April 2010

Travel Insurance Selling Security European Commissions: Adventures In Athens Plus: Illinois, Japan, The Romance Of France The Art Of Spain

Publications Mail Agreement 40623544 • www.canadiantraveller.net • The Official Sponsor Publication of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies

Ed i t o r Janice Strong

Ed i t o r -i n -Ch i e f /Pu b l i s h e r Rex Armstead April 2010 Volume 25 Issue 4 As s o c i at e Pu b l i s h e r Stephen Fountaine Tel: (250) 861-9006

De s i g n a n d Ed i t o r i a l Pr o d u c t i o n Fusion FX Design & Marketing Inc. www.fusionfxdesign.com

Ea s t e r n Re g i o n Sa l e s Ma n a g e r Toni DeFino Tel: (416) 907-7524 ext. 202

Acc o u n t Ma n a g e r – Va n c o u ve r 15 28 Myles Armstead Tel: (250) 861-9096

Re g i o n a l Rep r e s e n t a t i ve So u t h Pac i f i c 31 Legendary Okinawa James McCann Tel: (604) 938-8650 Features UNESCO Sites Housed The Art Of Spain Gods & Kings Re g i o n a l Rep r e s e n t a t i ve Me x i c o 12 Letticia Garcia Artwork & The Art Of Living 32 We’re Not Dead Yet Tel: (55) 5683-5569 In Barcelona & Madrid Don’t Rest On Your Sa l e s /Pr o d u c t i o n Co o r d i n a t o r 15 Adventure At The Top Laurels When It Comes To Bryan Nikkel Head to Canada’s North – Selling Travel Insurance Ma r k e t i n g & Sa l e s Co o r d i n a t o r Here’s Why Ashley Kerr Tel: (416) 907-7524 ext. 200 18 Sea Lions & Cistercians Find Amazing Family Fun Acc o u n t a n t Travelines Elsie Edillor In 4 $elling With $teve All e-mail addresses: 20 Hawke’s Bay Has It All [email protected] Discover Everything 6 World Report Ci r c u l a t i o n From Wine & Art Deco To Subscriptions: [email protected] Ancient Maori Culture 30 Web Index Pu b l i s h e d b y 23 Meet You At 34 Discover America The Agora Bustling Athens Is A Must See & That’s No Myth 26 Classic Illinois

Sell Clients On Lincoln, The We s t e r n Ca n a d a : Ea s t e r n Ca n a d a : 88 East Pender Street, 25 Isabella Street, Mother Road & Corndogs Suite 555 Toronto, ON April 2010 ON THE COVER: Vancouver, BC Canada, M4Y 1M7 European tours mean big Canada, V6A 3X3 Tel: (416) 907-7524 28 Vive la France summer commissions. Tel: (604) 699-9990 Fax: (416) 907-7525 Diverse, Desirable, Delightful Turn to page 12 for a Fax: (604) 699-9993 look at Barcelona and Subscription Rates: Canada: $36 Per Year Madrid; page 23 to see USA: $54 Per Year • International: $72 Per Year the action in Athens; and Travel Insurance page 28 to celebrate Selling Security E u r o p e a n Printed in Canada Commissions: France. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No. 40623544. Adventures In Athens Plus: Illinois, Japan, California Postage paid at Vancouver, BC. Return undeliverable Canadian The Romance Of France Photo Credit: The Art Of Spain addresses to Circulation Dept., #555 - 88 East Pender St., Vancouver, Evangelos/Shutterstock BC V6A 3X3. Publications Mail Agreement 40623544 • www.canadiantraveller.net • The Offi cial Sponsor Publication of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies Contents © copyright 2010 by ACT Communications Inc. All Rights Reserved. Editorial submissions must be accompanied by a self- addressed, stamped envelope. The publisher assumes no responsibility for lost material.

ISSN 1207-1463

The Official Sponsor Publication of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 3 $elling With $teve The SKYpes The Limit

By Steve Crowhurst

ou know from previous articles and my workshops that I chat onscreen in a busy agency, however for home-based agents like Skype. I have worked with travel agents and suppliers and agents that work purely virtually then Skype IS the best thing Yalike suggesting they use this wonderful and FREE tool ever. It really is like having your client at your desk. They enter to enhance their customer relations, agent relations and to develop your virtual agency and you are doing business. Also as Michelle group business or make sales calls, or run a training session or pointed out – so easy to take a credit card number and no online start a virtual agency. security issues either. The Skype Condo Connection Screen Sharing So after all this time I was not seeing much pick up in any camp There are many tools that allow screen sharing or remote assis- re the use of Skype by agencies or suppliers other than Stephanie tance. Some cost, some don’t. Sometimes things work and some- Bishop of Globus Family of Brands who used it for BDM meetings. times they don’t. With Skype it’s such a simple action, I think it Then suddenly as I scroll through my e-mails, on March 11. I went like this…“click!” This means I could be delivering a work- see a subject line that says Book Hawaii via Skype – The Future shop to your agency team, using the Screen Sharing option to show has Arrived. Oh boy! Someone is talking my language. This was YOU my PowerPoint presentation that is playing on my computer. Condominium Connections! Skype address: CondoConnection It means you could Skype Mr & Mrs. Cruzer and show them, from I was so pleased to see this I e-mailed Condominium Connections your desktop, the latest hot-off-the-press cruise itinerary in the just and congratulated them. I received a wonderful response from released eBrochure that you have downloaded and are now looking Joseph Fienberg, president. Joseph tells me he has been in business at on your computer. since 1978 and does a lot of business out of Canada. He believes Skype to be an excellent tool and anticipates this type of tech- The Skype Two Step nology to get better and better and increase the connectedness of Okay first things first. You need to tell your clients about Skype. agents and suppliers. You want them ALL on Skype. Yes you do. So now you are look- ing at that new eBrochure. You think, Aha! This itinerary would Agent Skype Validations be ideal for the Cruzers. You check your Skype and hey, they are I had a supplier using Skype and so I needed a validation from the on line. Now would be a great time to Skype them. You do. They retail trade and was introduced to Michael Scott-Iversen, Hagen’s say “Hi!” You say, “Do you have a minute…I want to SHOW you Travel & Cruises, West Vancouver and Michelle deKock, of Cresset where your going in December…” Keyword…show. Are you get- Travel, in Manitoba. According to both Michael and Michelle, ting this? It’s so quick, so efficient. Skype “puts the personal connection back into business”. In fact when Michelle replied to my e-mail she was just off a Skype call The Group Conference with a corporate client in Munich. Here’s the rest of what Michelle So the Cruzers are in! They want it. So now you say, “What about told me – read and learn: “For me the network stretches to clients your friends…shall we call them up?” The Cruzers are all for it. in Brazil, Peru, Germany, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, They now switch to the Skype conference call mode and invite Asia and various spots in Canada. Last summer one of my cor- their pals into the conversation. You lose the video here, but who porate clients was doing a global conference in Kangerlussuag, cares now…heck, we’ve got a group forming. Suddenly you have Greenland. His group of attendees included people from all over 10 people on the line and the Cruzers say, “Hey gang…Steve’s on the world. We used Skype to connect us face to face as I worked the line, he’s our travel agent and he’s got a special cruise itinerary through some very complicated itineraries to move people from for us, hot off the press. Listen to this. We’re going – so think about

remote parts of the world to Greenland and many mentioned the coming with us. Go on Steve…tell them what you told us.” ✈ level of comfort that comes from being able to be face to face with the travel arranger. Then during the conference, when changes Steve Crowhurst, CTC, of SMP Training Co., is a management were required we video conferenced with/from Greenland and trainer/consultant to retail travel agents, wholesalers, airlines, nailed down several changes in one session. Again, the clients departments of tourism and hospitality- and leisure-based com- were able to step right into my virtual office and connect face to panies in Canada and the U.S. He specializes in new business face with me.” generation. Steve loves to hear from readers so please e-mail your I am sure that many more agents are using Skype to benefit their comments and questions to him at: [email protected] or see sales and service. A bricks and mortar agent may find it tough to his website at www.smptraining.com.

4 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net

World Report For Agents Scotland More Than Ever With 5-Star At Fairmont Sandals The Fairmont St Andrews – a five-star cliff-top resort in St Andrews, Scotland has created the ideal summer vacation getaway to the iconic One lucky Canadian travel agent will drive away with a three-year lease on a Sandals “Home of Golf.” The Summer Golf for Two package features two nights’ co-branded Honda Element in Sandals’ luxury accommodations in a newly remodelled Fairmont guest room; full More Than Ever promotion. Scottish Breakfast in the Squire Restaurant; and two rounds of golf per Agents receive one contest entry for person on either the Torrance Course or the Kittocks Course. Rates start every Sandals, Beaches, Grand Pineapple £319.00 per person, inclusive of 17.5% VAT, based on double occupancy or Royal Plantation booking made through and are valid May 1 to October 31 subject to availability. www.fairmont. June 30 (for travel anytime) that is regis- com/standrews. tered online at Sandals’ travel agent web- site – www.sandals.com/tas. Secondary prizes include: 25 trips to Sandals and Beaches resorts; 10 random draws of $,1000 Sandals Marketing Bank Dollars; 50 gift baskets; and 50 gift cards. To register bookings online, call 1-800- 545-8283.

Fairmont St Andrews.

Japan French JTS Launched JNTO Toronto has launched its French language Japan Travel Specialist online certification program. The new French version allows francophone travel agents to get the most important information on Japan efficiently and effectively. The three 30-minute lessons include essential facts, images and a video, and can be customized for specific regions. Benefits include access to promotional tools and priority invitation to JNTO events. Agents who successfully complete the course are eligible to win one of four grand prizes of return airfare to Tokyo or eight secondary prizes. www.ilovejapan.ca/french.

