400 museums throughout Switzerland, 50% dis - travel in all four Scandinavian countries for as few as four days or count on most mountaintop excursions by special trains or cable as many as 10 days within two months. Adult second class cars, as well as discounts on high-speed and overnight trains to prices start at a $344. New Eurail Regional dual-country passes France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Austria. Children under 16 trav - allow clients to pair Sweden with Denmark (from $307), Finland el free when accompanied by a parent with a paid Swiss (starting at $308), or Norway (from $326) for four days of adult Pass.Agent commission on Swiss Passes starts at 5% for elec - second class travel within a two-month period. tronic bookings. Eurail Passes are available from the direct sales website, To book individual or group travel on Swiss trains, and trains www.Eurail.com , and all sales agents worldwide; ACP Rail throughout Europe, log on to Rail Europe’s agent site, call 888- International (www.eurail-acprail.com ); Flight Centre 382-7245; http://agent.raileurope.com

28 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM EUROPE Padua, St Antonio only 11 days to Venice, Florence and Rome. Due to the Besides being for the arts, the Bettoja Hotels are near the unprecedented nature of this offer, space is filling fast. arts. Mediterraneo, Massimo D’Azeglio, Atlantico , and Call 800- 431-1515; www.perillo.com Nord are one block from the new Roman Archeological Visit Italy Tours’ executives are convinced the lure of Museum, within walking distance of Scuderie del Quirinale, Italy under $500 a day Rome is strong and exhilarating to both the firs-time visitors Palazzo Esposizioni, the Coloseum, and St. Mary Major. As a and the seasoned travelers. matter of fact, this arts brochure includes a map of a walk - s a non-card carrying member of the baby The company has introduced a special $1,249 per person ing tour to all nearby museums. boomer generation, I shudder to write that head - double, for a six-day/four-night Rome package valid through In Florence, Bettoja’s 69-room Relais Certosa, completed line, but as I quake in my pockets, I know it is June 30, 2008. Departures are from , Chicago, New a recent renovation of many of the guestrooms. Bordering a only too realistic. Backpacking may not be a York, and Los Angeles. This package features four nights’ Medieval Monastery, the Certosa of Galluzzo, this 14th cen - thing of the past for all of us [it more or less is accommodation in a centrally located three-star hotel, daily tury edifice crowns the hill near the hotel, as beautiful a Afor me], but the backpack mentality baby boomers carry breakfast, roundtrip economy air on Alitalia from the select - backdrop as can be found in Tuscany. Yet the property is with them gives them an edge on knowing how to travel on ed cities. Hotel service charges and VAT taxes are included only 15 minutes by hotel van to the center of Florence itself. the cheap or on the affordable in a Euro dominant summer. in the price; airport taxes and fuel surcharges are additional. The Relais Certosa is located close to the Rome Milan Below are a few of the efforts suppliers have made to keep Call 800-255-3537; fax 310-649-6880; E-mail superhighway making it the perfect base for exploring the things “reasonable” this summer. [email protected]; www.VisitItalyTours.com Tuscan and the Siennese countryside.

A name not normally associated with Western Europe, O T N

Location, location, location, a quote attributed often to Call 800-783-6904; www.bettojahotels.it Y

QueensLander Tours’ Great Cities of Italy tour boasts free L A T

I Conrad Hilton, could not be more truly applied than it is to Indeed, with the dollar sinking and euro rising, hotels in air from several east coast gateways and discounted fares the Bettoja Hotels in Rome and Florence. Apart from location, Rome and Venice seem outrageously expensive. The solu - from other U.S. gateways. free air to Italy this summer (remember how Mario used to the Bettoja family has been serving U.S. travelers for genera - tion is www.rentalo.com , an online directory of apartments The 10-day, ‘true small-group tour’ experience takes travelers offer cheap if not free seats on PanAm?). The limited time tions, long enough to know that this clientele needs an ample and villas that makes it possible for couples, groups of through Venice, Florence, San Gimignano and Cortona in Tus - offer can save couples up to $2,560 on the air component buffet breakfast, service and taxes all rolled into one easy price: friends and even large families to afford a trip to Italy. Offers cany, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast lodging in Sorrento all in the when they depart from New York’s JFK Airport to Rome, in this case, rooms start at 150 euros or $230 per night for two range from a two-bedroom Rome rental, 330 yards from the same tour with a pace that can only be described as leisurely. Bologna and Palermo aboard Eurofly on selected Perillo sharing a room. Colosseum and Roman Forum for $133 a night to $435 a The Free Air promotion is available on summer and fall depar - tours. This promotion only applies for new bookings on the In Rome, the four properties and the museums Scuderie del night for a two-bedroom, two-bath Venetian villa with a pri - tures of the Italy’s Great Cities Tour. Robust commissions as following tours and 2008 departure dates, based on availabil - Quirinale and Palazzo Esposizioni have teamed up to promote vate garden and canal view and tennis court. well as centrally located hotels round out the package. Priced at ity. Among the tours the offer applies to are the Vesuvius the arts by releasing an informative brochure that lists all the Women are invited to enjoy the camaraderie of a fitness- $3,849 with QueensLander’s. A no Tipping Policy makes this Tour - July 27 departure dates only; 10 days to Rome, Flo - upcoming exhibits through 2009 in both Rome venues. This will oriented and pampering vacation with the Wayfarers’ new Great Cities tour even more agent friendly. rence and Naples; the South & Sicily Tour - July 30 depar - give travelers an opportunity to plan their visits well in advance “girlfriends getaway” Cinque Terre itinerary. An energetic Call 877-865-6711; www.QLTours.com ture date only; 14 Days to Palermo, Taormina, Naples and around once-in-a-lifetime shows such as a collection of Giovanni walk that covers mule tracks by road, and hills via stone Following a family tradition, Steve Perillo is also offering Rome; and the Aristocrat Tour - August 19 departure date Bellini or an exhibition of the Etruscan civilization. steps, Cinque Terre offers an immersion into the area called

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by many the most beautiful part of Italy and one that is best restaurants in the city are the main ingredients in Torino, visited by foot. Accommodations are in a former 16th-centu - Piemonte’s elegant capital city. The balance of the stay will be in IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS ry Franciscan monastery with a state-of-the-art Wellness Piemonte’s wine region with the focus on the world famous Spa and in a hotel with its own sandy beach. Priced at Barolo, Barbaresco wines and th e National Truffle Fair in Alba. EF-USA Launches Direct Flights to Puglia Spa Trekking in Greece and Crete $3,795 per person double, the seven-day/six-night walk The all-inclusive land package features a truffle hunt with Eurofly , now known as EF-USA , introduced its new direct Known for its Greek Island Hopping packages to Greece, takes place on September 21-27 (women only) and October dogs, a cooking class, all the meals including wines at the flight from New York’s JFK International Airport to the south - Cloud Tours can also help agents plan the perfect Greek 5-11 and includes 6-8 miles of walking per day. best restaurants in the area-at least two Michelin starred, ern regional capital of Bari in Puglia, which lies along the SPA getaway for your client. Call 800- 249-4620; www.thewayfarers.com wine tastings with top producers, guided tours of the main Adriatic Sea in Italy.Scheduled flights depart from New York In Crete, the magnificent Six Senses Spas situated within For the fifth straight year Italy placed first as the hottest cultural attractions and of course the white truffle. every Thursday fthrough Sept. 25, 2008, which gives clients Porto Elounda deluxe resort is the most breathtaking spa in destination for Americans taking packaged vacations (tours Departure is set for October 15-22, 2008; priced at $5,010 an opportunity to participate in the annual Festa della the whole of Greece and was recently awarded “Best Spa and vacation packages), according to a recent poll of U.S. per person double. Travel agent’s commission is 5% based Madonna in Bari held on Sept. 14. Fares start at $799 plus a of the World” by Sunday Times’ Travel Magazine. Tour Operators Association members. And for many Ameri - on a minimum booking of six passengers. $230 fuel surcharge and $86 government taxes for June. Its range of renowned therapies and signature treatments cans Sicily holds a special appeal. Senior Savings: General Optional extensions to Piemonte’s Lake region of Lago Bari joins the growing list of direct and non-stop flights focuses on health, beauty, stress reduction and wellness, Tours World Traveler works closely with AARP members d’Orta and Lago Maggiore and/or to the thermal spa area of offered this year along with Lamezia, Calabria; Pescara, using pure, natural and environmentally friendly products. to offer a $115 per person savings on a $2,899 per person Acqui Terme and outlet shopping or any other destination in Abruzzo; Palermo, Sicily; Naples, Campania; Bologna, Emilia Earthly colors and materials blend with heavenly works of for an eight-day journey across Sicily. Exploring archaeologi - Italy. Similar, fall Piemonte tours featuring other local festi - Romagna; and Rome in Lazio making Eurofly the airline with contemporary art. A magical environment and an unforget - cal sites and Sicily’s culture, traditions, cuisine and art, the vals are offered. direct flights from JFK to the most cities within Italy. table experience is what the Six Senses Spa™ is all about. land only package includes 14 meals, sightseeing, and all on- Call 973-467-4418; E-mail [email protected] Agents must register to qualify for a 5% commission on all In addition, jetset Mykonos offers the Thalasotherapy Spas tour transportation. Departures are in September, and Octo - reservations to any of Eurofly’s destinations . of the Myconian Collection. Three sister hotels make up the ber 2008 and April 2009. The Quiet Landlocked Region of Basilicata Call 800-459-4980; fax 212-609-7077; Email: Myconian Collection: the Royal Myconian and Imperial, Call 800-221-2216; www.generaltours.com Set within the heart of the medieval town of Maratea, the [email protected]; www.eurofly.com Leading Hotels of the World and the Myconian Ambassador, newly renovated luxury hotel, the 27-room La Locanda a Relais Chateaux hotel. The North and South of $500+ a Day Delle Donne Monache , sister hotel to Casa Angelina in All three hotels offer an unforgettable Thalasotherapy (Sea Amalfi, was originally built as a convent in 1735. AF Launches New Evening Flights in Greek) Spa experience. Shop, Wine and Dine Sure to be the next destination for global trendspotters, Air France will add late evening daily nonstop flights Call 800-223-7880; 718-721-3808; or E-mail Headed by Annamaria Sorrentino, a veteran professional who Maratea’s naturally protected port boasts some of the most between New York-JFK and Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport [email protected]; www.cloudtours.com worked at VARIG, Shop, Wine and Dine specializes in prepar - beautiful ‘robin egg blue’ waters along this stretch of coast - on June 23, 2008 through Sept. 28, 2008, and benefit travel - ing innovative travel experiences focusing on Italy’s food and line. Small fishing boats bob in the water next to luxury ers looking for the ease and convenience associated with wine. Its programs typically incorporate local cultural events that yachts, yet the town remains untouched by commercial later evening travel. These flights, operated by the Airbus uphold centuries’ old traditions hoping to provide opportunities tourism. Easy to explore by foot, Maratea’s quaint and beau - 300-200 series, are some of the last available departing from to experience life as it’s lived and savored by the Italians and tiful town is set within narrow winding streets and pictur - the U.S. to Europe and vice versa. showcase Italy’s unmistakable, impeccable style and flair. Shop esque little squares where small shops sell local food The eastbound flight, AF005, departs JFK at 1:00 a.m. and Wine and Dine’s programs are especially appropriate as innova - specialties, lace and colorful ceramics. The region of Basili - arrives in Paris at 2:10 p.m. the next day, leaving ample time tive options for meetings, retreats and women’s travel. cata is nestled between Calabria and Puglia yet, is just a for passengers to connect to from points in the U.S to New Torino and the Alba National Truffle Fair-The Ultimate two-hour drive from Amalfi. York and then connect beyond Paris. The new late night Oenogastronomic Experience: Any serious wine and food lover Four nights’ accommodation, including two dinners, mas - westbound flight, AF004, leaves Paris at 8:45 p.m. and will appreciate the succulent details of this Piemonte tour. sages, champagne and more, begin at $2,760. arrives at JFK at 10:50 p.m. allowing for a full day of work or Museums, the spectacular-newly re-opened Venaria Palace, E-mail [email protected] vacation in Paris. Call 800-237-2747; www.airfrance/us Porta Palazzo the largest open air market in Europe, the Eataly food complex-soon to be opened in New York, shopping, a three For consolidator airfares and tour packages to day Chocolate pass and exquisite meals at some of the best Italy see page 73-75 of the Listings Section Cyprus with Homeric Tours under $2,000 The popular Irresistable Cyprus package includes three nights in Pafos for a full-day tour of the nearby mountain vil - lages and take a donkey ride, and three nights in the sea- IITTAALLYY OONN SSAALLEE!! side town of Lemesos. Here travelers can enjoy the miles of beautiful beaches, visit the many cultural treasures and ALLURING AMALFI COAST “The Most Requested Romantic Getaway” 7 Days/6 Nights from $1889 PP/DBL - Land Only Includes 3 nights at the Deluxe Hotel Le Agavi in Positano in sea-view rooms and 3 nights at the Superior First Class resort Weber Ambassa - enjoy a full-day tour of the Troodos Mountains, Lefkara and dor in sea-view rooms in Capri, private car transfers on arrival and departure, Buffet Breakfast daily, and Private Cruise between Positano ORDER FREE 2008 BROCHURES AT: WWW.AMTA.COM and Capri with refreshments Kykkos. Air-inclusive prices begin at $1,969 per person dou - ble out of New York, plus fuel surcharges, buffet breakfast, AEOLIAN ISLANDS EXPLORER “The Ideal Location for a Stress-Free Vacation” 8 Days/7 Nights from $1399 PP/DBL - Land Only Includes 7 nights at the Superior First Class Carasco in superior sea-view room with balcony, Breakfast and Dinner daily, roundtrip transfer and all transfers. Catania Airport to Milazzo, roundtrip boat transfer Milazzo to Lipari, and 4 Boat transfers to the islands of Fillicudi, Alicudi”, “Panarea”, The natural combination of Cyprus and Greece makes a “Stromboli”, “Lipari, Salina”, and “Vulcano” and much more culturally exciting vacation so Homerica is selling four nights TASTE OF MALTA “Bask in the Warmth of this Fascinating Island” 7 Days/5 Nights – from $1799 PP/DBL – Air/Land at a beachfront hotel in Lemesos, two nights in Athens and Includes roundtrip airfare from BOS/JFK/EWR to Malta via British Airways/Virgin Air, 5 nights in Classic sea-view rooms, either at the First Class Hotel Victoria in Sliema or the Deluxe Westin Dragonara in St. Julians (from $2199 Air/Land), Buffet Breakfast and Dinner daily, private a three-night cruise of the Greek Islands – including visits to car transfers, arrival and departure transfers and choice of one full-day sightseeing excursion with lunch Mykonos, Rhodes, Patmos and more – are included -- at the For reservations or more information please call toll-free 800-225-6290 (617-375-9400 for local calls). starting price of $2,389 per person double. 800-225-6290 www.donnafranca.com Call 800-223-5570; email: [email protected]; [email protected] | 470 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215 www.homerictours.com

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IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS High-Tech Global Rail Booking Travel Bound Reduces Hotel Prices Wandrian, Inc. announced a new global rail booking Independent travel Incentives for Planning Ahead Swiss-Philly Links technology dedicated to official North American tour oper - wholesale provider Trav - ators, tour.railagent.com (not to be confused with RailA - el Bound has reduced With the 2008 season nearly sold out, Scenic Tours’ Euro - SWISS and USAirways’ codeshare agreement offers gent.com, the company's web site dedicated to travel prices on all hotels and pean River Cruising is encouraging agents to persuade SWISS passengers the opportunity to fly from agents). The site offers Net rates for Italian train tickets, transfers in its top-sell - clients to book ahead. As an incentive for booking a 2009 to Zurich on USAirways-operated flights so US Airways pas - and also offers pricing for other Global train products. ing destination, Italy departure before September 30, 2008, voyagers traveling on sengers have onward connections from Zurich operated by Operators can register on tour.railagent.com. Once booked by June 30. the Rhine and Danube “15 Day Jewels of Europe Luxury SWISS to 10 European destinations. USAirways also approved, they will be able to book tickets, and then print Prices are cut 5% on River Cruise” can choose from three exclusive deals, while becomes SWISS' codeshare partner on services to 10 desti - them in-house or have them shipped to their offices. all 1,664 hotels sold by those traveling on other itineraries will be given a discount nations in Europe so passengers can opt for SWISS-operat - Operators who include rail as part of a package will now Travel Bound in Italy, O for reserving early. ed onward connections from Zurich to Athens, Bucharest, T N Liguria, Italy

have access to Net Fares on Italian domestic trains, and including such presti - Y Two separate offers allow couples or companions compli - Düsseldorf, Geneva, Hanover, Luxembourg, Nice, Nurem - L A T cross-border trains, such as the Artesia (Italy-France) and gious properties as the I mentary air to Europe for the 15-day cruise, with distinctive berg, Stuttgart and . Call 877-FLY SWISS; Cisalpino (Italy – Switzerland). As preferred by Tour Opera - Bauer in Venice, the Ambasciatori in Rome, and the Helvetia Fly Free savings of up to $1,600. Early birds can receive up www.swiss.com to $750 in savings for luxury rooms aboard Scenic vessels tors, these low Net fares will not have the price printed on and Bristol in Florence. The price of private transfers in 53 for all dates on all 2009 itineraries. Dollar Stretchers in Finland the tickets. Italian towns and cities is reduced by up to 10%. Said Charles de Gaspe Beaubien, Senior Vice President of Travel Bound also offers “stay for/pay for” deals at 50 Scenic Tours is now offering 11, 12, 15, 18 and 24 day itin - With the Euro up and the Dollar down travelers of all Business Development, “This new state of the art booking properties in 29 Italian towns/cities, so that clients receive eraries for 2009, allowing travelers to choose from various styles will find a bounty of free and inexpensive things to system makes it easier than ever for tour operators to offer either one free night or a significant discount – in some combinations of land tours and cruises. The 11-day itiner - see and do in Finland’s exciting capital this summer. Sum - more rail inclusive packages to Italy and the rest of Europe. cases 50% - on additional nights above a certain number. aries, “Gems of the Danube” or “Moselle & Rhine mer fun includes free concerts, city cards good for dis - Tour.RailAgent.com will alleviate some of the frustrations Among the hotels offering a stay for/pay for promotion Escapade,” combine three nights in either Paris or Prague counts and free rides on trams and trolleys, roving tourist tour operators might have experienced in the past booking with Travel Bound is the four-star Lorenzo II Magnifico with a seven-night cruise. While the 12-day “Black Sea helpers and free bike rentals. Helsinki awaits the five million rail, thanks to our direct access to the Italian inventory and in Florence, where a fourth night is free when three Explorer” provides two nights in Budapest and two nights in tourists expected to visit between May and Sept. when the the ability to book groups online in an automated fashion." nights are booked at a rate of $159.50 per night for a Bucharest along with a seven-night cruise. average midday temperature is 72 degrees, the city’s parks Call Chris Canavan, Director of Industry Development, at twin room in August. Visit www.scenictours.com are lush green and the midsummer sun just about doubles 617-630-0250, EXT 296; www.tour.railagent.com Call -800-808-9541; www.booktravelbound.com vacation time with almost 24 hours of daylight. The “3T” Tour : Do your clients prefer sightseeing on their own? For about 2 Euros or $3 they can hop Tram No. 3 (in either direction T or B) and do a figure 8 through Helsinki. www.hel.fi/wps/wcm/resources/file/eb950102caf5a17/3T_ english_2007_net.pdf Helsinki Helpers: A Helsinki Helper is a valuable, and free, FREE GIFT bonus to summer travels in Helsinki. The 20+ specially WITH schooled, mostly tow-headed Helsinki Helpers are ready to YOUR TOUR assist in up to 20 languages, including English, Japanese PURCHASE and Croatian. They are found daily in key tourist areas of city center such as the Esplanade and have been known to go to extremes to help visitors. Visit www.hel.fi/filharmonia. Call 877-463-4652; www.visitfinland.com