6 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net We’re spreading our wings and clipping our fares. Discover our money-saving deals for your clients to many destinations from Toronto.

Amsterdam $550* Berlin $550* Budapest $550* Brussels $550* Copenhagen $575* Delhi $715* Frankfurt $550* Gothenburg $575* Hamburg $550* Helsinki $600* Kiev $600* Moscow $600* Oslo $575* Paris $550* Riga $700* Stockholm $575* St. Petersburg $600* Tallinn $700* Vilnius $700* Warsaw $550*

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* Fares are based on roundtrip and the travel departure date must be prior to 04/30/2010. Minimum stay: the night between Saturday and Sunday. Maximum stay: 30 days. Child discount: 25% discount for children between 2 and 11 years old. No Stopovers. CAD200.00 cancellation fee up until 1 day prior to departure. Certain conditions and restrictions may apply. Offer is subject to limited availability, change and withdrawal without notice. Taxes vary from CAD175.00 – CAD425.00 approximately depending on destination. World Report

Finland Via At Helsinki Finnair has opened Via Experience Development fatigue and the effects buffet, a Via Bar, various Spa as part of its new Manager. “There is a spruce of jet-lag. relaxation areas. free WI-FI modern Via Lounge at sauna and a stone sauna The Via Lounge has network, work stations Helsinki Airport. Via from the Alps, a steam room for around 250 outfitted with computers, Spa offers unique spa and sauna, and a traditional customers and includes six and multi-purpose facilities. wellness services that Finnish sauna, which private shower rooms, a www.finnair.com/spa. prove quite attractive to the actually provides a view carrier’s transit passengers over a mineral water pool to travelling via Helsinki to the airport’s runways.” Finnair’s more than 50 Via Spa offers new- destinations worldwide, generation, naturopathic especially to Asia. treatments with pure, “The high quality organic preparations. Via Spa offers Finnair Available services include customers first-class spa (shorter) treatments and wellness services. designed especially for For instance, the spa transit passengers, as well has four different types as a cold water paddling of sauna,” says Markku pool and a mineral water Remes, Finnair’s Customer pool to alleviate travel F INN A IR

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8 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Germany California

The HOP ON Wizards Are WhenWhere the Santa Monica Whimsic Alley first opened its doors six years ago, it attracted Harry Potter fans from around the world. The themed HOPOFF environment resembled a shopping district straight out of Dickens or a Potter film. Patrons often came dressed in witch or wizard garb. In Düsseldorf Now there is a new L.A. location that is four times larger. Opened last month, the two-tiered wizards marketplace features wizard apparel, books and quills, magic wands, and designer witch hats. There are curio and candy shops and shops featuring Harry Potter and Twilight Touris m M a rk et ing GmbH D u e ss ldor f Historic Old Town, Düsseldorf. branded merchandise. Situated along a stretch of Wilshire Boulevard known as the lients visiting Düsseldorf can now take Miracle Mile, Whimsic Alley is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 in major city sights aboard a new HopOn a.m. to 5 p.m. www.whimsicalley.com. CHopOff double-decker bus tour. The 90-min- ute city tour includes eight stops, among them the shopping boulevard Königsallee, Historic Old Town and Rhine Tower, MediaHarbour, Aquazoo, and Castle Jägerhof. Visitors are invited to leave the bus at any stop to explore and then continue the tour on one of the following tours. One ticket is 15 Euros and admits one adult and two children up to 14 years of age. The tickets can be combined with harbour boat tours at an additional charge, and discounts are offered with the Düsseldorf Welcome Whimsic Alley, Los Angeles. Card. www.visitduesseldorf.de. All e y Whi m si c

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WES101165AB_H_April.CNT.indd 1 3/8/10 3:34:29 PM www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 9

CLIENT WestJet APPROVALS WES101165AB_H_April.CNT.indd CREATIVE TEAM CREATED 03/03/2010

TRIM 7.125" x 4..875" CREATIVE Pick-up creative ACCOUNT ErikaJ

PROOFREADER 805–10th Avenue SW LIVE N/A MAC ARTIST P/U DerrickL, HeatherM PRODUCER Marsha W (ext. 33) PRODUCER Suite 500, Calgary BLEED N/A INSERTION DATE(S) 04/2010 AD NUMBER WES101165AB_H AB T2R 0B4 STUDIO T: 403 269 8294 COLOURS CYANI MAGENTAI YELLOWI BLACKI F: 403 269 7776 CLIENT / ACCOUNT MANAGER PUBLICATION(S) Canadian Traveller – Insurance, Cruising All colours are printed as process match unless indicated otherwise. Please check before use. In spite of our careful checking, errors infrequently occur and we request that you check this proof for accuracy. TAXI’s liability is limited to replacing or correcting the disc from which this proof was generated. We cannot be responsible for your time, film, proofs, stock, or printing loss due to error. World Report

Britain Best Of BOBI London, England provided the sunshine and and 18 for the trade; the following two days, days and a decision will be made whether to the Best of Britain & Ireland Travel Trade consumers were welcomed. With some 400 proceed with this format for 2011.) Forum shone. The event, which takes place exhibitors including national and regional Tourism Minister Margaret Hodge, MP annually in March as the centrepiece to tourist boards, attractions, media, transport opened the event, noting the importance of British Tourism Week, was held March 17 and tour operators, it is organized in partner- the industry that is the country’s fifth largest ship with VisitBritain and provides bringing in 114 billion pounds per annum. everything any agent or consumer Another session included a question and needs to know about England, answer period, which, considering that a Ireland, Scotland and Wales. This general election is upcoming in Britain, was year it was held in the Grand Hall a very mild affair. Possibly because every- of London’s Olympia, an elaborate one wished to wander the exhibits – some space – Victorian in style – that were most impressive, such as Wales which provides more than 19,000 square featured a lovely train coach. metres of brightly lit space thanks An interesting component this year was to its glass ceiling. sustainable tourism exhibits. Scotland, rec- The Forum enjoyed a five-per ognized as a leader in ecotourism, featured cent increase in attendance with speakers elaborating on everything from some 2,600 visitors during the carbon management to farm stays. Philip first two days; it ranks among the Riddle, Chief Executive of Visit Scotland UK’s top ten in travel trade shows. stressed the importance of every aspect of (However, the numbers were not tourism buying in to sustainable tourism.

J e n Se v dr a impressive for the two consumer – By Judi Lees

10 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net South Pacific isit www.pgcruises.com and find everything you need to plan, reserve and prepare Vyour clients’ South Pacific cruise aboard the Paul Gauguin. The special Travel Agent Center offers marketing tools like videos, e-brochures, DVDs, pre-printed shells, flyers, photos, and logos. There is an easy-to-use cruise-finding option that searches by destination, sailing dates and cruise length to show you availability and pricing. The online booking section allows you to reserve specific suites/staterooms, purchase shore excursions or put a three-day hold on your client’s preferred cruise and air. You can even book travel insurance. The links button connects you to the latest promotional offers, press releases and company updates. And you can check sailing dates, payment status, update profiles, submit guest information or butler request forms. All 24/7. Early bird discounts are now in effect for bookings made by June 30: save up to 45 per cent on standard cruise fares on sailings through December; also get free or 2-for-1 roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles, a value of up to $3,300 per couple. The Paul Gauguin has recently undergone a multimillion-dollar refurbishment that sees balconies on nearly 70 per cent of the staterooms, a ul Ga uguin Cruis e s P more al fresco dining areas and a refreshed décor. Guarantee a great big gracias from your clients. Book Cuba with WestJet Vacations.

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WJV101109AB_D_April.CNT.indd 1 3/12/10 5:12:58 PM www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 11

CLIENT WestJet APPROVALS WJV101109AB_D_April.CNT.indd CREATIVE TEAM CREATED 10/03/2010

TRIM 7.125" x 4.875" CREATIVE Pick-up ACCOUNT Erika J

PROOFREADER TAXI CANADA INC LIVE N/A MAC ARTIST P/U DerrickL, HeatherM PRODUCER Marsha W (ext. 33) 495 Wellington Street West PRODUCER BLEED INSERTION DATE(S) AD NUMBER Suite 102, Toronto N/A 03/2010 WJV101109AB_D ON M5V 1E9 STUDIO COLOURS CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK T: 416 979 7001 I I I I F: 416 979 7626 CLIENT / ACCOUNT MANAGER PUBLICATION(S) Canadian Traveller – France, Greece, Puerto Vallarta, USA, Canada - April, 2010 All colours are printed as process match unless indicated otherwise. Please check before use. In spite of our careful checking, errors infrequently occur and we request that you check this proof for accuracy. TAXI’s liability is limited to replacing or correcting the disc from which this proof was generated. We cannot be responsible for your time, film, proofs, stock, or printing loss due to error. Spain The Art Of Spain Artwork & The Art Of Living In Barcelona & Madrid Text and photos by Janice Strong