LHW Holds Line on Luxe Hotel Rates The Leading Hotels of the World , Ltd. has announced a Guaranteed US Dollar Rate program, enabling guests to s: Over IS offer know, in advance, the cost of their accommodations abroad. ORB rience. of expe 0 years and Rates at nearly 60 participating hotels are set in U.S. dollars, 7 ls in Pol 00 hote . 3 Europe and paid in advance at the time of booking, thus letting Central & Tours 00 City h guests “know before they go” what the precise amount of 1 , Spanis , French English king an Spea their hotel expenditures will be. Among the hotels participat - & Germ s. Service Guides ing in the program are The Milestone Hotel and The Ritz in London, Hotel Le Bristol and Hotel Raphael in Paris, Hotel Orbis Polish Travel Bureau, Inc. Majestic in Rome, Hotel Le Palais in Prague, Hotel Metro - Please contact us via email at: pole in Monte Carlo, The Scotsman in Edinburgh, and T he [email protected] • [email protected] Hotel Baltschug Kempinski in Moscow. [email protected] Refer to booking code L09. Call 800-223-6800; www.lhw.com and www.lhwspas.com

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Client Essentials IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS Top Hotels Make Britain, A “Brit” Easier to Sell VisitBritain offers " The Essential London Kit " at just $119, which contains a three-day London Travel Card (Peak, Zones ravel agents can assure UK-bound clients that 1-2), one London Eye ticket, one Tower of London ticket and Atheneum’s Bulloch Passes Away Britain isn’t as expensive as they might think. one Original London Sightseeing bus tour ticket, which also Sally Bulloch, executive manager at the Athenaeum Hotel Some of London's top luxury hotels are offering includes a Thames river cruise and two walking tours. "The until her retirement to South Africa in 2002, passed away on commissionable dollar prices to US travel agents, Essential London Kit" can be purchased online. April 10 at age 59. “Sally was the face of the Athenaeum for and 2008 is the perfect time to head to London VisitBritain offers the Great British Heritage Pass provid - more than 25 years.” states Jonathan Critchard, general man - Tand Britain. Agents might call 800-462-2748 , or download ing American visitors with unlimited entry to around 600 ager. “She was adored and respected by hotel staff as well as from www.visitbritain.com/trade stately homes, castles and properties in England, Scotland the countless number of guests for whom she took such spe - The five-star Athenaeum Hotel and Apartments and Wales. A four-day pass costs $60; seven-day $88; 15- cial care and attention. Sally was such a major part of the (www.athenaeumhotel.com ) in London is offering dollar day $99; and 30-day $117. (Can be purchased online.) Athenaeum’s history... her passing will leave a void that will rates for American travelers in 2008, beginning at $350 for Visitor Oyster Cards are the new money-saving answer never be filled.” Sally started at the Athenaeum in 1975 as a an executive guestroom with a four-night stay. The current for travelers using London's buses and subway. The smart Sales Manager and was soon Public Relations Manager for the pound sterling rate for that room category is £350, so the card guarantees that travelers will never pay more than the Rank Hotels Group (owners of the Athenaeum at the time). O

T Sally took a sabbatical from the hotel in 1984 for eight years to saving represents a pound for dollar rate. N equivalent day TravelCard price. They can be purchased N

Cornwall. I

A host a popular radio show in Malta, set up her own London pub - T

Call 800-335-3300 or use GDS code YX . I through VisitBritain. R Red Carnation Hotels (www.redcarnationhotels.com ), a B VisitBritain has joined forces with American Airlines for lic relations agency and help launch the Draycott and the Pel - group of six luxury boutique hotels in London, is offering £124 per room per night for bookings of two or three nights. a new promotion to help boost visits from the United States ham Hotels . She returned to the Athenaeum in 1992 as guaranteed dollar rates for your clients through January 31, The offer is available for bookings through September 30, to London and the rest of Britain. Some 630,000 American Executive Manager and remained on-staff until her retirement 2009. The dollar rate is set at $1.80 to one British Pound, 2008, and includes: accommodations with breakfast, entry Airlines and VisitBritain customers will be offered the in 2002. Sally had a genius for making guests feel at home. Her and includes complimentary continental breakfast and tax tickets to two nearby gardens – Batsford Arboretum and chance to take advantage of a series of special offers on natural charm and effervescent personality attracted every - (VAT at 17.5%). Agents can book through their GDS or Snowshill Manor, three-course dinner in the hotel restaurant travel in and around London as well as attractions and train one….Hollywood showbiz, London society and people of all through each hotel, requesting the guaranteed rates. For on one night of the stay. Visit www.fossemanor.co.uk travel to other parts of Britain. Visit www.visitbritain.com nationalities, from all walks of life. Travel colleagues are invited example, during low season (July 28 through September 4, The Draycott Hotel, a luxury townhouse in London, is to express their condolences of remembrances of Sally by E- For consolidator airfares and tour packages to 2008; and December 15, 2008 through January 31, 2009), offering guaranteed dollar rates through the end of 2008. A mailing: [email protected] Britain see page 68 of the Listings Section the dollar rate is $296 a night at the group's four-star The double room starts at $421 per night including tax. The hotel Rubens hotel which overlooks Buckingham Palace's Royal offers guests complimentary tea with homemade cookies at Mews; while the rate at the five-star The Milestone hotel 4pm each day, champagne at 6 pm, and hot chocolate at CYPRUS Continued from page 24 Experience Europe, with... opposite Kensington Palace is $497. 10pm in the drawing room. Visit www.draycotthotel.com Beause of the island’s modern infrastructure, passengers dis - The Royal Garden Hotel (www.royalgardenhotel.co.uk ), The Leonard Hotel & Apartments – an independent Eigh - embarking at Lemesos (Limassol) can choose from a number of a five-star property in London's Kensington neighborhood, is teenth Century townhouse hotel in London – is offering a tours to major museums and sites, many of which are easily offering a 'Guaranteed Dollar Rate' with a Superior Room three-night dollar rate package valid in August. A deluxe accessible. The island’s capital, Lefkosia (Nicosia), is about 45 costing $450 including taxes and continental breakfast. Fam - room costs $1,469 for the package, which includes car miles from Limassol. The priceless art and antiquities at the ily rooms, which comfortably sleep two adults and two chil - transfers to and from London Heathrow Airport, continental Cyprus Museum spans a period of 8,000 years and rivals works Y D dren, are $700. Valid through the end of 2008 and is breakfast or afternoon tea on the day of arrival, English displayed at the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Although L N commissionable at 10% by contacting hotel reservations. breakfast daily, VAT (taxes); during high season the rate is extensive, it’s possible to view the collection and then enjoy a typ - Y TA A The Cadogan (www.cadogan.com ), a luxury hotel in Lon - $1,574. Visit www.theleonard.com IA N I L ical “meze” lunch at a taverna in Laiki Yeitonia, the restored E E • R Y don's Knightsbridge neighborhood, is offering dollar rates Cotswold House located in the English Cotswolds, is pedestrian area in the old part of the city. Admirers of Byzantine C R C A E E E T N M N Z K starting at $399 per night for a double room inclusive of tax offering a 20% fixed dollar rate saving on a two-night stay. art can view more than 200 icons, and numerous vessels, robes E S R I IT R . The package starts at $850 for a double room and includes R U A E A K and continental breakfast for two, through 2008. That rate is and books dating from the 9th to the 19th centuries at the Byzan - A R P W U . a $294.25 saving on the rack rate, and is commissionable at two nights accommodation, full English breakfast and tax, tine Museum and Art Galleries, and later watch demonstrations G F G S S T U 10% for travel agents; when they contact the hotel directly. valid for stays from Sunday – Thursday until Dec. 31, 2008. of traditional art and crafts made at the Cyprus Handicraft Center Chewton Glen country house hotel in England and The Visit www.cotswoldhouse.com and gift shop, where pottery, wood-carvings, metalwork and tap - Stafford in London are offering a “Bright Lights and Country Eleven Cadogan Gardens – a luxury townhouse hotel in estries, lace and embroidered items are available for purchase. Sights” package from $2,043 per person double through London – is offering a 20% fixed dollar rate saving on room Another popular shore excursion, less than nine miles west 2008. The package includes two nights each in a Bronze rates. The package starts at $405 a night and includes full of Lemesos (Limassol), includes a visit to the 15th century Room at Chewton Glen midweek and at The Stafford in a English breakfast and tax, valid for stays from Friday – Sun - Kolossi Castle. Close by, the magnificent Kourion Greco- King Room over a weekend, and a one-way chauffer trans - day, subject to availability. www.number-eleven.co.uk Roman Theater affords a spectacular view of the Mediter - fer between the two properties, continental breakfast daily, Premier Inn is one of Britain’s leading budget hotel ranean Sea, as does the Sanctuary of Apollo, farther west at FIT's • Groups • Car Rentals • Honeymoons three-course dinner one evening at The Stafford with a half brands, with room prices starting from £48 a night. With 480 Pafos, the birthplace of Aphrodite. The famous mosaics in the Worldwide Hotel Accommodations • River Cruises bottle of wine per person, three course dinner both hotels across the country, Premier Travel Inn also has some Houses of Dionysus, Orpheus, Aion and the Villa of Theseus evenings at Chewton Glen, and one afternoon tea per per - of the best locations in London including London County are found at the Archaeological Park there. Backed by the Greek and Mediterranean Cruises • Rail Tickets and Passes. son per stay at Chewton Glen. Tax (VAT at 17.5%) and serv - Hall beside the River Thames with rooms from £99 a night. rocky hillside, the beautiful sunbaked town that touches the ice charge included. Visit www.chewtonglen.com; The brand offers a ‘Good Night Guarantee’ whereby they sea has been designated a World Heritage site by Unesco. 800-882-3983 www.thesttaffordhotel.co.uk . guarantee guests a clean, comfortable room and friendly Cypriots know it as the town of Aphrodite. info @europtours.com Fosse Manor Hotel , located in England's Cotswolds and efficient service – if they don’t live up to their promise, For information, contact the Cyprus Tourist Organization: region, is offering a "Mid-week garden lover's break" from they will refund your money. www.premierinn.com [email protected]; www.visitcyprus.org.cy www.europtours.com

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It’s got to be Austria! BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS Though small in size, Austria ranks $ ITALY $ ITALY $ ITALY $ FRANCE $ ENGLAND number nine worldwide in international 200 0 The heart and soul of 252 5 Trafalgar's new Free 735 The 117-room Four Sea - 300 Concorde Hotels & 792 Celebrate retail obsession arrivals and can look back at a long his - Tuscany is found in its wine and olive & Easy tour, the 11-day Great Italian sons Florence is still scheduled to open Resorts is making it much easier on with the Shopaholics Getaway at the tory of hospitality. Austria is well known oil. Set among 600 acres of flourishing Cities, gives clients three nights each in mid-2008, is taking reservations for Americans' wallets by offering a locked in 425-room Langham, London . for high culture and stunning scenery, vine yards and olive groves, the 26-room in Rome, Florence and Venice for a arrivals after July 1. Located in either the U.S. dollar rate at two of its premier Set at the pole position at the top of the country’s contemporary appeal in luxury hotel, Villa Mangiacane is the leisurely-paced itinerary that enables Conventino, a former convent from the Parisian hotels. From July 11 through Regent Street, the legendary luxury architecture, art, design or wine travel is producer of three distinctive wines. Visi - clients both sightseeing and free time 17th century, or the Palazzo Della Gher - August 31, American visitors to the City hotel is home to the newly-opened not as well known yet to Americans. tors dine on a four-course dinner on the in Italy's most visited, romantic and ardesca, a 15th century palazzo, the Old of Lights can rest assured that the bulk of glamorous Landau Restaurant, Austria’s new promotions awaken a first night, followed by a cooking class historical cities. World decor includes original frescoes their money will not be spent on accom - designed by David Collins Studio. longing for a vacation in Austria. Adver - and wine tastings. The highly regarded The escorted motorcoach vacation and sculptured reliefs, along with an inner modations, but rather on enjoying Paris. The package includes overnight tising images and text combine to tell Wine Spectator scores Mangiacane's starts in Rome with visits to the courtyard, an outdoor pool and an Italian From July 11 through August 31, visi - accommodation for two at The Lang - the shortest of stories, and in so doing 2004 Chianti Classico Reserva 86 points, Roman Forum, the Coliseum, and the spa. The property is located near the tors to Paris can take advantage of a fixed ham, London; elegant English break - create a bit of a surprise. In one of the and their debut 2004 Toscana Aleah, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums and Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo. Rates start US dollar rate at either the Hotel Lutetia fast served á la carte in The Landau; a country’s new print ads, visitors to Vien - made of 100% Merlot, an impressive St. Peter's Basilica; followed by a full at about $735 per night. or Hotel du Louvre . Rates begin at $300 bottle of Laurent Perrier Champagne in na’s Museumsquartier are shown relax - 90. And as the perfect complement to day at leisure. In Florence, visitors get Visit www.fourseasons.com per night, per room per night and is only room on arrival; contemporary after - ing in the midday sun on oversized Mangiacane wine, the estate bottles a a walking tour of the city; visit the valid for American citizens since a pass - noon tea for two at Artesian; The beach-chairs. It is not the usual image peppery olive oil, served and available at Basilica of Santa Croce and the tombs $ EUROPE port will be requested upon check-in. Regent Street Privilege Card with 10% of people looking at a work of art, the villa and in many of Wolfgang Puck's of Italy's great men, and a guided tour 150 Worldhotel , the hotel There is no minimum stay required. At discounts at participating shops; and a instead a short story is told: a story restaurants. The property is set seven of the Academy of Fine Arts, including group for independent hotels and regional guest checkout, the amount is paid in $99 shopping voucher for Selfridges. about people who love art, not in an miles south of Florence and just short Michelangelo's David. In Venice clients hotel brands, has announced a special Euros based on the currency of the day, Priced from $792 for double occupan - effort to acquire knowledge, but hops to nearby towns such as Siena, take a canal cruise, get a guided walk - “Stay in Europe, Pay in Dollars” promo - equal to the locked in USD rate that was cy, including VAT; valid through Decem - because art excites their emotions. Sa n Gimignano and Arrezzo, making ing tour of 'Secret Venice' to the Rialto tion. The company is eliminating the euro- stated upon booking the room. The fluc - ber 2008. The Langham London this a true Tuscan fling. Bridge and famous fish market, visit St. to-U.S.-dollar exchange rate for bookings tuating market will not affect these rates. features a series of Weekend pack - Decisive Moment Prices range from $2,000 to $3,870 Mark's Square, the Byzantine Basilica, made within the U.S. for more than 52 of Call 800-888-4747; www.concorde- ages available year round. Petra Stolba , CEO of the Austrian per person double for four nights, Doges' Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, its hotels and resorts located throughout hotels.com/usdguaranteed Visit www.london.langhamhotels.co.uk Tourist Office, says of the ads, “with which covers four-course candlelight and glass blowing in Murano. Europe. For example, a U.S. traveler the new campaign we want to fashion dinner, a cooking class, followed by Priced from $2,525 per person dou - booking a stay for EUR 150 per night will a stage for all those things that make lunch, wine and olive oil tastings, Tus - ble, land only, through Oct. 30, 2008. only pay $150 -- about a 40 percent sav - Austria special, that open unanticipated can Cookbook and bottle of Chianti and Call 866-544-4434; www.trafalgar.com ings. The offer is valid through June 30, perspectives, as well as the familiar. daily spa access. 2008, and is available at participating We seduce with images that suggest Call 800-525-4800; E-mail reserva - $ ENGLAND properties in Italy, the Netherlands, Ger - continuity while injecting fresh impuls - [email protected]; 279 5 ATP Vcations puts an many, Spain, Belgium, Austria, Luxem - es. What we want to do is spotlight www.mangiacane.com element of customization in all its tours bourg, France, the Czech Republic, and reasons—be they festivals or muse - is a new independent program that Poland. The rates are commissionable to ums—that could tip the scales in favor $ ITALY delves into the mysteries, history and travel agents. Call 800-223-5652; www. of a vacation in Austria. In short, our 196 0 Randonnee Tours, royalty of Britain, and keeps partici - world hotels.com campaign targets the decisive renowned for creating unforgettable trav - pants off balance as they participate in moment’.” el experiences for intrepid, self-guided a Murder Mystery Weekend. The 11- $ GERMANY The branding presents a new, excit - adventurers, is introducing several new day “Land of Mysteries and Mon - 558 Air , Germany’s ing, and still little-known Austria, such trips for 2008. archs” includes tours of Stonehenge second largest airline, announced its as “Austria’s Winery Boom” a traveling Cycling in Puglia, Italy: Stunning and the Georgian city of Bath, entry to summer sale available for booking as exhibition that showcases Austria’s scenery, ancient traditions and exquisite the Tower of London, Berkeley Castle of April 24 through June 13, 2008. Your wine producers while the “Contempo - foods are the focal points of the unforget - and other top ranked sites, as well as clients will love Air award-win - rary Art, Architecture and Austrian table journey through this distinctive an evening exploration of old London ning service and attractive fares. Air Design” will be the focus this fall with region of Italy. Beginning in Monopoli and with the highly-acclaimed Richard Berlin offers the only nonstop service online marketing, and collaborations finishing seven days later in Otranto or Jones’ “Jack the Ripper” Tour (or to Düsseldorf from Los Angeles, New with art and culture publications. nine days later in Lecce, the tour cycles “Ghosts of London"). The tour, offered York, Miami and Ft Myers. Fares are “We aim not only to provide travelers Puglia’s quiet roads through historic through October, includes three- and based on roundtrip travel and start as with new aspects of Austrian culture, towns, olive groves and lush vineyards. four-star hotels, full breakfast daily, two low as $448* from New York, $698* but also introduce new regional destina - Distinctive lodging and exclusive experi - dinners, five-day car rental, Stone - from Los Angeles, $558* from Miami tions that thus far are known mostly to ences such as pasta-making with the henge tour with transportation, entry and $548* from Ft Myers for travel insiders and experts” says Michael locals are among the features. Seven-day fees to sites, sightseeing and airport from May 19 through June 30. These Gigl , Director North America for the program costs $1,960 per person double; transfers. Prices start at $2,795 per fares are also valid to most of Ger - Austrian Tourist Office. $3,260 for luxury accommodations person, double. Call 310-791-6101; e- many’s premier cities such as , Visit www.austria-tourism.biz upgrade. Call 800-242-1825; or visit mail: [email protected] or visit Berlin, Stuttgart and Nuremberg. www.randonneetours.com www.ATPVacations.com GDS booking or call 866-266-5588