icasso, Dalí, Miro, Gaudí. These are the artists Antoni Gaudí. There are 14 works of Gaudí in the city ranging Pof Spain, but there is also the art of Spain itself. from his early work, like the streetlamps of the Placa Reial to his Its vibrant cities, its intriguing past, its music, dance, and, of final, as yet unfinished, masterpiece the Basilica of the Sagrada course, its cuisine. We had a taste of it all, and left wanting Familia. Two sites popular with visitors are the Basilica and The more after a two-city tour of Barcelona and Madrid. Park Güell where there is not one straight line. Barcelona is also the home of the Museu Picasso, housing Barcelona To Start key works in all media donated by Picasso himself, as well For more than 2,000 years Barcelona has perched beside has his long-time secretary. the sea, becoming a melting pot for a diverse range of cul- And no trip to Barcelona would be complete without a stroll tures. The city was founded in the first century B.C. by the down La Rambla, a long, pedestrian-only boulevard that is part Romans in what is now called the Gothic Quarter. We joined street theatre, and all activity. La Rambla ends at Barcelona’s the Barcelona Walking Tour Gòtic, one of several available waterfront with its beaches, parks, museums and restaurants. through Turisme de Barcelona for a two-hour excursion that took us past Roman walls and columns, medieval and renais- Barcelona As A Base sance churches and even a royal palace. From Barcelona we headed out on a daytrip to the Vilafranca The day before we had taken the Barcelona Walking Tours del Penedés and tours and tastings at two wineries. First stop Gourmet tour and enjoyed all the sights, sounds, tastes and was Cavas Codorniu and its endless underground cellars. smells of traditional bakeries and patisseries, grocers, cof- fee shops and the colourful Mercat de La Boqueria, where Barcelona restaurants buy their foodstuffs. Barcelona Walking Tours are fully narrated with a wire- less communication system and are available in English, Catalan and Spanish. Besides Gòtic and Gourmet, tour themes included Marina, Picasso, Modernisme and three different shopping excursions. Touring around Barcelona you can’t help but notice the fan- ciful architecture of some of the buildings. This is the work of

Retiro Park, Madrid. Colourful Mercat de La Boqueria, Barcelona.

12 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Parental escape included.

MAJESTIC VACATIONS

Mom and Dad have reserved a week, or maybe two, for spending time with their children down south, and everyone’s excited about their next vacation. Tell them about the Majestic Colonial Punta Cana Cameleon Gold ★★★★1/2 in the Dominican Republic, where blue skies, warm breezes, and a host of fun, relaxing activities for the whole family are guaranteed to bring a smile to their faces. For people travelling without children, the Majestic Elegance Punta Cana ★★★★1/2 offers the possibility of an upgrade to the Elegance Club, a haven of luxury and tranquility for singles and couples who prefer the company of other adults – at least during their holidays! With free golf and wedding packages at both these resorts, you’ll have all your clients covered!

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For more details, see the Nolitours Sun 2009-2010 brochure or visit nolitours.com

Flights from Toronto via Air Transat. Price shown is per person, based on double occupancy in lead room category. Taxes & travel related fees are extra and noted above. For complete hotel description and terms and conditions, refer to the Nolitours Sun 2009-2010 brochure. Nolitours, 191 The West Mall, Suite 800, Etobicoke, ON M9C 5K8. Ont Reg #50009488. Aug 26/09

Pub Canadian Traveler Majestic.indd 1 3/15/10 9:47:46 AM Spain My Trip We flew Club Class from Vancouver, direct to Barcelona with The tour was aboard a mini-train and a tasting was included. Transat Holidays who offer weekly flights to both Barcelona Next up was the Torres family winery. Again, we boarded a and Madrid June 19 to October 2 and weekly service from small train for the cellar tour, then enjoyed a presentation on Toronto to Malaga April 6 to October 24; Barcelona May 1 the family, and of course, samples. to October 30; and Madrid May 23 to October 10. Transat That afternoon we headed to Montserrat and the also offers City Packages in Madrid and Barcelona, plus Benedictine monastery that was founded in 1025. A scenic seaside packages on the Costa Brava, Costa Daurada, Costa tram-ride took us to the top of the massive rock and spec- del Sol and Costa Del Maresme. Check out the Madrid & tacular views of the countryside. The Museum houses in Barcelona 2-City Package that includes train travel between impressive collection of art through the ages, ranging from cities and a hop-on, hop-off bus excursion in both. There is early works by Caravaggio and El Greco to modern pieces a Madrid-Malaga option, too. Plus a wide range of a la carte by Renoir, Degas and Picasso. But the draw for thousands of accommodations, excursions and car rentals in Barcelona visitors is La Moreneta, a 12th-century carving said to have and Madrid; cruises out of Barcelona and Malaga and the been found in the Holy Grotto. Splendour of Spain coach tour. The next day saw us back in the car and heading to Figueres and the Dalí Teatre-Museu. On the site of the over two hours. While Barcelona’s beginnings were Roman, Municipal Theatre of Figueres, the museum itself is the Madrid traces its start to Moorish Spain, and the 9th century world’s largest surrealist object and houses a broad range of arrival of Mohammed I, the fifth Omayyad Emir of Cordoba. works that span his career, from his earliest experiences to Through the centuries kings and queens have ruled the city the works of the last years of his life. including the royal house of Habsburg and Bourbon. From Figueres, we headed to the coast and lunch at the Our visit began at the Prado, an art gallery with vast ancient fishing village of Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava. collections that include masterpieces by Goya, Valázquez, Now a lively beach town, Tossa de Mar boasts Roman and Murillo, Ribera and Zurbarán, along with works by Flemish medieval ruins. The Vila and Italian artists. Benadictine monastery in Montserrat. Vella dates from medieval Next day we started with a tour of the Royal palace. On times, while Els Ametllers the inside, the stairway, Throne Room, Hall of Columns, is a noteworthy Roman villa. Royal Chapel, and tapestries and paintings are a highlight. Tossa Museum boasts a col- Outside, the Plaza de la Armeria (Armoury Square), the lection of modern paintings Campo del Moro Gardens and the changing of the guard at including Marc Chagall’s The the main gate are all worthy sights. Celestial Violinist, and the The town of Alcalá de Henares, just outside Madrid, is a Mediterranean Lighthouse World Heritage Site, the site of the first university in Spain Interpretation centre takes (established in 1508) and birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes visitors into the world of the (author of Don Quixote). It is also a beautifully preserved lighthouse keeper. Renaissance university city. Highlights include touring the university buildings, and the House-Museum where On To Madrid Cervantes was born. Our trip took us from Back in Madrid, we headed to a Casa Patas, a tablao Barcelona to Madrid, via or flamenco club for an evening of traditional food and high-speed train in a little traditional dance. Our stay in Madrid ended with a wander through Madride de los Austrias ( a reference to the Hapsburg royal dynasty), the historic old town and one of the city’s most famous areas. Highlights include the impressive Plaza Mayor, the centre of the city for 400 years. Completely enclosed, the square has been the site of public executions, bull fights, theatre, festivals and even royal coronations. Another Hapsburg legacy is beautiful Retiro Park, with its huge lake, Crystal Palace, and lovely gardens. More Spain For more information on Spain, visit www.spain.info/ca. For more information on Barcelona, visit www.barceona turisme.com and for more information on Madrid, visit www.turismomadrid.es. In Canadian Traveller: The Best Of The Best, November 2008 The Vila Vella in Tossa De Mar.

A Drive Through History, May 2008 ✈

14 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Canada Adventure At The Top Head To Canada’s North – Here’s Why

By Judi Lees

Kluane National Park boasts hiking, rafting, glaciers and the

G ov e rn me n t o f C a d Saint Elias Mountains.

he north is a magnate for & Yukon Route Railway to Skagway. The Klondike Highway to Dawson adventure seekers, shutterbugs The narrow gauge railway built in 1898 City is a drive into gold rush history. Twho love lonely, wild land- during the Klondike Gold Rush still pro- Visitors relive the 1890s on boardwalk scapes and those who yearn for the claims breathtaking scenery. strolls; Parks Canada offers an excellent untouched. If you have clients that fit They can also rent a car or camper to walking tour. In the evening, try for ‘gold’ this profile – you know the ones, they drive roads edged by pink Fireweed and at Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling wish to go where few have been before soft red Foxtail grass, camp beside bril- Hall, complete with dancing girls. – send them to north. liant blue lakes, and spot wildlife more www.travelyukon.com. Canada’s three territories are vast often than people. The largest bear I’ve and diverse when it comes to land- ever seen was on an evening drive out- Northwest Territories scape and wildlife but when travel- side of Haines Junction. The latter vil- There are excellent air connections lers return from a northern journey, lage edges the famed Kluane National to Yellowknife, a capital city with the they always rave about the people. For Park where adventure dreams are lived. laidback ambience of a small town of sure, these northerners have the wel- Options include hiking among majestic the 1950s even though it is the larg- come mat out, another reason not to mountains – the Saint Elias Mountains est settlement in the NWT. On the miss Canada’s great far north. are home to Canada’s highest, Mount one hand it is a transient town as life Logan – joining a flightseeing or heli- revolves around the mining industry. The Yukon copter tour among spectacular glaciers, Nudged up against Alaska in Western Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall in cruising Kathleen Lake, horseback rid- Dawson City is a reminder of gold rush Canada, the Yukon is a gift of wilder- ing, rafting a mighty river, mountain history. ness. The capital, Whitehorse, is easily biking and fishing for trout. The super

reached by air – Yukon visitors also adventuresome book in winter when Y ukon arrive by ferry, cruise ship, coach and snowmobiling, dog sledding, cross by driving the Alaska Highway – and country skiing, snowboarding, snow-

is a convenient hub. Clients can board a shoeing and ice fishing are all possible. G ov e rn me n t o f river cruise through the startlingly beau- Kluane, along with other northern parks tiful Miles Canyon, visit Takhini Hot is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Springs, stroll to impressive galleries site and a habitat for grizzly bear, cari- and museums and hop on the White Pass bou and Dall sheep.