38 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 39 CARIBBEAN & BERMUDA

“Year of the Travel Agent” at Cable Beach By Denise Mattia he flight to New Providence Island left on time, 21, 2008, for travel through December 21, 2008. the extra room between seats made for a com - Travel agents are welcomed to discover this landmark resort fortable ride and in three hours JAXFAX was in during the all-new Sheraton Cable Beach Resort’s “Year of the the heart of the Bahamas. Jet Blue shares top Travel Agent” promotion. Agents can stay for $79 per night and honors in the 2008 Airline Quality Rating, making receive a “buy one get one free” round of golf. The offer is valid Ttheir fiasco of 2007 a distant memory. Now agents can through December 18, 2008. deliver the kind of service their clients expect when they Visit www.sheraton.com/cablebeachresort book a destination. Visit www.jetblue.com . Sharing Cable Beach with the Sheraton is the recently renovat - At Nassau International Airport, journalists and travel profession - ed Wyndham and Crystal Palace and Casino, where one evening als were met and the odds had been in favor of everyone in the group having fun. transferred to the Sheraton Cable Beach Resort Visit www.CableBeachResorts.com

all-new Sheraton T R O

S Caribbean’s Largest Resort to Come

Cable Beach E R H

Resort for the grand C In January, 2007, Baha Mar (www.bahamar.com ) signed a joint A E opening celebration. B venture agreement with Starwood Hotels & Resorts World - E L B

Owned by Baha A wide (www.starwoodhotels.com ) and Harrah’s C N

Mar Resorts Ltd . O (www.harrahs.com ), the renowned gaming and hospitality com - T A R and managed by E pany, to develop what will become the Caribbean’s largest single H Starwood Hotels & S destination resort. Resorts Worldwide With a completion date expected in 2012, the Harrah’s new Inc ., the Sheraton Cable Beach Resort, an $80 million renovation Caesars Resort Hotel will offer more than 1,000 guest rooms and of the former Radisson Hotel , includes 700 guest rooms and a nearly 100,000-square foot casino – the largest in the Caribbean. suites, three freshwater pools, replete with waterfalls and swim- An additional 2,000 guestrooms will be offered at the 1,000-acre up bars, and oversized Jacuzzis on seven acres of land in front of mega resort that will include W Baha the 1,000-foot stretch of Nassau’s Cable Beach. Mar, St. Regis Baha Mar, Westin Beach-inspired patterns throughout the guestrooms – all featur - Baha Mar and the recently complet - ing balconies – lounges and restaurants add to the inviting atmos - ed Sheraton Cable Beach Resort . phere of the property. Participants sampled a variety of island During the final phase of devel - specialties and international cuisine served at each of the six on- opment, a variety of residential site restaurants. spaces will be available. Also The resort also houses 25,000 square feet of new indoor and scheduled for completion at that A outdoor function space, which can accommodate meetings and I time is a 200,000 square-foot T T A

events of up to 1,200 attendees. The grand opening celebration M meeting space, a second 18-hole E S I

– a gala affair that included executives from Starwood, Sheraton N championship golf course, 3,000 E D and Baha Mar, and tourism officials from the Bahamian govern - Sarah Summy & shark. feet of continuous beachfront, a ment – was held in the largest facility – a 12,500-square-foot ball - mega spa and a retail village with room. Four additional breakout rooms for meetings and upscale shopping, chef-branded restaurants, and entertain - banquets, as well as pre-function areas for group registration, ment venues. The seascapes below are as exciting as Nas - cocktail receptions and meeting breaks complement the space. sau’s topside appeal. The reefs are studded with sunken All meeting facilities are equipped with the latest audiovisual ships (the Bahamas sit squarely in the Bermuda Triangle), equipment and high-speed Internet access. A full-service busi - which are a favorite haunt of sharks. Stuart Cove’s Dive ness center is also available to guests. Bahamas offers guests the opportunity to snorkel and dive The Sheraton Cable Beach Resort is currently offering special with these denizens of the deep. “Grand Opening” all-inclusive rates for groups interested in host - At Shark Alley, JAXFAX was among several divers who ing meetings or organizing events in the resort’s meetings facili - knelt in a semi-circle on ginger-colored sand at 40 feet with ties. Rates start at $349 per room per night (single occupancy) hands tucked into armpits, while the divemaster, clad in a and $509 per room per night (double occupancy). Prices include chain-mail suit, repeatedly speared fish parts from a large breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as gratuities, taxes and fees. box and swirled them above his head. In addition to the special all-inclusive rate, groups booking ten The ensuing scene was a tornado of several dozen large rooms or more during peak nights can choose from a variety of reef sharks, mouths agape, colliding with each other and the value-added amenities ranging from food and beverage dis - kneeling divers in an attempt to snap at the proffered meals. counts and complimentary room category upgrades, to compli - When the feed was over, the sharks vanished, the sand set - mentary meeting space usage and private group check-in tled, and the divers searched for souvenirs – teeth shed dur - service. Options are based on group size and the number of ing the fray. room nights chosen. Meeting planners must book by December Visit www.stuartcove.com

40 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM CARIBBEAN & BERMUDA Grand Openings and Grand Deals Spark Summer in Turks & Caicos DR’s Five-Star Race he Turks & Caicos 12 rooms and a single cottage on he Dominican Republic is one of the newest hot 2008 while the Island Tourist Board Pine Cay and the additonal of four spots in the Caribbean for travel. Among the Juan Dolio recently won recogni - new boats. Rates begin at $715 for newest luxury resorts in the DR, are Maxim Bun - property is tion for their website a Beach Club Front Room, through galows and The Westin Roco Ki Beach & Golf slated to open with the Webby July 31, 2008. Visit Resort, the latter is scheduled to open this fall in in September.

TAward. Considered by many www.meridianclub.com or R TPunta Cana. Additionally, new year-round air service from Adventurous A T S marketing professionals as the www.maacg.com O

JetBlue will bring the DR closer to the Big Apple. clients looking R E B “Oscars of the Internet” and The Leeward Marina , which While maintaining its popularity among vacationers world - for an exhila - I described by the Los Angeles opened April 5 on Providenciales, is wide, the Dominican Republic (DR) has taken its tourism rating action-packed getaway will revel in the Maxim Bunga - Times as “the only Internet the first eco-marina in the Atlantic efforts to a new level through its recent collaboration with lows Adventure package. Four nights’ accommodation award that matters,” the Webby Ocean. Nikki Beach Resort and JetBlue Airways , which became the only carrier to provide starts at $1,699 per couple. The Girls Weekend Escape Awards have just named the offi - Island Global Yachting have come nonstop, daily year-round service between New York’s John package is $299 per night per person double. Call 866-970- cial Web site of the Turks & Caicos Islands Tourist Board, together to design and build a 110-slip marina that can service F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) and Puerto Plata’s Gregorio Luper - 3364; www.MaximBungalows.com www.turksandcaicostourism.com. The islands celebrate yachts up to 200 feet. Most importantly, this marina will exceed on International Airport as of Jan., 2008. With regular fares Posh tour operator, Island Vacation offers a $100 air credit, this summer with a series of developments including the the guidelines established by Blue Flag Marina Criteria in order to between New York and Puerto Plata starting at $109 each per person when a spacious junior suite is booked for a four- grand openings of new upscale resorts, hotel property preserve the surrounding marine life. Visit www.leeward.com way, the new service makes it easy and cost effective for night getaway. A “Spa Prelude” including an herbal wrap and upgrades, the completion of a new marina and private The Grace Bay Club now boasts an additional 38-ultra those coming from JFK Airport. choice of sea salt or sugar body scrub (30 minutes) will prepare airstrip, and special deals for low-season travel. spacious suites at the Villas at Grace Bay Club, the world’s “We are very excited about JetBlue’s new service to duos for the “Togetherness” treatment, which features a Turks & Caicos’ Third Turtle Club & Spa , a RockResort, first Infiniti Edge Bar and a collection of contemporary Puerto Plata and welcome travelers to discover the incredi - “Serenity Soak,” followed by a 50-minute couple’s massage. begins the season with a $3 million beach restoration with the refinements to beachfront eateries Anacaona and Grill ble beauty of our North Coast,” said Luis Simo, vice minister Priced from $1,985 per room, based on double occupancy, inclu - actual resort set to be complete in 2011. Also complete in time Rouge. Grace Bay Club is currently developing The Estate, a of tourism. “This new route will positively impact not only sive of airport transfers, for travel through Dec. 21, 2008. Call for summer is the Meridian Club’s rejuvenation, and T he Sport - collection of 22 custom-designed ultra-elegant residences tourism and real estate development in this area, but will 877-903-2525; www.islanddestinations.com ing Club at Ambergris Cay’s private airstrip launch – the longest that will be available in December 2008 along with private also provide Puertoplatans living in the U.S. a convenient For more information, contact the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean. The very first Nikki Beach Resort and Lee - beach cabanas. Visit www.gracebayclub.com and economical opportunity to return home.” Tourist Office, 888-374-6361; www.godominicanrepublic.com ward Marin a debuted to accommodate mega yachts for the first Nikki Beach Resort just celebrated its grand opening with an time in the destination’s history. As summer arrives, the Islands over-the-top party that has come to define Nikki Beach. The $100 Agent Opinion will heat up with the opening of Seven Stars Resort on Grace million resort opened with 48 rooms in its first phase, coinciding "Punta Cana continues to be a great value for an all-inclu - POINT VILLAGE Bay Beach, voted “world’s leading beach” for the past three with the opening of Leeward Marina. Phase Two to open in 2010, sive destination," notes Crystal, Minn-based Steve Phillips, For couples and families. years by World Travel Awards. will add an additional 110-room resort, casino and spa. Rates among the Carlson Wagonlit Travel experts who were ge’ the villa “We are truly excited for the coming months and happenings begin at $750. Guests who book by June 30, 2008 will receive 30 recently polled about the outlook for the Caribbean. age within in the Turks & Caicos Islands,” said Ralph Higgs, director of percent off of nightly room rates on travel through Sept. 30, 2008. "However, the American tourist is used to a certain type of ‘vill gril! he nds of Ne tourism, marketing, for the Turks & Caicos Tourist Board. “This Visit www.nikkibeachhotels.com and enter code GOSPEC. destination ... [with] some of the comforts of home. The T the Sa growth affords our islands the ability to accommodate guests The long awaited Seven Stars Resort debuts on July 1, 2008, Dominican Republic has struggled to acquire and build an on Jamaica: Prime location seeking the ultimate in luxury vacation travel, renowned resorts, by offering an additional 25 percent off its low season summer infrastructure to support American tourists. Therefore, after overlooking Negril’s seven miles beach, and outstanding amenities. Our latest developments will unique - rates. Seven Stars will bring the price of Garden View One Bed - a great ambiance and going there once, clients are not as likely to want go back, as much (or little) to do as you could imagine! ly cater to an affluent group of visitors looking to travel by private room Studio accommodations to $247 per room from July 1 – even though they feel they received great value for their All inclusive packages or accommodation only. plane or mega yacht.” Oct. 31, 2008. Seven Stars Resort features a full-service spa, invit - vacation dollar." Accommodations are in charming studios, ing pool, children’s play area, fine dining opportunities, and a bou - But things are changing rapidly in the Dominican Republic, 1 & 2 bedroom apartments Latest Developments & Deals tique for the vacation shopper. Visit www.sevenstarsresort.com with a slew of upscale properties – from brands like Westin, For rates & special packages call: Turtle Club & Spa, a RockResort began its $3 million renour - Ritz-Carlton, and Four Seasons – poised to transform the 877-764-6852 ishment project on Babalua Beach in Providenciales. Designed to Sparkling with Music & Cultural Fest Email: [email protected] image of Punta Cana. Visit: www.pointvillage.com replenish Babalua Beach, the project will widen the existing beach The Tourist Board of the Turks & Caicos Islands, For example, the Caribbean will welcome its very first to ensure Babalua Beach will be around for future guests to enjoy. announced the lineup for its fifth Turks & Caicos Music and Heavenly Spa by Westin , which will be unveiled at The The project is being overseen by the Department of Environment Cultural Festival from July 28 – Aug. 4, 2008 is the stage Westin Roco Ki Beach & Golf Resort when it opens fall and Coastal Resources and Oceanpoint Development Ltd. A third for stellar performances by some of today’s hottest R&B 2008 in Punta Cana. The 11,500 square foot Heavenly Spa Turtle Club & Spa is scheduled to open in 2011. artists including Ne-Yo and T-Pain.The Turks & Caicos Music will offer a sanctuary of 15 spacious and sumptuously Visit www.thirdturtleclub.rockresorts.com and Cultural Festival’s superstar line-up includes Lionel designed treatment rooms and an infinity pool with inspiring The Sands at Grace Bay , one of Providenciales’ original Richie, Academy Award and GRAMMY award-winner; eight- views of the ocean and Macao Beach which has been resorts, has recently completed a $6 million renovation, time GRAMMY award-winning soul singer, Anita Baker; T- praised as one of the most exceptional in the world by repositioning it in the four-star category. Two deals are: Pain, Ne-Yo and LL Cool J, all GRAMMY award-winning UNESCO for its pristine white sand and crystal clear waters. Guests receive a 7th night free on stays completed through rappers; JT Taylor, former lead singer for Kool & The Gang; The Faldo Legacy Course is the first of up to four champi - Nov. 1st – Dec. 20 while a second suite deal rewards guests Russell Thompkins & The New Stylistics, famed Philadelphia onship courses that will comprise The Roco Ki Golf Club. with a 6th night free when booking a 5-night stay or a 6th soul group; Lou Gramm, vocalist from the rock band For - Maxim Bungalows is located in Cofresi Beach, on the and 7th night free when booking a 6-night stay. Valid eigner; and local Turks & Caicos artists. country’s north coast in the Puerto Plata region, and in Juan through Oct. 31. Visit www.thesandstc.com For information, contact the Turks & Caicos Islands Tourist Dolio, on the south coast, close to the capital city Santo The Meridian Club on Pine Cay, just completed restoration of Board, 800-241-0824; www.turksandcaicostourism.com Domingo. The Cofresi Beach location opened March 15,