www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 15 Canada

Floatplanes are a favoured mode of or on a Floe Edge Tour. The latter is a Winter is the best time to view the Aurora Borealis in the Northwest Territories. transportation from the pretty harbour magical experience April to July when in Yellowknife. From the air, NWT is the ice slowly melts; guided tours along criss-crossed by waterways, however, it its edge showcase breaching whales, opens up to vast tundra with hundreds seals and walrus basking in sunlight, of kilometres of wilderness. The raft- polar bear cubs at play. ing trip of a lifetime may well be on the Consider places like Qikiqtarjuaq South Nahanni, book for a week and let on Baffin Island’s eastern coast, a the guides do the work. prime polar bear habitat, great place to www.spectacularnwt.com. view icebergs. Ecotourism operators here offer dog team, snowmobile and Nunavut boat tours to view polar bear, whales, Tell your clients that Nunavut is full seals and millions of seabirds. of surprises, then let them in on a few. There’s a good chance your clients Nunavut rules when it comes to wil- will know about Nunavut arts and NWT Tourism derness: Auyuittuq National Park, crafts as they are world famous. As Sirmilik National Park, Katannilik well as visiting galleries, tours can be Territorial Park, Northwest Passage booked that focus upon fine arts. Territorial Park, Kugluk Territorial Perhaps clients wish to hike but not Park, Ukkusiksalik National Park and to camp, book them on a cruise. It is Iqalugaarjuup Nunanga Territorial Park possible to cruise Canada’s Northwest all beckon adventurers. (Check out Passage to the magnetic North Pole a rk e r/ N WTT www.NunavutParks.com and www. aboard one of the world’s most luxuri- pc.gc.ca.) In the spirit of true explorers, rry P T e rry ous icebreakers. Yellowknife boasts art, diamonds and your clients can book a guided trip to www.NunavutTourism.com. ✈ outdoor adventure on Great Slave Lake. hike among the glaciers or along a frigid bay, canoe or raft rugged rivers, visit and Nunavut arts and crafts are world famous and In the 1990s, diamonds were found camp in protected areas where wildlife can be viewed on dedicated fine arts tours. and the town of some 20,000 represent- sightings are a daily occurrence. ing more than 60 countries, has never Another reason for heading north looked back. In fact, its moniker is the is to view some of the more unusual Diamond Capital of North America. animal life. Way up here is home to On the other hand, it has an Aboriginal Narwhal and Bowhead whales, beluga, history that stretches back thousands walrus, polar bears, caribou and musk of years and today melds a tapestry ox. Ecotourism operators are keen to of Dene, Metis and Inuvialut (western show off the animal residents. Inuit) cultures. For those who truly want a unique When exploring Yellowknife, cli- experience send them dogsledding on ents can rent a boat to fish Great Slave sea ice, hiking across the Arctic Circle Lake or book a tour. They can also dis- cover the incredible Inuit and Dene arts On floe edge tours in Nunavut clients can and crafts, as well as gape at some dia- see whales, seals, walrus and polar bears. monds, at the Gallery of the Midnight Sun. And then there’s the spectacular Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre that chronicles the history and showcases artists. Yellowknife abounds with world-class artists; a self-guided walking tour of the Old Town shows off many tiny but impressive galleries. If a client’s bucket list includes view- ing the Aurora Borealis, NWT is the place. While winter is the best time to view this explosion of light, you can do so in comfort at the Aurora Village in Yellowknife where the seats are heated and the view is at its best.

16 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Serious about travel to the North? No one knows the north the way we do. And no other airline can connect you to more of the spectacular sights and awesome adventures that are unique to this place we call home. On your way, enjoy our special brand of northern hospitality which includes hot meal service on select flights, a generous baggage allowance on all aircraft, and the opportunity to earn Aeroplan® Miles while earning Aurora Concierge status – the only northern-based loyalty program. Call Canadian North today and come up for a serious good time!

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an Francisco is often called The Pier’s 12 dining options range ’s street performers are world- “Everybody’s Favourite City,” a from casual, like North Beach Pizza to famous and feature magicians, jugglers, Stitle earned by its scenic beauty, cul- fine dining at Forbes Island and include comedians and mimes. tural attractions, diverse communities, and California Cuisine, Italian and of course And then there are the California seal world-class cuisine. This very walk-able city plenty of fresh seafood. lions, who began hauling out at Pier 39’s is dotted with landmarks like the Golden From mirror mazes to 4D turborides, K-Dock in 1989, shortly after the San Gate Bridge, cable cars, Alcatraz and the the action is non-stop on the Pier. Francisco earthquake. At the beginning largest Chinatown in the United States. A Aquarium of the Bay offers close-up there were between 10 and 50 mammals, stroll of the city’s streets can lead to Union views of sharks, rays, octopuses, jellies but because of the rich supply of herring in Square, the Italian-flavoured North Beach, and 20,000 aquatic animals. On the water, the Bay, the population grew to more than Fisherman’s Wharf, the Castro, Japantown clients can board a sailing charter with 300. The end of last year and the begin- ning of 2010 have seen record numbers (in Pier 39 September 2009 there 1,701). Check out the sea lion cam at pier39.com. You can also visit pier39.com to down- load a coupon for the free Fun Pack. Your clients will get discounts at dozens of participating shops, restaurants and attractions on the Pier.

Northern California Shasta Cascade is an outdoor lover’s par- adise boasting towering mountains, lush forests, crystal-clear lakes and thunder- ing waterfalls. The perfect base for the region is Redding, the second-sunniest city in the U.S. and home to plenty of great attractions. Clients can head outdoors to cruise across Lake Shasta to Lake Shasta Caverns, or Lassen Volcanic National Park to see the steam vents, mud pots and hot springs. Local museums chronicle gold rush his- In 2009 and 2010 record numbers of California sea lions have descended upon Pier 39’s K-Dock. tory, local families, military, mining and railroad history and include Weaverville and the Mission District, with intriguing Adventure Cat, sightseeing cruises with Joss House, the oldest continuously used neighbourhoods to explore at every turn Blue & Gold Fleet or a rock ’n’ roll ride Chinese temple in California. Families can And one of the best is Fisherman’s with RocketBoat. visit the planetarium, go karting, swim- Wharf and Pier 39, a festival marketplace On dry land Gray Line/San Francisco ming, skating and join a segway tour. with stores, restaurants, a whole lot of fun- Sightseeing tours the entire city, take a Must-sees include the spectacular – and filled attractions and postcard views of the scenic bike ride with Balzing Saddles Bike car-free – Sundial Bridge, a 213-metre- and Bay Bridges, Alcatraz, Rentals & Tours, or take a gentle spin on long, glass-floored suspension bridge over Angel Island and the city skyline. the San Francisco Carousel. Up in the air, the ; and the 121-hectare Shoppers can browse 110 stores on two lev- Frequent Flyers offers bungee trampoline Turtle Bay Exploration Park, which includes els that carry everything from gifts and col- action. Gamers head to the arcade at Players an art and history museum, arboretum and lectables to apparel, jewelry and bodycare. Arcade & Sports Grill. gardens, a butterfly house, logging and

18 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Redding CVB/John Poimiro

Redding’s Sundial Bridges is a working sundial, as well as a glass-bottomed pedestrian span. ecology exhibits and an 83,000-litre aquar- ium filled with river life. New this year is the completion of a 4.8-kilometre section of the path tying the Sundial Bridge to Shasta Dam. The trail now covers about 24 kilometres between the two popular landmarks. The comple- tion of the trail has opened up endless pos- sibilities for hikers, bike riders, joggers and others to get out and explore. In other news, the Cistercian monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina have undertaken a project that is quite sacred: the reconstruction of an 800-year-old chap- ter house that was originally built in Ovila, Spain. The stones that had once formed the monastery passed hands several times at one point belonged to William Randolph Hearst before he sold them to the city of San Francisco. The stones were used for vari- ous purposes throughout the city but were awarded to the Abbey of New Clairvaux after the monks spent years petitioning and negotiating for them. Numerous craftsmen, most from Europe, have spent many hours meticulously restoring each aspect of the chapter house. Three of the stone portals have already been completed, giving the Abbey the distinction of the only Cistercian Gothic portal in North America. And finally, the Desmond House B&B has opened in downtown Redding. This lovely Queen Anne style home, built in 1905 overlooks the majestic Sacramento River and sits within walking distance to some of the area’s major attractions and river trails.

Massages are available on the property. ✈ www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 19 New Zealand

Hawke’s Bay Has It All Discover Everything From Wine & Art Deco to Ancient Maori Culture

Te Mata Estate. Tourism New Zealand/Chris McLennan By B Ang ineyards upon vineyards and cities with its unique, hand-crafted wine styles, while to the land of humans. When passing over Art Deco chic, Hawke’s Bay offers food in Havelock North, one of New Zealand’s Pania Reef, it is said that Pania can be seen Vfor the soul and the stomach. top wineries, Te Mata Estate, produces with outstretched arms, trying to return to Coleraine, a rich but elegant Cabernet-Merlot her handsome Maori lover. All About Wines... blend, Bullnose Syrah-Elston Chardonnay Along State Highway 50, the Waiohiki Lying along New Zealand’s east coast on the and Cape Crest Sauvignon Blanc. Clearview stump carvings were mostly created by the North Island Hawke’s Bay has some of the Estate near Cape Kidnappers, is known for Pa Whakairo Group of artists. Working on longest sunshine hours, making it the second its Chardonnay and Bordeaux-style reds. the stumps from felled macrocarpa trees on largest wine producer in the country. There To learn more about wines and vineyards, the edge of the Napier Golf links course, are more than 70 wineries, 40 offering tast- Hawke’s Bay Wine Trail allows visitors to these works of art have been turned into ings and quite a few have restaurants on-site. enjoy the fruits of the land at their own pace. roadside attractions. A growing number of vineyards also provide accommodations and tours for visitors. Arts Alive Other Sights To Behold Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest Napier has one of the highest concentra- Te Mata Peak provides a panoramic view of wine region, thanks to the arrival of its first tions of Art Deco architecture in the world, Napier and the hills beyond. It is a 15-min- European settlers. In 1851, a group of French with a colourful heritage story to boot. ute drive to the summit from the town of missionaries founded the Mission Estate During the early part of the 20th century it Havelock North. Hike or mountain bike up Winery. Today, this refurbished seminary was hit by disastrous earthquakes and fires. the hill and for the more adventurous souls, has an underground tasting cellar, a highly The city rebuilt itself and adapted the Art descend from the peak by paragliding. regarded restaurant and conference facilities. Deco concept with Stripped Classical and Cape Kidnappers was named by Each January/February, the Mission Estate Spanish Mission styles. Each February, the Captain James Cook after an incident Annual Concert attracts big name artists like Art Deco Weekend is abuzz with vintage involving the local natives and the failed Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton and Ray Charles. cars, planes, and clothes, and jazz concerts, kidnapping of the servant of Cook’s Other local wineries of note are: while around town, shops sell antique and Tahitian interpreter. A large migratory Brookfields Vineyard in Napier for Cabernet imitation Art Deco pieces. gannet colony has made its home on Sauvignon-Merlot, Gewürztraminer and The statue of Pania of the Reef in the cape. From October to March, about Pinot Gris; and Gimblett Gravels, known Napier’s Marine Parade commemorates a 15,000 birds stop here to hatch their young for its Cabernet-Merlot and Chardonnay. Maori myth about a beautiful maiden who and prepare them for their long migratory Esk Valley Estate is one of Hawke’s was lured into the depths of the Pacific flight. Clients can hike eight kilometres Bay’s finest boutique wineries, known for Ocean by the sea people, never to return along the beach from Clifton during low

20 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Abel Tasman National Park

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ASG5526 TNZ1151 Canada Kiwi Specialist FP Ad 8.125x10.875"_v2.indd 1 12/03/10 2:02 PM New Zealand tide, or book with tour operators conduct- morphed through different uses – army ing 4WD or tractor-ride trips. barracks, quarantine centre, lunatic asy- What’s New The Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk in lum and of course, jail. Tours include sites Te Urewera National Park is known as one of hard labour, escapes, the hanging yard, • The new “The Food of the Chiefs of the 10 great walks of NZ. Hugging the graves of the executed and possible ghost Tour” by Waimarama Maori Tourism western shoreline, this 46-kilometre trek sightings. To sample life in prison, visi- offers a traditionally prepared meal takes three to four days to complete. As tors can get a mug-shot taken and even be featuring local products. For the much of the park is not easily accessible to locked up in solitary confinement. Maori, the ‘food of chiefs’ refers to help protect its native wildlife, portions of The New Zealand National Aquarium conversation. the walk can be enjoyed as a day trip using in Napier features the country’s largest the water taxi. display of aquatic life and creatures that • The Farm Lodge at Cape Kidnappers To learn about the Maori culture and are uniquely Kiwi like the Kiwi bird and has introduced the Kiwi Discovery heritage, Waimarama Maori Tourism tuatara (a lizard-like reptile). See hundreds Walks. Kiwi expert Dr. John offers the “Walk With the Ancestors” tour of fish swim and feed above, and around McLennan and his team take small of Hakikino, a Maori heritage site that has while going through the moving under- groups of lodge guests to monitor only recently been opened to the public. water walkway. and learn more about New Zealand’s Through a combination of stories, songs, iconic but endangered bird. rituals and crafts, personalized guides More New Zealand bring visitors through the archaeological For more information, visit www.new • Takaro Trails is offering three- remains of the village that thrived between zealand.com/travel/trade. and five-day cycling tours. The the 14th and 15th centuries. package includes a Scott Sportster In Canadian Traveller: touring bike, mechanical back-up Spoilt For Choice Mudholes, Maori & Chardonnay City, service, detailed riding instructions, New Zealand’s oldest prison is found in February 2008 accommodation and luggage

Napier. From 1862 to 1993, the complex Following Trenz, September 2007 ✈ transfers. • Breckenridge Lodge is offering a hands-on cooking class with celebrated chef Malcolm Redmond. Learn how to create a three- course meal from healthy seasonal ingredients and how to pair these with the right wines.

Gannet colony, Cape Kidnappers. Tourism New Zealand/Chris40 McLe2010nnan 402010

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22 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net402010 402010

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THE WAY TO GO FOR 40 YEARS Greece

Temples & Other Treats The jewel of Athens is the Acropolis (literally “highest city”), topped by the Parthenon, that oh-so-familiar 4th-century- BC temple to Athena. Its awe-inspiring antiquity, plus the magnificent view of Athens, the surround- ing temples, and the Agora (meeting place) below make it well worth the visit. The new Acropolis Museum, opened last June, is located at the base of the hill’s southeast side. Its controversial modern design shows some 4,000 artefacts from the area (improving on the old museum’s 400 exhibits) and its terraced café yields views of the ancient buildings. (www.theacropolis museum.gr) Another extensive collection in the heart of the city is housed at the National Archaeological Museum, where you’ll travel through millennia of Greek culture Ruins of the ancient library in the Agora. from the Cycladic Islands civilization, through the Minoans and Mycenaeans to the present. (Museum admission is free on Sundays, and a multi-site combination ticket saves on fees during the week.) The Plaka draws visitors like a magnet – and as touristy as it may be, it’s enormous fun to explore the labyrinthine, cobblestone Meet You streets with their tiny shops, to see the local architecture, and exclaim over the occa- At The sional encounter with genuine antiquities. This is where Aristotle strolled, when he proclaimed himself to be a rich man indeed, Agora because he saw “nothing that he needed.” Bustling Athens Is A Must See & That’s No Myth The place hums at night, and personally I opt to be among the throngs of diners and Text and photos by Christine Potter drinkers in Plaka’s tavernas of an evening, enjoying the enticing aroma of grilled lamb lue doors and window frames on white And then there’s Athens, the bustling and chicken, than to visit one of the sophis- walls against a startling azure sky, Greek capital and one of the cradles of ticated nightclubs dotting the city. red roofs patterning precipitous western civilization. For anyone remotely Plaka’s myriad restaurants offer flavours cliffs above an aquamarine Aegean Sea – interested in history and culture, Athens for every tastebud, but don’t overlook qui- such images colour my memories of the must be seen. It’s a marvel of ancient and eter Kolonaki area, Athens’ equivalent of Greek islands. As does sunshine, warmth, new and, as the gateway to Greece, is Yorkville. It’s a 30-minute (uphill) walk and laid-back island welcomes. a natural addition to any itinerary. from the centre, but taxis (thankfully) Such destinations as Santorini, Here, then, are a few pointers for your are inexpensive. Open-air restaurants line Heraklion, Corfu, and other islands dot- clients who wish to stay three or four the streets, and the area is dominated by ting the Greek coastline yield relaxing, days in the city, before or after a more Lycabettus Hill with its illuminated medi- undemanding vacation time. leisurely island tour. eval chapel of St. George. www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 23 Greece

Lycabettus is a great place to be in the heat of summer, with its cooling breeze and spectacular views of the city and, on a clear day, the Aegean Sea. The adventur- 273 ous can take the footpath, but there’s also a “No Fluff – funicular. (And a snack bar at the top.) Athens is surprisingly walkable, and it’s No Theory” a delight to encounter tangible pieces of the past. A stroll through the National Gardens, for instance, revealed ancient columns just Marketing lying around where they fell. I babbled excitedly to the hotel clerk. “They’re not real antiques,” he exclaimed Evzone guards on patrol outside the Greek disparagingly. “They’re only Roman.” Parliament Building. Huge Syntagma Square with its Parliament Building patrolled by the Chances are they’ll see nothing of the IDEAS colourfully costumed evzone guards, lux- place, and be transported straight to the for Travel Agents ury hotels, and nearby upscale stores is, for city. If they want to visit, Piraeus is reach- many, the heart of Athens, and the modern- able by Metro and bus, and dining in one of 412 pages, 273 Ideas, day Agora. The large park in the centre is the seaside tavernas can make you believe 700 live links & the site for many festivals and gatherings, you’re on one of the islands. 100’s of additional and coffee shops around the square cater to Piraeus also has a fine archeologi- visitors and locals alike with reviving shots suggestions & variations. cal museum with a dramatic collection of of strong, sweet, Greek coffee. locally discovered, larger-than-life bronzes, The square is also the transportation and a Nautical Museum with examples of hub, with buses to the outskirts and the air- sea-craft from ancient times to modern day. .95 port. It’s central to Athens’ main points of Another important day trip runs to $ interest, like Plaka and Monastiraki. Delphi to see the wealth of monuments 39 Monastiraki’s claim to fame is the daily and temple ruins once housing its fabled flea market, where haggling is obligatory oracle, where Pythian priestesses predicted for rugs, jewelry, antiques, copperware – the future. It’s an hour’s drive from Athens I even saw a couple of ship’s periscopes and tours are readily available from the on offer. city. Some will detour to include a viewing Here, too, is the pretty Byzantine stop over the Corinth Canal. Kapnikarea chapel, with the road built around the ancient place of worship. Best Times To Visit To see a slice of local life, suggest cli- The legacy of the 2004 Olympic Games ents visit Central Market with its separate gave Athens improved local transit services as well as an improved, user-friendly airport Author Steve Crowhurst, CTC sections for meat, produce, spices, cook- ware, and a multitude of home necessities. about 40 minutes’ drive from downtown. It’s a great place to pick up an unusual But even this most comfortable of air- Order today from: souvenir, such as pottery pieces made for ports gets mighty crowded in July and [email protected] local purchase. August, peak European vacation period. And temperatures can be scorching. Day Trips From Athens If they have a choice of travel times, ASK YOUR CONSORTIA Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon is advise clients to visit Greece in May, June, TO BULK BUY!! a popular day-trip from Athens, and while September, or October. The weather is the site is included in many pre-arranged kind, activities are still plentiful, but the itineraries, it’s easy to book it from hotels. crowds are dispersed. Sunsets from here yield those all-important “wow” moments – an essential ingredient More Greece of any vacation – with Poseidon’s temple More information from the Greek National forming the perfect Greek foil. Tourism Organization visit www.gnto.gr. If your clients are cruising with a pre- or post-cruise stay in Athens, they’ll know In Canadian Traveller: about Piraeus, the port and departure point A Greek Odyssey, February 2008