42 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 43 CARIBBEAN & BERMUDA

IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS Romancing to a New Rhythm the mountains and the Puerto Plata (North Coast) area. Fully $ ST. LUCIA $ TURKS & CAICOS escorted from arrival to Santo Domingo with prices starting 145 Coco Palm Hotel, St. Lucia's chicest boutique 32K Grace Bay Club located in Turks and Caicos is Antigua and Barbuda is bracing for a downpour of love at $1,295 for adults and $295 for children hotel is offering up to 40% percent off all accommodations offering two special summer packages: Summer Special and with the launch of its first International Music Festival, The adult-only nine-day Tropical Adventure Tour includes a through August 15, 2008 when travelers book by June 30, Experience the Penthouse at Grace Bay Club available from Romantic Rhythms June 12 – 15, 2008. The Ministry of look at the nightlife in Santo Domingo, where you can dance 2008. Accommodations are key to value in St. Lucia and Coco June 1, 2008 to December 20, 2008. Summer travelers who Tourism and its travel partners will launch a special promo - the night away (free meringue lessons), white water rafting, Palms is the ideal gateway to the best that St. Lucia has to book the five-night Summer Special package, will receive the tion called "Kiss and Make Up in Antigua and Barbuda" that horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking or simply relaxing offer. Coco Palm is known for its personalized service and sixth night free when booking a one bedroom suite or higher offers great summer rates and range of special packages in a natural environment, it’s yours to experience. This pro - unbeatable rates. Rates start at just $145 per night this sum - room category. This package also includes one complimentary that include air, accommodations, concert tickets and other gram is fully escorted upon arrival in Santo Domingo. Prices mer season and sets travelers right in the heart of Rodney Bay dinner for two as well as a choice of a round of golf or a thera - entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy a $100 credit to be start at $1,095 per person double. Village. Rodney Bay Village is ideal for travelers who want to peutic massage per adult. Secondly, the four-night Experience used towards this romantic experience. Call 888-999-2354; www.worldexplorertours.com feel like a native St. Lucian as tourists and locals drink, dance, the Penthouse at Grace Bay Club package was created as the Singles, couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking to and dine together. Among the hotel's signature features are perfect quick and luxurious getaway. rekindle their relationship can enjoy great savings and an swim-up rooms that allow guests to literally step into the free Through October 31, 2008 rates start from $23,300 in a intimate opportunity to be pampered, sample exotic cuisine, Martinique Mourns Poet and Politician form swimming pool from their terraces. The hotel also offers Penthouse Suite and $32,000 in a Grace Bay Penthouse experience unique heritage and cultural attractions. The The Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA is mourn - Rodney Bay Village's hottest restaurant, Ti Bananne Caribbean Suite. Rates start from $26,900 during the period of Novem - entire destination will be transformed into a love shack with ing the loss of the Isle of Flowers’ favorite son, Aimé Bistro & Bar. Ti Bananne overlooks the pool and boasts light ber 1 to December 20, 2008 in a Penthouse Suite and two main concerts at the scenic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Césaire, who passed away in the island’s capital city of Fort- Caribbean Creole fare and nightly entertainment in an alfresco $38,300 in a Grace Bay Penthouse Suite. Packages can be as well as mini concerts at other intimate settings through - de-France at the age of 94. Poet, playwright and politician, dining setting. Visit www.coco-resorts.com. booked back to back for longer stays. All suites have ocean out the twin islands. The performers Brian McKnight, Césaire is hailed as a principal crusader for civil rights within front views, air conditioning, ceiling fans, direct dial tele - Keyshia Cole, Shaggy and Maxi Priest. Delta Air Lines the French West Indies, both through his writings and in his $ BVI (TORTOLA) phones, hi speed wireless internet access throughout the begins non-stop service from New York's JFK on June 12 55 years serving as the Mayor of Fort-de-France. 599 This Father’s Day, instead of yet another tie to resort, 60-channel cable TV with DVD/CD player, safes, with service on Thursdays and Sundays. Muriel Wiltord , director Americas for the Martinique Pro - politely tuck into his closet, consider giving your father a Mai refrigerators with ice makers, Egyptian cotton linens and - Visitwww.antiguamusicfestival.com motion Bureau /CMT USA, said,“It is a sad day for Mar - Tai in the BVI (British Virgin Islands). The casually-elegant, featherbeds, bathrobes, and master baths with bathtubs. tinique as we’ve lost a true statesman, and arguably the plantation-style Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas ’ three- Call 800-946-5757; www.gracebayclub.com Agent and Client Deals at Almonds person most responsible for the island’s success today. night “Explore the BVI” package makes a great gift for busy The Almond Resorts’ new Casuarina Beach Resort in Césaire’s influence extended well beyond our shores, inspir - dads, who can book this relaxing Caribbean discovery get - Barbados welcomed its first guests on May 1, 2008. For - ing black people everywhere to take pride in their heritage, away any time between now and December 20, 2008. merly known as the Casuarina Beach Resort, Almond while also spearheading the effort to make all former French Priced at $599 per person based on double occupancy, the acquired it in 2005; and it has been closed since then while colonies departments of France. His impact is immeasurable package features a fun-filled island-hopping day sail to neigh - undergoing a $30-million refurbishment and expansion. and lives on forever.” boring islands on the lovely “Mystique” with lunch, open The resort opened with the original renovated 200 rooms In recognition of his great contributions to Martinique and bar and snorkeling. Also included are Hillside Oceanview located in the gardens, while the new block along the French society, Martinique’s International Airport was Deluxe accommodations; full American breakfasts daily; a beach includes 100 additional rooms plus an additional renamed Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport in his one-day car rental on Tortola; and tax and service charges. swimming pool. honor in January 2007. Visit www.martinique.org Additional nights are available priced at $175 per night. Team Almond agents are eligible to visit and stay at the Call 800-345-0356; www.eliteislands.com. property for a special introductory all-inclusive rate of $50 IN FLIGHT per person per night, which remains valid for travel until American will begin daily service from Miami to Antigua $ TRINIDAD & TOBAGO June 30, and if agents are not members of Team Almond, on Nov. 20. The new service complements existing flights 163 On June 12, Spirit Airlines will launch new they can opt to sign up. to Antigua from San Juan offered by American and Ameri - non-stop service from Fort Lauderdale International Airport Almond Casuarina Beach Resort has a special opening rate can Eagle. to Piarco International Airport in Trinidad. As the first budget this summer, of $568 per person, all-inclusive, for a three- American will launch nonstop service from Miami to carrier to offer service to the destination, Flight 949 will night stay, two-island trip. Guests staying at Almond Casuar - Grenada on Nov. 20. The flight will operate daily during the depart Ft. Lauderdale at 8:55 p.m. and arrive Port of Spain at ina Beach are invited to experience two Almond Resorts in winter season through mid-April and drop to five days a 12:30 a.m. The return Flight 948 will depart Port of Spain at Barbados Almond Beach Club or Almond Morgan Bay week for the rest of the year. The carrier's regional sub - 1:30 a.m. and arrive Ft. Lauderdale at 5:30 a.m. Beach Resort or Almond Smugglers Cove in St.Lucia . sidiary, American Eagle , has a daily flight year-round to Trinidad and Tobago has long been revered as one of the Call 800-4ALMOND or visit www.almondresorts.com Grenada from San Juan. Visit www.aa.com Caribbean’s most sought after hidden gems. With exotic Delta will launch daily nonstop service from to tropical landscape and its multi-dimensional cultural ele - Agent Commissions: 20% , Dominican Republic, on Dec. 20. The service will ment, the dual island nation consistently offers visitors World Explorer Tours has two unique programs to the complement Delta's existing daily nonstop flights to the something other than just sun, sand and sea. The destina - island. One for families and one for adults. Agents can earn Dominican Republic between Atlanta and Santo Domingo, tion features a wide variety of off-the-beaten path activities up to 20% commission on these programs. Puerto Plata and Punta Cana. Santiago is located in the including diving, bird watching, and hiking as well as dynam - The nine-day Family Adventure tour includes white water Cibao Valley, south of Puerto Plata. ic festivals and events. To celebrate the new service, Spirit rafting, hiking in rain forests, swimming with Dolphins, this Visit www.delta.comSpirit Airlines will launch daily serv - Airlines is offering special roundtrip from $163 for travel by is an action packed vacation. Clients will explore the diverse ice June 12 between Fort Lauderdale and Port of Spain, October 10, 2008. Visit www.spiritair.com For information landscape and culture while enjoying the comfort of top Trinidad, marking Spirit's 22nd Caribbean/Latin American on Trinidad and Tobago, call 800-816-7541; hotels and rustic lodges. Participants visit Santo Domingo, destination. Visit www.spirit.com www.goTrinidadandTobago.com

44 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 45 SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA Mexico’s President Felipe Calderon closed the 33rd annual Tianguis Turistico in Acapulcoconvert the country into one of the biggest power players in the tourism industry. Report from Tianguis, Mexico’s Marketplace uyers crowded Turistico, easily Mexico’s de Aviacion increased flights to Oaxaca City. around festooned largest travel marketplace PUERTO VALLARTA : “Where Mexico Comes to Life,” is booths, rummag - and is considered the sev - the marketing line for this State which has lately begun a

ing over counters enth biggest worldwide. O multi-million dollar restoration of its Old Town. Oscar Abel T N

piled high with Organizers estimated O Rivero Estrada, President of Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board, C I X fruits from the sea such as that during the three-day E mentioned the area has become appealing for special B M at the Mazatlan booth, a event, more than 22,000 events such as the upcoming qualifier soccer match among region known for its sport - business meetings took collected in the previous six years. Mexico, Costa Rica, El Salvador and the U.S. as well as fishing and delicious shrimp place (13% more than last Among the outstanding seminars was one that focused on attracting a series of new arts festivals. News for agents is and lobster or coffees or year) while no dollar figure North American travel to Mexico. The Secretary of Tourism the chance to become a PV Expert – see Jax Fax, Dec. chocolates, as buyers pored emerged by the end of of Mexico, Rodolfo Elizondo Torres, headed during the 33rd issue, p. 40 for details or visit, www.visitpuertovallarta.com over catalogs describing the the show to indicate the Tianguis Turistico, the “North American Market Trends” dis - YUCATAN : The Costa Maya, a cruise port on Mexico's upcoming year’s worth of actual business transac - cussion forum, in which six specialists stressed to the public Yucatan Peninsula, will be operational by next month, ahead projects and products. Sup - tions. Nearly $3 billion and private sectors the importance of boosting investments of schedule. Due to Hurricane Dean, the port was heavily in O

T boost in this market.

pliers seated at desks or N were invested in tourism- August 2007. Costa Maya now says that two berths will be O

C Led by the head of Sectur, Elizondo, other members Acapulco Bay’s Skyline I counters called out to X industry-related projects ready by July and that its third will be ready by November. E friends, colleagues, luring M during the first quarter of included Sarita Skidmore, President of MENLO Consulting Costa Maya said reconstructed berths could accommodate them with the best arguments for doing business with them 2008, or 40% more than during the same period in 2007, and expert in Travel Style studies; Peter Yesawich, President the newest and largest cruise ships entering the market in comparing competitors’ prices and values with their own. according to government figures. The goal for the current and General Director of Yesawich, Pepperdine & Brown and the next few years, including Norwegian Cruise Line' s F3- The scenes repeat themselves as more than 500 federal administration, which concludes the end of 2012, is specialist in advertising and tourism trends; Viviana Rojas, class ships and Royal Caribbean 's Genesis-class ships. exhibitors occupied 430 booths and about 1,100 buyers $20 billion. academic in the University of Texas and investigator in Port executives said that Cunard, Princess, Celebrity, NCL , from 28 countries participated, 57% of them international Tianguis opened at the Mundo Imperiale on April 13 with retirement tourism, “baby boomer” phenomenon, and sec - Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Carnival, Regent and 43% of Mexican origin, at the 33rd edition of Tianguis Guerrero Gov. Zeferino Torreblanca Galindo, Tourism ond residencies in Mexico; Ray Snisky, President of Mark Seven Seas, P&O, Disney, Windstar, MSC and Ocean Vil - Secretary Rodolfo Elizondo Torres and CPTM Director- Travel Corporation; Michael Pusateri, Executive Strategy lage have committed to return to Costa Maya. General Oscar Fitch Gomez addressing a growing crowd at Consulter of Vantage Strategy and Deborah Sexton, Presi - Acapulco’s Diamante or Diamond Zone. The Diamante Zone dent and General Director of Professional Convention Man - is a new district under development that is being earmarked agement Association (PCMA). as the next meeting destination as a new glass-walled Con - Below are just a few of the highlights from Tianguis. JF vention Center was formally introduced during Tianguis. will continue to follow up with reports in future issues. Adjacent to it is an 800-room convention hotel under con - States of Mexico struction, both establishments are distant from Acapulco’s chaotic, frenzied and lovable downtown, where the current MAZATLAN : With an ad budget that has leaped to $5.5 40-year old Convention Center now stands, one that has million to promote the State in the U.S. and $8.5 million garnered a great deal of affection from Tianguis participants. overall, the policies for the State of Mazatlan are ambitious. As the event drew to a close attendees speculated that it Dubbed the “Pearl of the Pacific," Mazatlán has more than may have taken place for the last at the Acapulco Conven - 90 hotel and condominium properties, including nearly 50 tion Center and possibly the last in Acapulco. Those in favor four and five-star resorts. The destination expects to have of keeping Tianguis in the heart of the city, point out that more than 10,000 hotel rooms available throughout the city Acapulco is easily accessible, and that hotels are located by yearend, compared to 9,400 in 2007. That's good news within minutes of the convention center. for the 3,767,476 visitors expected here this year, up 9 per - cent from 3,456,400 in 2007. Capital Investments OAXACA : Among the best-known tourist destinations in Mexican President, Felipe Calderon closed the 33rd the State of Oaxaca are Huatulco, and the city of Oaxaca, annual Tianguis Turistico in Acapulco by reasserting that his also known as one of Mexico’s 35 Magic Cities. Tourism government plans to convert Mexico into one of the biggest Minister of Oaxaca, Beatriz Rodriguez Casanovas said power players in the tourism industry. Calderon plans to among the State’s goals is to increase the quantity and qual - invest in infrastructure to attract more foreign investment, ity of the tourism product at Huatulco including adding a diversify destination offerings, expand Internet facilities and variety of water-based eco tourism activities. Rodriguez reinforce security. Casanovas mentioned that the State is welcoming new He also mentioned that in 2007, an additional 100,000 for - properties such as the 951-room La Esperanza, an additional eign tourists visited Mexico compared with the previous 128 rooms at the Hotel Gala, AMRresorts will add 393 year, and that in 2007, the economic influx was $700 million rooms. In total new construction work will yield Oaxaca a more than in 2006. Likewise, he emphasized that in the first total of 1,877 rooms. Additionally, an extension of the local 16 months of his government, the private foreign invest - airport runway and the construction of additional terminal ment in tourism was over $5,500 million; half the amount facilities is expected to attract more air service, and Mexican

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Obispado Museo in Monterrey

A new boardwalk, lined with beach houses, small hotels 300-room hotel and a and restaurants, will be ready in time for the port’s reopen - convention center. ing; it represents a $15 million government investment. Additionally, he said The Mexican Caribbean island of Cozumel continues to the independent hotel rank high as a top destination and was rated at the fastest firm would be develop - growing international beach destination by Orbitz and a one ing 117 rooms in Cozumel, at a cost of $25 million while in of the top five dive destinations in the Caribbean. Mazatlan the company expects to increase exponentially and in Cancun an additional 300 rooms will be added. El Cid Air Access Resorts recently joined the Mayan Alliance, is developing New air service from Europe (Madrid and London) has spas, and is close to announcing new development with raised the island’s profile on the international scene while marinas, golf, horseback riding facilities and hotels along the new and increased domestic airlift links the island with Mex - Pacific shore. www.elcidresorts.com ico City more frequently on Mexicana Airline ’s Click and Hilton ’s Andy Slater, Vice President of the Hilton brand, Vivaaerobus , a low cost carrier, now provides direct service reported the company now counts some 18 properties in from Monterrey to the island thrice weekly. New airline Mexico for a total of 3,600 rooms. Slater mentioned Hilton’s operator Mayir now offers daily shuttle service between $210 million increased investment will see several new Cancun and Cozumel, four times daily; and Mayfair also properties added to its portfolio; the company credits itself operates flights from Cozumel to Chicen Itza, declared one with adding 1,700 to 2,000 jobs in Mexico making Hilton the of the new Seven Wonders of the World last year. number one hotel developer in the country. Direct flights to Cozumel out of the U.S. are as follows: Inter-Continental will more than double that, planning an Atlanta ( Delta ), Charlotte ( USAirways ), Denver ( Frontier investment of 515 million dollars to add 63 new properties Airlines ), Dallas ( American ), Houston ( Continental ), Miami in Mexico, most of them economical Holiday Inn Express. (American Eagle ) an Newark ( Continental ). Posadas de Mexico , best known for its Fiesta Ameri - Shortly after Tianguis closed, R ubén Beltrán Guerrero, canas and Fiesta Inn , has launched a low-tariff chain with Mexico’s Consul General to New York, joined Mariana hotels called One . Accor , which plans to expand in Mexico, Pedrero, Director of the Mexico Tourism Board’s New announced that almost all its hotels will be low-rate Ibis . York Office, and Juan Antonio Meza, Mexicana’s East According to top executives at Preferred Hotel Group , Coast Zone Manager celebrated the arrival of Mexicana Air - Mexico is a key market for huge growth. Announced recent - lines’ Airbus A319, the airline’s new direct service between ly, was the addition of eight new member properties for an Monterrey, Nuevo Leon and New York which started May 1. additional inventory of 2,343 rooms in Mexico, which now The aircraft departs Monterrey’s International Airport at totals 24 hotels and 4,960 rooms. Comprised of five brands, 8:00 a.m. and lands at JFK at 1:00 p.m. The aircraft, has 12 Preferred Hotels® & Resorts, Preferred Boutique™, Summit seats in the airline’s award-winning Clase Ejecutiva and 108 Hotels & Resorts™, Sterling Hotels and Historic Hotels of in coach class and returned to Monterrey at 2:00 p.m. arriv - America. www.preferredresidences.com ing at 5:30 p.m Real Resorts’ Royal in Cancun, the brand that represents the company’s adult-only, five-star all-inclusive property, is Hotel Developments planning to further spoil its guests with new enhancements Azul Hotels by Karisma , a premier collection of Gourmet announced at Tianguis. The Royal in Cancun features 285 Inclusive® properties located throughout the Riviera Maya suites in six categories from ocean view Junior Suites to recently joined forces with the Sensatori collection by TUI one-bedroom oceanfront Royal Presidential Suites and Can - AG, the largest tourism and services group in the world, cun’s first beachfront Royal Swim-Up Master Suites. Call unveiling Azul Sensatori Hotel. Opening in October 2008, 800-543-7556; www.realresorts.com Azul Sensatori Hotel will be the first Sensatori resort in the Sol Melia’s Guy Hensley, Area VP Premium Brands and Americas located in the Riviera Maya. Call 888-280-8810; Vicente Madriga, Director of Sales of Premium Brands were www.azulhotel.com. on hand to discuss that the new brand launched in Cancun Mexican-owned Camino Real plans to open two more and Cabo in late 2007, ME is among the 10 most expensive hotels in , plus others in Puebla, Leon, Hermosil - properties in Mexico. The Gran Melia Cancun, had a multi - lo and Xalapa this year. All will be owned by the firm and will million renovation. Its ME brand, such as the ME Cabo com - be full service hotels catering to business travelers. Their pleted a multi-million dollar renovation in 2007. goal is to have 37 Camino Real hotels. Wyndham Hotel Group announced an agreement to City Express , which operates 26 low-priced hotels around develop a Wingate by Wyndham hotel in Chihuahua, Mexi - Mexico, has announced the creation of City Express junior, co, which will become the brand’s first property outside where rooms will be cheaper still. City Express rates vary North America when it opens later this year. from destination to destination, but average about 60 dollars For more information, contact the Mexico Tourist Board, per night. At City Express Junior, the tariff will be about 45 www.visitmexico.com dollars per night. El Cid Resorts’s CEO Carlos Berdegue reported new For consolidator airfares and tour packages to Mexico investments in Porto Morelos Marin, which will include a see page 83 of the Listings Section

48 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA

BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS $ COSTA RICA $ MEXICO Jet Blue Launches Brazilian Carrier Ultimate Jet Pays Ultimate 12% 995 Legendary Caravan Tours is selling a 10-day 105 Combining a touch of elegance, a hint of indul - David Neeleman, the chairman and founder of JetBlue, Ultimate Jet Vacations (UJV) announces an innovative Costa Rica N atural Paradise tour for $995 per person dou - gence, and the lure of a tropical paradise, the all-inclusive San - plans to start up his fourth airline, a domestic carrier in solution for private aviation and luxury travel. After years of ble, which includes all meals, all activities, all accommoda - dos Hotels & Resorts with three properties on the Riviera Maya, Brazil. Neeleman, who was born in Brazil, has raised $150 servicing the most demanding clientele, UJV learned how tions, all airport transfers, all transportation and excursions. Mexico, offers a Romantic Package for couples looking to spend million to finance the carrier, which doesn’t have a name difficult it is for the travel agency community to understand A professional tour director accompanies participants for quality time with that “special someone.” Available at no extra yet. The airline, to be based in Sao Paulo, plans to com - and deal with the rapidly growing market of private aviation the entire tour. cost in all upgraded room categories, the Romantic Package is mence operations in early 2009 and ultimately serve most where there is no set pricing and usually no commissions. From a two-night stay in San Jose where guests will visit available year-round at each of the three all-inclusive Sandos major markets in Brazil by 2013 with as many as 76 new Therefore, they created a new concept that’s determined to the mile-wide crater, Poas Volcano, dormant since 1991, properties in Mexico. Among the inclusions are: en-suite roman - Embraer aircraft. change the way travel agencies fulfill their clients’ demands. San José’s Plaza de la Cultura, Central Park and the Nation - tic toast each evening, romantic dinner for two in an a-la-carte The startup has placed an aircraft order for 36 Embraer Ultimate Jet Vacations is a new luxury tour operator devel - al Theatre. Following a morning drive through Braulio Car - restaurant; a 15% spa discount that can be used throughout the E195 jets, with options for another 20 and purchase rights oped as the results of blending in-depth knowledge of the rillo Park, guests will glide through the jungle canopy on stay on all treatments; a 10% discount on motorized sports for a further 20. The firm orders are valued at $1.4 billion. luxury resort market, and expertise in private aviation. the world famous rainforest aerial tram, and take a short including banana boat rides, jet skiing and parasailing and a The order, if all options and purchase rights are exercised, is One of the best selling packages is the South Florida- rainforest hike. An afternoon boat excursion into Tor - framed photo of the couple . Sample rates for standard rooms valued at $3 billion. The jets will seat 118 passengers in a Caribbean getaway (with departures every Thursday and tuguero Park provides a close up look at otters, turtles and start at $105 per person, per day based on double occupan - two-by-two configuration. Every seat will have LiveTV satel - Sunday. Starting prices for Private Jet Vacation Packages is manatees. Besides visiting the Green Turtle Research Sta - cy. Upgraded rooms start at $120 per person, per night, lite television. under $1,000 per night per person based on quad. tion where participants learn about efforts to protect the based on double occupancy. "Our target market is the 150 million passengers who trav - UJV prides itself by being the first tour operator to work turtle’s nesting habitat, eggs and young hatchlings, they Call 866-887-5601; www.sandoshotels.com el annually by long-distance bus as well as those who, for solely with travel agencies, assisting in organizing custom- will walk along the Atlantic turtle nesting beaches with a lack of a convenient alternative, don't travel at all," said made, private aviation packages from beginning to end. This naturalist guide. $ MEXICO Neeleman. "We respect TAM and GOL as well-run compa - includes private jet transportation, luxury accommodations, Other highlights include a Pacific Coast drive, a hike in 257 Aqua Cancun is offering 25% off the nightly nies with deep pockets. We believe, however, that the in-ground private transfers, exclusive tour activities, restau - the Cloud Forest, visit to a coffee plantation i n Sarchi rate with rooms starting at $247 per night plus 25% off Brazilian market is ready for a third major airline and that rant reservations, tee times, and more; while offering travel before heading back to San Jose. Caravan has scheduled Food and Beverage plus 25% off Spa services all throughout there is sufficient untapped potential to support all of us." agent commissions of up to 12%. Call 800-231-4095; E- almost weekly departures through December. the stay through September 16, 2008. This captivating Visit www.jetblue.com mail [email protected] Call 800-Caravan; www.caravan.com resort possesses all of the ingredients for an invigorating and relaxing getaway with amenities such as three distin - guished restaurants (MB Restaurant, Siete and Azur); Spa Aqua, offering a multitude of multi-sensory treatments firm - ly rooted in the Mayan culture as well as relaxation tech - niques perfected across the globe; and a selection of tranquil cabanas including beach cabanas, pool cabanas and swing cabanas. Must be booked by August 31, 2008. Call 866-931-AQUA; www.fiestamericana.com

$ COSTA RICA 980 Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge four to seven- day packages include a four-hour hike to a waterfall in the rainforest, a two-hour inshore fishing tour, kayak and snorkel tours, and nocturnal rainforest hikes as well as edu - cational tours. Also included is a choice of the Golfo Dulce Boat and Dolphin Tour or the Esquinas River Jungle Tour. Local naturalist guides lead all tours. The lodge’s five cabins including two deluxe family cabins offer comfort and privacy for families. The Mango Guesthouse, with four rooms, is suitable for large groups and extended families. Priced from $980 per person double for four nights in the Green Season (May – Sept. 30), to $1,700 per person dou - ble for seven nights based on double occupancy during high season (Nov. 30– April 30, 2009); children 6-12 receive 25% discount on package rates; teenagers 13-17 receive a 10% discount on family package. Included are accommodations in private cabins or in the Mango Guest House (all have private terraces), canopied beds, private hot water open-air garden shower and ceiling fans; all meals and snacks. Call 866-504-8116; www.Nicuesalodge.com

50 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 51 ASIA & THE SOUTH PACIFIC SHANGHAI

Streamlining the BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS $ CHINA China Odyssey 271 5 Orient Flexi-Pax Tours Blue Lagoon’s 20% Deal and Victoria Cruises have assembled a Blue Lagoon is taking 20 percent off all cruises. Agents hina is forever linked to its ancient civilization and comprehensive Yangtze River Voyage, need only mention booking code NA20%OFFALL to qualify many of the world’s most revered treasures, such O which features three-night cruises their clients for the discount on any Blue Lagoon Cruise T O N T

as The Great Wall, Terra-Cotta Warriors and Hors - N A aboard the five-star Victoria Anna or through June 30, 2008 when travel is completed by March A N I N I H

es and the Yangtze River. Today, travelers can H C Victoria Katarina as well as eight nights 31, 2009. Conditions do apply however, namely that normal C also find spectacular architecture and towering of world-class hotel accommodations, contract rates apply; the offer applies to all cruises departing Cskylines in Shanghai and Beijing (site of the Summer is one of Goway’s most exciting Asia travel planners yet”, says including the magnificent Shangri-La by March 31, 2009; the offer excludes Sky Deck on Mystique O Doug Vogl, Product and Marketing Manager for Asia. “We have T Olympics), as well as a wealth of luxury accommodations Golden Flower in Xi’an and deluxe N Princess, Cruise in Luxury Dive in Paradise Cruises and His - A N and sample regional cuisines. expanded product for China; this is an amazing product offering I Regent properties in Beijing and Shang - THE GREAT WALL H torical & Cultural Cruise. Confirmations will be provided at the C for agents and their clients and many more travel ideas are avail - hai. The 11-night package also features time of booking subject to availability at time of request . And, Skyscraper “Envy” able on the web as well.” flights and airport transfers within China, 27 meals, intrigu - finally, the offer may not be sold in conjunction with any other In a case of skyscraper envy, officials in Shanghai are planning Goway’s most popular air-land inclusive tour to Asia, China ing sightseeing including some of China’s hidden gems with offer available in market. Standard cancellation & no show to build the world’s tallest building, despite the fact that they’re Odyssey is a 12-day program offering travelers the classic sights an experienced English-speaking guide, and the USTOA $1 policies apply as per current wholesale contracts. still working on their other big project, the Shanghai World Finan - of China in a comfortable itinerary that can easily be extended to Million Travelers Assistance Program. The deluxe Yangtze Booking code: ‘NA20%OFFALL’ must be quoted at time of cial Centre (which was set to become the world’s tallest building vibrant Hong Kong (to 16 days) and starts at $2,859 per person River Voyage is priced from $2,715 per person, based on reservation for offers above to be valid. Vouchers must also at 492 meters when it was designed in 1997, but has since been double, air-inclusive from the west coast. Call 800-387-8850; double occupancy, with departures now through March have the ‘NA20%OFFALL’ code stated. E-mail dwarfed by other monoliths). The planned Shanghai Centre, not www.Goway.com 2009. International airfare is not included, but can be pur - [email protected]; or www.bluelagooncruises.com to be confused with the existing building of the same name, will General Tours’ Shangri-La Experience in China provides chased from Orient Flexi-Pax Tours based on the lowest stand almost 1,800 feet high – about 210 feet taller than the clients with their own private car, driver and expert guide every possible rate at the time of booking. Taipei 101 Tower (at about 1,500 feet), currently the tallest build - day for totally customized sightseeing and exploration in Beijing, Call 800-545-5540 or visit www.orientflexipax.com Incredible India’s Incredible Ambitions ing in Asia. Shanghai officials are counting on the fact that the Xian, and Shanghai. Plus, return each night to the award winning Incredible Vacations India plans to bring 1,000 American Burj Dubai, also under development, will not meet its rumored luxury of five-star Shangri-La Hotels and exclusively arranged $ CHINA travel agents to India in an effort to sell the destination. 2,400 feet high target. room upgrades and special amenities. The nine-day privately- 179 9 Asia Classic Tours sells an 11-day Super Basic itineraries cover the Golden Triangle and the Green Tri - guided tour including 14 meals, sightseeing and internal flights is Value Best of China program priced from $1,799 with guar - angle of Kerala: including the Taj Mahal, wildlife sanctuaries Shanghai’s Runway Success priced from $2,879 per person for land arrangements only. Call anteed departures with a minimum of two passengers. Par - in Ranthambore and Periyar, Jaipur and Kochi, and shopping Recently, Shanghai and Beijing welcomed new additions 800-221-2216; www.generaltours.com ticipants will visit Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai and Suzhou. While in Mumbai and Delhi. to their international airports. The third runway at Shanghai Jet About Asia is selling a 14-night independent vacation its 13-day Super Value China Splendor priced from $2,099 Tours depart Thursdays and are fully booked through Pudong International Airport is able to handle the Airbus priced similarly from $2,879 per person double for its Best of adds Guilin to the mix. And finally, its 15-day program offers August; but bookings are being accepted for Sept. 2008. A380, the world’s largest passenger plane. With the addi - China program that follows the footsteps of ancient emperors a quick view of China’s classical sights as well as spectacu - Contact Ram Chopra, 212 695-1005; E-mail Ram - tion, the airport can now accommodate up to 60 million pas - through China’s Imperial cities. Among the highlights are visits lar view of Mt. Fuji and a visit to Kasuga Shrine in Japan. [email protected] sengers annually. Meanwhile, the sleek, Norman to the Great Wall of China, a walk through the Forbidden City, Prices start at $3,099 per person double. Prices reflect land- Foster-designed Terminal 3 at Beijing Capital International dining on classical Beijing Duck, a visit to the magnificent Terra only arrangements; air-inclusive pricing from Los Angeles Airport opened its doors just three months ago. Cotta Warriors in Xi’an, a chance to interact with the local tribes and New York is available. Hainan Airlines’ Big Year in Longsheng, a view of the dramatic formations along the Li Call 800-717-7752; www.asiaclassictours.com Founded in 1993, Hainan Airlines (HU ) currently is the Free for All River; the famous Jade Buddha Temple and the Yu Garden, a fourth-largest carrier in China and the largest non-govern - And finally, visitors are now able to traipse through state-run meeting with local villagers in Kunming and a lively acrobatic $ NEW ZEALAND ment-owned airline in China. Hainan Airlines carries more museums throughout China without having to dip into their wal - show. Call 800-348-8150; www.jetaboutasiavacations.com 320 0 Othauna Lodge will offer a South Island than 14 million passengers annually. lets. In an attempt to expose more people to the wonders of Asia Journeys’ 10-day China Discovery hits the 4 most famous themed, three-night “Gour-May” cooking and wine tasting Currently Hainan Airlines operates flights to more than 60 history, the Chinese government has said that it will foot the places in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Guilin and Xi’an. Visit some of package that will highlight seasonal New Zealand dishes domestic and international cities, including the capitals of museums’ maintenance bills. That won’t come cheap: China the most important cultural sites in the world: the Great Wall, The (many inspired from freshly picked produce from the every Chinese province. Hainan Airlines' international flights has more than 2,300 museums, which received some 150 mil - Forbidden City, The Terra-Cotta Warriors and the most beautiful Lodge’s large organic gardens) along with a chauffeured tour include Budapest, , Osaka and St. Petersburg. lion visitors in 2007. scenery in the world near Guilin along with exciting Shanghai. The of four nearby Waipara wineries. A member of ARC, Hainan Airlines currently accepts the Sita World Tours sells two outstanding programs to China: air-inclusive price starts from $3,547 per person double with air - Executive Chef Jimmy McIntryre, who oversees the following forms of payment – Visa, Mastercard, and Diner’s the 13-day Best of China with a Yangtze River Cruise and a 10- port taxes and fuel surcharges included. However, Asia Journeys’ kitchen of Otahuna along with its accompanying henhouse, Club. To better serve the North American passengers, day program that includes a trip to Hong Kong. executives recommend their 16-day Classic Yangtze River Cruise piggery, nut and fruit orchard and vegetable garden, con - Hainan Airlines have sales and reservations offices in seven The 13-day option, priced at $1,840 per person double for land (downstream) for a one-time only trip to China. Participants visit ducts the cooking class.Available through August 31, 2008, locations across the USA and Canada and agreements with arrangements only, tours the Forbidden City, Tiananen Square Beijing, with its Great Wall and Forbidden City; Xi’an and it War - the three-night package will also include daily breakfast, airlines partners such as Alaska Airlines and American Air - the Summer Palace in Beijing and the Great Wall outside the riors; Guilin and the Yangtze River with its incredible scenery; and evening cocktails and canapés along with a five-course lines to offer competitive fares and connections from points city enhanced with a Yangtze River Cruise. For the 10-day pro - exciting Shanghai and Hong Kong. The air-inclusive program is degustation dinner paired with New Zealand wines. Guests throughout the USA and Canada. gram, starting at $2,390, participants visit the famous travel priced from $4,986 per person double with airport taxes and fuel will be upgraded to a master suite based on availability; the The toll-free North American reservation and information icons of China in Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai with the added surcharges included. Call 800-796-8503; www.asia-journeys.com cost is about $3,200. One lunch will be served at the Pega - numbers link agents to both native English and Chinese sparkle of Hong Kong. Call 800-421-5643; www.sitatours.com sus Bay winery restaurant. speakers to assist them with bookings. Goway’s Asia 2008/9 brochure features 20 countries, a mix - For consolidator airfares and tour packages to China Call 011-64 3 329 6333; E-mail at [email protected]; Call 888-688-8813, for English and call 888-688-8876 for Chi - ture of the familiar and a range of new products. “This brochure see page 97 of the Listings Section www.otahuna.co.nz nese speakers. Visit www.hnair.com/us

52 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 53 SPECIAL INTEREST

night packages that include accommo - suites provide all the comforts found in the first of six scheduled openings in dations in a Spa Lifestyle Room, a well - a traditional hotel suite along with the the next 18 months. Located on the ness-themed guest room specifically services of a personal spa. Island of Koh Lanta , in Krabi province, designed for the healthy-minded Each spa suite features a private Southern Thailand, Langham Place Eco guests looking for amenities. patio overlooking the Caribbean with Resort + Spa is a five-star resort An air purification system, in-room fit - outdoor soaking tub and shower and a designed to coexist with awe-inspiring ness program, personal lifestyle con - personal studio that can be used for natural landscapes. The 185 rooms and sultant and spa cuisine offerings private en-suite treatments, personal villas extend from the beach up the hill - provide a balanced, stress-free environ - fitness or yoga plus an organic spa side overlooking Klong Tob Bay. ment among other considerations. refreshment bar and spa bath bar. To acquaint themselves with the Visit www.mandarinoriental.com Call 800-626-0592; or visit property travel agents can enjoy up to O T N