for ferries to the Greek islands. History On The High Seas, May 2007 ✈

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1793002A_AirCan_CanadianTraveller.indd 1 04/03/10 10:55 AM Illinois Classic Illinois Sell Clients On Lincoln, The Mother Road & Corndogs Springfield is Lincoln country, with sites that chronicle his life and times.

By B Ang Mi c h ae l S e dlo k

x-Presidents, a top ranked university in the country and Celebrating the heyday of Route 66, the International Route 66 Mother Road Ea museum for funeral customs – Illinois’s Springfield Festival September 24 to 26, 2010) features and Champaign County have them all. free entertainment, a classic car auction, and over 1,000 vintage cars from across Springfield More History America and Canada. Two of the route’s Springfield was the home of U.S. President The Old State Capitol served as the Illinois popular landmarks are in Springfield – Abraham Lincoln and has proudly kept statehouse from 1839 to 1876. This recon- Shea’s Gas Station Museum (a classic ser- this part of its history alive through the structed building is decorated with majes- vice station filled with memorabilia) and places associated with him. Visitors feel as tic classical columns and its exterior has Cozy Dog Drive In (said to be the place though they’ve taken a step back in time to ancient Greek symbols depicting democ- where the first corn dog was served). the mid-1800s when walking through the racy and orderly progress. Lincoln Home Area. At the state-of-the-art Illinois governors and their families have Other Pursuits Set in a 1870s funeral home, Museum Of Presidential Library and Museum, they can lived at the Executive Mansion since 1855. Funeral Customs houses a 1920s embalm- hear Lincoln’s story unfolded on Election This Georgian-styled manor’s interior main- ing room, horse-drawn vehicles, and a full- Night, 1860. Or see the Blue Room of the tains the 1800s look and is open for tours. sized reproduction of Lincoln’s coffin. White House or an Indiana log cabin. Then The Dana-Thomas House was designed At the Air Combat Museum, military there’s New Salem, the reconstructed historic by renowned architect, Frank Lloyd Wright, aircraft, plus Second World aircraft in vari- village where Lincoln lived as a young adult. in 1904. Considered to be his first full ous stages of restoration are on display. The Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State expression of the Prairie style, it contains For shopaholics, Simon White Oaks Historic Site, where he practiced law looks the largest collection of Wright furniture Mall is Central Illinois’ largest indoor mall exactly as it did during Lincoln’s time and art-glass windows in the world. with more than 115 stores. Surrounded by other shopping malls, this is the ultimate See how Abraham shopper’s paradise. Lincoln lived at New Salem, a reconstructed village. Champaign County Sp ring f i e ld C V B Lying in the east-central part of Illinois, Champaign County is about two hours south of by car. This is farm country. To find out about visiting farms in the area, con- tact the Champaign County Farm Bureau who can help setting up specific tours. Curtis Orchard has activities for the whole family such as pumpkin patch, store and bakery offering freshly baked goodies like pies, fritters, apple crisp donuts and cider. Traditional farm animals such as sheep, pigs, horses and goats are featured at the Prairie Farm. The attraction offers a petting area, tours and trolley rides. The Champaign County Historical Museum at the highlights

26 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net milestones over the past 100-plus years of the county’s people, lifestyles, events and architecture. Its most popular exhibit is the 1919 Cretor popcorn wagon, a custom- designed vehicle with the popcorn wagon sitting atop a 1940 Chevrolet convertible. The Museum also has a collection of quilts dating from the mid-19th century. The Orpheum Children’s Science Museum is situated within the 1914 Orpheum Theatre (circa 1914). At the Museum, kids not only get a hands-on experience in things scientific but also learn to properly care for a pet through the Orpheum Animal Clinic there. The great Houdini used to perform at this theatre. Fun At School Home to the University of Illinois, a top 10 school in the U.S., the institution with its 40,000 students, has sprouted attractions fashioned after some of its course disci- plines. , situated on campus within the University’s College of Fine and Applied Arts, opened its doors in 1961. About 9,000 permanent works are dis- played in 10 galleries, ranging from ancient Egyptian art to contemporary photographs. It also presents 12 to 15 exhibitions from other collections worldwide. A Full Agenda At the William M. Staerkel Planetarium, 7,600 visible stars are projected onto the dome. State of the art audio-visual equip- ment and special effects, coupled with both scientific narration and ancient sto- ries, accompany the live prairie sky shows. Other highlights include rock-n-roll-themed light shows, children’s shows and special seasonal presentations. The Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve features a bicycle/pedestrian path, Mabery Gelvin Botanical Gardens, and places to fish, hike, picnic, cross-country ski and sled. Also in the area are the Early American Museum, an 18-hole golf course, and a 9-hole par 3 course cum practice range. The Early American Museum has an extensive collection featuring life in East- Central Illinois in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Two floors of exhibits present architecture, trades and occupations, deco- rative arts, and childhood and domestic life

of the time. ✈ www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 27 l e n t in Va France t ou Fr a n ce /E mma nu e l A

la France ViveDiverse, desirable, delightful.

Nice’s Negresco Hotel is a classic monument By Christine Potter along the Promenade des Anglais.

want to see is open, except, perhaps, for a Life Is Good On The Riviera few exclusive restaurants. Cannes’ world renowned annual film fes- rance might just be the “go-to” Advise clients to pick up Paris User’s tival (in May) sets a high style level. Shops nation for a broad spectrum of Guide (free) from the tourist office on showcase the world’s finest wares and almost travel ideas. avenue des Champs-Elysees (number 127, everyone – from roller-bladers to stroller- When clients ask for genres like romance, close to the Arc de Triomphe), where they’ll pushing grandmas – appears well groomed history and culture, luxury, independent also find essential information, maps, and and well heeled. Even dogs seem to be of the exploration, adventure, or corporate get- a selection of city tours. They might also designer variety. aways for example, France can fill the bill. buy a three- or five-day Museum Pass. It The city’s Carlton Inter-Continental is includes admissions and lets holders jump And deliver. Let’s start with romance. typical of the Belle Epoque style that made to the front of line-ups. Cannes the place to visit for wealthy British Paris Loves Lovers A fun way to visit the major museums of the early 19th-century. Its location, in the You have to think Paris if you’re selling is by Batobus, a ‘get-on-get-off’ boat stop- centre of La Croisette, yields a sweeping romance. You can’t walk a block without ping along the Seine at key sites. view of the Mediterranean and it’s a five- seeing couples kiss. They kiss while wait- Churches aren’t often romantic except for minute walk from the Palais des Festivals. ing for traffic lights to change, they kiss Sainte-Chapelle, near Notre-Dame at 4, bou- across tiny bistro tables while dining, they levard du Palais. With its midnight-blue-and- Further along the Riviera, Nice’s Negresco kiss in sheltered doorways. Love loves gold interior, it’s a pearl of Gothic art, built in Hotel was born in the same era, and for the Paris and Paris loves lovers. And age is no the mid-13th century to house the (said) Crown same clientele. The magnificent hotel has barrier, I notice. of Thorns brought back from a crusade. become a classic monument along Nice’s Some say summer is not the time to visit In the same area, Musee National du broad Promenade des Anglais along the Baie Paris because Parisians have left the city. I Moyen Age has a magnificent collection of des Anges. Nor do you have to splurge on the disagree. Summer is a great time to visit. medieval artefacts including the 15th-cen- high-end rates to enjoy it. Just sip an aperitif at Traffic is quieter, evenings are long and tury Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. (Now Bar Le Relais and visit whatever rare and costly balmy for romantic walks along the banks these are romantic.) Visitors don’t need to curiosities are on display in the Salon Royal, of the Seine, parks are in their glory, the leave the area to dine, either: Saint-Michel wherein lies the world’s largest Aubusson car- crowds are gone, and your clients get hotel teems with lively restaurants and has a pet, gently illuminated by a giant Baccarat crys- price breaks. Everything a visitor might wonderful atmosphere for evening strolls. tal chandelier weighing one shimmering ton.