SPAS L EUROPE : The long-awaited unveiling www.halfmoon.com three nights free for just the price of E

The Ultimate Reward for the Hard at Work A R of a landmark property, The Glenea - Excellence Resorts premiered the breakfast by booking through their S I gles Hotel in Scotland is further newest element of its world-class GDS systems. ecognized as the voice of the The dominant component in this trend specifically designed for younger skin, enhanced with the brand new spa-”the brand, the Miilé Spa in Punta Cana, Visit www.langhamhotels.com spa industry, the Interna - is that people want to reward them - Citrus Massage concentrating on the Spa at Gleagles by ESPA.” Dominican Republic ; Riviera Cancun, tional SPA Association selves for working hard and the other back and shoulders, and Personal Teen With 20 treatment rooms plus ESPA Mexico ; and Playa Mujeres, Mexico . (ISPA ) recently reported its key trend is the continued increase in Training with one of the spa's certified therapies, the spa is set in 5,630 The new concept was developed to Why Sell Spa Vacations ? membership is now com - the number of men visiting spas. fitness trainers. square feet of space. ‘Heat Experi - give guests the sensation of residing Spas, once sold only to the well- Rprised of more than 3,000 health and A choice of over 25 different 50- ences’ feature an ice foundation with on their own private island, where they to-do, are becoming more accessi - wellness facilities in 75 countries. ISPA Packaging Rejuvenation minute treatments is now available sauna and steam, ‘Holding Space’ is a can retreat in an oasis and depart with ble to people of all budgets and are is seen as a guiding light to growing The ISPA research supports the with the packages. In addition, Spa pre-treatment room with a glass walled a sense of renewal and well-being. cropping up everywhere – in air - this industry, a portion of which can be notion that the best part of taking a Stay Package guests may participate in fountain and a full range of treatment Miilé Spa features couple suites that ports, doctors’ offices, on television profitable to agents willing and able to vacation is the renewed sense of relax - unlimited Fitness Classes during their packages for men and girls from 6-12 feature a private steamroom, commercials and day spas are on learn more about selling spa vacations ation and freedom one experiences stay. A wide variety of classes are and 12-16. Call 866-46308734; hydrotherapy treatment baths, mas - the rise in cities around the world. to their clients. while being away. available -- from yoga and Pilates to www.gleneagles.com sage suite and a secluded relaxation For agents, spas represent an As popular as spa experiences have U.S. : With this mindset, the 56-room water classes and spinning. This new CARIBBEAN : The recently opened terrace with ocean views; the Silk untapped market – one in five become to tourism and travel, it was Lodge & Spa at Cordillera , a RockRe - format is built into all Spa Stay Pack - Verandah Resort & Spa, an eco- Suites are specially designed for Asian Americans have already visited a only seven years ago that ISPA com - sort in Edwards, CO, offers guests ages, including the one-night Spa friendly resort set along Antigua’s spa techniques such as shiatsu and spa, which means it is on their radar missioned the first study of the North ways to revitalize and re-energize while Break, the Mother/Daughter and Girl - secluded northeast coast, boasts a reiki; heated relaxation beds that sub - screens, if not yet in their vacation American spa industry. Since then, the on holiday and long after the trip ends friend Getaways, as well as the stan - long list of hedonistic and rejuvenating merge guests in warmth following the plans. results have been updated, highlights with seasonal spa packages. dard two to four-night Packages. Call treatments include a caviar and pearl hydrotherapy circuit; and a Caldarium The numbers tell the real story – it of which are available online. Among the treatments available are 800-272-6935; www.cranwell.com anti-aging facial, a detoxifying seaweed that detoxifies and opens pores. is the fourth largest leisure industry Among the key findings is the fact the CranioSacral Therapy, a gentle Just a shell’s throw away from the wrap, and a green coffee wrap to Visit www.excellence-resorts.com in the United States, generating that day spas continue to be the technique used to assist the body's Atlantic Ocean, The Spa at Ginn Ham - reduce cellulite. The first Hyatt Pure spa in the $11.2 billion in annual revenues, largest spa category, and account for natural healing mechanisms and dimin - mock Beach on Florida’s Palm Coast The resort also features hiking trails, Caribbean, Spa Esencia is open at the have shown up in more than 12,000 about four out of every five spas in the ish the negative effects of stress on introduced their newest treatment, two reef-sheltered beaches for swim - Hyatt Regency Trinidad . The hotel locations, counting 136 million vis - U.S. and, secondly, that resort and the central nervous system; a nutrition which is getting rave reviews from the ming and non-motorized water sports offers a spa experience that maintains its. Spas clearly have something to hotel spas followed close behind in the consultation with a dietician; a fitness spa industry. The “La Florida Poultice such as kayaking, windsurfing, and the festive environment of Trinidad. offer for everyone beyond a number of facilities now in operation. consultation; a personal training ses - Massage” is a full-body treatment snorkeling and the island’s largest free- Said Spa Director Serena Rogers, and a Swedish massage. In terms of volume, agents may want sion for optimal results;a 50-minute which uses a careful blend of organic form swimming pool. team from the spa extensively toured Top athletes understand the posi - to know that there were about 111 mil - body treatment at the RockResorts lavender, ginger, orange peel and white Its 200 villa-style suites feature the the island with translators and local tive effects of spa treatments on lion spa visits made in the U.S. in 2006 Spa and a 50-minute facial at the Rock - cinnamon to create the ultimate sensu - resort’s glorious namesake verandahs extinct cultures, natural available mate - sore muscles. with day spas and hotel and resort Resorts Spa; a healthy breakfast daily. al experience. Once heated to 120 with incredible views of the sea, rials and medicinal influences from Men make up more than a quarter spas taking a chunk of the action. Call 866-650-ROCK (7625); or visit degrees, the herbs act as massage Call 800-345-0356; or visit South American, Native Caribbean and of spa clients. The U.S. spa industry generated www.rockresorts.com tools to alleviate pain and inflammation www.verandahresortandspa.com African cultures that are now a part of Cancer patients are finding a about $9.4 billion in gross revenue; at Tucked away in the Northeast is a and loosen tight muscles. Half Moon in Rose Hall , Jamaica the Trinidad & Tobago population. much-needed place for reprieve at 56% day spas generate the largest new concept, teen spa programs at the Visit www.hammockbeach.com recently opened the Fern Tree Spa When designing the treatments, Spa spas. share of the revenues followed by the Spa at Cranwell , an AAA Four Dia - The deluxe three-level Mandarin Ori - along with six spas. Drawing on Esencia’s creators also researched and Families are enjoying spas togeth - resort/hotel spa segment at 27%. Addi - mond in the Berkshires, which has ental Spa in Miami spa treatments Jamaica’s lush landscape and cen - considered different skin tones and er as quality time to bond and relax. tionally, the U.S.’s closest neighbor, developed a new program of treat - blend elements of Chinese, Ayurvedic, turies-old healing The spa elder, unique textures to effectively cater to the [Think mothers and daughters, sis - Canada’s spa market counts just under ments for teens. European, Balinese and Thai cultures. to Fern Tree Spa, is the wellness many races and cultures represented ters.] 3,000 spas that produced about $1.1 The Teen Treatment program is The “Earth in Motion” Treatment leader for guests to the spa. The spa in the local people on-island. Call 868- Teens are going in groups and billion in revenues. based on the increasing popularity of begins with a foot soak in floral water elder is versed in the art of holistic 821-6500; www.trinidad.hyatt.com learning lifestyle lessons on skin Among the most important trends for spa services for this age group. New followed by a body massage using healing. Spa menus include basic spa ASIA : Langham Hotels Internation - care and proper nutrition. agents to be aware of is that spas are treatments for teens 16 years and “Oriental Body Oil” for tension. and healing treatments, and treat - al officially opened its first property Man’s best friend has even losing the “pampering” image as the older include the Sugar Scrub, a The “Lifestyle Journey” programs ments for men, teenagers and kids. under a management contract, Lang - clawed his and her way into spas. industry broadens its consumer appeal. refreshing body scrub, a Teen Facial Were developed as three and seven- The new six signature beachfront spa ham Place, Eco Resort + Spa marking

54 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 55 SPECIAL INTEREST WORLDWIDE CRUISES Venice, Italy.

BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS $ MEXICO $ MEXICO 199 5 El Dorado Maroma , A Beachfront Resort, 199 The CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort, which

by Karisma, a Gourmet Inclusive® property located along prides itself on being a top-rated family vacation option in the Luxury on the High Silversea S Y A D the Riviera Maya, Mexico, and LUXE Destination Events, a Mexican Caribbean, now has another reason for families to expe - I L O H

boutique consulting firm and travel agency specializing in rience this property. Just recently, the CasaMagna Marriott Can - L A R luxury destination events in the Caribbean and Mexico, cun Resort's Kids Club debuted the Kids Cocina, consisting of by Jonathan Siskin T N E invites travelers on an exclusive photo retreat from August organized children's cooking classes featuring fun Mexican dish - C 15 – 19, 2008. es prepared with trans fat free items. The Kids Cocina at the ilversea’s four deluxe all-suite ships—-Silver Cloud, plus a large rear projection screen so guests can easily view During this learning vacation, famed photographer and CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort offers all children enrolled at Silver Whisper, Silver Wind and Silver Shadow— the various cooking techniques. founder of The Academy of Photo Arts (APA) Studios, the property's Kids Club the chance to become chefs for a day feature the sleek dimensions of a private yacht Richard Emmanuel, will host intimate photography courses, and learn how to cook authentic and tasty Mexican dishes. For and exude the intimacy and exclusivity of a posh Lush Inventory followed by excursions to some of the Riviera Maya’s histor - $25 per child, guests between four and 12 years of age enjoy an private club. A far cry from mass market mega - Clients interested in booking a Silversea cruise can choose ical sites such as nearby jungle; Chichén Itzá, one of the extensive program including swimming, Spanish lessons, paint Sships, the Cloud & Wind carry a maximum of 296 guests from 140 itineraries worldwide ranging from 7 to 92 days Seven Wonders of the World; and the archeological sites at workshops, kite-making and Pinata making. The Kids Club is while the Whisper & Shadow have space for 282. They sailing to more than 300 ports in 108 countries. Mediter - Tulum, an ancient Mayan city perched on a bluff over the open daily. Those families interested to visit the CasaMagna Mar - especially appeal to a select niche of well heeled, discerning ranean itineraries are currently the favorite of UK clients , Caribbean Sea where participants will put their newly riott Cancun Resort should consider booking the Escape! Family globetrotters accustomed to the finest things in life. 40-60% and the most popular seven-day cruises include Barcelona acquired skills to use. Rates for the LUXE APA Photo Package, valid through October 31, 2008. Included are breakfast of Silversea guests are repeaters, and their average age is to Rome, Rome to Monte Carlo, Venice to Athens, and Retreat at El Dorado Maroma, A Beachfront Resort, by for two adults and two children, pizza and movie for one night, between 45 and 64 with yearly incomes of $200,000+ and Athens to . While the Mediterranean is strong, voy - Karisma begin at $1,995 per person for a four-night stay in a and a milk and cookies nightly turndown. Rates start at $199 - household assets of $2,000,000+. Cruise-only fares starting ages to the Middle East are rapidly rising in demand. It’s Swim-Up Jacuzzi Suite including the Gourmet Inclusive $249 per room, per night doubles. Call 888-727-2347; visit at $4,500 per person for a one week cruise and $8,200 for a advisable to book sooner rather than later since clients who experience in a cash-free environment. www.jwmarriottcancun.com / www.casamagnacancun.com two-week cruise. reserve space well in advance of sailing date (more than six Call 888-LUXE933; visit : LUXEdestinationevents.com or Email: months out) qualify for early booking discounts of 15-35%. [email protected] $ FLORIDA 129 Located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, PGA Fabulous On Board Amenities National Resort & Spa offers a complete resort experience Besides an abundance of deluxe amenities and services New Ships on the Way with a full array of amenities and services that speaks to a from all-suite accommodations to gourmet dining and penul - Due to steadily rising demand, Silversea is adding two wide range of interests and agendas. A sweeping multi-mil - timate pampering, another key selling point is Silversea’s all- new ships—Prince Albert II and Silver Spirit—to its fleet lion dollar renovation has resulted in the “re-birth” of the inclusive pricing that entitles guests to several “freebies” over the next two years. Slated to debut in Monaco this legendary golf resort. Included in the package are a team not offered by most cruise lines. A special guest favorite is month, the 132-passenger Prince Albert is the first Silversea building golf clinic or Thai Chi class, morning and afternoon its complimentary drink policy as all wines, champagne and ship designed specifically for expedition cruising to far-flung breaks or daily Continental breakfast, 15% AV discount, one spirits served throughout the cruise are provided courtesy of destinations from the Arctic to Antarctica. While at sea upgrade for every 15 rooms blocked on peak night, 5% addi - Silversea. Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that guests will enjoy the same deluxe amenities available on Sil - tional discount on master account for groups with Sunday awaits every guest upon arrival, the suite’s mini-refrigerator versea’s four other ships including a full-service spa, beauty peak arrivals. Offer good for meetings through September. is stocked with an assortment of complimentary beverages salon, ship wide Internet access, sauna, two whirlpools and Call 877- 553-4669; E-mail [email protected]; replenished daily. There is also 24-hour room service in-suite complimentary wines, champagne and spirits. It will also www.pgaresort.com dining and full breakfasts delivered to their suite at no have Silversea’s signature personalized service with a crew charge. Other complimentary extras include roundtrip trans - to guest ration of 1 to 1. $ CONNECTICUT portation from the pier to the heart of town in many ports of Among the most intriguing itineraries scheduled for its 465 The Mohegan Sun is offering two one-night pack - call and unique shore side events on select sailings such as inaugural season are an 18 day “Greenland Exploration” ages for golf aficionados valid through Sept. 30, 2008. Nestled in dinner in the Namibian desert and a traditional evening of cruise from Reykjavik, Iceland to St. John’s, Newfoundland the rolling hills of southeastern Connecticut, the Mohegan Sun Vietnamese cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City. Guests also are not departing July 30; a 22-day “Journey to South America” Country Club at Pautipaug, is a private 18-hole championship golf expected to leave tips which are included in the cruise fare. from Acapulco, Mexico to Santiago Chile departing October course. The Tee and Coffee package, priced at $449 based on 12; and a 16-day “Explorer’s Antarctica” cruise departing double occupancy, includes accommodations, golf for two, coffee Foodies Rejoice from Ushuaia, Argentina on Nov. 14. and muffin for two at Imus Ranch Coffee and a 20% discount on Foodie clients may be interested in reserving space on Scheduled to debut in late 2009, the 36,000 ton Spirit is apparel at The Golf Shop located within The Shops at Mohegan one of the upcoming Viking Cooking School theme cruises the largest Silversea ship ever built with a maximum capaci - Sun. Mention booking code PTPP1 The Putt and Pamper pack - which have been expanded to 12 voyages this year on itiner - ty of 540 guests and 270 ocean view suites (all but 12 suites age, which costs $465 based on double occupancy covers a one aries to the Caribbean, Northern Europe, South America, will have verandas) There will be several public areas not night stay at Mohegan Sun, golf for two at Mohegan Sun Country Africa and the South Pacific. Each theme cruise is hosted by found on its other ships including a Lobby Bar styled along Club at Pautipaug (including transportation to the course, cart, Viking chefs who instruct guests on cooking techniques and the lines of a deluxe European boutique hotel, an enlarged yardage book, and greens fees), or two 50-minute massage treat - features gastronomic specialties from destinations on the spa with an expanded menu of treatments, a supper club ments at Elemis Spa including complete spa access for two, or itinerary such as the fragrant spices of Arabia and the Far serving gourmet cuisine and an Asian restaurant. golf for one and one massage, breakfast for two, and/or 20% off East, the roasted chiles of Mexico and the wine-inspired With the addition of these two newbuilds, Silversea’s at The Golf Shop located within The Shops at Mohegan Sun. sauces of Bordeaux . All Silversea ships are equipped with a overall fleet capacity will increase 40% from 1,346 berths to Mention booking code PTPP2 culinary theater equipped with state-of-the art Viking stoves, 1,896 berths. Call 888-777-7922; www.mohegansun.com microwaves, cookward, cutlery and countertop applieances For additional information, visit www.silversea.com

56 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 57 NORTH & AMERICA & HAWAII

LA’s Culture Vultures with a Sense of Humor BBEESSTT BBUUYYSS IINN TTHHEE NNEEWWSS os Angeles is known to of the preservation campaign, FAMILY GETAWAYS IN HAWAII Riding the Big Cat beat at the pace of a hosts a very special memorial Napili Kai Beach Resort, a deluxe resort situated on 10 The CAT, a high-speed catamaran ferry operating between very different drummer edition of the Esotouric bus tour beachfront acres on Maui’s western shore, is offering a vari - Maine and Nova Scotia, can transport up to 750 passengers and this season is no "Haunts of a Dirty Old Man: ety of specials during its “Value Seasons” in 2008. and up to 240 cars, motorcoaches, RVs and motorcycles. exception. From the Charles Bukowski's L.A." on the The resort’s 2008 Whale Watcher’s package requires a On board features include movie theaters, a casino, dining LEsotouric Tours that take visitors anniversary of Buk's 1994 death. five-night minimum stay, with every fifth night free, and is and duty-free shopping. The CAT connects Maine and Nova on “Haunts of a Dirty Old Man: This is a chance for Bukowski available for Ocean View Hotel Rooms, Ocean View Studios Scotia in a fraction of the time required to drive. Passports Charles Bukowski’s L.A.” (how lovers to come together to cele - (excluding Family Studios), Beachfront and Ocean Front Stu - are not required for US and Canadian citizens. All passen - dirty can it be if you are doing brate the landmarking, which dios, and Ocean View and Oceanfront One-Bedroom Suites. gers must carry a government-issued photo I.D. and proof of this from a motorcoach) to L.A.’s was dogged by false accusa - The Whale Watcher’s package is offered for the Spring residency, such as a birth certificate.

new indoor skydiving attraction. B tions of Nazism from the build -

V Value Season through June 13. Through July 13 and September 1 - October 14, the ship C A GQ recently did an article about L ing's owners, but which Napili Kai’s Fifth Night Free special is available for Ocean departs from Bar Harbor, Maine four times per week (Mon - Robert Downey Jr. who would - Hollywood based on the critically garnered widespread support View Hotel Rooms, Ocean View Studios (excluding Family day through Thursday) and Portland three times per week n’t conduct the interview with the jour - acclaimed TV series and movie, “The from the preservation and literary com - Studios), Beachfront and Oceanfront Studios, and selected (Friday through Sunday). From July 14 through August 31, nalist unless they did it at Universal Simpsons.” “The Simpsons Ride” will munities and city officials. One-Bedroom Suites. Value Season rack rates for these the ship departs Bar Harbor Monday through Wednesday CityWalk’s new wind tunnel, so this is take guests to a side of Springfield pre - Esotouric has made its name with units range from $270 to $460 per night. The Fifth Night and departs from Portland Thursday through Sunday. obviously a new must for visitors too. viously unexplored as they enter true crime bus tours (Black Dahlia, Free offer may not be combined with any other specials, All sailings land in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Bay Ferries, “Krustyland,” a new fantasy theme Pasadena Confidential) and explo - packages, discounted rates, or group rates. It is offered dur - which operates The CAT, also operates conventional ferries When the Ceiling is the Limit park within the theme park, created by rations of literary L.A. (Raymond Chan - ing both the Spring and Fall Value Seasons. between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia and Nova Scotia iFLY Hollywood at Universal City - the show’s cantankerous Krusty the dler, John Fante, James M. Cain). Here Call 800-367-5030; E-mail [email protected]; and Prince Edward Island. Walk Hollywood (Hollywood) takes Clown. In this fully immersive experi - they turn their creative attentions to www.napilikai.com Together, the ships can significantly reduce driving times extreme to new heights with the open - ence, guests will be rocketed along Bukowski, the prolific poet, novelist Hilton Family Hawaii introduced the Win a Million Vaca - for visitors to Maine and the Maritimes, which are both rec - ing of iFLY Hollywood, LA 's first ever with Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and and screenwriter whose rough-hewn tion Giveaway, offering travel agents an opportunity to win ognized as among the world's greatest summer destina - indoor skydiving wind tunnel. Housed Maggie Simpson on “Krusty’s Thrilltac - tales of boozing, wild women and rot - one million Hilton HHonors bonus points plus Hawaiian tions. Rates, schedules and vacation packages can be in the world's tallest and most techno - ular Roller Coaster,” where they’ll rip ten jobs never obscure the deep vein vacations for two for bookings made at its six properties on found on The CAT's website, logically advanced indoor wind tunnel, roar at faster than lightning speeds on of sweetness and hope that runs Oahu, Maui and Kauai. Hilton HHonors points can be used Visit www.catferry.com thrill-seekers enjoy a close approxima - a hysterical, almost unimaginable through all his work. for travel, accommodations, entertainment and shopping. tion of a true skydiving experience as adventure. “The Simpsons Ride” is an "Haunts of a Dirty Old Man" spans Hilton HHonors recently introduced its No Blackout Dates they are suspended in mid-air at unprecedented collaboration between Bukowski's personal city, from Skid Row policy based on availability of standard rooms. Agents regis - Just for Laughs and a Deal heights of up to 30 feet and wind Universal Parks & Resorts and “The to once-genteel Crown Hill, favorite bars ter online and answer a series of questions about Hilton Every summer, Montreal comes alive when Just For speeds of more than 125 miles-per- Simpsons” creators, Executive Produc - and liquor stores, "Barfly" locations to the Family Hawaii and Continental Airlines. All licensed IATA or Laughs -The Montreal International Comedy Festival takes hour, with 360-degree views of City - er Matt Groening and Executive Pro - downtown library, where he discovered ARC travel agents who are U. S. residents and are 18 or the city by storm, celebrating its 26th year. The outdoor Fes - Walk's pedestrian promenade. The ducer James L. Brooks. “The his "God," novelist John Fante. German older are eligible to enter before the July 6 deadline, with no tival site in the heart of downtown Montreal, presents over experience replicates skydiving by Simpsons Ride” features the show’s born, Bukowski spent most of his life in purchase necessary to enter. 1,200 wildly colorful street performances featuring artists using two colossal electric fans (the classic humor with 29 popular Spring - L.A., working for the US Postal Service, Visit www.hiltonfamilyhawaii.com/winamillion from more than 19 countries, in a carnival atmosphere, as equivalent of more than 800 horse- field residents all voiced by the original as "Notes of a Dirty Old Man" columnist The Doubletree Alana-Waikiki is offering the Perfect well as a slew of activities for the whole family, including a power), to give guests of all ages an talent, including Hank Azaria, Dan for the underground press and writing the Family Vacation Package (code PFV), with a one-bedroom weekend dedicated to Twins…best of all…its FREE! authentic and intense free-fall sensa - Castellaneta, Nancy Cartwright, Julie screenplay for the autobiographical suite, $75 dining credit and $40 Power Cards to use at Dave Indoors theatres and comedy clubs feature the top names tion. Certified skydiving instructors pro - Kavner and Yeardley Smith. "Barfly." The city and its characters are & Busters with a three-night booking at daily rates starting in comedy in a variety of themed and Gala shows. The Festi - vide individualized training prior to each Visit www.universalstudios.com everywhere in the work, so this tour cele - at $240 per night. The Sweet Romance Getaway (code val is the largest and most prestigious event of its kind in skydiving adventure and guests don brates the artist within his city with visits ROM) includes breakfast in bed and one bottle of sparkling the world and has attracted The Daily Show’s Jon Stewart, authentic skydiving gear. Guests Stalking a Dirty Old Man to places that were important to him. wine delivered to the room upon check-in. Daily rate starts Tool-man Tim Allen, SNL’s Tina Fey, the energetic Kelly Ripa, receive a Certificate of Completion fol - Back in March, the Cultural Heritage Upcoming Esotouric bus tour schedule at $194. The Dream Deal (code DDL) includes breakfast for Deal or No Deal’s Howie Mandel, Boston Legal’’s William lowing their flight. Single flight pack - Commission recommended the L.A. include: Sat., June 14- Vroman's - The two adults and two children starting at $199. Shatner and the legendary John Cleese. ages cost $39.95. Group rates are City Council to name the longtime East Birth of Noir: James M. Cain's SoCal Call 800-559-4201; www.doubletree.com The stellar list of Festival alumni also includes Ray available. www.iflyhollywood.com. Hollywood home of poet and novelist Nightmare; Sat., Aug. 9- Vroman's Book - Resortquest Hawaii is offering KeikiQuest Kids Club for Romano, Jerry Seinfeld, Will Ferrell, Dane Cook, Chris Rock, www.citywalkhollywood.com Charles Bukowski as an official His - store - Charles Bukowki's LA; Sat., Oct. children ages 5 through 12 staying at any of ResortQuest Carl Reiner, Jim Carrey and Drew Carey – to name but a few toric-Cultural monument. This protects 11 Vroman's Bookstore - Raymond Chan - Hawaii's eight properties in Waikiki from June 15 to Aug. of the headlining performers. Talk of the Town the modest, now-vacant bungalow dler's LA. Visit www.esotouric.com 23. The club offers daytime activities for children and edu - The Festival has put together numerous packages to pro - Of course, the talk of the town mov - court from demolition and ensures For more information on L.A., visit cates youngsters about Hawaii's culture and natural history. vide the ultimate comedy festival experience. Festival pack - ing forward in LA is going to The Simp - future generations of fans will be able www.discoverLosAngeles.com The program will be housed in a specially designated Keik - ages are available from one evening stays to week-long sons Ride at Universal Studios to visit the site where a disgruntled 50- iQuest Kids Club room at the ResortQuest Waikiki Beach trips, starting at $280 per person including breakfast and For consolidator airfares and tour Hollywood (opening May 17): something postal worker made the Hotel. Daily programs run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and include access to show tickets and are based on double occupancy. packages to the US see page 85 “The Simpsons Ride “ is a new leap to international celebrated writer. lunch and a snack as a part of the $50 daily price per child. Call 888 244-3155 ext. 2; E-mail [email protected]; of the Listings Section mega attraction at Universal Studios Richard Schave, one of the organizers Call 866-774-2924; www.resortquest.com www.hahaha.com/packages

58 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 59 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW INDUSTRY NEWS

Rail Europe Appoints Chief Officers Rail Europe appointed two new Chief Officers. The White Marriott’s Growth Spurt Continues Plains-based subsidiary of the French National Railroads By Maria Lisella (SNCF) and Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) announced Dun - can Still as Chief Commercial Officer and Zine Belhonchet Marriott counts more than 3,000 hotels with 19 brands in 69 countries in its Hariworld Upgrades Technology as Chief Financial Officer. Under the direction of Frédéric vast inventory. On the heels of this interview, Marriott International Inc. For over 40 years Hariworld Travel has been catering to Langlois, President and CEO of Rail Europe, the company announced plans to more than double its hotels in the Middle East by boosting its the travel community of North America, offering more seats is aiming for another banner year in sales. Langlois said Middle East properties from 26 to 65 by 2011. The agreements include one for a on more airlines to more destinations at more competitive “The timing of the new appointments, as we enter our sec - Marriott resort in Marsa Alam, Egypt, as well as plans for a Courtyard hotel and a fares. From a modest beginning in Toronto, Canada, in 1968, ond quarter, is perfect, as RE’s revenues in the first quarter Renaissance hotel in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Marriott's Middle East Hariworld has blossomed into one of the country's elite, were running 4% ahead of last year.” brands include Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Hotels & most influential and respected consolidators. Duncan Still joined Rail Europe in 1997 as Vice President Resorts, Renaissance Hotels & Resorts, Courtyard by Marriott and Marriott Exec - Hariworld Travel, headquartered in New York, has branch of HR, Legal Affairs and Administration and in 2003, was utive Apartments. offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and San appointed Chief Financial Officer. Formerly he held manage - Francisco all of which are ARC approved. Their office in New ment positions in Finance, Operations and Customer Serv - In the meantime, JF interviewed real estate. Our blended average rate is exclusive parties and gatherings, opportu - Delhi, India is now IATA approved. New branches in New ice at British Rail in the UK and at BritRail Travel Fred Miller (right) , Vice President, about $145. nities to network, at industry trade shows. Jersey, Washington and Boston are in the planning stages. International, Inc. in New York. Travel Industry Relations also known as JF: What percentage of Marriott’s reserva - Additionally, they learn how to more effec - Our Wholesale activity is generated through some 3,500 Zine Belhonchet joined Rail Europe in 1997 as Activity and the voice and face of Marriott to the tions originate with agents? tively sell hotels; not just Marriott brands, sub-agents. Budget Controller. He became Director of Finance in 2004 travel industry as he is about to retire. Miller: Approximately 30% of our tran - but all hotels. Hariworld is currently in the process of launching a state of and was appointed Vice President of Strategic Planning in A 40-year veteran in the lodging indus - sient business is from travel agents JF: The Fam-Tastic rates are great for the art Website to generate greater efficiencies to our oper - 2007. Previous to his employment at Rail Europe, Bel - try, Miller joined Marriott International and about 8% from wholesalers. agents, but do you have anything in place ation. The Website will represent a premier solution for honchet was Controller for the French subsidiary of Welch in early 1997 as part of the company’s JF: What portion originate with individual that would encourage them to sell more product distribution and reservation processing that will Allyn based outside Paris. acquisition of the Renaissance Hotel agents or consortia? volume of Marriott? present products consistently to a wider spectrum of users. For information on Rail Europe’s wide product range call Group. He is responsible for setting the Miller: Most of our business comes Miller: We do not offer point of sale By consolidating all contractual information to one data - 888-382-7245; http://agent.raileurope.com strategy and direction of Marriott’s from agencies that are members of incentives except for special promo - base, Hariworld will be able to reduce the high cost associ - wholesale and retail travel agency pro - consortia. Independents constitute less tions at given destinations. Broad point ated with multiple data input. grams. He will offer his vast experi - than 10% of our business. of sale promotions are risky because The site will also provide an Internet based solution to Collette Tiptoes into the Green ence and perspective as a consultant JF: Since agents are responsible for about they encourage travel agents to bypass Travel Agents allowing them to complete their transactions In conjunction with the cele - while Marriott plans to keep his pro - a third of your sales, do you project using their corporate accounts’ wishes or independently. bration of Arbor Day, Collette grams in place. With 26 million mem - that outlet less in the coming years or do corporate travel programs for the sake Visit www.hariworld.com Vacations has announced the bers enrolled in Marriott Rewards you think this portion of agent sales is nec - of earning the incentive and disturbing launch of its newest initiative, Program, the firm boasts great brand essary to Marriott’s revenue? the corporate account thus losing the Project Green and Blue. The loyalty. Miller: Marriott wants the customer to business in the long term. ASTA Reports on IDE in Lyon program is Collette’s latest buy our hotels through any distribution JF: How many agents would you like ASTA, the world's largest travel trade reported the suc - step in reducing its carbon JF: What is the proportion between leisure channel they wish. We do not encour - to see in the program? cess of its third annual International Destination Expo (IDE) footprint and environmental and business markets? age channel shifting by offering lower Miller: Every one of them!!! in Lyon, France April 12-16. For five days, nearly 1,000 travel impact. The domestic tour Miller: On the transient or FIT side, we rates (such as web only rates), more JF: What is the guest to staff ratio? professionals from 47 countries, gathered to learn about the operator’s initiative is aimed at are about 35% leisure, 45% business, inventory in some channels over oth - Miller: It depends on the brand and culture, attractions and travel business of the city often ensuring Collette’s worldwide 20% both. There are three basic types ers, or other incentives. If the cus - market mix. For example, the Fairfield referred to as "the gateway to Europe." offices are operating as of lodging customers: Group (both tomer goes through a travel agent – brand maintains a ratio of about one IDE-Lyon offered travel agents a unique opportunity to “green” as possible on a day- leisure tour groups and business great; if they go to a web site or a employee per three guests, while the meet one-on-one with more than 110 supplier companies to-day basis. groups such as meetings), permanents wholesaler - fine; and, if they come Bulgary and Ritz Carlton brands boast (totaling 136 booths) that exhibited at the Lyon Convention "Everyone needs to take such as airline crews or extended stay directly to us, that is their decision. at least one to one. Center. "ASTA's IDE is the only industry event dedicated to responsibility for the impact they have on our environ - guests and transient or FIT (business JF: Will you be posting any agent incentives JF: Will online bookings become a major destination training," said Cheryl Hudak, CTC, ASTA presi - ment," said John Galvin, CFO. "We want to do everything travelers, vacationers, or other leisure to be sure agents book it and take a closer source of income do you think, and if so, dent and CEO. "Attendees have had the chance to experi - we possibly can to leave the world a better place as a guests not traveling in a group). Groups look at it? which online services do you plan to use or ence for themselves the beauty of Lyon and the Rhone-Alps result of our being here." and meetings comprise about 35% of Miller: We encourage travel agents to do you already have agreements in place to region and discover the nuances that set this region apart Project Green and Blue is aimed at doing just that. The our total rooms sales. complete the Marriott Hotel Excellence! that effect? Meeting one on one with regional suppliers, travel agents initiative’s first step w as a contribution to the Arbor Day We have a strategy for each segment training program and their travel agencies Miller: Marriott.com is our largest pro - now will return home empowered to sell this unique desti - Foundation for the planting of 519 trees, one in honor of with specific messages. With 19 to become a Marriott Preferred Travel ducer. Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, and nation. I have no doubt this lovely city will soon be on every - each of Collette’s employees. Currently, Collette is also brands and our distribution, we have a Agency so they will be eligible for our $49- other travel booking sites contribute as one's must-see list." working on the design and construction of the new Leader - lodging solution for everyone. $89 Fam-Tastic rates. Currently our well. All eChannels contribute about The trade show hosted suppliers representing regions of ship in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certified JF: What is the price range of your vast 130,000 agents that have completed the 15% of our total transient business. France and Sun City, South Africa, the home of IDE 2009- building for their office in Canada. The building, to be com - inventory? course also gain access to promotions, For more information on the Mar - 27 countries in all, an increase of more than 25 percent from pleted by April 2009, will include a geothermal heating sys - Miller: We are primarily a hotel man - are the first to hear about specials, receive riott Hotel Excellence! program, visit the previous year. tem to reduce the office’s reliance on fossil fuels for heat. agement company and own very little a monthly newsletter, they are invited to www.hotelexcellence.marriott.com Visit www.asta.org Visit: www.collettevacations.com

60 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 61 INDUSTRY NEWS MESSAGE BOARD