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1008-314_Ad_AF_CanTraveller.indd 1 2/5/10 4:43:26 PM Restoration at Mont Saint-Michel is an ongoing France project under the auspices of UNESCO.

website@index t ou Fr a n ce /J e ro me B rqu ez A general@advertisers

aŒ˜@c„”„‡„ @@@žžžN„Œ˜†„”„‡„N†•“O„Šˆ”š™ aŒ˜@f˜„”†ˆ

@@@žžžN„‰‘’N…Œ¡ Paris is for romance, c„”„‡Œ„”@n•˜š‹ especially in the This beautiful part of the country offers summertime. @@@žžžN†„”„‡Œ„””•˜š‹N†•“ plenty to enjoy, and those who explore the fŒ””„Œ˜ area will find acres of lavender fields off @@@žžžN‰Œ””„Œ˜N†•“O†„ country roads, and picturesque medieval l Ango t t ou Fr a n ce /Mi c h e l g•ž„ @t˜„œˆ’ villages like Eze and St. Paul de Vence. A @@@žžžNŠ•ž„ N†•“ h„˜’Œ”Šˆ”@cvb Resort To Wellness In @@@žžžNœŒ™Œš‹„˜’Œ”Šˆ”šˆŸ„™N†•“ Brittany Leaving the calm Mediterranean for the kˆ” „@t•›˜Œ™š@b•„˜‡ pounding Atlantic, I indulged in a week of @@@žžžNm„ŠŒ†„’kˆ” „N†•“ thalassotherapie – wellness from the ocean k•˜ˆ„@t•›˜Œ™“@o˜Š„”Œ¡„šŒ•” – on France’s Brittany coast. The Quiberon @@@žžžNœŒ™Œš‘•˜ˆ„N•˜N‘˜ peninsula has drawn Europeans for decades m e™†„–„‡ˆ™@… @h›”šŒ”Šš•” to enjoy the healing power of the sea. @@@žžžN“ ˆ™†„–„‡ˆ™N†„ I stayed at Sofitel’s oceanside Thalassa n•’Œš•›˜™ Quiberon at Pointe de Goulvars where, after @@@žžžN”•’Œš•›˜™N†•“ a brief health check-up, a program was tailored to my needs including sophisticated body treat- n•˜š‹@d„‘•š„ ments using mineral-rich local algae and sea- Over the centuries Mont Saint-Michel @@@žžžNndt•›˜Œ™“N†•“ weed. A couple of full days were set aside for has been adorned by various artistic peri- pŒˆ˜@SY sightseeing and afternoons were happily spent ods and the result is a glorious profusion of @@@žžžN–Œˆ˜SYN†•“ exploring the charming village of Quiberon, a architectural styles. rˆ‡‡Œ”Š@cvb 15-minute stroll beside the ocean. It was the eighth-century Bishop Aubert @@@žžžNvŒ™Œšrˆ‡‡Œ”ŠN†•“ The hotel also draws non-spa guests who who saw the potential of this rocky islet. rŒœŒˆ˜„@m„ „ come for the area’s wild beauty and local sight- An ancient manuscript recounts his dedi- @@@žžžN˜ŒœŒˆ˜„“„ „N†•“ seeing spots like Carnac, important for its mys- cation of the mount to the Archangel, and smp@t˜„Œ”Œ”Š terious megaliths. These strange stones – many St. Michael’s three visitations to Aubert, dating to 7,000 BC – have puzzled archaeolo- @@@žžžN™“–š˜„Œ”Œ”ŠN†•“ who prospered well – he and his chapter of gists for decades. Nobody knows why they 12 canons enjoyed huge revenues from the s–˜Œ”‰Œˆ’‡@i’’Œ”•Œ™@cvb were erected, only that it would have taken lands and neighbouring villages. @@@žžžNœŒ™ŒšM™–˜Œ”Š‰Œˆ’‡Œ’’Œ”•Œ™N†•“ superhuman effort to do so. From 1622 to 1863 it was a prison (and s›”” @a˜Œ¡•”„ Another day-trip took me to St. Malo, possible inspiration for Alexandre Dumas’ @@@žžžNsˆ’’s›”” azN†•“ where Jacques Cartier’s 16th-century home, The Man in the Iron Mask) by which time s›”žŒ”Š Limoelou, is a fascinating museum. The religious life had ceased. But revival came @@@žžžN™›”žŒ”ŠN†„ building was completed in 1541, just before with renewed pilgrimages at the beginning tic@t˜„œˆ’@i”™›˜„”†ˆ his third crossing to Canada. (He died here of the 19th century and by 1874 the abbey in 1557, a victim of the Spanish ’flu.) @@@žžžNžˆ’’†‹•™ˆ”N†„ and ramparts were classified as a historical monument. Since then, monks have returned t•›˜Œ™“@nˆž@zˆ„’„”‡ Monastery On A Mount and restoration is an ongoing project under @@@žžžNš˜„œˆ’š˜„‡ˆN”ˆž¡ˆ„’„”‡N†•“ It seemed like a logical extension to visit the auspices of UNESCO. wˆ™šjˆš the Normandy coast, and I’d always wanted @@@žžžNžˆ™šŽˆšN†•“O„Šˆ”šžˆ…’Œ”‘ to see Mont Saint-Michel, that impressive More France monastery on a rocky, sea-girt outcrop ris- wˆ™šjˆš@v„†„šŒ•”™ For more information, visit ing dramatically from its quicksand penin- www.franceguide.com. @@@žžžNžˆ™šŽˆšœ„†„šŒ•”™N†•“ sula. It’s accessed by a village that climbs In Canadian Traveller:

the rock with steep, winding, narrow lanes. Conquering Heroes, April 2009 ✈

30 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Japan

LegendaryOkinawa UNESCO Sites Housed Gods & Kings Katsuren Castle. J N T O By B Ang

kinawa’s history is steeped in legend Nearby are two World Heritage sites filled with traditional building struc- Owhile its UNESCO World Heritage sites built by King Sho Shin. Tamaudun is a tures, a beautiful artificial pond and offer a glimpse of its majestic bygone days. royal mausoleum housing the remains stone structures. According to local folklore, the Ryukyu of kings and family members of the 2nd Three castle ruins, also World Heritage Islands in southern Okinawa, were formed Sho Dynasty, while the Shureimon Gate sites, can be found in the centre of Okinawa by Amamikiyo, a mythical creator figure, leading to the Sonohyan-utaki Shrine is Island: Katsuren Castle in Katsuren Town, as sacred homes for gods. At Sefa-utaki, believed to be a link to the gods, where was the fortress base of a powerful chief- in Chinen Village, huge rocks and trees rulers often prayed for safe journeys tain, Amawari; Zakimi Castle, in Yomitan shelter many ceremonial altars around before leaving the castle. Village was constructed by Gosamaru, a this World Heritage site. Regarded as an Shikina-En gardens, the king’s sec- renowned builder in the 15th century; and extremely holy place, it held the inaugu- ond residence is another World Heritage Nakagusuku Castle in Nago City. ration ceremonies for Ryukyu’s highest- site close by. Also known as the “south- For more information, visit

ranking priestess. From the most sacred ern garden”, the landscaped grounds are www.ilovejapan.ca. ✈ altar of the kingdom, Sangui, visitors can see Kudaka, the island where mythical god, Amamikiyo, was said to have descended. Today, pilgrims still journey to the spots visited by Amamikiyo. Okinawa lies southwest of the Japanese archipelago between the mainland and Taiwan in the Pacific Ocean, boasting a sub-tropical climate keeping it warm year- round. Naha City is the main entry point into Okinawa. The main cultural sight in Naha City is World Heritage site, Shurijo Castle, the for- mer capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom when Sho Hashi (1st Sho Dynasty, 1879) defeated chieftain rivals and unified Okinawa as one kingdom. Construction on this red struc- ture was said to have begun in the mid-14th century and reached its current size by the mid-16th century. Destroyed by separate fires and bombs during the Second World War, the castle has been rebuilt several times in its history. Within its walls, the Seiden features ornate kingly thrones decorated with auspicious symbols. Two other buildings stand nearby: Nanden, used for officials’ ceremonies; and Hokuden, an administrative office cum venue to entertain foreign guests. The castle also houses historical artifacts and informa- tive exhibits on the kingdom’s history. www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 31 How to Sell – Insurance We’re Not Dead Yet Don’t Rest On Your Laurels When It Comes To Selling Travel Insurance By Steve Crowhurst, CTC