Travelsavers to Agents: M.Y.O.B. FareBuzz Enhances Hotel Booking Engine Menon New Chairman & Managing Director of Air India TRAVELSAVERS has launched a turnkey marketing solution FareBuzz has launched a dynamic web-based Hotel Booking called M.Y.O.B. (Market Your Own Business). The program inte - Engine – that allows Travel Professionals to book hotels at net India’s largest air - Menon was previously a Special Sec - tion sector, estimated at nearly 25% grates online and offline marketing initiatives to build a dynamic rates in over 100,000 hotel and resort properties. The program line, Air India , retary and Financial Advisor in the Min - annually, one of the highest in the presence for its agencies in their chosen markets.M.Y.O.B. offers quality inspected properties in more than 200 countries recetnly appointed istry of Civil Aviation. He brings to Air world. includes website development, direct response e-marketing, a worldwide with hotels ranging from budget to luxury accommo - Raghu Menon to India extensive experience in the field Menon also worked at the Home, customer loyalty program, and the My Marketplace "virtual com - dations. The savings are substantial; 30-40% off retails prices. the post of Chair - of aviation, with notable accomplish - Welfare and Information & Broadcast - munity." My Marketplace is a brand new virtual community Agents can log on to the new booking engine at man and Managing ments that include the liberalization of ing Ministries of the Government of housed on the Agent Extranet, offering everything agents need www.farebuzz.com/hotels . Director of the airline, succeeding Mr India’s air services agreements with India. He was briefly a journalist with to promote their businesses. At the Promotion Corner, agents The new Hotel Program provides Travel Professionals with V.Thulasidas, who retired on March 31. countries around the world, such as The Hitvada newspaper before joining can find professionally designed flyers that feature exclusive pre - access to Pre-Negotiated Wholesale rates as well as the Best In his new position, Menon will be U.S. and Canada, the UK, France and the civil services. ferred supplier offers, which are automatically customized with Available rates which have been categorized as “Super Nets” responsible for continuing the integra - Germany, Australia, Netherlands, Air India is India's national carrier. the agencies' contact information. At The Print Shop, graphic and “Super Savers” respectively. Agents can now add their tion of Air India and Indian Airlines fol - Canada and other nations. The airline has been in operation since design services are available, including high-quality business mark up at the time of booking and receive their commissions lowing their merger in 2007, as well as The move helped to create opportu - 1932 and serves cities throughout cards, stationery, and logos. For items created through the Pro - within a week of booking. “Travel Agents are tired of waiting for the expansion and upgrading of the nities for Indian carriers to utilize bilat - India, North America, Europe, motion Corner or Print Shop, agents can link directly to the their commissions and want their money fast”, says Arnold carrier’s fleet and product offers, and eral rights, leading to an Gulf/Mid-East, Africa, and Asia. Office Dept to have them printed. "My Marketplace is a very Walter, President & CEO of Fare Buzz. The new Hotel Program its entry into the Star Alliance. unprecedented growth in the civil avia - Call 800-223-7776; www.airindia.in powerful tool for our agencies," said Nicole Mazza, Chief Mar - is based on a Powerful, Robust and yet very Simple to use Tech - keting Officer for TRAVELSAVERS. "Our exclusive consumer nology which gives search results in split seconds and instant promotions will set them apart from the competition, and the booking confirmations. Reservations can be made on the web - flyers can be created so easily with just one click. Furthermore, site 24/7 or by phone seven days a week. Bryan Austin, GM at The Lodge, Vail they can take advantage of our award-winning graphic design Call 888-808-4123 or visit www.farebuzz.com studio. We can help them look like they have a Fortune 500 ad Bryan Austin , a March 2006. While there, he was RockResorts. "His [Austin’s] hospitality agency behind them, at just a fraction of the cost." 20-year veteran of responsible for all resort operations management and development experi - Quarterly, web-based trainings for My Marketplace also offer Worldwide Trip Protector, a Wise Move the hospitality and development of the PGA Village at ence will benefit The Lodge at Vail as up industry experts delivering hands-on sessions demonstrat - Travel Insured just launched a new insurance program industry, was Coyote Springs, NV, and The Resort at the resort takes its luxury guest experi - ing how to use M.Y.O.B. to maximize earning potential. that includes three new plans with lots of options for agents recently appointed Red Hawk in Sparks, NV. ence to the next level as part of 'Vail's Call 800-366-9895; www.travelsavers.com to sell, and clients to select to fit their needs. general manager Previously, Austin spent six years New Dawn.'" A comprehensive plan (Worldwide Trip Protector) for cruis - of The Lodge at Vail, A with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Compa - The 165-room Lodge at Vail, set in The Story Behind Wizie.com Efficiency es, tours, resort trips and international travelers; Gold plan RockResort . Austin will oversee all ny. He also spent 10 years with The Vail Village features mountain and vil - Headquartered in Michigan, with branch offices in Halifax, for luxury trips; and a new Lite – Lite Expanded plan for fam - operations of the 165-room resort, Four Seasons Hotel Company . Dur - lage views. In March, The Lodge Canada & Gurgaon, India Wizie.com is a technology company ily and budget travelers. Cancel for Any Reason, Cancel for which has been the cornerstone of ing his tenure at Ritz-Carlton, he took opened a new 11,227-square-foot created to service the travel industry. Wizie provides fare/data Work, Kids are Free and other features are all new. Vail Village since 1962. part in openings of several hotels RockResorts Spa. The Lodge at Vail filling and management, ticketing solutions on all the major The program should be very competitive for agents to sell, Austin joins The Lodge at Vail directly including The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor also manages The Austria Haus Hotel, GDS. “Our clients are some of the largest airlines and consolida - and affordable for travelers to buy. Earnings opportunities from the Wingfield Nevada Group in Gulch in Colorado. in Vail Village. tors across North America, India, Europe and Australia, “ said for travel agents begin with high base commissions and can Las Vegas where he has served as Said Stan Brown, executive vice Call 877-528-7625; or visit Moondeep Aggarwal, COO of Wizie.COM. grow with additional sales per formance incentives. Agents president of resort operations since president and chief operating officer, www.rockresorts.com “We are a partner for Lufthansa's India Fulfillment Center and can book Worldwide Trip Protector through their agency exclusively handle reservation and ticketing for all tickets from GDS system or online. the USA to India on Lufthansa. We are also one of the certified Call 800-243-3174 and ask for a Travel Insured repre - members for ATPCO & FareExpert (Amadeus) for fare filling and sentative, or join a Live Chat on www.travelinsured.com. Tanzania Appoints Mwangunga MP to Head Tourism file worldwide fares on ATPCO for AeroSvit Ukrainian Airlines. Among other projects, we have developed various world class The Hon. Shamsa Swiss Trust Fund Executive Secre - degree in Business Communication in internet booking engines (IBEs) for the travel industry, and also How Fast Can You Get a Passport? Selengia Mwan - tary, Business Care Services Projects Tanzania; a Post Graduate Diploma in have software for automation of ticketing, Fare Comparison Unless your clients can make an appointment at one of gunga was appoint - Manager and Small Industries Devel - Industrial Management from Delft Uni - Tools etc. We also provide Call Centre and Back Office Solutions the 13 Regional Passport Agencies scattered across the ed the Minister of opment Organization-SIDO Manager versity in Holland, and another post to top consolidators in North America,” he added. In the world country, it can take three to four weeks to get a passport. Natural Resources Coordinator. The Hon. Minister began graduate degree in Electrical Engineer - of travel technology, Wizie is considered a pioneer. “We did a To avoid this scenario, read about ItsEasy.com, a passport & Tourism for the her career as a teacher, and later was ing from Dar es Salaam Technical Col - full launch in August 2007 and were the first company to offer a expediter that offers same-day service, if the timing is right and United Republic of Tanzania in Feb - acknowledged for her highly success - lege. Mwangunga also has a Diploma Booking Engine that showed available, discounted and pub - if the Passport Agency’s allowable quota is not exceeded. ruary 2008. ful roles as an engineer, champion of in Education with option in Mathemat - lished fares available to the travel agent community. For the last ItsEasy has offices in New York City; Great Neck, Long Prior to this post, Mwangunga women’s rights and Member of Par - ics and Physics, took part in Executive eight months, we have 400+ websites using our booking Island; and now—a new emergency help desk at Kennedy served as Deputy Minister of Water liament. Training in AOTS Tokyo, Japan, and engine and 35,000+ agents using our technology platform.” Airport’s Terminal 4 for those who don’t discover they have for two years, and has been a Mem - Hon. Mwangunga has an extensive trained in Electrical and Measuring Wizie has a product called Travel Agent Mall, which is where a problem until they check in for a flight. The fee for this ber of Parliament, Special Seat, from and impressive educational back - Instruments in St. Albans-Marconi Consolidators from over the world can access their Net Fares same-day service is $300—plus government passport fees. 2000-2008. Earlier, she held various ground spanning the globe. She Industries, U. K. and any registered Travel Agents from anywhere in the world Even faster service is available for an additional fee. posts within the public and private attained her first college diploma in Email: [email protected] or can access and book these fares. Visit www.wizie.com Call 866- 487-3279; or visit www.ItsEasy.com sector of Tanzania, including Tanzania- Education and her initial graduate visit www.tanzaniatouristboard.com

62 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 63 Jaipur and the Green Fam covers Mumbai-Kochi-Periyar-Kumarakom. Combi - TO CREATE YOUR OWN CATEGORY Familiarization Trips nations and extensions available. The Tours are leaving every Thursday of the Market Place week and are filled up Until August this year and now the booking are being IN THIS DIRECTORY accepted for the month of September 2008 onwards. Please contact Ram EGYPT Chopra, COO for more information at 212-695-1005 or 888-9CINDIA or email CALL KATIE AT 203-301-0255. [email protected] Cairo-Aswan-Deluxe 3 nights Nile cruise-Luxor-Alexandria-Cairo SANS Incredible Vacations: 212-695-1005 [email protected] Departures: Nov 29 to Dec 10, 2008; Jan 24 to Feb 4,2009; April 25 to May 6, BELIZE VACATION WOMEN ONLY TRAVEL 2009. Land Only $1250. 11 Days / 10 nights. 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Maruba's Contact Steve Berger: [email protected] charm arises from its Spa, a chocolate experience, antiquing GREECE & THE GREEK ISLANDS in Jaipur (Subject to availability). 1 Dinner at Mandawa. Domestic and 7947 Racoon Hollow Court, Pleasanton, CA 94588; neo-primitive style dec - in the Cotswolds, Christmas Markets in York, Lincoln and Bath, 'Fly to China' International airfare. All meals at Chennai – Mammalpuram & Pondichery FAX: 925-417-1341 orated with an eclectic Athens, Greek Islands & Turkey Cruise only. English speaking tourist guide at Mamallapuram. Qualified local flair of tribal chic. One the breakable kind at Wedgwood, of the many hidden Spode and Portmeirion. 9 Days, 3 Nights Greece & 4 Nights Greek Islands & Turkey Cruise $1,299 English Speaking guides for sightseeing. Hotel and other site visits. BLUE STAR JETS LLC . treasures in the world. 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BOOK IT ONLINE WITH nights Golden Classics Cruise to the Greek Islands and Turkey aboard the 501-225-5555 • Fax: 501-225-5506 M/V Aquamarine of Louis Cruises. Option Tours: Athens By Night Tour Tanzania safari adventure with a fabulous taste of ancient Egyptian histo - 805 Third Ave., 16th Floor, New York, NY 10022; (Optional - $85 per person), Full-Day Tour of Delphi (Optional - $115 per ry. 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Excursions, Tickets, INDIA, NEPAL dations; most meals; professional HLO escort; group transfers; tour and SITA; JFKSSNA; 2B757-200ER ETOPS 211 seats, park fees; hotel site inspections; and luggage handling.Companion rates convertible to 24 Business 179 Economy; 2 B737- lodge trek to Machu Pic - Transfers, Tour Programs and Delhi, Jaipur, Taj Mahal, Agra, Kathmandu, Patan & Bhaktapur 800NG ETOPS 163 seats. Worldwide operating chu via the Salkantay are $3,963. Land only from November 1 – 7 in Tanzania is $1,563.(Mini - trail, Cuzco to Cuzco pro - Professional Support Services. 12 days Luxury Fam: $2667. Spouse extra supplement. May 30, 2008, mum 6 participants) authority. Contact: Bill Grobasky, Deidre Stiehm; gram. Includes all meals, June 15th and July 5th. Delhi, Jaipur Pink City, Taj Mahal, Agra, Kathman - HLO Tours, Inc: 800-736-4456, [email protected]. lodge accommodations, Call us toll free today du, Patan and Bhaktapur Nepal. Includes, airfares, hotels, daily buffet marketing@ northamair.com; FAX: 718-995-3372 and hotel in Aguas Calientes with visit to the Machu Building 75, North Hangar Rd, JFK Airport Jamaica, NY 11430 breakfast, transfers, tours guides and Elephant Ride tour in Jaipur, Taj TURKEY Picchu ruins. Return to Cuzco in Vistadome train. Rate 866-390-1575 Mahal by sunrise. Airport and security taxes extra. 4 days Extension to is $2,500pp with agency commission starting at Istanbul, Bursa, Ankara, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Canakkale 15% . Bi-monthly (2008) & weekly (2009) fixed depar - www.canamreceptive.com Kashmir, June 9-12, 2008. A W ORLDWIDE CHARTER Himalayan International Tours: 212-564-5164, Fax: 212-564-2188; Oct. 17 to Oct. 31, 2008. 15 Days/13 nights. Land only from $1695. tures. Special group departures are also attended. 800-501-4263 • www.worldwidecharters.com www.himalayantours.com/India.Fam.tour.html Land+Air from JFK $2095. All transfers per itinerary, superior first class Reservations: (011) 51-8-424-3636 hotel accommodations, buffet breakfasts daily and 13 dinners, all sight - Full service international air charter services. Pro - or [email protected] Market Place INDIA seeing tours as posted online. English speaking tour guide-licensed by the viding all aircraft types, ground handling, catering www.mountainlodgesofperu.com Turkish NTO. Local transportation by Deluxe A/C new motorcoach, Turkish and fueling. From individual charters to dedicated aircraft. Specialists in customizing charter pro - Delhi-Agra-Ranthambore-Jaipur folk Dance & Belly Dance & Whirling Derwishes shows in Cappadocia, all SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS grams for professional associates, sport teams, NEW EASY FORMAT Air and land all Inclusive fam tours from $1595. Weekly departure. 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ISIT TALY OURS week options are offered: The Gold Fam includes Delhi-Agra-Ranthambore- FloUSA: register at www.flo-usa.com or call 888-435-6872 V I T 905-684-1100; FAX: 877-877-6288; 800-255-3537 • www.VisitItalyTours.com YOUR HEART DESIRES After Hours: 905-687-1225: sales@ worldwidecharterscom; 310-649-9080, Fax 310-649-6880, [email protected] 81 Welland Ave., St. Catharines, ON L2R 2N2 Canada; 8710 for as little as $50 per insertion* Industry Events 2008 9841 Airport Blvd. Suite 1424, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Hillsborough Ave., Ste 326, Tampa, FL 33615 Visit Italy Tours is Italy’s finest Tour Operator specializing in F.I.T.S and Text…Images…Logo… AIR CHARTER ESCROW DEPOSITORY BANKS custom designed tours to Italy. No one does Italy like us from the cul - DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT INFORMATION Background tints or images May 19-23 33rd Africa Travel Assoc. Congress Arusha, Tanzania [email protected] tural capitals of Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples, Milan and Palermo NATIONAL CITY BANK or the minor art cities of Siena, San Gimignano, Assisi, Cortona, and June 10 / 11 SATA 2008 Portland, OR/Seattle, WA www.sata-usa.com Your imagination is the limit! Contact: David Valpredo: 248-729-8375 Taormina. Choose from our vast selection of hotels, car rentals, June 15-18 Vacation.Com Annual Conference Las Vegas www.vacation.com www.nationalcity.com/corporate chauffeur driven services, rail, gourmet food and wine itineraries, One Simple Price June 21 to 25 Caribbean Tourism Summit Washington, DC www.caribbeantravel.com romantic escapades, pre and post cruise programs. Our expert staff *up to 5 inch of data Leading depository escrow bank for public air char - caters to both individuals and group travel. July 11-20 15th Annual Dive Fest East Coast, USA www.discoverdominica.com ters, private charters, special purpose depository at $50 per inch Sept. 7-9 The Trad Show Orlando, FL www.thetradeshow.org escrow agreements, surety trust agreements, stand - Oct 13-16 ITB Asia 2008 Singapore www.discoveramericapavilion.com by letters of credit, Travel Funds Protection Plan ATTENTION AGENTS Advertisements and statements contained within the directories Oct 14 / 15 SATA 2008 Chicago IL/Indianapolis IN www.sata-usa.com (TFPP) and more. Our clients include: charter oper - ators, air carriers, charter brokers, travel agents, (FAM/MarketPlace/Advertisers Directories) herein are the sole respon - sibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and JAX Oct TBA ABAV www.discoveramericapavilion.com cruise lines, wholesale tour operators and partici - For details call Nov TBA CITM 2008 Shanghai, China www.discoveramericapavilion.com FAX Magazine does not make any warranty as to the accuracy, pating ground vendors. Domestic and international completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. JAX Katie or Chantal Nov 10-13 World Travel Market 2008 London, UK www.discoveramericapavilion.com coverage. FAX has no liability whatsoever for any third party claims arising in Nov 15-19 2008 NTA Annual Convention Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania www.ntaonline.com connection with suchadvertisements or any products or services at 800-952-9329 Fax: 248-729-8803. [email protected] mentioned therein. Please report any issues or complaints to: com - Nov 18 / 19 SATA 2008 Atlanta GA, Savannah, GA www.sata-usa.com 755 West Big Beaver, Suite 1400, Troy, MI 48084 [email protected]

64 JUNE 2008 WWW.J AXFAX. COM WWW.JAXFAX.COM JUNE 2008 65 Making a World of Difference for Over 40 Years. HARIWORLD OFFERS: • A wide array of airline carrier partners • The cheapest net fares to worldwide destinations • Deeply discounted first and business class net rates • Highest commissions paid • Meticulous service • Dedicated sales experts • Dedicated group desk • Best promotions in conjunction with sale fares • State of the art technology updates for the sub-agents

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