ell I’ll tell you – let’s hope this update them, ask them to come to a pre- knowing you bought travel insurance” 2: promotional idea doesn’t catch sentation, Tweet their Twit’ and show your “If you didn’t purchase travel insurance Won. Here’s the scoop from face on Facebook…then you could lose today, please make sure you understand recent trade press in Australia: “A t ra vel business to the other guy who wants you, the risks. Always practice Safe Travel.” insurance company in Australia, iTrek, dare I say it – dead! Or, something like that. brags about its ability to sell low-cost 8. Agency Window: Here you need two insurance by cutting out travel agents. The Insurance Sales statements – one at the top of the win- Sydney-based iTrek has taken a brash step Booster Campaign dow so that people across the road can forward with its business model by running Alright then. Let’s make sure you are work- read your signage over the traffic or a promotion called “The Travel Agent Is ing your buzz as loud as you can. Here cars parked outside your agency. The Dead.” Participants are to film and submit we take a tour around your travel agency second sign is located in the lower half a 30-second TV commercial with that cen- to check what you are doing to prove that of your window so that people walking tral theme.” Great idea at the time I guess. you are ALIVE and well and that you have past your agency on your side of the Not taken well by the travel trade. travel insurance for sale. Here’s the Nine- street, can read it. Step Promo Model: 9. Website: Of course you have a travel He’s Resting 1. Awning: Don’t mix your messages…but insurance tab here – but could it be big- Well a fresh visit back to iTrek’s web site do use your awning where the space per- ger? Could it be way larger? Could the finds the announcement that, “Unfortunately mits to simply state that Travel Insurance colour be more attractive? Do you have “The Travel Agent Is Dead”, is dead.” The is Sold Here. links to horror stories again to demon- unapologetic verbiage carries on with: “The 2. Entrance: If you have an external booth- strate the outcomes of not having insur- competition has come to a tragic and pre- like entrance to your agency that means ance when you need it? mature end due to the unprecedented hos- your customer will be looking at your tile response from Travel Agents in both the door, part of your window to the left or Why DO You Sell USA and Australia.” Way to go team! But right and perhaps a wall on the opposite Travel Insurance? iTrek wasn’t dead, no, it was only resting. side. Where’s the promotion? Where’s the It’s a good question. One you need to ask Even in its announcement that the promo- signage? yourself and your staff. It would be interest- tion was dead, it still took a kick at travel 3. Front Door: I can see the hours of opera- ing to poll the responses. So why do you sell agents earning a commission for selling tion…do I see any signage about insur- travel insurance? travel insurance and they, iTrek, could sell ance? Is there a sign that boldly says, #1 Reason: To protect your clients from any it 50-per cent cheaper. Wasn’t there a cruise “ASK us about Travel Insurance”? and most ills that befall a tourist/travel- line that tried this way back when? The 4. Entering the Agency: Come on, walk ler and many times to protect them from executive team that thought up the anti agent through your agency front door…what themselves. promo were all fired, agents dumped their can be seen that promotes insurance? #2 Reason: To protect yourself and your brochures and the cruise line spent millions 5. Agency Walls: This is a must-do. Are agency should something happen to trying to regain market share. there Buy Insurance posters on your your client when they did NOT purchase walls? coverage and they have a cousin Vinny The Curved Bullet 6. At Your Desk: Agency desks should be in the closet who doesn’t like to lose and Only in the movies you say. Well from my clear and ready for business or packed good luck with that one! experience you have to watch out for curved with files and somewhere in and around #3 Reason: To remove the possibility of bullets as they often come straight at you that desk or desks should be signage about negligence on your part for NOT men- – which means you don’t see them. What travel insurance. Have scrolling text on tioning, selling, covering your clients have we learned from the Travel Agent is your computer screen when it idles, have with the right insurance product for Dead fiasco? Let me fill in the blank. What a mini brochure rack and for sure have them/their trip. we learn is that YOU have to be in front of some horror stories to demonstrate the #4 Reason: To generate income to yourself YOUR customers, more often, bigger, bet- impact on a person or family who fail to and agency. ter and louder so that when these types of protect themselves for a hundred-bucks promotions hit again, and they will, your or less. The Follow Up Call client lets the bullet curve around them 7. Back of the Front Door: When the client For many agencies this is a well practiced and then continues to call you for all their exits the agency, do they see any signage step in the sales and follow-up procedure. insurance and all other travel needs. If you related to travel insurance? Should be two Any client who did not purchase travel hesitate to make the call, send the e-mail, statements: 1: “Travel with Peace of Mind insurance should receive a call before they

32 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net leave and be questioned as to their deci- Anything Can Happen sion not to cover themselves, their family, ATIC Travel Insurance knows that anything can happen to your clients while trav- kids and their investment. Now this has to elling, yet only about half of Canadians purchase coverage before travelling. All- be done with some skill and you may get inclusive travel insurance provides the best protection and is a cheap investment into a discussion about the pros and cons that covers the cost of cancelling or interrupting a trip, replacing lost baggage or of travel insurance coverage. So, this means seeking medical treatment while travelling. you are well practiced in the art of handling Medical treatment is expensive once clients leave their home province. Most such a call and any objection or question that provincial health insurance plans cover emergency medical and hospital costs for comes your way. travel within Canada but exclusions such as air and ground ambulance services To learn the subtle art of handling these can cost up to thousands of dollars. Seeking medical attention outside Canada is even more expensive, easily costing thousands of dollars per day, and won’t be responses to your follow up call, ask your covered by a government health insurance plan. Ontario, for example, provides insurance provider’s BDMs to come visit only $400 per day for a stay in a foreign emergency ward. and role play with you. Get the words straight Trip Cancellation & Interruption is another easy-to-sell insurance product that from those that know and make your notes. can be incorporated into your current sales process and protects your clients Listen to how the pros handle this situation. against unexpected events that could prove costly by cancelling, interrupting or Then put yourself on the spot. Have your delaying their trip. BDM challenge you and then it’s your turn In Ontario, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario recognizes the value of to overcome the objection. Practice it until travel insurance by requiring that all Ontario travel retailers offer travel insurance. you can respond in your sleep.

Kidnap & Ransom Insurance should they be a target. More so for corpo- up on such coverage and other information Any of your clients wealthy, rich, light rate travellers, who have been abducted – that would serve you well. their fireplace with $100 bills? If so, have however, it can happen to the average person First things first then, is to boost your you offered, do you know about KRI? This and just did to a young UK boy visiting fam- travel insurance sales. Start with the 9 Step could be a tough item to put on the table – it ily in Pakistan. You want to click to www. Model and get that message out there loud

means you must qualify your client’s wealth insurance-canada.ca/ and do it often to stay and clear. Do not appear to be dead! ✈

www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • April 2010 33 CANADA

Sticking The Greens Tee Off On Golf Commissions Around the U.S. By Josephine Matyas

ne look at an airport luggage car- • The Caravelle 50th Anniversary ousel tells the story: golf is a huge Package starts at US $299 per golfer Opart of the vacation market. U.S. and includes three nights of lodging, one destinations are advertising deals and pack- round of golf at The Dunes Club, one ages tailored to woo the golfing traveller. round of golf at the Pine Lakes Country Aus t in C V B The Austin Golf Trail partners with top-rated Almost every state offers golf promotions, Club, one dinner. Offer available until courses and hotels to offer golfing for all budgets. and with the start of spring, it’s time to help September 15. your clients hit the links! • Lowcountry Links special starts at US • The luxury Mirage offers a package with $377 per person and includes three nights 15 per cent off room rates (from US $76 New Hampshire accommodation with breakfast, and With settings from the seacoast to the per night) and up to 40 per cent off golf three rounds of golf with cart (one each at three of Vegas’ select golf courses. mountains, New Hampshire’s 100+ courses at Pawleys Plantation, Heritage Club and have something for golfers of all playing Minimum three-night stay at the Mirage The Founders Club at Pawleys Island). and two days of golf for this package. abilities. Check www.visitnh.gov for a full Offer good May 24 to September 8. listing of deals. www.mirage.com/offers/2009/10_wal- • At the Attitash Grand Summit Hotel a Texas ters_golf/index.html. rate of US $99 per person based on double With over 900 golf courses, the Lone Star Massachusetts State is a magnet for golfers. occupancy provides lodging with break- The Bay State is home to many beautiful • The Austin Golf Trail in scenic Texas fast, and a full round of golf and shared golf courses making it perfect for a sum- Hill Country partners with some of the cart at any of seven area courses. Offer mer getaway. In particular, Cape Cod is top-rated courses and hotels to offer available midweek until June 30 and one of the nation’s premier golf destina- a golfing experience for all budgets. after September 30 until close of season. tions, with over 50 golf courses to choose Packages start at US $479 and include www.attitash.com. from on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and two nights accommodation, two rounds • At the Eagle Mountain House & Golf Nantucket Islands. of golf. www.austingolftrail.com. Club in the White Mountains, rates from • Cape Point Hotel on Cape Cod is offer- • Cowboys Golf Getaway at Gaylord US $143 per night for two people provides ing one night’s lodging and one round Texan Hotel and Convention Center lodging with breakfast, round of golf with of golf including golf cart at 11 major offers guests 18 holes at the world’s first cart, and a bucket of balls at the driving golf courses. Sunday afternoon through NFL-themed course, the Cowboys Golf range. Offer available June 25 to October 17. Thursday packages start at US$69.50 Club. The two night, double occupancy www.eaglemt.com. (per person, double occupancy) through package starts at US $774 and includes mid-June. www.capepointhotel.com/golf- Missouri complimentary shuttle to/from course, packages.htm • Golfers can stay right on the acclaimed two rounds of golf, VIP check-in, dis- • The Four Diamond Cranwell Resort, Branson Strip and have the chance to count on spa services and shops, full Spa, and Golf Club in the heart of the play the top-ranked public golf course in breakfast, and two sleeves of golf balls. Berkshires is offering the Unlimited Golf Missouri. The Branson Creek Golf Club www.gaylordhotels.com/gaylord-texan has teamed up with the Clarion Hotel Package (through August 31). Promotion Branson to create a Stay and Play deal. Nevada includes one night superior accommoda- Spring/summer rates from US $91 (per The popularity of Las Vegas with Canadians tions, one bucket of range balls per golfer, person, double occupancy; any day of the extends past the casinos and shows…to the next-day play unlimited golf with cart, US week) include 18 holes of golf with cart, golf green! $20 dining credit. Rates start at US $190 and room with breakfast. www.branson • The AAA Five Diamond Wynn Las per person. www.cranwell.com. ✈ creekgolf.com. Vegas Resort and Country Club is offering a Golf Getaway package from US To find out more about the Discover South Carolina $629 per night. The package includes two America - Canada Committee, attend a Canadians flock to Myrtle Beach for golf – nights suite accommodation, one round of meeting or receive the bi-monthly newslet- there are more than 120 courses in the area. golf for two, and prix fixe lunch for two. ter, contact them by fax at (416) 352-5567, Visit www.mbgolfspecials.com for details www.wynnlasvegas.com/#packages/ by email at [email protected] or visit on all packages. golf_getaway/ www.seeamerica.ca

34 April 2010 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net

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